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Arashiyama is more than a name—it’s Kyoto’s heartbeat: bamboo groves whispering in the breeze, the Moon-viewing Bridge reflecting centuries of stillness, and air thick with quiet Zen. Come here not to check a box, but to let your soul slow down.
Umekoji Potel Kyoto
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji
The Royal Park Canvas Kyoto Nijo
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Arashiyama
Stay at Arashiyama Onsen Hotel, offering rooms with private balconies that provide panoramic views of the bamboo grove and Togetsukyo Bridge during peak fall season. The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to Tenryu-ji Temple and Sagano Scenic Railway, with a 5-minute walk to the famed Bamboo Grove Path. Each room features traditional tatami mats and underfloor heating, allowing guests to enjoy illuminated Katsura River views at night, blending Kyoto’s cultural heritage with serene natural beauty.
Take the Eizan Electric Railway directly from Kyoto Station to Gion-Shijo Station, a 25-minute ride with scenic views of the Katsura River. Alternatively, transfer at Shijō Station to the Keihan Kyoto Main Line to Sonobe Station, then take a Kyoto City Bus or taxi—total journey time around 40 minutes. For a unique experience, board the Sagano Scenic Railway (also known as the "Little Train") and alight at Sagano Station, walking just 10 minutes to the entrance of the Bamboo Grove Path, perfect for slow travel enthusiasts.
Don’t miss the Sagano Scenic Railway ("Little Train") ride through lush bamboo groves and scenic Katsura River valleys, offering breathtaking seasonal views. Participate in a tea ceremony at the tea house adjacent to Tenryu-ji Temple, immersing yourself in authentic Japanese matcha culture. Rent a bicycle and cruise along the Katsura River trail, passing cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage. At night, join the illuminated festival around Togetsukyo Bridge, where soft lights reflect on the water, creating a serene, photogenic atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection and photography.
Arashiyama Onsen Hotel is top-rated, featuring open-air baths with mineral-rich waters high in silicate, ideal for skin health, and surrounded by tranquil Japanese gardens. Guests can enjoy kimono rental and a kaiseki dinner using seasonal local ingredients. Another excellent choice is Sagano Hachimoku, inspired by traditional machiya townhouses, with rooms equipped with wooden soaking tubs and tatami spaces. Private guided tours to hidden bamboo groves and historic temples are also available. Both properties are within walking distance of Togetsukyo Bridge, offering easy access and peaceful ambiance.
Visit early morning between 7:00 and 8:30 AM for minimal crowds and ethereal sunlight filtering through the bamboo stalks, creating stunning dappled patterns. During summer (June–August), experience the night illumination festival, where the grove glows softly with warm lights, evoking a dreamlike atmosphere. In spring (March–April), enjoy cherry blossoms contrasting with vibrant green bamboo; in autumn (October–November), witness fiery red and orange leaves enhancing the dramatic scenery. Always wear comfortable footwear and respect the rule of not touching the bamboo to preserve the natural integrity of this iconic site.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Arashiyama
Umekoji Potel Kyoto
This was my second stay at this hotel, and honestly, it’s easily the most spacious room I’ve ever experienced in Japan. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere felt calm and luxurious. The exterior design is sleek and modern, giving off a very refined vibe. One of the highlights? A dedicated free onsen area with multiple baths, including massage jets—perfect for unwinding after a long day. There’s also a complimentary drink and snack lounge, plus a quiet music appreciation room where I just sat and relaxed with some tunes. My room’s balcony offered stunning views—nighttime moonlight scenes and morning sunrises over the cityscape were absolutely peaceful. The on-site restaurant serves excellent food, though prices are a bit on the higher side. Still, if they could adjust pricing slightly, it would be even more appealing. Location-wise, it’s incredibly convenient—just a short walk or quick taxi ride from Kyoto Station. Overall, an unforgettable experience with great value, and I’d definitely come back.
