Arashiyama

Arashiyama is a mountain area (381.5 m) spanning Kyoto’s Ukyo and Nishikyo wards. Long celebrated in poetry, it is a major sightseeing destination known for rich nature and famous temples, drawing crowds especially for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line and get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station. Another route is to take a city bus to Shijo-Omiya, then ride the Randen (Keifuku) Arashiyama Main Line to Arashiyama Station. The symbol of the area is Togetsukyo Bridge over the Katsura River, named because the moon’s movement looks like it is “crossing” the bridge; nearby are souvenir shops and cafés. North of the bridge are top highlights such as the UNESCO World Heritage Tenryu-ji, Nonomiya Shrine, and the Bamboo Grove Path—ideal for a relaxed walk. Renting a yukata/kimono and touring by rickshaw is also popular. South of the bridge is Koku-zō Hōrin-ji, and along the way you can visit the rare “Denden-gu,” a shrine said to protect electricity and radio waves. The Sagano Scenic Railway (Torokko) stations—Torokko Saga and Torokko Arashiyama—also offer a great way to enjoy the scenery from the train windows.