Arashiyama (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Arashiyama?
What makes it 72% Baby-Friendly: Parents with a stroller can enjoy flat riverside walks, bamboo grove, and rickshaw rides; diaper tables exist at stations, but nursing rooms are few and steep monkey park paths are impractical.
Positives:
- Stroller Accessibility: Paved paths on the bridge and bamboo grove are stroller-friendly.
- Baby Facilities: Diaper-changing stations at stations and by the bridge make care easy.
- Lap-Baby Perks: Many attractions allow your baby on lap free of charge.
Challenges:
- Crowds at Peak Times: Spring and autumn afternoons get busy; bring a carrier for easier movement.
- Steep Paths: Monkey Park and hillside gardens have slopes not suited for strollers.
- Weather Conditions: Riverside areas can be windy and cold; pack extra layers for your baby.
What is Arashiyama?
- A scenic district in western Kyoto shaped by the Katsura River and surrounding forested slopes
- A bamboo grove in Sagano comprising densely packed, towering stalks that create a verdant canopy
- A cultural landscape featuring historic Zen temples, Shinto shrines and the wooden Togetsukyo Bridge
What is so special about Arashiyama for with baby?
- Stroller-friendly walks on the bridge and bamboo grove.
- Free baby-friendly restrooms and diaper stations at key points.
- Lap-baby policies on rides like rickshaw, train, and boat.
- Visual highlights like Kimono Forest and river vistas engage all ages.
Recommended visit duration: 6-8 hours
Why 6-8 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Gives time to visit key sights at a relaxed pace with breaks for naps and stroller strolls.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Arashiyama
Togetsukyo Bridge & Riverside Walk:
Flat wooden bridge over the Ōi River with scenic park paths.
Tip: Use the stroller-friendly path along the river; stop at benches for baby breaks.
Sagano Bamboo Grove Walk:
Paved 400 m trail through towering bamboo stalks.
Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler breezes with your baby.
Kimono Forest at Randen Station:
Backlit silk pillars lining the station concourse.
Tip: Baby carrier helps here; seating is limited near the free footbath.
Ebisuya Rickshaw Tour:
30 min guided ride along key Arashiyama sights.
Tip: Lap baby for free; book ahead to secure your time slot.
Sagano Scenic Railway:
Open-air trolley along the Hozu River gorge.
Tip: Fold stroller in the carriage; infant travels free on lap.
Hozugawa River Boat Cruise:
Gentle downstream boat ride with river rapids.
Tip: Wear clothes you don’t mind wetting; baby stays on lap free.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Arashiyama
- Start Early: Begin your visit before 9:00 to avoid crowds and secure stroller parking.
- Use Baby Carrier: Switch to a carrier at Kimono Forest and narrow paths for smooth movement.
- Pre-Book Tours: Reserve the rickshaw and boat cruise online to save wait time.
- Fold and Store Stroller: Keep your stroller folded on the scenic train to free up space.
Reviews of Arashiyama
Shawn Gagné
A beautiful small town, gorgeous vistas, and little tea shops full of locals. Try taking the #28 bus here from central Kyoto. Most tourists move further up the town to the bamboo walks. But don't miss this quiet town
Sunni Wan
Arashiyama is easy to get to, by getting off at Arashiyama station. From there you can walk to Bamboo Forest, hike up for city and river views or row a boat right by the riverside. It's 2000¥ for an hour. They also have food stall where you can row there and have a bite or drink if you need to refresh yourself. It's a nice area.
David U
There were a lot of people on the path going through the bamboo, which is to be expected. But there is so much more to this park. We explored several walking/hiking paths and were rewarded with gorgeous views of the river and the gorge.
Joshua Garcia
Full of people but still very enjoyable, don’t forget the rest of the hike. There is more then just the bamboo forest. Keep going until you reach the beautiful tea house!
Chenling C
Came on Tuesday in mid of April, good season to visit. Be prepared of crowds tho. Must visit in Kyoto!!! It was stunning, I spent here couple hours sitting in the park for cherry blossom and walking through bamboo forest to listen to the sound of nature. 適合喜歡大自然的人 非常棒
When is the best time to visit Arashiyama (Kyoto, Japan)?
Spring brings cherry blossoms; autumn shows red maples. Summer can be hot and humid; plan morning walks. Winter evenings light up with lantern festivals but bring warm layers for baby.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ebisuya rickshaw tour (30 min) | JPY 10,000 |
| Sagano Scenic Railway tickets (2 adults) | JPY 1,600 |
| Hozugawa River boat cruise (2 adults) | JPY 12,000 |
| Local snacks and drinks | JPY 2,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 25,600 |
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
Map of Arashiyama
Address: Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0007, Japan
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