Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of Kyoto’s signature sights, where tall emerald bamboo stems rise like quiet pillars and sunlight filters through in soft, shifting patterns. Many families imagine it as a long, wild jungle trail, but in reality it is a short, atmospheric walk that becomes especially memorable at the right time of day. What makes the visit truly special is the wider Arashiyama area around the grove: shrines tucked between bamboo, traditional streets, rickshaws, cafés, river views, and peaceful corners that feel far from the city.

This guide is designed for families with children aged 5-18 who are looking for nature, colour, pleasant walking, good photo spots, snacks, and nearby attractions that can fill half a day – or a full day if you choose to explore more deeply.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: with the right timing and planning, Arashiyama works very well as a flexible family day out, not just a quick photo stop.

Where exactly is Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and how do you get there?

The grove is located in western Kyoto, between Randen Arashiyama Station and JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. From either station, the walk takes about 10-12 minutes through small streets lined with cafés, snack shops, and souvenir stores. Walking is the most common way to reach the forest, but families travelling with children or arriving after a long sightseeing day often prefer taking a taxi. Kyoto taxis are known for their cleanliness, comfort, and polite drivers, creating a smooth and pleasant arrival.

Parking

Arashiyama’s inner streets are narrow and restricted, and the files do not list dedicated parking directly next to the forest. The closest option mentioned is a paid parking area south of JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, often used by visitors arriving for evening light-up events.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: If you are considering renting a car, it can be more convenient for families – especially if you plan to visit the wider Arashiyama area, including Otagi Nenbutsu-ji or other hilltop temples.

When should families visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?

The files describe a significant difference between early-morning and late-morning visits. Around 6:00-7:30 AM, the forest is quiet, atmospheric, and excellent for photos, with very few people on the path. By 9:00-10:00 AM, the forest becomes noticeably livelier, with a steady stream of visitors taking pictures. From 11:00 AM onward, it can feel “as busy as a Disney attraction on peak days,” making it difficult to walk freely. After 8:00 PM, the grove feels calm and slightly mysterious, a time many evening walkers and couples enjoy.

For families with children, early morning usually offers the most comfortable experience. A rainy morning or a short period after rainfall can create softer colours, fewer crowds, and a refreshing atmosphere. Warmer months tend to bring mosquitoes, especially in shaded areas.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Bring mosquito spray during warm seasons, as several travellers reported getting bitten along shaded parts of the path.

What exactly do you see inside Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?

The main bamboo path – the iconic green tunnel

This is the most famous part of the forest: a tall bamboo corridor that forms a natural tunnel. Early in the day, sunlight creates striking beams through the stems; later, the walkway becomes busy with visitors stopping for photos. Some travellers expect a long hiking trail, but the files make it clear that the grove is short – about 20-30 minutes at a relaxed pace. The colour of the bamboo shifts depending on humidity and light, sometimes vivid green and sometimes slightly bluish. The path is flat and easy, suitable for families and older adults.

A quieter “secret” bamboo corner

The files mention a calmer bamboo area near Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, preferred by some families because it attracts fewer visitors and offers a more peaceful atmosphere. It requires extra walking or a short taxi ride, but it provides the bamboo experience without the central-path crowds.

Nonomiya Shrine – a hidden gem inside the forest

Right inside the grove, Nonomiya Shrine offers a compact and atmospheric stop featuring:

• A historical connection to imperial Saio princesses
• The distinctive kurōki torii, made from unpeeled dark wood
• Heart-shaped ema boards
• A small moss garden symbolising the Arashiyama landscape

Travellers often enjoy this stop for photos, a brief cultural moment, and a break from the main flow of visitors.

The rickshaw experience

Throughout the forest you will see athletic rickshaw runners – a unique sight, especially for children. The files highlight their impressive physical effort and the distinct atmosphere they bring, particularly on hot days.

Crossing the train tracks – a mini adventure for kids

Near the grove, a small railway crossing on the Randen line often fascinates children. According to the files, it’s also a convenient photo spot with fewer crowds around 9:30-10:00 AM.

Kimono Forest – colourful art pillars

At Randen Arashiyama Station, 600 illuminated cylinders decorated with Kyoto kimono fabrics create a vivid, playful setting. They look especially beautiful after sunset and are recommended for family photos.

What can families explore around the Bamboo Forest?

