Self-guided cycling route: Admire cherry blossoms and red maples in the enchanting Arashiyama, Kyoto

Text and photos / Excerpted from "The Ultimate Guide to Self-Guided Cycling in Kansai: Explore Osaka and Kyoto by Bike with Free and Easy Experts!" by Carmen Tang, published by Siku Yu Cultural Creativity

Seek healing in the bamboo grove: A serene journey through Arashiyama

Cycling route
Togetsukyo Bridge → Tenryu-ji Temple → Arashiyama Bamboo Grove → Nison-in Temple → Ninnaji Temple → Ryoan-ji Temple → Toei Kyoto Studio Park → Kameyama Shrine

Step deep into the bamboo forest and leave urban noise behind

Arashiyama is a famous scenic spot in Kyoto, renowned for its cherry blossoms and red leaves. Countless tourists visit here in spring and autumn to admire the blossoms and foliage. Located in the western outskirts of Kyoto, Arashiyama exudes a tranquil vibe. Coming here naturally calms the mind, and venturing a bit further offers a deeper connection with nature.

"Arashi" in Japanese means storm or tempest, but it also refers to mountain mist. Aside from enjoying Arashiyama’s beauty from Togetsukyo Bridge, you can also hike up to Kameyama Park and gaze at the Fushimi River from the mountain. The season when the mountains are covered in red leaves is particularly captivating. Beyond its well-known temples, Arashiyama is also home to various forms of folk art and handicrafts. There’s a path in Arashiyama flanked by towering green bamboo, and the serene grove has a soothing effect that helps you forget your worries and clear your mind.

Ninnaji Temple and Ryoan-ji Temple are famed cherry blossom spots for locals, but they’re relatively remote with less convenient transportation, so fewer foreign visitors come here. The Omuro Cherry Blossoms of Ninnaji Temple and the Seigen-in of Ryoan-ji Temple are both highly reputed. If you have time, be sure to visit these places, enjoy Kyoto-style tofu dishes, and immerse yourself in the tranquil and peaceful scenery.

Highlights along the way

Starting from Arashiyama Station, head to Naka-jima Island in Arashiyama Park. In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it a great spot for hanami. On the opposite bank, there are tall pine trees of old age—you can sit under them and enjoy the scenery even when it’s not cherry blossom season. From Togetsukyo Bridge, you can take in the picturesque view of the Okazaki River and Arashiyama, especially stunning when the mountains are covered in red leaves. After crossing the bridge, walk left along Nishinokyo Street, where you’ll see many rickshaws parked outside restaurants. Past the Fushimi River ferry terminal, you’ll reach the end of the road and can walk up to the Kameyama Park observation deck for a view of the Fushimi River.

Continuing along the route, you’ll pass Tenryu-ji Temple and Nyoigi Shrine. During off-peak seasons, you can cycle directly into the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove path, but on holidays, you may need to walk while leading your bike due to crowds. However, after leaving Arashiyama Station, there are fewer people, and you can cycle with the wind in your hair. The area features various temples and elegantly designed cafes, allowing you to get closer to nature. Leaving the Arashiyama area and heading east along National Route 29, you’ll reach Ninnaji Temple and Ryoan-ji Temple. The route involves some uphill sections that require a bit of effort. If you’re worried about getting lost, you can follow the Arashiyama Electric Railway past Toei Kyoto Studio Park and Kameyama Shrine to return to Arashiyama.

Info: Route details
Distance: 16 km    Time: 3 hours
Nearest start station: Hankyu Arashiyama Station
Nearest end station: Hankyu Arashiyama Station
Best season: All year round