Kyoto’s westernmost district of Arashiyama has been a local getaway for hundreds of years. Stepping into the Sagano Bamboo Forest, you’ll quickly understand why Japan’s ancient elite chose this peaceful landscape for their summer retreats. The forest spans a vast area of 16 square kilometers and features a pedestrian path that leads to several temples and shrines nestled in the foothills of surrounding mountains. The cooling effect of the dense bamboo grove provides a refreshing escape from the summer humidity that characterizes Kyoto in July and August.

The Shrines and Temples of the Bamboo Forest

A few minutes into the forest path, visitors will encounter a small Shinto shrine, Nonomiya Jinja. This shrine has an intriguing history, once playing a significant role in preparing imperial princesses for service as vestal virgins at the Grand Shrine of Ise, one of Japan’s most revered religious sites. The deities at this shrine are believed to cater to women’s needs, with visitors able to purchase amulets promoting safe childbirth, a healthy marriage, or easy conception. A curious feature here is Turtle Rock, a wish-granting stone that is said to fulfill the desires of those who touch it.

Continuing on the path, visitors will reach Tenryu-ji (open daily from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; admission 500 yen). Known as the Temple of the Heavenly Dragon, it was established to ease the guilt of shogun Ashikaga Takauji. After ousting Emperor Go-Daigo, Takauji found himself riddled with regret following the emperor’s death. Guided by a dream featuring a golden dragon rising from a river—which he interpreted as a sign of Go-Daigo’s unrest—he commissioned the temple at the site of the deceased emperor’s favorite villa.

It’s also worthwhile to follow the bamboo path to Okochi-Sanso Villa (open 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; admission 1000 yen), once the estate of famed actor Okochi Denjiro, known for his work in samurai cinema. The villa features beautiful gardens, and your ticket includes a complimentary cup of matcha and a small traditional sweet.

Romantic Transport

To reach the Bamboo Forest and Arashiyama’s main street, visitors must cross the Togetsu-kyo-bashi, a picturesque 155-meter-long bridge spanning the Katsura River. It’s a popular vantage point for watching the age-old tradition of cormorant fishing. The bridge often hosts several rickshaws, operated by knowledgeable locals who can provide a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s rich history while navigating you through the Sagano Forest.

For those seeking a more serene experience, a scenic boat ride awaits. After crossing the Togetsu bridge, look for signs directing you to Arashiyama Boat Rental. An experienced oarsman will guide you upstream in a traditional wooden vessel. Often, a snack boat will approach, offering refreshments—a perfect opportunity to indulge in a local beer or some oden while gliding along the pristine waters of the Katsura River.

Lastly, try the Sagano Romantic Train, a scenic sightseeing train that travels from Arashiyama’s Saga station to the resort town of Kameoka. The train runs along tracks poised above the Hozukyo ravine, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding bamboo and maple forests as it traverses the area.

Monkey Park

Your visit to the Sagano Bamboo Forest wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Iwatayama Monkey Park (open 9:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.; admission 550 yen). Here, traditional zoo conventions are reversed, as monkeys roam free while visitors are penned in a designated area. The uphill trek to the park rewards you with entertaining encounters with the monkeys and sweeping views of the Kyoto landscape.

Getting There

Travelers can easily access Kyoto’s Bamboo Forest via train or bus. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano/San-in line to Saga-Arashiyama station. Alternatively, take bus #28 and disembark at Arashiyama-Tenryuji-mae. From Kawaramachi or Karasuma stations in central Kyoto, board the Hankyu Main Line to Katsura Station, then switch to the Hankyu Arashiyama Line for Arashiyama station.