Tenryu-ji Temple (UNESCO)

Located right next to the grove, Tenryu-ji offers direct access to the bamboo path through its paid garden entrance, or you can use the free side entrance to the right. The temple is well-suited for families who enjoy calm ponds, bridges, and classic Japanese garden landscapes. You can walk through the grounds without needing too much time.

Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street

This traditional Kyoto street is quieter than the central Arashiyama area. It features cafés, historic wooden houses, and small craft shops. Families often enjoy wandering here between attractions, as it provides a peaceful break from the busier parts of the district.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji & Adashino Nenbutsu-ji

These two atmospheric temples are known for their whimsical stone statues:

• Otagi Nenbutsu-ji – filled with hundreds of expressive statues that many children find fun to explore.
• Adashino Nenbutsu-ji – home to a small, quiet bamboo path mentioned as a calmer alternative to the main grove.

Both temples offer a quieter environment and a playful, imaginative atmosphere.

Togetsukyo Bridge

The iconic “Moon Crossing Bridge” provides scenic views of the river and Arashiyama hills. Families often stop here for photos, a quick rest, or snacks after walking through the grove.

Local snacks & tasting stops

Along the route you’ll find:

• Ice cream stands (mango, matcha, peach cola)
• Shops selling warabi mochi and colourful drinks
• A pickles shop offering dozens of free tasting samples
  These stops are convenient for families and help keep energy levels up.

Kimono Shop & Custom Chopsticks

Nearby shops offer:

• Small accessories
• Custom chopsticks with on-the-spot engraving (10-60 minutes)

This personalised souvenir is often a highlight for children who enjoy watching the engraving process.

Is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest good for families?

For families with children (5-18)

Yes. The path is safe, flat, and visually engaging. Children enjoy the rickshaws, the small Randen train crossing, and the variety of photo spots and snacks along the way. The only challenge is the crowd level after 9:30 AM, which can slow down movement.

For elderly parents

The main path is well-maintained and easy to walk. The main difficulty is navigating through dense crowds during peak times.

For visitors with limited mobility

The files indicate that the path is generally accessible, but there are limitations:

• Very crowded periods restrict movement
• No parking directly at the entrance
• Narrow sections can become difficult to pass during busy hours

A taxi drop-off is the most convenient option.

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What are the downsides families should realistically expect?

According to the files, several challenges may affect the experience:

• Heavy crowds, especially between 10:00-11:00 AM and in the afternoon
• A short walking route, which some visitors find surprising
• Mosquitoes during warm seasons
• Toilets located only on the far side of the grove
• Frequent photo stops and queues
• Less serenity than online photos may suggest

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: If you prefer a calmer atmosphere, continue walking beyond the initial crowded section. The upper part of the path becomes noticeably quieter.

2-Day Family Itinerary: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Day 1 – Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine & Kimono Forest

Begin your visit by arriving at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station or Randen Arashiyama Station, followed by a flat 10-12-minute walk to the Bamboo Forest. Start at the main path of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Continue past the first busy section and walk toward the quieter upper slope, where you’ll find wider viewpoints and better family photo opportunities.

Just off the main path is Nonomiya Shrine, a small and atmospheric stop with its ancient kurōki torii, a simple moss garden, and its well-known heart-shaped ema boards.

For lunch, return toward the station area. Here you can try a local dango café where you grill your own skewers or choose one of the casual noodle restaurants along the shopping street.

Continue your route by heading to the Kimono Forest at Randen Arashiyama Station, where more than 600 illuminated kimono-fabric cylinders create a colourful setting perfect for photos. From there, walk toward Togetsukyo Bridge through souvenir-lined streets, enjoy river views, and try local treats such as pineapple-on-a-stick, matcha wafers, or the uniquely flavoured peach cola mentioned in the files.

If you have the energy, you may return to the Kimono Forest after sunset to enjoy the soft evening glow. For dinner, the restaurants near the bridge offer family-friendly udon and set meals.

Day 2 – Quiet Arashiyama: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji & Saga-Toriimoto

Start the morning with a short 10-12-minute taxi ride from the central Arashiyama area to the quieter hillside district. Begin at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, a peaceful temple filled with hundreds of expressive stone statues that children usually enjoy exploring.

