Kyoto · Arashiyama
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The bamboo grove is a path of about 400 meters, from Nonomiya Shrine, past the north gate of Tenryu-ji, to the Okochi Sanso garden. On both sides of the path, tended bamboo stalks stand in dense rows. In the Heian period the area, Sagano, was the retreat of the aristocracy.
Entry is free and the path is always open. On a clear day the light filters between the stalks, and on a cloudy day the path is dark even at noon.
Good to know
- From 30 September to 8 November 2026, Arashiyama Tsukitoro, a bamboo illumination, runs in the evenings, 18:00-21:00, last entry 20:30. At the ticket office ¥1,500 in cash, online ¥2,000 with guaranteed entry, children up to 12 free.
- There is a ticket office at the north gate of Tenryu-ji, in the middle of the path. You can enter the temple garden from there and exit to the main street, or the other way around.
- After Okochi Sanso the path continues north, to Jojakko-ji and the quiet streets of Sagano.
What is nearby
Approximate walking minutes from the entrance of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
- HereArashiyama Bamboo Grove
- ~2 min
Nonomiya Shrine More to see
A small shrine with a torii gate of unpeeled wood, which according to the shrine is the ancient style of torii gates. People pray here for relationships, childbirth and studies. Free.
- ~4 min
Yojiya Cafe Sagano Arashiyama Cafe
The cafe of Yojiya, the Kyoto brand of oil-blotting paper, 32 seats. Matcha and sweets. The takeaway menu is currently suspended.
- ~5 min
Shigetsu (Tenryu-ji) Food
Tenryu-ji's temple cuisine restaurant, inside the temple. According to the temple, with no animal ingredient at all. The basic meal, 'Yuki', is ¥3,800, plus ¥500 for garden entry. Book at least two days ahead.
- ~5 min
Unagi Hirokawa Food
Eel grilled over charcoal. By reservation only, which opens a month ahead. Unaju ¥3,900 before tax.
- ~7 min
Kimono Forest, Randen Arashiyama Station Street
At Randen Arashiyama Station stand about 600 pillars wrapped in Kyo-yuzen fabric, lit from sunset until 21:00. Free.
- ~10 min
Kitcho Arashiyama Food
Three Michelin stars, kaiseki in garden pavilions in Arashiyama.
More in Arashiyama
Appears in: Arashiyama: the bamboo grove at sunrise, Tenryu-ji, monkeys and the Romantic Train