First Impressions

The moment I entered Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, everything changed. The air grew cooler. The light turned green. Towering stalks of bamboo surrounded me like living columns in a natural cathedral. Each step felt meditative—just the sound of the wind dancing through leaves and the soft echo of my footsteps on the path.

No photo ever does it justice. You have to feel it.

Getting There

I took the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station, then walked about 10 minutes through quiet streets lined with little cafés and kimono shops. You can also take the Keifuku Arashiyama Line or rent a bike if you’re coming from central Kyoto.

Tip: Go early in the morning—before 8 AM—to experience the forest without the crowds. It’s utterly serene at that hour.

My Experience

The bamboo was taller than I expected—stretching endlessly skyward, gently swaying in the breeze. I walked slowly, trying to soak in every shift of light and shadow. It felt otherworldly.

After strolling the grove, I wandered into Okochi Sanso Villa, a quiet garden estate nearby (entry fee ~¥1,000, but includes matcha and a sweet!). The view over Kyoto’s mountains and the calm teahouse moment made me feel like time had stopped.

Good to Know

• Open: 24/7, no gate or entry fee

• Best Time: Early morning for solitude; late afternoon for soft light

• Visit Duration: 30 minutes–1 hour for the grove; longer if you explore nearby temples or gardens

• Facilities: Restrooms near the entrance, food stalls, cafés nearby

Snack Break

I found a sweet little café tucked near the river and ordered a matcha latte with a warm sakura mochi. Sitting by the window, bamboo still fresh in my mind, I felt incredibly grounded—and grateful.

Personal Tips

• Bring a camera, but don’t get too caught up in trying to capture it—just be present

• Wear comfy shoes—paths are smooth but you’ll be walking a lot

• Visit Tenryu-ji Temple right next door or stroll down to Togetsukyo Bridge afterward

• If you’re there in fall or spring, the nearby gardens are a riot of color

Why I Loved It

⭐ 5.0/5 — “Arashiyama Bamboo Forest was pure peace. It reminded me to slow down, breathe deeply, and notice the quiet beauty all around me.”

What You’ll Want to Capture

• The towering green bamboo stretching toward the sky

• Gentle beams of sunlight slicing through the grove

• Candid portraits against the natural backdrop

• A tranquil teahouse moment with matcha in hand