Tucked away in the Arashiyama district, on the northwestern edge of Kyōto, the Sagano Bamboo Grove (嵯峨野竹林) is one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes. Although commonly called the “Arashiyama Bamboo Forest,” its real name is Sagano Forest.
This site features a straight, 500-meter walking path lined with towering bamboo stalks reaching up to 20 meters high. Visitors are immersed in a tranquil, dreamlike atmosphere—where rustling leaves, filtered sunlight, and the soft hush of the wind create a uniquely meditative experience.
What is the story of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?
A forest rooted in imperial history
The origins of the bamboo forest date back to the Heian period (794–1185), when Kyōto was Japan’s imperial capital. Back then, Arashiyama served as a retreat for aristocrats, who built lavish villas surrounded by manicured gardens with rivers, maple trees, and bamboo groves.
This serene setting inspired generations of artists and poets, especially in the traditions of waka and haiku. The bamboo grove, carefully maintained as a landscape garden, was part of the refined, contemplative aesthetic so prized by Japan’s nobility.
What does "Arashiyama" mean?
The name “Arashiyama” (嵐山) translates to “Storm Mountain.” It refers to the mountain that dominates the area and the gusty winds that sweep through the valley. Poetic and evocative, the name reflects the dual nature of the region—calm and peaceful on the surface, yet shaped by the untamed forces of nature.
Bamboo: a symbol of inner strength in Japanese culture
In Japanese culture, bamboo is more than a plant—it's a symbol of resilience, purity, and inner strength. Its ability to bend without breaking embodies a Zen-inspired approach to life.
Bamboo is used across many facets of traditional life:
- Shintō rituals: as a symbolic barrier to ward off evil spirits
- Craftsmanship: for weaving baskets, making chopsticks, and instruments like the shakuhachi
- Architecture and gardens: fences, trellises, and decorative elements
Even during seasonal celebrations like Tanabata, bamboo stalks are used to hang colorful paper wishes.
Why we don’t recommend visiting Arashiyama ?
While the Arashiyama bamboo grove looks magical in photos, visiting in person can be underwhelming—mainly due to the crowds.
If you're set on going, we strongly recommend arriving early in the morning. The grove is open 24/7, so a dawn visit offers your best shot at solitude.
The crowds can ruin the experience
Between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., the path is usually packed. Tour groups, traditional rickshaws (jinrikisha), amateur photographers, and influencers all crowd into the narrow walkway.
This often turns the peaceful bamboo corridor into a noisy procession. Taking a photo without strangers in the frame—or simply pausing to enjoy the quiet—becomes nearly impossible.
Tall fences obstruct the view
To prevent damage to the bamboo (from people touching or carving into the stalks), tall 2-meter fences now line both sides of the path.
Though made from woven bamboo, these barriers block much of the forest’s depth and limit the feeling of full immersion. Instead of wandering through a living grove, you may feel like you're walking through a staged exhibit.
What else to see around Arashiyama?
Even if the bamboo grove itself is a letdown, Arashiyama has plenty more to offer.
Togetsukyo Bridge (渡月橋)
This historic wooden bridge spans the Katsura River and connects both sides of Arashiyama. It offers picture-perfect views:
In spring, when cherry blossoms bloom
In autumn, as fiery red and orange maples blanket the surrounding hills
Tenryū-ji Temple (天龍寺)
Founded in the 14th century and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this Zen temple is famous for its landscape garden (shakkei), designed around a reflective pond and framed by the nearby mountains.
- Entry: 500 ¥ for the garden / +300 ¥ for the main hall
- Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Access: The temple borders the bamboo grove; it’s directly accessible from the path
Iwatayama Monkey Park
A 10-minute walk from the bridge leads you to a trail up Mount Iwata. At the summit, you’ll find a natural park with over 100 free-roaming Japanese macaques.
On clear days, the view over Kyōto is stunning. Visitors can safely feed the monkeys from a protected area.
Planning your visit to Arashiyama
Best seasons to go
Each season brings something special:
- March-April: Cherry blossoms in full bloom
- November: Brilliant autumn colors
- December-February: Fewer tourists, but colder temperatures
- Summer (July-August): Hot and humid, but the bamboo stays vividly green
Getting to Arashiyama from Kyōto
- JR Sagano Line (San-in Line): From Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (15 min, JR Pass valid), then a 10-minute walk
- Randen Tram: From Shijō-Ōmiya to Arashiyama Station, with a retro feel
- Bus 11 or 28: Direct from downtown, though traffic can slow you down
An alternative: the bamboo grove at Fushimi Inari
While Fushimi Inari is famous for its red torii gates (Senbon Torii), it also hides a peaceful, lesser-known bamboo grove. Here, you can take photos, stroll quietly, and soak up the atmosphere without the tourist crowds.
To find it: After passing through the double row of torii gates, go down the stairs on the right (next to the restrooms). At the bottom, follow the path to the left for about 300 meters. You’ll soon arrive in the grove.
