Travel arrangements may involve staying in Osaka and commuting to Kyoto, or basing accommodation in Kyoto depending on the duration of stay and the number of attractions planned. Both cities are frequently included within the same itinerary, particularly for travellers intending to cover the main tourist sites in Kyoto.
What to Do in Arashiyama
Arashiyama is situated on the western edge of
Kyoto, at the foot of the surrounding mountains along the Katsura River,
approximately 7-8 kilometres from the city centre. The district is known for
its natural landscapes, historic temples, and distinct seasonal scenery.
As Arashiyama covers a broad area, the time
required depends on individual planning. The district can be explored on foot
or by bicycle, with rental services available. Street stalls and local eateries
line paths of the
route, contributing to the high visitor numbers in this well-visited area (TOP SITES IN SOUTH INDIA).
Katsura River and Togetsukyo Bridge
The Katsura River flows through Arashiyama, framed
by seasonal landscapes that define this part of western Kyoto. Spanning the
river is the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, also known as the Moon Crossing Bridge (BOSPHORUS BRIDGE, ISTANBUL TURKEY).
Walking across the bridge and along the riverbanks offers views of the surrounding mountains and flowing waters. In winter, the scenery takes on a quieter atmosphere, attracting visitors who photograph and record the natural setting or simply pause to admire Arashiyama during the colder season.
Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Grove
A walk through Arashiyama eventually leads to the
famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, also known as the Sagano Bamboo Grove. One of
Kyoto’s most recognised sights, the pathway is lined with tall green bamboo on
both sides, forming a natural corridor through the forest.
Bamboo has grown in the Sagano area since the Edo
period (1603–1868), reflecting the long-standing connection between nature and
Japanese culture. Most of the bamboo here is the Moso species, which can grow
up to 30 metres tall. In Japanese tradition, bamboo symbolises resilience,
purity, and flexibility. When the wind moves through the stalks, the soft rustling, regarded as one of Japan’s
distinctive natural sounds,
adds to the calm atmosphere of the grove.
Tenryu-ji Temple, visible from across the walking path in Arashiyama, is renowned for its Zen architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is not only known for its historic buildings but also for the Sogenchi Garden, which features a large pond reflecting the sky and carefully arranged rocks. The trees around the garden change colour with the seasons, adding to its beauty. The serene Zen atmosphere, occasionally punctuated by the chanting of monks, makes a visit to Tenryu-ji Temple a deeply meaningful experience.
Other Things to Do in Arashiyama
Jojakkoji Temple
A quiet hillside temple with moss-covered gardens
and scenic views over Arashiyama.
Nonomiya Shrine
A small Shinto shrine nestled among bamboo, linked
to the Tale of Genji, and visited by those seeking prayers for love.
Iwatayama Monkey Park
A hillside park home to wild macaques, offering
panoramic views of Kyoto.
Okochi Sanso Villa
A villa with gardens and tea houses that showcase spectacular seasonal scenery.
Gion District
Within a 20–25 minute drive from Arashiyama is Gion
District, Kyoto’s most famous historic entertainment district. Also known as
the Geisha District, it dates back to the Middle Ages. Narrow lanes lined with
traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, and lantern-lit alleys create a
rustic and nostalgic atmosphere, transporting visitors to old Japan. The
district also features a variety of shops.
Gion has long been a centre of performance, arts,
and social gatherings, preserving the atmosphere and aesthetic of classical
Kyoto. It is common to see geiko (Kyoto geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha) on
their way to appointments.
This is also a popular time for dressing up in traditional Japanese attire. Renting a kimono, getting dolled up with makeup and accessories, and taking delicate steps while exploring Gion offers a unique cultural experience.
Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Not to be missed in Kyoto is Kinkaku-ji Temple,
famously known as the Golden Pavilion. Sparkling from afar, it stands as one of
Kyoto’s grandest temples. Located within a large natural setting, Kinkaku-ji
Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple and one of the city’s top attractions.
A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, it was
originally built in the 14th century as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga
Yoshimitsu and later converted into a temple. What makes it unique is that the
upper two floors are covered in gold leaf, creating a striking reflection in
the surrounding pond and garden. The gold symbolizes wealth, power, and harmony
with nature.
After visiting the temple, stroll through the traditional Japanese garden for a closer view of the serene surroundings.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
One of the most visited sights in Japan, Fushimi
Inari Taisha is world-renowned and one of Kyoto’s most important Shinto
shrines. Founded in 711, its most obvious attraction is the thousands of vivid
orange vermilion torii gates that form long tunnels leading up Mount Inari.
These iconic gates are donated by individuals and companies as offerings for
good fortune and success.
The winding paths stretch several kilometres into
the forested hillside, symbolizing a spiritual journey and devotion. Whether
visitors continue all the way to the summit or turn back midway depends on time
and preference.
Fushimi Inari honours the Shinto deity of prosperity and agriculture. Over time, Inari became associated not only with farming but also with success in trade and industry, making the shrine especially significant for merchants and entrepreneurs. The torii pathway remains the shrine’s most recognizable feature and a lasting symbol of its spiritual importance.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Pure Water Temple)
A stunning view of the city and surrounding forests
opens at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hillside in eastern Kyoto. Founded
in 778, it is also known as the “Pure Water Temple.” A UNESCO World Heritage
Site, it stands near the Otowa Waterfall in the wooded hills of eastern Kyoto,
taking its name from the pure waters of the fall.
Kiyomizu-dera is especially famous for its large
wooden stage, supported by hundreds of wooden pillars and constructed without
the use of nails. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of
mercy, and holds deep historical and spiritual significance. Tasting the pure
water from the waterfall using the long-handled wooden scoop remains one of the
temple’s most well-known traditions.
Onsen Baths in Kyoto
Onsen baths are one of the must-do experiences in
Kyoto. The city is surrounded by hills, mountains, rivers, and forests, where
natural hot springs rise from underground to feed these traditional Japanese
baths.
There are public onsen baths in Kyoto, but many
resorts and ryokan on the outskirts include onsen as part of the stay. Onsen
resorts can be found in Arashiyama, Kita-ku, and Ohara. Traditional ryokan
often offer tatami rooms, meals, and private or shared onsen baths. These baths
use natural hot spring water and are designed to blend harmoniously with the
surrounding nature.
Baths are separated by gender. The routine begins
by removing all clothing and placing it in a basket, followed by a thorough
shower using toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. After
showering, its time to
enter the hot spring pool, whether
for moving around in the water or gently or simply being.
Onsen Bath Benefits
Kyoto onsen baths offer more than just warm water.
Depending on the mineral content, the benefits of an onsen bath include:
Relax muscles and joints
Ease tension and stiffness.
Reduce stress and improve sleep
Warm water and quiet surroundings calm the mind.
Care for skin and support mild detox
Minerals soften the skin and help the body
naturally.
Connect with nature
Hills, forests, and rivers create a peaceful,
restorative setting.
Onsen baths are not medical treatments. They are
relaxing and restorative experiences that help the body feel refreshed and the
mind calm.
