Arashiyama Park in Kyoto

Arashiyama Park in Kyoto

Arashiyama Park is located where the Hozugawa Valley meets the plain, consisting of three areas: Kameyama, Nakanoshima, and Rinsen Temple. It is a famous spot for cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in autumn, and has been popular among royalty and nobility since ancient times.

The Kameyama area is situated on the hilly terrain of the southeastern part of Mount Kuragari, dominated by Japanese red pine, with cherry and maple trees interspersed among them. Under the trees grow clusters of Japanese azaleas, creating an impressive natural landscape. Paths wind through the woods, and facilities include plazas, rest areas, observation decks, and a children’s play area.

On the western side is an excellent vantage point overlooking the Hozugawa Gorge, while the eastern side is the imperial cremation site of three emperors after Emperor Go-Saga. As the name suggests, the Nakanoshima area is an island formed in the middle of the Katsura River. The island is covered with pine and cherry trees, and it gets especially lively with visitors during the flower-viewing seasons.

In addition, along the opposite riverside and within the beautiful natural scenery of the Katsura River, you can often see leisurely anglers. Located on the left bank downstream of Togetsukyo Bridge, the Rinsen Temple area features shaded paths lined with ancient Japanese red pines, cherry trees, and maple trees, creating an elegant landscape.

If you have time to spare, walk about a hundred meters along the Oi River, then climb a steep slope to the right, and you’ll find the Zhou Enlai Poetry Monument. The stone is made from Kurama stone sourced from Mount Kurama in Kyoto. The monument stands atop a round platform built from variously sized stones, with Premier Zhou's poem "Arashiyama in the Rain" inscribed in Chinese on it.

Address: Sakyo and Ukyo wards, Kyoto City (Sagano and Arashiyama areas)

Type: Urban park

Recommended visit duration: About 2 hours

Tel

ephone: +81-75-7010101

Opening Hours:

Open all day

Admission:

Free entry.