Continue to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, which offers a calm atmosphere and includes a small bamboo path often mentioned as a quieter alternative to the main Arashiyama grove.

For lunch, stop at one of the small cafés along Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street, where you can rest, enjoy simple local dishes, and take a break from walking.

In the afternoon, stroll along Saga-Toriimoto, a traditional street that feels far removed from the busy central district. It is ideal for relaxed photos, snacks, and browsing craft shops. From there, walk back toward central Arashiyama; the route is mostly downhill and takes about 25-30 minutes.

When you are ready to end the day, return to your hotel by train or taxi.

Traveller Reviews – Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

1. Sarah Mitchell – visited in April 2019
   I reached the forest just after sunrise, and the quiet atmosphere was unforgettable. The light filtered beautifully through the bamboo. By 9 AM it was already getting busy, so arriving early made a big difference. My kids enjoyed the small Randen train crossing and watching the rickshaws. The only downside was the mosquitoes – bring spray.
2. Daniel Foster – visited in October 2025
   We arrived around 10 AM, and the path felt like a moving river of people, but the forest was still stunning. The bamboo changed colour with the light, shifting from green to bluish tones. We walked farther uphill and finally found quieter spots. I tried the peach cola afterward – definitely one of the strangest drinks I’ve had.
3. Emma Collins – visited in June 2021
   I expected the forest to be long, but it is a short walk. Even so, the atmosphere is special – tall bamboo, soft wind, and great places for family photos. We continued to Nonomiya Shrine, which was small but charming. The nearby pickles shop unexpectedly became our favourite stop.
4. Michael Rivera – visited in November 2024
   We visited on a rainy morning, and it was absolutely worth it. The bamboo looked greener, and the crowds were smaller. My teenagers ran ahead searching for new photo angles. Although the grove ends sooner than expected, we made it a full outing by walking to the bridge and the Kimono Forest afterward.
5. Laura Bennett – visited in August 2018
   We went at midday, and it was very crowded – beautiful, but not as peaceful as in photos. Still, my kids enjoyed spotting rickshaws and tasting warabi mochi along the main street. If you want quiet moments, continue all the way up the path; that’s where we finally found space.
6. Jason Moore – visited in December 2023
   On a cold morning, the bamboo looked almost silver. There were very few mosquitoes, and the forest felt otherworldly when the wind made the stems sway together. Later, we explored Saga-Toriimoto Street, which turned out to be calm and full of small shops – a perfect half-day outing.
7. Olivia Turner – visited in September 2025
   We visited in the evening, and it was one of the calmest walks of our trip. The dim light created a quiet, atmospheric mood. Just note that some paths close early. Afterward, the kids wanted to see the Kimono Forest lights – definitely worth it.
8. Christopher Hayes – visited in March 2022
   We combined the main Bamboo Forest with the smaller bamboo path at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, and that decision made the day. The quieter grove felt more natural and easier for photos. The main path is beautiful, but the smaller one matched the calmness we hoped for. A great mix for families wanting more nature.

Tips from the Itinerary Expert

Arrive before 9:00 AM.
From my own visits, the difference between 8:30 and 10:00 feels like two separate experiences. Early morning gives you space, soft light, and a calmer pace. By late morning, the path becomes crowded enough to slow movement significantly.

Walk past the first 200-300 meters.
Most visitors stop at the beginning of the Bamboo Forest. If you continue uphill, you’ll find wider paths, better angles, and quiet corners perfect for relaxed family photos without constant stopping.

Combine the main grove with the quieter Adashino Nenbutsu-ji bamboo path.
When I visited the smaller grove near Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, it felt like a more peaceful version of Arashiyama – calmer, atmospheric, and ideal for children who need space to wander.

Visit in the evening if mornings aren’t possible.
The files describe how after 8:00 PM the grove becomes soft, dim, and calm. If early mornings aren’t suitable for your family, an evening stroll can feel surprisingly magical. Just note that some side paths close early.

Bring mosquito spray on warm days.
I learned this the hard way – shaded areas attract mosquitoes, especially in summer. A quick spray helps keep everyone comfortable.

Use the Randen railway crossing as a photo stop.
One of my favourite spots is the small train crossing near the grove. Kids enjoy watching the purple Randen tram, and it’s much easier to take photos here compared to the central path.

