Arashiyama and Sagano One Day Model Course

Spreading out to the west of Kyoto city, Arashiyama and Sagano form a scenic area surrounded by river and mountains. With photogenic sights such as Togetsukyo Bridge and the bamboo path, plus temples and a sightseeing train, the area suits even a first visit to Kyoto. This plan runs from morning to evening and is mostly on foot, letting you take in the highlights at a relaxed pace. There is a fair amount of walking, but the sights cluster close together so it is easy to manage.

Course Route

1. 9:00 Start at Arashiyama Station or Saga-Arashiyama Station　Check your map near the station and head toward the symbol of Arashiyama. 2. 9:15 Cross Togetsukyo Bridge　This roughly 155 meter bridge spans the Oi River. The contrast between the mountains behind and the water makes for a classic Arashiyama photo. 3. 9:45 Visit Tenryuji　Ranked first among the five great Zen temples of Kyoto, it is famous for the Sogenchi pond garden. Take your time enjoying the garden in harmony with the borrowed mountain scenery. 4. 10:45 Walk the Bamboo Path　A bamboo grove of about 400 meters running from the north gate of Tenryuji toward Nonomiya Shrine. Stroll through the cool air surrounded by towering stalks. 5. 11:30 Pray at Nonomiya Shrine　A small shrine known for matchmaking, with a distinctive dark wood gate, easy to drop into during your Sagano walk. 6. 12:00 Lunch in the Sagano area　Rest with simmered tofu, soba or other dishes typical of Arashiyama. 7. 13:30 Sagano temples such as Jojakkoji and Nisonin　Visit a few temples scattered along quiet lanes, prized for their autumn leaves and moss. 8. 15:00 Ride the Scenic Railway　This sightseeing train runs from Torokko Saga to Torokko Kameoka in about 25 minutes along the Hozugawa gorge. Enjoy the nature passing by your window. 9. 16:30 Stroll and shop near Arashiyama Station　Pick up souvenirs in the shopping street near the station to round off the day.

Highlights

- The view of Togetsukyo Bridge and the Arashiyama mountains, changing with each season - The dreamlike mood of the bamboo path lined with tens of thousands of stalks - The Sogenchi garden of Tenryuji blended with the borrowed mountain scenery - The window views from the scenic railway as it eases through the Hozugawa gorge - Old temples dotting the quiet lanes of Sagano

Access and Tips

- From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sanin Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station in about 15 minutes. From the Shijo Kawaramachi area, the Hankyu and Randen lines are also handy. - The scenic railway has limited seats, so booking ahead on the official site is recommended. Reservations open one month in advance. - The bamboo path and Togetsukyo Bridge are quieter in the early morning, which is best for photos. - Temples have set viewing hours, so be careful not to leave them too late in the afternoon. - Since you walk a lot, comfortable shoes are a good idea.

A Quick Tip

Arashiyama has so many sights that trying to see everything is unrealistic. Narrow your choices to three or four key places and rest at a cafe or by the river between them for a relaxed day. To avoid crowds, go on a weekday or start first thing in the morning.