Arashiyama 嵐山

Located in the northwestern area of Kyoto, Arashiyama draws many visitors for its world-renowned bamboo grove and beautiful scenery that changes with each season. The area is dotted with temples, old imperial villas, and famous historical sites, many of which are National Treasures, or have been recognized as World Heritage sites. The entire region is designated by the Japanese government as a Place of Scenic Beauty.

Arashiyama is easily accessible from Kyoto Station and many other places around Kyoto by rail.

It can be reached on one of three railway lines: the JR Sagano Line which serves Saga Arashiyama Station; the Hankyu Line to Arashiyama Station; or the Keifuku Randen Tram Line.

Across from Arashiyama is Mt. Ogura, famed as the setting for the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu—a classical anthology of one hundred Japanese waka by one hundred poets who wrote one poem each. A card game adapted from the anthology is a popular and highly competitive pastime. Since ancient times, renowned poets such as Basho have pilgrimaged to Arashiyama.

Wisdom of another sort was sought at Tenryuji , ranked one of the top of the hierarchy of Kyoto's temples.

Its garden is one of Kyoto's best, incorporating the surrounding mountains into its design, using the Japanese garden design concept of shakkei, or borrowed scenery. The exit at the back of the grounds leads directly to Arashiyama's world famous bamboo grove.

The Togetsukyo , or Moon Crossing Bridge, could perhaps be considered the area's most recognizable feature as it provides a panoramic view of the mountain of Arashiyama itself. It was named Togetsukyo in the Heian Period (794-1185) after Emperor Kameyama said during a moon viewing party that it looked as if the moon was crossing the bridge.

The name of the river flowing beneath Togetsukyo Bridge changes depending on the location. It is called Oigawa River in the upper course, Hozugawa River in the middle course, and Katsuragawa River in the lower course.

The Heian aristocratic custom of elegant boating presented the nobility an occasion to be freed temporarily from their sheltered royal world. This custom has continued up to the present day, and you can enjoy a closer look at the beautiful Hozu River gorge on the Hozugawa Boat Ride .

A narrow-gauge train also runs along the river, and you should visit both to get a closer look at the ever-changing face of Arashiyama's natural landscape, celebrated by poets since ancient times.

An enjoyable visit to Arashiyama should be leisurely. Plan for a half or full day to take in the sights and not feel rushed through the idyllic setting.