Arashiyama Bamboo Grove — Kyoto's Iconic Green Tunnel

Arashiyama's bamboo grove is one of the images most associated with Kyoto. A narrow path lined with tall green bamboo, it has spread worldwide through social media as a landmark photo spot. Surrounded by World Heritage temples and scenic riverside, it sits at the heart of the Arashiyama sightseeing district and draws crowds year-round.

The Bamboo Tunnel

The grove runs for roughly 400 to 500 metres, spreading from the north side of Tenryu-ji toward the area around Nonomiya Shrine. Looking up, the green stalks arch to form a canopy, and the rustle of leaves in the wind with light filtering through creates a memorable atmosphere. Walking the path itself is free and possible at any hour, though there is little lighting after dark, so take care in the evening.

Morning Tranquility

Daytime is busy with visitors, but the early morning grove, especially before 8am, is quiet, with soft light streaming between the stalks. Arriving early makes for relaxed photography and a chance to hear the bamboo itself.

Nonomiya Shrine

Near the grove entrance, Nonomiya Shrine is an old shrine associated with matchmaking and safe childbirth. It appears in The Tale of Genji, and its kuroki-no-torii, a torii gate made from wood with the bark left on, is a rare style. The stone known as Okameishi, said to grant wishes when stroked, is also popular.

Practical Travel Notes

• Access: Randen Arashiyama Station is about a 5-minute walk; JR Saga-Arashiyama Station is about 10 minutes; Hankyu Arashiyama Station is about a 10-minute walk.
• Walking through the grove is free and open around the clock, but lighting is minimal.
• Tenryu-ji nearby charges 500 yen for its garden (plus 300 yen for the buildings) and is open 8:30am to 5:00pm.
• The bamboo walk alone takes about 20 to 30 minutes; a half day covers the surrounding sights.
• The path is a single clear route leading toward Tenryu-ji, Nonomiya Shrine, and Okochi Sanso villa.
• Avoid setting up tripods for long periods, as the path is narrow and busy.

Arashiyama Area

Nearby highlights cluster together: the World Heritage Tenryu-ji (founded 1339), the landmark Togetsukyo Bridge (about 155 metres long), Hozugawa River boat rides, and the Sagano Romantic Train. Combined with the bamboo walk, these make an easy half-day to full-day course through Arashiyama's nature and history.

Best Time to Visit

The bamboo stays green all year, so the grove rewards a visit in any season. Early summer greenery (May to June) and autumn foliage (November) in the surrounding hills are especially popular. Early morning remains the best time to avoid the crowds.

📚 Sources

This article is based on publicly available sources such as the official websites of Tenryuji and Nonomiya Shrine, tourism information published by the Kyoto City Tourism Association, and on-site signage. The bamboo grove path, the Kuroki Torii and Okame stone at Nonomiya Shrine, and the Sogenchi garden at Tenryuji are described according to such public information. Tenryuji's viewing hours and admission fees may change, so please confirm with the official information from each facility before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About 20 to 30 minutes for the bamboo grove alone, or around half a day combined with Tenryuji, Nonomiya Shrine, and the Okochi Sanso area.
• What to bring: The bamboo grove path has little lighting, so watch your footing after dusk. The nearby paths are flat, but stone paving is slippery after rain, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• If you want a quiet walk: It is very crowded by day, so early morning before about 8:00 is best for an unhurried walk.
• Suggested route: The bamboo grove path is a single, easy-to-follow route leading toward Tenryuji, Nonomiya Shrine, and the Okochi Sanso. The flow out through the north gate of the Tenryuji garden onto the grove is convenient.
• Photo etiquette: Refrain from long shoots with a tripod set up, as it blocks the path. The grove itself has no entry gate; admission applies to temple areas such as Tenryuji.