The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a roughly 400-meter walking path lined with thousands of towering bamboo stalks in Kyoto's western Arashiyama-Sagano district. It runs from Nonomiya Shrine past the north gate of Tenryu-ji Temple toward the Okochi Sanso villa, famous for its green tunnel of bamboo and the rustling sound the stalks make in the wind. The main path has no gates or ticket booths, so it is free and open around the clock.
The green tunnel of tall bamboo arching overhead, with dappled sunlight filtering through
The distinctive creaking, rustling sound of the bamboo when the wind blows
Nonomiya Shrine at the entrance, an old shrine known for prayers for love and marriage
Sweeping views over Kyoto from the hillside garden of Okochi Sanso villa at the western end (separate paid entry)
The adjacent UNESCO World Heritage Tenryu-ji Temple and its garden (separate paid entry)
Good to know
SeasonInside the shaded grove it feels noticeably cooler than outside in autumn and winter, so bring a layer. Summer is humid with mosquitoes, so insect repellent helps.
SafetyThe path has almost no artificial lighting and gets very dark after sunset. A night visit is hazardous underfoot, so daytime is strongly recommended.
RulesCarving, peeling, or otherwise damaging the bamboo is prohibited and can result in fines. Flying drones is not allowed without a permit.
MannersIn peak season crowds make it easy to catch strangers in your photos. Photographing others without consent can cause disputes, and tripods or selfie sticks that block the narrow path are discouraged.
SafetyThe corridor is extremely crowded from about 10:00 to 16:00 (worst 11:00-15:00). For a quieter walk and clearer photos, arrive before 8:00 AM.
RulesThere are no restrooms within the grove itself; use facilities at nearby stations or Tenryu-ji beforehand.
Practical info
Fees/hours: The path itself is free and open 24 hours with no gate. Adjacent sites are paid separately (Okochi Sanso villa about ¥1,000, including matcha; Tenryu-ji has its own admission). Getting there: about a 10-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station (Sagano Line), or on foot from Randen (Keifuku) Arashiyama Station or Hankyu Arashiyama Station. Please confirm current fees and hours before visiting.
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