Don’t skip Nonomiya Shrine.
This small stop inside the forest offers a quiet moment away from the crowds. The kurōki torii and moss garden create simple but memorable photo opportunities.

Try local snacks to keep energy levels up.
Matcha waffles, pineapple-on-a-stick, and warabi mochi are easy options along the paths leading to the grove. These short snack breaks help keep children engaged.

Add Kimono Forest for colourful photos.
If your family enjoys bright visuals, the illuminated fabric pillars of the Kimono Forest are an easy and memorable addition to your day.

If you need true quiet, walk beyond the crowd peak.
Once you reach the upper slope near the small shrine and rail tracks, the atmosphere changes noticeably. I often tell families: don’t turn back too early – the quieter sections are just a few minutes further.

I stepped through the torii gate and instantly felt the calm of the forest shrine. The crowd moved slowly, as if everyone was carrying a quiet wish in their heart.

Insights from the Itinerary Expert

I visited Arashiyama Bamboo Forest (Arashiyama Bamboo Grove) in October 2023, and even though I had seen countless photos beforehand, stepping into the tall, whispering bamboo felt entirely different. Early in the morning, the light slid through the stems like soft ribbons, creating a calm atmosphere for a short while. Then, almost suddenly, the crowds arrived – and for families, that shift can be overwhelming. But once you continue a little farther uphill, the atmosphere changes again, becoming quieter and more open.

I always remind parents not to stop at the first photogenic spot. Keep walking. The forest reveals its calmer side only when you move beyond the busy entrance. On warm days, mosquitoes can be persistent, so bringing spray prevents a lot of discomfort for children. And if your family prefers soft evening light, returning after sunset offers a completely different mood – gentler, quieter, almost cinematic.

What surprised me most was how much the overall experience depends on the surrounding area. Stops like Nonomiya Shrine or the glowing Kimono Forest add variety, colour, and rhythm to the outing, making the day more enjoyable for children. And the food stalls near the grove – matcha waffles, pineapple treats, even the unusual peach cola – help keep energy levels up throughout the visit.

Arashiyama combines nature, colour, and atmosphere in a way that makes it feel both accessible and memorable. If you’re considering a visit, I would be happy to help you create an individual, family-friendly itinerary for this area and the rest of Japan – tailored to your pace, interests, and travel style.

I followed the stone path through this moss garden, feeling like I was stepping into an ancient painting. The quiet here felt almost sacred.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest – Price Table (USD)

I found this tiny torii gate glowing in the snow—a bright splash of red in a quiet winter scene. It felt like discovering a secret corner of Japan.

Q&A – Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

1. What is the best time to visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with kids?
   Early morning, before 9:00 AM. Crowds grow quickly, and by late morning the pathways can become congested.
2. How long does the Bamboo Forest take to walk through?
   The main path is short – about 20-30 minutes at a relaxed pace. With photo stops and nearby shrines, expect 60-90 minutes in total.
3. Is the forest stroller-friendly?
   Yes. The main path is flat and suitable for strollers, though heavy crowds after 10:00 AM may make manoeuvring difficult.
4. Are there toilets near the Bamboo Forest?
   Not at the main entrance. Facilities are available on the far side of the grove and near some surrounding attractions, according to the files.
5. Is it worth visiting in the evening?
   Yes. After sunset, the forest becomes calmer and more atmospheric, with softer lighting and fewer people.
6. Can children enjoy the visit, or is it too crowded?
   With an early start, absolutely. Kids usually enjoy the rickshaws, the small Randen train crossing, and the snacks along the walking paths.
7. Are there mosquitoes? (first-person)
   Yes, especially on warm days. I was bitten during a summer visit, so I always bring mosquito spray for families.
8. Is there a quieter alternative to the main Bamboo Grove?
   Yes. A smaller, calmer bamboo path near Adashino Nenbutsu-ji offers a peaceful experience away from the central crowds.
9. Can we combine the grove with other attractions nearby?
   Easily. Nonomiya Shrine, Kimono Forest, Saga-Toriimoto Street, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, and Togetsukyo Bridge are all within short walking or taxi distance.
10. Is the forest as peaceful as in photos? (first-person)
    Only early in the morning. By 10:00 AM it felt crowded, with frequent photo stops and slower movement. When I wanted quiet, I walked farther uphill – that’s where the path finally opened up again.

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