Top reasons to visit Arashiyama
- Enchanting Bamboo Grove: Wander through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene and magical experience surrounded by towering bamboo stalks.
- Scenic River Experiences: Enjoy a relaxing boat rental on the tranquil Katsura River, offering stunning views of the natural landscape.
- Cultural Heritage: Visit the historic Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and gardens.
- Vibrant Festivals: Participate in the lively Arashiyama Momiji Festival, celebrating the beauty of autumn foliage.
- Local Delicacies and Shopping: Explore charming shops and markets, offering unique souvenirs and delicious local cuisine.
Find great hotels near Arashiyama
Arashiyama offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels, perfect for families and LGBTQIA travellers alike. Explore hotels near the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where you can immerse yourself in nature and culture. Whether you're seeking a city-themed experience or a serene retreat, Arashiyama provides an array of choices to ensure a memorable stay in this picturesque part of Kyoto.
- THE BLOSSOM KYOTO: THE BLOSSOM KYOTO is a welcoming 3.5-star hotel that boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. Situated in the city centre and approximately 8km from Arashiyama, this hotel is ideal for families seeking a city-themed vacation. The property features amenities specifically tailored for children, such as Bed Guards, ensuring a comfortable stay for young guests. With a focus on family-friendly services, the hotel creates a warm atmosphere perfect for creating lasting memories.
- Hotel Granvia Kyoto: Hotel Granvia Kyoto stands as a luxurious 4.5-star accommodation, earning a commendable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. Located about 8km from Arashiyama, this hotel caters to business travellers and those in search of a refined getaway. Guests can enjoy a plethora of upscale amenities and services, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate sophistication and convenience. The hotel’s central location also provides easy access to Kyoto's attractions, enhancing the overall travel experience.
- Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo: With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo is a charming 3.5-star hotel located around 8km from Arashiyama. This property is well-suited for families and offers a city-themed vacation experience. Like its counterpart, THE BLOSSOM KYOTO, it provides child-friendly amenities, including Bed Guards and breakfast options for younger guests at a nominal fee. The hotel’s convenient city centre location allows guests to easily explore local sights and delights.
Where to stay near Arashiyama
Arashiyama, a picturesque neighbourhood in Kyoto, offers an enchanting blend of culture and nature. Visitors can explore the iconic Bamboo Grove, relax by the Katsura River, and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of the Tenryu-ji Temple. Nearby, charming shops offer unique souvenirs and local delicacies. With its historical sites and friendly, secluded vibe, Arashiyama is the perfect destination for travellers seeking a relaxing, culturally rich experience in Japan.
- Kyoto: As a bustling metropolis, Kyoto serves as the cultural heart of Japan, with Arashiyama nestled within its picturesque landscapes. This city, renowned for its rich history, sees a steady stream of visitors year-round, with peaks in April and from October to November. Travellers flock to Kyoto for a blend of family-friendly activities, city exploration, and business engagements. Notable highlights include vibrant shopping districts, lively public markets, and a variety of attractions such as historic temples, enchanting onsens, and whimsical theme parks, all contributing to an unforgettable travel experience.
- Sagatenryuji Tateishicho: Located a mere 644m from Arashiyama, Sagatenryuji Tateishicho offers a charming neighbourhood experience, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. The area sees a consistent influx of visitors throughout the year, with peak times aligning with Kyoto's vibrant seasons. Here, you can explore local shopping areas and modern shopping malls, providing ample opportunities for retail therapy. Its proximity to serene forests, inviting urban parks, and traditional shrines makes it a delightful spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity within the city.
- Sagano: Found approximately 2km from Arashiyama, Sagano is a delightful neighbourhood known for its scenic beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. Like its neighbours, Sagano enjoys continuous visitor interest, particularly during the peak seasons of April and autumn. The area boasts a variety of shopping venues, from charming local shops to expansive shopping centres. Noteworthy attractions include soothing onsens, historic sites, and picturesque hot springs, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and cultural exploration in a stunning natural setting.
Things to do near Arashiyama
Shopping
Near the scenic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, you can explore charming boutiques and local shops, such as the Arashiyama Station Shopping Area. For traditional crafts and souvenirs, visit the nearby Togetsukyo Bridge market, where you can find unique gifts to remember your trip.
Recreation
The Arashiyama Onsen offers a tranquil retreat with its natural hot springs, where visitors can unwind while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Engage in yoga sessions amidst lush greenery at the nearby Sagano Bamboo Grove, fostering relaxation and mindfulness in a picturesque setting.
Adventure
Experience the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, offering breathtaking views as you ascend. It’s ideal for families seeking adventure in the great outdoors. Alternatively, the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift takes you to historical heights, surrounded by nature, perfect for those looking to explore the area’s rich heritage.
Nightlife
Experience the charm of Arashiyama's nightlife at the Hoshinoya Kyoto, where you can unwind with riverside views and exquisite cocktails. Alternatively, visit the Arashiyama Onsen for a soothing soak under the stars, offering a unique blend of relaxation and nature's beauty.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Arashiyama
To save money during your visit to Arashiyama, consider travelling in the off-peak months of January to February and September, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance, particularly for stays on Tuesdays, can secure better rates. Utilise Expedia's search tool to filter for budget-friendly options, and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Take advantage of free activities, like strolling through the picturesque Bamboo Grove, and use public transport to keep travel costs down.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Arashiyama are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Arashiyama about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Arashiyama is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Arashiyama is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel reservations in Arashiyama with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Arashiyama
Arashiyama is an ideal destination for family, city, and culture-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as temples, shrines, and urban parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural and outdoor experiences, exploring the picturesque riverside, the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and nearby sights like Arashiyama Benkei and Nakaoshitacho. This charming area caters to all who seek a blend of natural beauty and urban adventure.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering green stalks sway gently in the breeze. This urban park offers a serene escape, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
- Mikami Shrine: Explore Mikami Shrine, a cultural gem nestled in Arashiyama. This tranquil shrine showcases traditional Japanese architecture and is steeped in history, offering visitors a chance to appreciate local customs and spirituality.
- Shojiji Temple: Located 8km away from Arashiyama, Shojiji Temple invites you to discover its rich cultural heritage. The temple's serene environment and beautiful grounds create a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for reflection and contemplation.
Best time to go to Arashiyama
The best time to visit Arashiyama can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Arashiyama falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Arashiyama falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Arashiyama
Reaching Arashiyama in Kyoto is convenient with several nearby airports. Osaka Itami (ITM) is situated 34km away, with luxurious hotels like Swissotel Nankai Osaka and The Ritz-Carlton, both offering transfers to the airport. Kobe Airport (UKB) is 60km distant, with the 5-star ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe providing scheduled airport shuttles. For those flying into Kansai International Airport (KIX), located 77km from Arashiyama, options include the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, which is just 161m away, ensuring easy access for travellers. Each airport offers a range of convenient transport services to make your journey smooth.