Arashiyama Area

The gateway to Kyoto’s lush western hills, famous for forested mountains and bamboo grooves, this area is 20-minutes by car from the city center and worthy of a day trip. It can be packed with tourists from all over Japan, particularly at cherry blossom time. During Arashiyama Hanatouro, in mid-December, some three miles of walkway through the bamboo forest are illuminated by 2,400 lanterns. Indagare Tip: The area is open 24/7, so if you want to avoid the crowds, go early in the morning (around 7 a.m.).