Access to Arashiyama
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto, Arashiyama is served by JR, Hankyu, and Randen (Keifuku) trains.
Please use routes that are easily accessible from the area where you will be staying.
◆JR Saga-Arashiyama Station (Station No. JR-E08)
It is located in the area generally known as Sagano. It is adjacent to the Saga torokko Station of the Sagano Scenic Railway.
If you are coming to Kansai by Shinkansen and heading to Arashiyama from Kyoto or Shin-Osaka stations, JR is the most convenient way to get there.
【From JR Kyoto Station】Take Sanin Line and get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station.
【From JR Shin-Osaka Station】Take Kyoto Line, change at Kyoto Station to Sanin Line, and get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station.
◆Hankyu Arashiyama Station (Station No. HK98)
As soon as you exit the station, you will see the Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima area in front of you. The station is close to the Wataratsuki Bridge and the Katsura River.
If you are heading to Arashiyama from Kyoto City or Osaka City, the Hankyu train is the most convenient way to get there.
【From Kawaramachi/Karasuma】Take the Kyoto Line, transfer at Katsura Station to the Arashiyama Line, and get off at the last stop, Arashiyama Station.
【From Osaka Umeda】Take Kyoto Line, transfer at Katsura Station to Arashiyama Line and get off at the last stop, Arashiyama Station.
◆Randen(Keifuku) Arashiyama Station (station number. A13)
Right in front of the station is the main street of Arashiyama. It is located right in front of the entrance of Tenryuji Temple.
The Randen runs between scattered World Heritage sites, so if you plan to visit Ryoanji Temple, Myoshinji Temple, Kurumaori Shrine, or Uzumasa Film Village before or after Arashiyama, the Randen is a convenient way to get there.
【From Shijo-Omiya】Take Ranzanmoto Line and get off at the last stop, Arashiyama Station.
【From Kitano Hakubai-cho】Take the Kitano Line, change to the Arashiyama Line at Katabiranotsuji and get off at the last stop, Arashiyama Station.
Four Seasons in Arashiyama
Arashiyama offers spectacular scenery throughout the year: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snow in winter.
The symbol of Arashiyama, Togetsu Bridge, is famous for its beautiful scenery that harmonizes with the surrounding nature, and is especially crowded with tourists during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage season in fall.
The best time to see the cherry blossoms is from late March to early April. The rows of cherry trees along the river in full bloom are a sight to behold.
The best time to view the autumn leaves is from mid-November to early December. Togetsu Bridge with the mountains in red in the background is a popular photo spot.
Japanese experience in Arashiyama
In Arashiyama, you can also experience Japanese culture unique to Kyoto. You can stroll around the town in kimono, take an elegant rickshaw ride while listening to a jinrikisha guide, take a relaxing yakatabune and view the four seasons of Arashiyama from the river, or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic train and enjoy the magnificent beauty of the valley.
Why not have an extraordinary experience in a world-famous tourist destination?
Arashiyama Temples and Shrines
Arashiyama is home to many historically significant buildings. There are many historic temples and shrines that cannot be visited in a single day, including Tenryu-ji Temple, which is registered as a World Heritage site, Jojakkoji Temple, which is famous for its autumn foliage, and Nonomiya Shrine, which is famous for marriage.
There are also many unusual places of merit, such as a shrine of entertainment that is visited by many celebrities, the only shrine in Japan dedicated to the god of hair, and a shrine where the god of electricity and radio waves resides.
Gourmet in Arashiyama
A good gourmet meal is a must when exploring Arashiyama with its many attractions!
As a popular tourist destination, there are many restaurants of various genres. Try Kyoto cuisine or yudofu in a perfect location.
There is also a wide selection of unique gourmet foods that can be enjoyed while admiring the picturesque townscape. Enjoy the photo-worthy sweets and other delicacies while sightseeing.
Arashiyama Recommended Model Course
Here is a model course that allows you to enjoy Arashiyama in a day.
Whether you choose to explore a specific area or visit a few hidden spots, we hope you will enjoy your visit to Arashiyama as many times as you wish.