How to enjoy Arashiyama’s classic sights in just a few hours — budget-friendly and full of Kyoto atmosphere.
Arashiyama experiences and tour, book now!
Why this mini-itinerary works
Short on time but still want the Kyoto vibe? This half-day Arashiyama loop packs the essentials — the iconic bridge, the bamboo grove, a beautiful garden tea house, and some tasty street food — into a relaxed morning outing that costs about \3,000 yen per person. Perfect if you’re arriving in Kyoto early or only have an afternoon free.
Quick overview — the plan at a glance
Recommended time: around 08:00–13:00 (best to start early to avoid crowds)
Budget: approx. \3,000 yen (see cost breakdown later)
Route & example schedule
09:45 Arrive at Arashiyama Station
10:00–10:20 Togetsukyo Bridge — photos & riverside views
10:30–11:45 Yusaitei — garden tea house (main paid activity)
12:00–12:30 Bamboo Grove (Chikurin no Komichi) — stroll & photos
12:30–12:45 Nonomiya Shrine — quick visit
12:55–13:00 Street food — Mitarashi dango and matcha crepe
What kind of place is Arashiyama?
Arashiyama sits on Kyoto’s west side, blending natural scenery with historic spots. Think riverside views, the graceful Togetsukyo Bridge, the famous bamboo path, and tucked-away shrines. Cherry blossom season and autumn colours are especially beautiful here, which is when the area gets busiest.
Best time for a half-day visit
For the calmest experience, visit early morning (around 08:00–11:00). Shops often open around 10:00, so mornings are great for sightseeing and photos before the crowds arrive. Weekends and autumn are busier — aim for weekday mornings if you can.
How to get to Arashiyama — quick guide for visitors
Two common, easy options from Kyoto Station:
1. JR San-in (Sagano) Line
• Time: about 15 minutes
• Fare: \240 yen (one way)
• Get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station, then about a 10-minute walk to Togetsukyo Bridge.
2. Kyoto City Bus (Route 28)
• Time: 40–50 minutes depending on traffic
• Fare: \ 230 yen
• Alight at the Arashiyama Park bus stop — about 2 minutes’ walk to the bridge.
The half-day route — step-by-step
10:00 — Togetsukyo Bridge (渡月橋)
Togetsukyo is Arashiyama’s symbol — a graceful wooden bridge over the Katsura River. Begin your walk here and soak in the view. A little local tale: there’s an old story about “not looking back” at the bridge — a charming note to share while you’re there.
10:30 — Yusaitei (裕斎亭) — The Photogenic Garden Tea House
Opened to the public recently, Yusaitei is known for seasonal garden views framed by large windows — they often look like living paintings. Admission is typically around \2,000 yen and advance reservation is required.
Notes for international visitors
• Yusaitei uses a reservation system — book in advance (especially during autumn).
• Photography is usually allowed but be respectful and follow any staff instructions.
You can find how to make a reservation in this article!
12:00 — Bamboo Grove (竹林の小径)
A calm, narrow path about 400 metres long — cool, quiet, and perfect for photos. Mornings are best; mid-day gets really crowded.
Experience Arashiyama the classic way▷
Klook.com12:30 — Nonomiya Shrine (野宮神社)
Tucked in the bamboo grove, Nonomiya is known for relationship luck and fertility blessings. Look out for the traditional bark torii gate and the small, atmospheric precinct.
12:55 — Street food: Mitarashi dango and Matcha crepe
Finish with tasty local snacks:
• Aburi Mitarashi Dango — grilled, sweet-soy glazed (approx. \280yen)
• Matcha Crepe — matcha cream and azuki, a richer treat (approx. \850yen)
Cost breakdown (example total)
• Togetsukyo: free
• Bamboo Grove: free
• Yusaitei: \2,000 yen (admission; reservation required)
• Nonomiya Shrine: free
• Mitarashi dango: \280 yen
• Matcha crepe: \850 yen
Total: approx \3,130 yen — slightly over \3,000 yen. Skip or swap the crepe to stay under \3,000 yen.
Handy tips for international visitors
IC cards
Use Suica/ICOCA on trains and many buses. Buy one at stations if you don’t already have one.
Language & booking
Small sites often have Japanese-only booking pages. Use a browser translator, ask your hotel for help, or use English-friendly platforms .
Cash vs card
Small stalls sometimes take cash only — carry some yen. Larger cafés and shops usually accept cards.
Etiquette
Keep quiet in tea houses. At shrines, bow at the torii and use the temizuya (water basin) to wash hands if you like.
Crowds
Weekends and autumn foliage season are busiest — aim for weekday mornings for more peace.
Final thoughts
This half-day route gives a well-rounded taste of Arashiyama without rushing: the Togetsukyo, bamboo grove, a tea house, and some local snacks. Start early, book Yusaitei in advance if you want that garden view, and enjoy a calm slice of Kyoto.
There’s so much more to explore around Arashiyama !
Comments