Arashiyama (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Arashiyama?
What makes it 86% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can feed monkeys, ride the Sagano train, row boats, and spot lanterns; wide riverside paths help, yet steep monkey trail and busy roads need close adult supervision.
Positives:
- Easy access: Arashiyama station area has coin lockers, baby-friendly restrooms, and stroller-friendly paths.
- Family-friendly dining: Riverside cafes offer kid’s meal sets and high chairs near Togetsukyo Bridge.
Challenges:
- Steep hikes: Monkey Park trail has 150 m elevation gain; bring a carrier for younger kids.
- Crowds: Popular spots fill up mid-day; plan key activities for early morning or late afternoon.
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 kids?
- Stroll under towering bamboo stalks on a paved path.
- Spot wild monkeys and feed them at a mountain park.
- Ride an open-air train through scenic river gorges.
- Float down the Hozu River in a guided boat cruise.
- Cross the historic Togetsukyo Bridge and enjoy riverside parks.
Recommended visit duration: 6–8 hours
Why 6–8 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for bamboo forest, monkey park, scenic train, and boat cruise at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Arashiyama
Walk through Sagano Bamboo Forest:
A 500 m path lined by tall bamboo stalks.
Tip: Go early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Iwatayama Monkey Park:
Up a steep 20-minute trail, macaques roam freely and you can feed them from a viewing hut.
Tip: Bring small coins for feed and use a baby carrier if hiking with the 3-year-old.
Sagano Romantic Railway:
A 7 km open-air train ride along the Hozu River gorge.
Tip: Reserve seats online and sit on the riverside for the best views.
Hozugawa River Boat Cruise:
A 2 hour downstream wooden boat ride through scenic rapids and canyons.
Tip: Wear a light raincoat and put valuables in a waterproof bag.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Arashiyama
- Buy combo tickets: Get train and boat cruise passes online to skip ticket lines on busy days.
- Pack snacks: Bring water and energy bars to avoid long waits at small food stalls.
- Use local apps: Download HyperDia for train schedules and check Monkey Park opening times in advance.
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 along the river, autumn lights up maple leaves in red, and December’s lantern festival illuminates the bamboo grove at night.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sagano Romantic Railway (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 2,480 |
| Iwatayama Monkey Park (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 1,500 |
| Hozugawa River Boat Cruise (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 21,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 24,980 |
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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