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Japan/Things to Do in Kyoto, with kids

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?

76%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Flat 500 m path, scenic train, and nearby monkey park engage children, yet no toilets, water, or play equipment lie inside the forest, so families must plan rests outside the grove.

Google
Reviews4.3/ 5
(from 15,894 reviews)
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Positives:

  • Stroller-friendly path: The smooth trail handles strollers and offers stable footing.
  • Unique sound experience: Kids can hear the wind through bamboo, one of Japan’s 100 sounds.

Challenges:

  • Peak crowd times: The grove gets busy after 9AM, making it harder to watch kids.
  • Limited on-site facilities: No toilets inside the forest; use stations before entering.
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What is Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?

  • A 500-meter grove in the Sagano district of Arashiyama, Kyoto, featuring densely clustered Phyllostachys edulis stalks that reach heights of over 20 meters
  • Part of the Sagano Scenic Area, designated as a national Place of Scenic Beauty under Japan’s Cultural Properties Protection Law
  • A natural bamboo stand whose rustling foliage and swaying culms are listed among Japan’s 100 Soundscapes

What is so special about Arashiyama Bamboo Forest for with kids?

  1. Free, stroller-friendly 500m bamboo path.
  2. Scenic Sagano train ride through tunnels.
  3. Boat cruise with life jackets for kids.
  4. Monkey park hike with safe feeding hut.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This gives time for the bamboo walk, a train ride, rest breaks, and snacks with kids.

(View Arashiyama Bamboo Forest on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Bamboo Forest Walk:

Stroll the 500m paved path under towering bamboo.

Tip: Let kids listen for rustling leaves and run safely off-path.

Sagano Romantic Train:

Ride the open-air trolley through forest tunnels.

Tip: Book seats early so kids can look out of the windows.

Hozu River Boat Cruise:

Take a 2h boat ride with life jackets included.

Tip: Check height rules (80cm minimum) and pack light.

Iwatayama Monkey Park:

Hike 20min up to feed wild macaques from a safe hut.

Tip: Bring water and stop at benches on the way up.

When is the best time to visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest (Kyoto, Japan)?

Visit in spring for cherry blossoms, or in autumn for golden and red leaves along the grove.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Kyoto on Trip.com

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Reviews of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest (Kyoto)

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Cody P

Cody P

Jun 2025

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 c...

Theo Kink

Theo Kink

Jun 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 ...

Sheri Freitas

Sheri Freitas

Jun 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!

SJMG15 S

SJMG15 S

Jun 2025

I visited the bamboo forest on a regular day (not a holiday or weekend), and while the beauty of the towering bamboo is absolutely worth seeing, be prepared for a lot of people. The path through the grove is stunning—peaceful in theory—but hard to fully enjoy with the constant crowd. It’s still magical to walk beneath the swaying green stalks and hear the rustling leaves, but if you’re hoping for...

Leah Bishop

Leah Bishop

Apr 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 arriv...

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Bamboo Forest WalkJPY 0
Sagano Romantic Train tickets (4)JPY 2,640
Hozu River Boat Cruise (4)JPY 21,000
Snacks and drinksJPY 2,000
Total EstimatedJPY 25,640

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

How to Maximize Your Visit to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

  1. Early start: Arrive before 8AM to enjoy the grove in peace and soft light.
  2. Pre-book tickets: Reserve train and boat rides online to avoid queues.
  3. Pack essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a compact stroller for quick moves.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Kyoto attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Address: Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Arashiyama Bamboo Forest (Kyoto)?

← See other Things to Do in Kyoto (with kids)

About Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+81 75-343-0548

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