Recommended Walking Course

Arashiyama Half-Day Walking Course

Home Recommended Courses Arashiyama Half-Day Walking Course

Discover the highlights of Arashiyama on this half-day walking route, beginning at Togetsukyo Bridge and continuing through Tenryu-ji Temple, the Bamboo Grove, and the quieter streets of Sagano. The course combines iconic scenery, a UNESCO World Heritage temple, traditional gardens, and peaceful historic sites.

Walking distance

Approx. 3.5 km

Duration

Approx. 4–5 hours

Recommended start

Around 9:00 a.m.

Walking conditions

Some gentle slopes

Arashiyama Course Map

Course Map

The numbered markers correspond to the order of the walking route.

Arashiyama Walking Route

Walking Route

Begin at Arashiyama’s iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, visit Tenryu-ji Temple, walk through the Bamboo Grove, and continue into the peaceful Sagano area.

1
Togetsukyo Bridge

STOP 01

Togetsukyo Bridge

An iconic bridge spanning the Katsura River and one of Arashiyama’s most recognizable landmarks. The surrounding mountains provide beautiful scenery throughout the year.

Suggested visit： About 20–30 min.
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About an 8-minute walk to the next stop
2
Tenryu-ji Temple

STOP 02

Tenryu-ji Temple

A major Zen temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its celebrated Sogenchi Garden incorporates the surrounding Arashiyama mountains into its scenic design.

Suggested visit： About 60 min.
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About a 5-minute walk to the next stop
3
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

STOP 03

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

One of Arashiyama’s most famous walking paths, surrounded by towering bamboo. The filtered light and sound of bamboo leaves create a distinctive atmosphere.

Suggested visit： About 20–30 min.
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About a 3-minute walk to the next stop
4
Nonomiya Shrine

STOP 04

Nonomiya Shrine

A historic shrine set within the bamboo forest and mentioned in The Tale of Genji. It is known for its distinctive black wooden torii gate, moss garden, and prayers for relationships and academic success.

Suggested visit： About 20 min.
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About a 5-minute walk to the next stop
5
Okochi Sanso Garden

STOP 05

Okochi Sanso Garden

A hillside garden created over many years by film actor Denjiro Okochi. Its paths and viewpoints offer sweeping views of Arashiyama and the Kyoto cityscape.

Suggested visit： About 45–60 min.
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About a 12-minute walk to the next stop
6
Jojakko-ji Temple

STOP 06

Jojakko-ji Temple

A tranquil temple on the slopes of Mount Ogura. Its moss-covered grounds and maple trees are especially beautiful during the fresh green and autumn foliage seasons.

Suggested visit： About 45–60 min.
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Final stop

Route Highlights

  • See some of Arashiyama’s most iconic scenery, including Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove
  • Visit the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji Temple and its beautiful garden
  • Leave the busiest central area behind and enjoy the quieter atmosphere of Sagano
  • Especially beautiful during the autumn foliage and fresh green seasons

Before You Start

Times shown are approximate. The total duration will vary depending on temple visits, garden visits, breaks, and crowd levels. Tenryu-ji Temple and the Bamboo Grove can become crowded after 10:00 a.m., so an early start is recommended.

※The line on the map connects the locations in route order. It may not exactly follow the actual roads or walking paths.