Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Kyoto Temples Review 2024

Thinking of hitting up Kyoto and getting lost in its gorgeous bamboo forests and feeling the calm from its historic temples? Well, that sounds pretty fantastic, as a matter of fact! We can certainly agree that Kyoto is one of those spots that sticks with you. We’re going to walk through what makes Kyoto, mostly its awesome Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and the really interesting temples, such a special destination. This might just help you plan an unforgettable trip. We will share our experiences and also offer some suggestions to make your adventure smoother and really get you into the vibe of this cultural center.

The Enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walking into the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove feels almost like stepping into a totally different, greener dimension, arguably! That being the case, the sunlight barely gets through the tall bamboo stalks. Those stalks, very, very tall, kind of surround you. The sound, too, is just amazing – think gentle rustling, which it’s almost as if the forest is whispering all its secrets to you, perhaps. Arashiyama, it seems, is more than just a sightseeing spot. Instead it gives you a sense of being totally at one with what surrounds you. Still, you definitely don’t want to only rush through. Make sure you stop every so often to truly feel everything and just be there, more or less.

And as you like your stroll, why not see what else is there? It could be the lovely Okochi-Sanso Villa, which basically gives you super beautiful gardens and teahouses to check out. Then you could swing by the Jojakko-ji Temple. It, basically, makes you feel super at peace the second you arrive. Also, the bamboo forest might be really busy in the middle of the day, so you could maybe get there when it first opens. That could make your visit a lot nicer, arguably.

Tenryu-ji Temple: A Zen Buddhist Haven

You are probably thinking about checking out the temples of Kyoto. That being the case, the Tenryu-ji Temple might just grab you, too! The location next to the Bamboo Forest just adds to its charm and grace. Founded in 1339, this temple doesn’t only offer some beautiful views but also teaches some important things about Japanese Zen gardening. So, as you wander through its gardens, keep an eye out for how everything from the ponds to the perfectly arranged rocks really tries to connect to the hills and mountains behind it.

Maybe you didn’t know, but Tenryu-ji is one of Kyoto’s Five Great Zen Temples. Still, the grounds let you experience the changing seasons like few places. Very vivid fall colors? Awesome! Pretty spring blossoms? Awesome, too! Think about maybe joining a Zen meditation class there, so, to deepen your experience. This could definitely connect you a bit more to this historical landmark.

Exploring the Charming Streets of Arashiyama

Don’t just spend all your time in the bamboo forest! Very close, there are also Arashiyama’s streets that should definitely also grab you, seemingly. The streets have got everything from all kinds of tiny shops to cafes. Also you will find plenty of restaurants to dive into, alright! It seems you should absolutely give the local street food a shot – you have options, more or less. How about some warm matcha ice cream, some crunchy senbei rice crackers, so? All the goodies!

Also, you might be wanting to see the Togetsukyo Bridge, so! It’s, arguably, super famous. That is that, because the Katsura River is beautiful underneath it, as a matter of fact. So, there are the views to totally enjoy, apparently. Try renting a boat, too, maybe! That can let you view the scenery from an entirely different vantage point. Another plus: try visiting during the Arashiyama Hanatouro festival, where everything’s lit up so beautifully – which seems amazing, alright!

Okochi Sanso Villa: A Hidden Gem

Have you heard about the Okochi Sanso Villa, too? What looks really special about it? First of all, it seems that it used to belong to Denjiro Okochi, a pretty well known actor, actually. Today, though, everybody can stroll down its carefully kept gardens and totally admire the different structures. And what about the views? Those views across Kyoto are wonderful and might make you stay there a bit, anyway. But what might grab you even more is that, with your admission, you basically get some matcha tea and sweets – doesn’t that sound very pleasing?

Try to find your own ideal places in the gardens, very. Because of how varied the landscaping is there, every corner gives a different kind of perspective, arguably. You could take awesome pictures, enjoy those quiet moments, more or less! In winter you might also see the snow-covered scenery, basically. This would all definitely up the experience to a total next level. And the location, in the higher parts of Arashiyama, basically, is a way away from all the craziness and hustle down in the main areas, too!

Practical Tips for Visiting Kyoto and Arashiyama

Alright, so what could make the whole experience in Kyoto, in general, and Arashiyama, too, even simpler? Good to know: Kyoto can get pretty full with people, apparently. Try making a travel plan where you get to the popular places right when they open to avoid crowds. Also, getting a Japan Rail Pass could be smart for saving money on all of that traveling – arguably if you are coming from somewhere further out.

Consider too that Kyoto does have a great public transportation infrastructure, of course, and that renting a bike to ride around to different destinations might also be super interesting to you, or others. Don’t miss a chance to dive into some of Kyoto’s other cultural high points either: the Fushimi Inari Shrine with all its neat gates or Kinkaku-ji, too, better known as the Golden Pavilion. And when should you come over? The cherry blossom season and the time the leaves change colors – those, specifically, can be incredible, and give great snapshots! That is, unless you prefer other times of the year!