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji
Staying at The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji was an absolute delight. Located right within Umekoji Park, the hotel is just steps from the train station—making travel around Kyoto incredibly convenient. A short walk takes you to the aquarium and the Railway Museum, both perfect for exploring without needing a car. The hotel itself has a warm, inviting atmosphere with clean, well-maintained rooms and cozy furnishings. I especially loved the on-site hot spring bath—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. During winter, there’s even a seasonal ice rink nearby, and the surrounding area turns into a charming Christmas market with festive lights and holiday vibes. It truly feels like stepping into a winter wonderland. The location, comfort, and unique seasonal touches make this stay unforgettable. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Kyoto.
The Royal Park Canvas Kyoto Nijo
This is my third time staying here, and I’ve already become so familiar with the place—feels like coming home. Every morning I grab a coffee or matcha to-go before heading out, and in the evening, I unwind with another drink back at the hotel. The lobby is quiet and peaceful, perfect for catching up on emails or just relaxing without distractions. Location-wise, it’s incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the subway, with plenty of supermarkets nearby. Right across the street is KOMEDA, and there are countless restaurants and cafés within walking distance, making dining options diverse and fun. The room is spacious enough, spotlessly clean, and comes with all the essentials you’d need. I truly appreciate the thoughtful touches and overall comfort. If I ever return to Kyoto, this will be my first choice again—excellent value, great vibe, and a wonderful stay every time.
Stay Sakura Kyoto Nijo Seasons
Walking into the property immediately gave me a warm and welcoming vibe. The apartment is incredibly well-equipped—kitchen has a microwave, fridge, induction cooktop, plus all the essentials like knives, pots, pans, and dishes. It made cooking with fresh groceries from the local supermarket so easy and enjoyable—felt like being at home. I especially appreciated the washer and dryer setup; they even provided laundry balls, and drying clothes in the bathroom using the built-in dryer was super convenient. My kids had a blast exploring the room, turning it into their own little hide-and-seek playground—no worries about them falling out of bed thanks to the safe layout. The only minor downside? No convenience store nearby, but there’s a small grocery shop just a short walk away. There’s also a bus stop right outside the door, making public transport accessible. The nearest JR station is a 10-15 minute walk, which is totally manageable considering how quiet and peaceful the neighborhood is. Plus, you can easily reach the Kitanomaru Park and the famous Kitano Tenman-gu Shrine within a similar walking distance. Overall, this place offers excellent value, comfort, and a true local experience. I’d definitely come back for my next trip to Kyoto—and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy, hassle-free stay.
Floral Green Maple House
Staying at Floral Green Maple House in Kyoto was an absolute delight! The room was immaculately clean and surprisingly well-equipped—complete with a washing machine, stove, microwave, and even a dryer right in the bathroom. I loved being able to wash and dry my clothes on-site; it felt so convenient and homely. The staff were incredibly attentive and genuinely warm throughout the entire stay. I accidentally left my headphones behind, and instead of just waiting for me to notice, they reached out immediately and arranged to send them back to Tokyo—such a thoughtful gesture! It really made the experience stand out. Located right near Shijo Kawaramachi, everything is within walking distance, and the overall vibe is cozy yet modern. This place offers incredible value and service that feels personal and genuine. I’ll definitely be coming back and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kyoto.
Hop Inn Kyoto Shijo Omiya
Staying at this hostel was a fantastic experience—clean, well-maintained, and perfect for business travelers. The amenities are self-service style, where you pick what you need right at the front desk. It’s efficient and convenient. Upon entering the room, I was pleasantly surprised to find two free 500ml bottled waters. There's also a kettle and hairdryer provided—basic but essential, and very thoughtful. (Note: This might vary slightly depending on room type.) What really stood out was the staff—friendly, professional, and always smiling, whether it was at check-in or during breakfast service. Their warm hospitality made the whole stay feel welcoming. Great location, excellent value, and a great place to return to on future trips.
Kouhaku Nishikyogoku
Our two-night stay was somewhat disappointing. We were given only four bottles of water and four coffee pods for our group of four, which wasn’t nearly enough. The room itself was quite small, and managing our three suitcases down the stairs was a real challenge—eventually we had to carry one up the narrow, steep staircase, which was exhausting. To make matters worse, there were countless mosquitoes throughout the room, making it nearly impossible to sleep comfortably. We kept the windows closed, but that just made the room stuffy. While the location is convenient, the lack of basic amenities, cramped space, and pest issues really hurt the overall experience. For the price, we expected better quality and more thoughtful service.
Miro Kyoto Nijo Hotel
This hotel is simply outstanding—no need for extra words. The room size is just right: not too small, not too large, offering a comfortable and cozy stay. Its location is unbeatable—just turn right from the hotel entrance and you're in a lively shopping street with plenty of dining options and convenience stores nearby. It's also just a short walk to Nijo Station, making it easy to explore Kyoto by train. I was especially impressed by the on-site laundry and drying machines—perfect for longer stays or when traveling light. The owner is Chinese, so communicating in Mandarin was effortless and very reassuring. This personal touch made the experience feel warm and welcoming. Overall, the value for money is excellent, and I’d definitely stay here again—highly recommend to fellow travelers!
Yuno Yado Shoei
The hotel is a bit off the beaten path—about a 10-minute walk from JR Uji-Kyoto West Station—but taking a taxi isn’t expensive and well worth it. From the moment you step in, the peaceful atmosphere sets the tone for a relaxing stay. The onsen features rare hinoki wood interiors, which instantly creates a serene, natural vibe that’s both calming and luxurious. Every staff member was incredibly warm and welcoming; special shoutout to the grandmother who helped prepare our kaiseki-style sukiyaki dinner—despite language barriers, she went above and beyond to explain ingredients and cooking techniques with genuine care. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with excellent bedding. Breakfast was delicious and thoughtfully prepared, featuring fresh local ingredients. Overall, this place exceeded expectations. It’s not just a stay—it’s an experience. I’ll definitely be back.
Ranzan
Staying at Ranzan was an absolute delight. The hotel is perfectly located right across from Hōkō-ji Temple, making morning walks a peaceful and scenic start to the day. The breakfast buffet is generous and delicious—fresh, well-prepared, and full of local flavors. While the in-room bathroom is compact, the shared onsen-style bathhouse more than makes up for it with its relaxing atmosphere and traditional feel. Just steps away from a riverside boat departure point, autumn here is breathtaking—golden leaves reflect on the water, creating a postcard-perfect view. Whether you're soaking in the communal bath, sipping tea by the river, or simply enjoying the quiet charm of Kyoto’s seasonal beauty, this stay feels truly special. A hidden gem with exceptional value and warmth.
Hotel Ecclesia
We stayed here as a family of four—two adults and two middle schoolers. The room was surprisingly spacious, easily fitting two single beds and three floor mats with plenty of room to move around. Even the kids said they felt comfortable. Location-wise, it's super convenient—just a short walk from both the Nijo Station (JR) and the Nijo Station (Subway). If you're taking the subway, note that Exit 3 doesn’t have an elevator, so we’d recommend using Exit 2 if you’re carrying heavy luggage. Right next to Exit 3 is a small convenience store that has evening discounts—perfect for grabbing snacks or essentials. One thing to keep in mind: no toothbrushes are provided, so bring your own or pick one up at the nearby store (usually cheaper than hotel prices). Cleaning services are extra, but towels are replaced regularly and trash is taken out daily. Overall, the experience was excellent—great value for money, clean, well-located, and very family-friendly.
Machiya Oozora
Staying at Machiya Oozora was an absolute delight! The staff warmly greeted us upon arrival and took the time to walk us through all the house features—super helpful and welcoming. The machiya itself is beautifully designed, with a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern comfort. Everything we needed for our stay was thoughtfully provided, from kitchen essentials to cozy linens. Best of all, there are so many great restaurants and must-see sights within walking distance—perfect for exploring Kyoto on foot. It’s rare to find such a peaceful, authentic experience with such convenient access to everything. Highly recommend this gem for any traveler looking to truly immerse in Kyoto’s culture.
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