The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Kyoto's ethereal green cathedral - a path winding through towering stalks of bamboo that filter the light and whisper in the wind, beside temples and a scenic riverside district.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most ethereal sights in Kyoto, a path winding through towering green stalks of bamboo that soar overhead, filtering the sunlight into a soft green glow and whispering as they sway in the wind. In the scenic Arashiyama district on the city's western edge, it sits beside temples, gardens, a famous bridge and a monkey park, in hills lovely in every season.
What you actually see
- The bamboo path - the walkway through the towering green stalks.
- Tenryu-ji temple - the Zen temple and garden beside the grove.
- The Togetsukyo Bridge - the scenic bridge over the river.
- The riverside district - the hills, boats and monkey park nearby.
When to go
Year-round; go at dawn to have the famous path to yourself, as it fills with crowds by mid-morning. Spring and autumn are the mildest and loveliest in the surrounding hills, and the grove is atmospheric in light rain.
Honest expectations
The grove itself is a short, single path, and it gets extremely crowded by mid-morning, so dawn is the only time to experience it peacefully; photos rarely show the crush. It is best combined with the temples, bridge and river of the wider Arashiyama district to fill a rewarding half day.
Nearby
Tenryu-ji temple, the Iwatayama monkey park and the Sagano district are alongside; central Kyoto is a train ride.
What to pack for The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
