Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to Monkey Park Half-Day Pamphlet
At 8 am the bamboo path is nearly empty and the only sound is the dry creak of stalks rubbing in the wind. Take in the Tenryu-ji garden with Arashiyama as its backdrop, cross Togetsukyo Bridge, then climb 20 minutes to wild macaques and a view over all of Kyoto.
Schedule for the day
Overview map showing how the stops relate to each other (straight lines only). For real walking directions, use the "directions" button on each step.
Bamboo Grove Path
10 minutes on foot from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. About 400 m long and free. After 9 am, rickshaws and tour groups make photos nearly impossible, so early morning is the only quiet window.
Tenryu-ji Temple
3 minutes from the north end of the grove. Founded in 1339, its garden borrows the Arashiyama hillside as part of its composition. Garden $3.50, plus $2 for the buildings. Gates open at 8:30.
Togetsukyo Bridge
5 minutes from the temple's main gate. The best photo is from the south bank, not from the bridge itself. Grab a snack on the shopping street before crossing.
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
Cross the bridge south; the entrance is 3 minutes away, then a 20-minute uphill trail. About 120 Japanese macaques roam free at the summit, plus a view over central Kyoto. Admission $5.50, last entry 3:30 pm.
Police: 110 · Ambulance/Fire: 119 · English-language help: JNTO Japan Visitor Hotline, 050-3816-2787 (24/7, multilingual). Don't hesitate to call if you need help.
Tipping isn't customary in Japan — no need to add extra at checkout. Cashless payment is widely accepted, though smaller shops, shrines, and temples are sometimes cash-only. Tax-free shopping (with your passport) is available at participating stores.
Frequently asked questions
When is the bamboo grove least crowded?
Around 8 am. It fills up quickly after 9 am, making photos difficult.
Is the climb to the monkey park manageable for children or older travelers?
The trail takes about 20 minutes and is paved and well-maintained, with rest spots along the way — take it at your own pace.
What payment methods do you accept, and can I get a refund?
We accept credit card payment via Square. Because this is digital content, purchases generally aren't refundable. If a duplicate charge or a technical fault prevents you from accessing it, contact support@wayfinderjp.com within 7 days of purchase for a full refund.