Bamboo Forest Street
Bamboo Forest Street
4
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
Top ways to experience Bamboo Forest Street
The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Western Kyoto
Western Kyoto is home to some of the city's best eccentricities. Kyoto's Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street takes visitors back in time to the Meiji Period, where old homes have been transformed into tea houses and eateries. Pleasure boats drift down the riverbank, under wooden bridges that beckon nature lovers to hiking trails and botanical walks. The area's famously tall bamboo groves, monkey park, and impressive vistas during the Hanami cherry blossom viewing season mean that it is busiest in warmer months, though also gorgeous in the fall, when the mountains and hills along the banks turn multi-colored. Historic and engaging, even the rail cars in Western Kyoto seek to exemplify its traditional nature and scenic beauty. Many people, including natives, come to visit the 1,200 rakan statues at the Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, which is still in use as a religious site.
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
1,005 within 5 kms
Attractions
1,409 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- Cakesx2Melbourne, Australia424 contributionsHardly worth the trekWe squeezed onto a train with hundreds of other people looking for the magnificent bamboo grove. When we found it it was underwhelming. 100m of nice grove. The rest is just the lead up. Good for a pic or two. The crowds are incredibly dense. Would not bother unless you have a few hours to kill and it’s nice weather. If you have any claustrophobia avoid the trains.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten October 12, 2023
- BlessedAloySingapore, Singapore74 contributionsGo early and include the rickshaw experienceTry to go early if you want to take nice picture without the crowd. Do consider the rickshaw experience. I did the 45 mins route and the guide brought is round the neighbour and provided good introduction to the place. Worth the price.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten November 27, 2023
- Lauren MTorrance, California214 contributionsBamboo ForestWe stayed one night in Arashiyama, and it was short walk from our hotel. It does not take long to complete the walk and was easy to incorporate into the schedule. In fact, we went twice. We walk through upon arrival around 2 pm and understandably, it was crowded. However, it was fairly easy to take people out of the pictures as most of the tourists were considerate and abundance of the bamboos helped. Also, we tried to take in and enjoy the scenery rather than focusing on the perfect pictures. Since jet-lugged, we went back early in the morning next day. With just handful of folks, it was definitely more relaxing.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten December 3, 2023
- BrownTokyo, Japan253 contributionsWalking in the bamboo GroveArashiyama Bamboo Grove Sunlight filtering through the tall bamboo It's a little bit dark even sunny day. It's crowded, I recommend to ride in a rickshaw for special bamboo path! 背の高い竹がまっすぐ天に向かって伸びています。お天気でも薄暗く、木漏れ日が心地よいです。人が多かったけど、人力車専用竹林の道があるので、人力車お勧めです!Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten December 7, 2023
- Oktawiusz O16 contributionsBamboo Forest - Saga-Arashiyama/KyotoStepping into the bamboo forest of Kyoto in the morning feels like entering a mystical realm straight out of a fairytale. The sheer height of the bamboo stalks, illuminated by the morning light, creates a mesmerizing atmosphere. If you’re journeying from Tokyo, the optimal route involves taking the metro from Shinjuku Station to Tokyo Station (4 stops), followed by a swift Shinkansen ride to Kyoto (2 hours and 8 minutes). Once in Kyoto, a quick 18-minute train ride to Saga-Arashiyama gets you closer to the forest. From there, the final kilometer can be traversed by a jinrikisha, a traditional Japanese rickshaw, offering a charming and picturesque journey to the bamboo forest. This experience evokes a sense of tranquility and wonder, making the morning the best time to visit this captivating attraction in Kyoto.Visited August 2023Travelled soloWritten December 11, 2023
- Wood77Los Angeles, California3,285 contributionsWorth a visit if you’ve never visited a Bamboo ForestFamous bamboo forest of Arashiyama hardly had any visitors on the rainy morning of our visit. Perhaps a dozen of so visitors were there that morning. Otherwise we been told the place would be packed. The walking trail through the grove was closed due to heavy rain and mud that day. Most visitors probably can walk through the entire area in approximately one hour and it’s free. We’ve been to another bamboo forest in Japan so this wasn’t a big deal.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten February 19, 2024
