Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Review (Expert Traveler Insight) If you want to know what silence looks like, open the photos first. This is one of those rare places where the pictures tell half the story — and the experience tells the rest. As an experienced traveler and detailed reviewer, I can confidently say Arashiyama Bamboo Forest stands among the most breathtaking natural walks I’ve ever taken. This forest isn’t just famous — it deserves the hype. The towering bamboo creates a cathedral-like canopy that feels peaceful, almost spiritual. But here’s the real insider tip: take a rickshaw. Yes, it sounds touristy, but it’s actually the smartest way to explore. Your guide brings you through special inner routes that the general public cannot access, helping you avoid the crowds entirely. They also take incredible photos for you — shots you simply cannot get on your own. Beyond the forest, the surrounding market area, fall colors, and side streets add even more to the experience. Plan for at least 4–6 hours to enjoy it without rushing, and make sure you dress for the weather as it can feel cooler under the bamboo. This was one of the most unforgettable parts of our Japan trip — peaceful, iconic, and absolutely worth every minute. Don’t leave Kyoto without experiencing this.

Come very early. As early as you can muster. The crowd comes in at 9am onwards. You get the place all to yourself and take as many pics as you like. However, this place is known for bear sightings..so you might wanna prepare for that. Get a whistle. Bears hate loud noise. Even at 7am when I went, there were already people on the trail. Enjoy the scenery and the sunrise. Walk up the hill to the arashimaya viewpoints to see the gorges. Thereafter, you can walk down and either take the boat or the romantic train around the area. Highly recommended to visit.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is both beautiful and notorious at the same time. So beautiful that tourists start to throng to this bamboo grove - the trick is to know when to visit this area to take good photos without being photobombed by countless tourists walking around. Having said that, some might say that this place is overrated but after visiting, Arashiyama has its own charm if one knows when to visit and perfect moment to capture the pictures. I bought some souvenirs from the shops right outside the bamboo grove, and then had one of the best green tea drink and desserts nearby.

The bamboo forest is undeniably stunning and has an almost surreal atmosphere, with towering stalks of bamboo creating a calm and otherworldly setting. Walking through it feels like stepping into a postcard, especially when the light filters gently through the greenery. That said, it is also one of the most popular attractions in the area, so it can get extremely crowded. The large number of visitors makes it difficult to fully enjoy the serenity or to take scenic photos without people in the background. Visiting early in the morning may help, but it is something to be prepared for. One experience that should not be missed is the scenic train ride. The train takes you on a leisurely journey through a breathtaking gorge, running alongside a river and offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and seasonal scenery. It is a relaxing and visually rewarding experience, and easily one of the highlights of the visit. For those seeking something more adventurous, there is also a river boat ride available. This boat ride takes you across several rapids, adding a bit of excitement while allowing you to admire the gorge from a completely different perspective — right from the water below. At the scenic train stop, there is a charming picnic area with simple but satisfying food options, including yakisoba, buns, and a matcha ice cream stall. It’s a pleasant place to take a break, relax, and enjoy a casual meal. I would highly recommend having lunch there while waiting for the scenic train, especially after purchasing your tickets, as it adds to the overall experience and makes the wait much more enjoyable.