Kyoto Travel Guide - 5 Things to do in Arashiyama and Sagano

When talk about visiting Kyoto, usually people will recommended go to Kiyomizu-dera, or Fushimi Inari. But did you know, there are other Best Things to Do in Kyoto is you must visit Arashiyama and Sagano. Arashiyama (嵐山) is a pleasant, touristy district in the western outskirts of Kyoto and Arashiyama is one of Best Places to See Cherry Blossom in Kyoto.

When the best time visit Arashiyama Kyoto?

Arashiyama becomes most attractive (and busy) around early April and the second half of November when the cherry blossom and fall color seasons usually peak. During the summer months, traditional cormorant fishing is practiced on the Hozu River for tourists to watch. Another good time to visit is during December's Hanatoro illumination, when lanterns line the streets and bamboo groves.

1. Visit the Bamboo Forest

When you come to Kyoto, you must visit the famous bamboo groves in Arashiyama. The best time to visit the Bamboo Forest is early morning/late on weekdays as you'll find fewer visitors. If you'll be visiting during the Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro illuminations in December, you can view various points of interest lit up at night, including the Bamboo Forest and Arashiyama's iconic Togetsukyo Bridge.

Access : 

Arashiyama Bamboo Groves (30 minutes)

From Tenryuji walk to Arashiyama Station and rent a bicycle. Then, head into the bamboo groves behind Tenryuji Temple. Turn right as you get to the entrance of Okochi Sanso and continue toward Jojakkoji.

2. Togetsukyo Bridge

The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama's well known, central landmark. Many small shops, restaurants and other attractions are found nearby, including Tenryuji Temple, Arashiyama's famous bamboo groves and pleasure boats that are available for rent on the river.

Togetsukyo Bridge is one of another popular cherry blossom viewing location. The pastel pink petals against the turquoise waters of the Katsura River make this ancient capital of Japan look like it came straight out of a painting. 

3. Hozugawa River Boat Tour

Hozugawa River Cruises (保津川下り, Hozugawa Kudari) are sightseeing boat rides down the Hozugawa River from Kameoka to Arashiyama. The cruises utilize traditional style, flat bottomed boats piloted by boatmen who guide the craft with oars and bamboo poles. The boats take about two hours to leisurely make their way down the river and are a relaxing way to see the natural scenery of the largely undeveloped ravine. The river cruises are often combined with a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway.

4. Arashiyama Temples

When you’re in Arashiyama, visit some of the oldest temples in Kyoto. Most temples are Japanese Buddhist temples such as : Tenryuji Temple, Daikakuji Temple, Gioji, Jojakkoji Temple, Nisonin Temple, Gioji Temple, Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple, Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple

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5. Saga-Toriimoto Street

The Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street, as you would guess from the name, is a preserved street – from the Meiji period. Lined with traditional machiya (town houses), which are now converted into shops and restaurants, the street offers a historic glimpse of a merchant town in the Meiji period.

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One of the most enjoyable and convenient ways to travel around the Sagano area is by rental bicycle, which are available for around 1000 yen near the train stations. Cycling through rural residential areas and past fields while traveling between temples can be one of the most enjoyable parts of a visit to Arashiyama. There is also an attractive preserved town area near the Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple.

Credits Information: Japan Guide.