- Sue BIsle of Man, United Kingdom348 contributionsThe "SMALL" bamboo forest..... underwhelmed....We visited very early one morning to avoid the crowds around 8am and it soon got busy... by 9am it was crowded. It was a bit underwhelming as the actual forest is not that large, and we were surprised at this as we expected a lot more.. Bit of a tourist trap with the streets adjacent to the forest full of junk gift shops and expensive cafes..Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten March 3, 2024
- njoy_travellingSan Diego, California88 contributionsIt was a zoo (of people)Extremely crowded if you go after 8am. You will keep bumping into people every step of the way. Forget about taking pictures with no one in the background. The place itself is amazing with tall bamboo trees, but the crowd ruins the place. People were shouting and making so much noise that it takes away the serenity of the area. Don't go unless you make it before 8am or after 5pm.Visited March 2024Travelled with familyWritten March 6, 2024
- John and Deb KKarratha, Australia822 contributionsOk WalkGet there early, we arrived before seven and it was already crowded. It is a short trail through a Bamboo garden with a small temple half way. We walked off the trail just to get away from the crowd. I much preferred Paying to enter the Tenryuji Temple Garden.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten April 5, 2024
- oskarSwindon, United Kingdom105 contributionsShort walk through bamboo forestPretty busy but it’s to be expected, the walk itself is pretty short. All the temples in the area require an entrance fee, not a problem however I didn’t have enough cash that day. There’s a mountain trail worth seeing. Probably wouldn’t go out of my way to see the bamboo forest but I might’ve had a different opinion if I saw the shrines.Visited April 2024Travelled soloWritten April 25, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
4,056 reviews
Excellent
1,511
Very good
1,477
Average
828
Poor
184
Terrible
56
These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
This service may contain translations provided by Google. Google disclaims all warranties, express or implied, with respect to translations, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and freedom from forgery.
Daniel M
Kyoto, Japan51 contributions
Jan 2020
Lots and lots of tourists come to the bamboo forest and it's too crowded. Quite apart from that, there's nothing in the bamboo forest that is particularly interesting or couldn't be found elsewhere- and it's full of mosquitoes. I would only go here to post on Instagram. I would recommend skipping over the ridge and enjoying Kiyotaki river in a genuine forest, with very few tourists.
Written December 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steph & Dan
53 contributions
Feb 2020
Overall, we enjoyed the bamboo grove and would recommend a visit. HOWEVER, be aware that all these photos are pretty much what you will see. The path in the forest is short. You get to the end and think there must be more, but there isn't. So just know this ahead of time, and really take it all in from the moment you step foot into it. Take a photo or two, but not too many, because by the time you finally look up to take it in, it'll all be over. And it's is a very majestic sight to see - maybe walk it a few times to take it all in. ;)
Written March 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dds
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia307 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
It was a cool morning with a slight drizzle. The walk was enjoyable amongst the green backdrop. Air was fresh, felt extra oxygenated. Lots of tourists and locals, great for photos. Some dressed in kimonos, others capturing funny poses. Do note that only if there is some sort of celebration then the evening/night lights will be turned on and its a whole different vibe...otherwise its pitch black by 6pm walking along a few cemeteries.
Written January 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Oktawiusz O
16 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
Stepping into the bamboo forest of Kyoto in the morning feels like entering a mystical realm straight out of a fairytale. The sheer height of the bamboo stalks, illuminated by the morning light, creates a mesmerizing atmosphere. If you’re journeying from Tokyo, the optimal route involves taking the metro from Shinjuku Station to Tokyo Station (4 stops), followed by a swift Shinkansen ride to Kyoto (2 hours and 8 minutes). Once in Kyoto, a quick 18-minute train ride to Saga-Arashiyama gets you closer to the forest. From there, the final kilometer can be traversed by a jinrikisha, a traditional Japanese rickshaw, offering a charming and picturesque journey to the bamboo forest. This experience evokes a sense of tranquility and wonder, making the morning the best time to visit this captivating attraction in Kyoto.
Written December 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris L
Markham, Canada727 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
Such a beautiful (free) place. Go early or late to avoid crowds. We got there at 7:30 am on a weekday and there was already a steady stream of people. It's amazing how tall the bamboo grow. Don't forget to walk around the rest of the area. This is just one place of many to visit in Arashiyama.
