Region
Kansai
Island
Honshu
Largest City
Kyoto
Population
2,644,331

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A breath of still and otherworldly air.

Despite being one of the city’s top attractions, the mystical bamboo path in Arashiyama is a great change of pace from your typical sightseeing day in Kyoto.

While the 500-meter path generously accommodates both pedestrians and bicyclists, a leisurely stroll could easily become a one-hour trek—a very, very photogenic one. Start from Tenryu-ji Temple and make your way to the far end of the forest at Nonomiya Shrine; walking beneath the towering emerald stalks, you’ll find yourself in a trance.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Go on, try and take a bad photo.

The beauty of this emerald bamboo grove captures not only the attention of camera-clutching travelers but also Kyoto’s best artisans who handcraft souvenirs and everyday items from this versatile wood. Various products such as baskets, coasters, and chopstick rests are made from harvested rows of ringed, smooth stems available from a treasure trove of small shops that line Arashiyama’s main street.

There are countless bicycle rental shops within walking distance of Hankyu Arashiyama Station, and if you happen to change your mind mid-stroll, there’s even a rental shop in the forest. Feeling a bit touristy? Put a rickshaw ride on your itinerary.

Things To Know

Tip

Head there early in the morning or late evening to beat the crowds.

How To Get There

Address

6 Sagakamenoochō, Ukyō-ku, Kyōto-shi, Kyōto-fu 616-8386, Japan

By train

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano/San-in Main Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (approx. 15 min train ride, 10-min walk to Bamboo Grove). Alternatively, take the Hankyu Main Line from Kyoto Station to Katsura Station, where you transfer to the Hankyu Arashiyama Line (approx. 20 min train ride and a 15-min walk to the Bamboo Grove).

By bus

Take the Kyoto City Bus 28 departing from Kyoto Station bus terminal to Arashiyama-Tenryuji-mae bus stop (approx. a 30-min bus ride).


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