Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a public walking path through tall bamboo in western Kyoto, near Tenryu-ji Temple and Nonomiya Shrine. The green canopy filters the sunlight and shades the path; listen for the stalks creaking and leaves rustling in the wind. The grove itself is a short walk, so pair it with nearby sights such as Togetsukyo Bridge, temples, gardens or local shops for a longer visit. Arrive early for a calmer walk and better chance to enjoy the setting without heavy foot traffic.

The path through the grove

The bamboo path is one of Arashiyama’s best-known sights. Tall stalks line the walkway, filtering sunlight and casting shade. Wind moves through the leaves and makes the stems knock and creak. The route is short, so allow time to pause and look up, especially if you want to photograph the canopy.

The grove connects the area around Tenryu-ji Temple and Nonomiya Shrine. It draws substantial foot traffic through the day, which can make a quiet walk or an unobstructed photo difficult. An early start gives you a better chance of finding a calmer stretch.

Exploring Arashiyama beyond the bamboo

The forest is one stop in a wider area of temples, gardens, shops and riverside scenery. Nearby places include Togetsukyo Bridge and Tenryu-ji Temple; local streets have shops and places to eat. Allow several hours if you want to explore the district rather than walk through the grove alone.

A rickshaw ride is another way to see the area. Some routes include an inner walk through the bamboo and stops for photographs. The grove is free to enter, while nearby attractions may have their own admission arrangements.