Written April 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rosswp
New Plymouth, New Zealand25 contributions
Nov 2019
Our visit to this place was 2 weeks before christmas. A very busy tourist hotspot we unfortunately hit the peak time about 1 oclock to 3 oclock. Very congested as it was, our large group of 29 students and adults however enjoyed the experience.
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Petitgiaco
Chambery, France105 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
Quite a short visit which is done very early in the morning so almost alone can be the highlight of a bike ride from your hotel to this district of Kyoto. Good start to the day with ultimately paintings of this nature which are so surprising and sometimes beautiful.
Still worth doing if not extraordinary as some visitors point out...
Still worth doing if not extraordinary as some visitors point out...
Written April 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
nmonik
Poitiers, France86 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Great place for a walk with the family. In summer I recommend you to go early in the morning before it’s too warm. Great to learn about bamboo trees types and the way they grow.
You can get there easily by public transport.
You can get there easily by public transport.
Written August 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
johnandlizb
Leamington Spa, UK989 contributions
Feb 2020
The bamboo forest is large because the bamboo is large. However, there is only one path through it and it is very busy. There were crass cyclists yelling at the top of their lungs which ruined the peace. The walk through the forest took about 10 minutes and it was very pretty, but not as picturesque as those perfect instagram pictures you might see due to the crowds.
Written March 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stefanie H
Lincoln, NE1,746 contributions
Jun 2023
It seems that everyone comes to Arashiyama for the bamboo grove; however, it is just one of the attractions in the area. It is fairly small and a little hard to find, but it is near the train station. We went at sunset as we were leaving the area and encountered very few people.
Written July 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mizan Halim
Langkawi, Malaysia
Can anyone share itinerary for Osaka & nearby place ? I plan to go to Japan for a week but will only cover Osaka, Kyoto, Nara & nearby place them. Help me please. This is my first time visit Japan.
Written December 3, 2022
This place is outside Kyoto but it's far from Tokyo I think the same way, it a long trip only to do this. It's best if stay in Kyoto.
From Kyoto you have a train direct from Kyoto station. If you really wish to do it from Tokyo you have to take 2 trains (Tokyo to Kyoto and Kyoto to Arashiyama).
Written May 3, 2019
At what time there are no people or the least in the Bamboo Forest? And at what time is it the prettiest in September?
Written September 23, 2018
Bonjour,
Nous sommes allés à la bambouseraie après le passage du typhon Jebi, elle était fermée pour réparation des dégats. Savez-vous si elle a ré-ouvert depuis svp ?
Merci, Nadège
Written September 11, 2018
davidchien1988
Kyoto, Japan
Does the place open everyday? Any ticket charges? Thank you!!
Written April 15, 2018
Actually I didn't see any official entrance so I might say that yes it's open everyday. By the other hand yes it's free, no ticket is required. Hope that helps!
Written April 15, 2018
Best time to go to avoid the crowds?? Early morning before what time? Please and thank you
Written March 4, 2018
We went on the weekend, and got there at 10:00. The crowds are the best part. couples dress up in traditional clothing and it looks great. The bamboo forest is a real let down, I didnt think it was as good are many other forests around the area
Written March 5, 2018
I am interested in a rickshaw to tour the bamboo forest. Where do I find them? Are they at the JR Saga Arashiyama station? Or do I need to book this ahead of time? Will they take us to Monkey park afterwards ?
Written February 28, 2018
They looked to be picking people up who walked past them. No booking required.
Written May 30, 2019
Hello.. How large is this Bamboo park/forest? How far from Kyoto? Best way to get there? - Thank You- Chris
Written December 5, 2017
Best way to get there is public transportation. We came from Osaka and it took about an hour to get there.... you need to visit the different neighborhoods in Kyoto lots to see. We went to forest early by 9am and it was not real busy which was nice.... great photos. We used our golf map on phone and made it so easy
Written December 6, 2017
How do I get to this place from Kyoto Station?
Written April 19, 2017
You take the JR San-In Line and get off at the Saga-Arashiyama station. I believe it's 6 stops. Once you get off, it's about a 15 minute walk. There are signs outside of the station that you can follow.
Written April 24, 2017
Showing results 1-10 of 15
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing