Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s top sights and a must-visit location for nature lovers. It's an extensive forest of tall bamboo that offers visitors a serene and otherworldly walking experience. The grove is situated in the Arashiyama district, a scenic area at the foothills of the storm mountains in the western outskirts of Kyoto.
You can reach Arashiyama Bamboo Grove by taking a train to Saga-Arashiyama Station on the JR Sagano Line. It's a 15-minute train ride from Kyoto Station. Alternatively, you can take the Hankyu Line to Arashiyama Station or the Keifuku Arashiyama Line to Arashiyama Randen Station. From any of these stations, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the bamboo grove.
The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. The grove is particularly beautiful when sunlight filters through the tall bamboo stalks in the early morning or when the path is illuminated in the evenings. Additionally, visiting during the weekdays rather than weekends can also result in a less crowded experience.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. It is open to the public and can be accessed at any time of the day.
Yes, guided tours are available and typically include Arashiyama Bamboo Grove along with other nearby attractions. These can be booked through travel agencies or tourist information centers in Kyoto.
Yes, bicycle rentals are available in the Arashiyama district, and it is a popular way to explore the area, including the bamboo grove. There are designated parking areas for bicycles near the grove.
Nearby attractions include the Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge, the Iwatayama Monkey Park, and various traditional gardens and small temples.
While there are no regular events in the bamboo grove itself, the Arashiyama area hosts seasonal events such as the Arashiyama Hanatouro, where lanterns light the streets and landmarks in the evenings, and the autumn foliage season, which is celebrated with special illuminations.
Basic facilities such as restrooms are available near the grove. There are also numerous shops and restaurants in the Arashiyama district, offering souvenirs, snacks, and traditional Japanese meals.
Visitors are asked to respect the natural environment by not littering, carving into the bamboo, or engaging in loud or disruptive behavior. Additionally, it is not permitted to fly drones or hold professional photo shoots without permission.