Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
4.3 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Park・Point Of Interest・Establishment
The area
Address
Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan
Top ways to experience Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
What other travelers are saying about Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A stunning and serene experience to absolutely see, despite the crowds you’re sure to bump into. If you can, go early in the morning like we did and you’ll get a much more intimate ALMOST crowd free experience. As time went on, more and more people poured in, even by 9AM. We enjoyed picking a bench and just breathing in the fresh air and admiring how towering the bamboo was. Don’t let the crowds completely dictate whether or not you come here, this place is magical even with lots of people in my opinion. If that’s the case though, just know that your photos will not be crowd-free. If you go into it knowing that, I think you’ll have a great time. Or, go very early 😉
Cody P
Jun 17, 2025
The bamboo forest itself is a worthwhile visit but expect a wave of tourists clogging the path. That said, there is much more to the area than a bamboo forest. The temples and shrines are fascinating. The parks and rivers are beautiful. There's off the beaten path hiking for the adventurous. There's also a myriad of restaurants and dining to enjoy in the town itself. Go for the bamboo, stay all day for everything else.
Konrad
Jun 18, 2025
We took the "romantic" train to visit the forest and temples. Yes it's crowded but honestly so worth it! Eventually the crowd decreases and you can enjoy the various gardens and temples. The town nearby has many shops and restaurants that are definitely worth your time as well!
Sheri Freitas
Jun 14, 2025
The Forest is beautiful, the nature is stunning and the scenic views are insane. I would definitely recommend going to the "other" forest that's inside the bamboo forest, you do have to pay, but it's not that much and definitely worth it. The views are amazing and the cute little houses are also very cool. The only negative thing I have to say is that it can be very crowded, but that doesn't take away the beauty of the forest. Definitely go there when you are in Kyoto!!
Theo Kink
Jun 16, 2025
Beautiful but Busy — Get There Early!
The bamboo forest was absolutely beautiful, but as many have mentioned, it does get very crowded. What surprised us, though, is that the bamboo grove is actually just a small part of a much larger, stunning park.
If you’re an early riser, it’s definitely worth heading there first thing in the morning to enjoy the peaceful surroundings before the crowds arrive.
The town itself is super charming, but most shops don’t open until around 10 a.m. One highlight for us was visiting the former home of an old Japanese actor — admission was only 1,000 yen and totally worth it. The gardens were gorgeous, and there were plenty of great photo spots.
Leah Bishop
Apr 9, 2025
