Arashiyama day trip planDetailed explanation

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　table of contents

1. The charm of a day trip to Arashiyama
2. ① Morning: Visit recommended spots
3. ②Lunch & rest spot
4. ③ Afternoon: Enjoy activities
   
5. Points to keep in mind on a day trip

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1. The appeal of a day trip to Arashiyama 

Arashiyama is easily accessible from within Kyoto and allows you to visit tourist spots efficiently, making it the perfect area for a day trip. It has become a popular destination for many tourists because you can fully enjoy its nature, culture, and gourmet food in just one day. Here are some reasons why a day trip to Arashiyama is especially appealing.

　■ Enjoy the main spots in one day 

Tourist attractions in the Arashiyama area are all within walking distance, so you can get around in a short amount of time and efficiently. Particularly popular spots such as Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryuji Temple, Bamboo Forest Path, and Nonomiya Shrine can be visited in 1 to 2 hours. If you also add activities such as the trolley train and Hozugawa river rafting, you can enjoy a well-balanced trip in half a day to a full day.

　■ Charm that changes from morning to night 

If you visit in the morning for a day trip, there are fewer tourists around Togetsukyo Bridge in the early morning, so you can enjoy the scenery in a quiet atmosphere. We recommend touring the sightseeing spots during the day and enjoying a boat ride or a rickshaw ride in the afternoon. Also, if you visit in the evening, you can enjoy the magical atmosphere that only exists at night, such as the Togetsukyo Bridge and the bamboo grove being illuminated (depending on the time of year).

　■ Excellent access from within Kyoto City 

Arashiyama can be reached within 30 minutes from within Kyoto with a variety of transportation options.

・By train: JR Sagano Line, about 15 minutes from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station.
・Hankyu Arashiyama Line: Approximately 30 minutes to Arashiyama Station via the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line.
・By Bus: Direct buses to Arashiyama run from Kyoto Station and Shijo Kawaramachi, and it takes about 40 minutes each way.
・By car: Approximately 30 minutes from central Kyoto. However, it can get crowded during the tourist season, so public transportation is recommended.

Easy access is a major factor that makes day trips possible.

 

 

 

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2. ① Morning: Visit recommended spots 

Arashiyama is a tourist destination that represents Kyoto, and you can spend a fulfilling day there even on a day trip. Below, we will introduce recommended spots in the morning, lunch and rest spots, and details about activities in the afternoon.

　1. Togetsukyo Bridge 

Togetsukyo Bridge, the symbol of Arashiyama, is best visited in the early morning when it is quiet. There are few tourists, so you can enjoy the morning scenery reflected on the river surface. A walk in the clear morning air will refresh your mind and body. 

 

　2. Bamboo forest path 

The bamboo forest path, which can be accessed on foot from Togetsukyo Bridge, is best visited in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Walking through the bamboo forest, you will be surrounded by the pleasant breeze and scent of bamboo, giving you an extraordinary experience. 

 

　3. Nonomiya Shrine 

Proceeding along the path through the bamboo forest, you will find Nonomiya Shrine, which is famous for matchmaking. If you visit the shrine in the morning when it is refreshing, you may be able to expect even more blessings. The black wood torii gate and moss-covered grounds are also popular spots for taking photos.

 

 

 

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3. ② Lunch & rest spot 

 

 

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4. ③ Afternoon: Enjoy activities 

　1. Tenryuji Temple 

Tenryuji Temple, a registered World Heritage Site, is known for its beautiful gardens and historic architecture. Visit in the afternoon to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the garden. The scenery is particularly spectacular during the fall foliage season. 

 

　2. Sagano Trolley Train 

You can enjoy the scenery of each season on the sightseeing train that runs along the Hozugawa River. It is especially popular during the fall foliage and spring greenery, so advance reservations are recommended. You can fully enjoy the beauty of nature on a journey of about 25 minutes each way. 

 

　3. Hozu River rafting 

You can refresh yourself in nature by taking a boat trip down the river. You can enjoy the beauty of the valley and seasonal scenery on the approximately 2-hour course. It operates from spring to autumn and is especially popular with tourists looking to cool off in the summer. 

By combining these spots and activities, you can make your Arashiyama day trip even more fulfilling. Please use this as a reference when planning.

 

 

 

 

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5. Points to remember on a day trip 

When visiting Arashiyama on a day trip, it is important to keep in mind the following points in order to enjoy a fulfilling sightseeing experience within a limited amount of time.

　1. Efficient time allocation 

The importance of planning in advance: Find out the opening hours and locations of the spots you want to visit in advance and plan your route accordingly.

Avoid crowded times: Crowds are expected, especially during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. By starting your trip early in the morning, you can easily visit the main spots. 

 

　2. Selecting efficient means of transportation 

Use public transportation: If you take the JR Sagano Line rapid train from Kyoto Station, you can get to Saga-Arashiyama Station in about 11 minutes. It is also convenient to take the subway and Hankyu Line to Randen Arashiyama Station. 

Renting a bicycle: The Arashiyama area is easy to get around by bicycle, and renting a bicycle is an efficient way to visit tourist spots.

 

　3. Tips to avoid crowding 

Visit on weekdays: The number of tourists increases on weekends and holidays, so visiting on weekdays allows you to enjoy sightseeing at a more leisurely pace.

Take advantage of the off-season: Even outside of the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, Arashiyama has charm in every season. For example, fresh greenery in summer and snowy landscapes in winter are recommended.

 

　4. Plan meals and breaks 

Take advantage of reservations: Popular restaurants are often crowded, so it’s best to make reservations in advance.

Enjoy local flavors: Arashiyama is home to many famous Kyoto cuisine and sweets restaurants. Enjoying local flavors will make your trip even more satisfying.

 

　5. When to buy souvenirs 

Buy early: Buying souvenirs at the end of your sightseeing trip can save you time. If you see something you like at a spot you visit, one way is to buy it on the spot.
By keeping these points in mind, you can make your Arashiyama day trip even more fulfilling.

 

 

 

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 Finally 

Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s leading tourist destinations, where you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery, rich history, and a variety of activities and gourmet food. It has a collection of spots that you can fully enjoy even if you visit on a day trip, so you can enjoy sightseeing efficiently.

Arashiyama has a different charm at any time of the day, with scenery that changes with the seasons, from the quiet morning atmosphere to the lively daytime scenery and the magical night illuminations.

When it comes to day trips, advance planning can make your trip even more rewarding. Please spend an unforgettable time in Arashiyama, which is easily accessible and offers a variety of experiences.