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Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · KYOTO

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A path through towering bamboo stalks that sway and creak in the wind.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Free
Best time
Sunrise
Area
Arashiyama

A path through towering green bamboo stalks.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto

  • Train: JR Saga-Arashiyama or Randen Arashiyama Station, 5–10 minutes' walk.
  • Path: About 400–500 metres long.
  • Combine: Tenryu-ji's north gate opens onto the grove.

The story of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama bamboo forest lies in Kyoto's western hills, an area that was a retreat for aristocrats for centuries. The grove's tall moso bamboo can reach more than 20 metres.

The sound of the wind through the bamboo has been listed among Japan's "100 soundscapes worth preserving".

Best time to visit

Best season

All year; autumn for the Arashiyama hills.

Best time of day

Sunrise; it is packed by 9 am.

December

Hanatouro light-up event.

Tips before you go

  • Go before 8 am for a peaceful walk.
  • Arrive by 7 am for photos without crowds.
  • Visit Tenryu-ji's gardens nearby.

Best hotels near the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

Riverside luxury hotel on the Kamo River.

See prices

Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion

Hotel near Yasaka Shrine.

See prices

Hoshinoya Kyoto

Riverside ryokan-style retreat in Arashiyama.

See prices
All hotels near the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

What's around the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

  • Tenryu-jiUNESCO Zen temple.
  • Togetsukyo BridgeHistoric bridge.
  • Okochi SansoVilla garden.
  • Iwatayama Monkey ParkHill with wild monkeys.

Questions travellers ask

Is the Bamboo Grove free?

Yes.

How long is the path?

About 400–500 metres.

When is it least crowded?

At sunrise.

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Travel Plan · Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure