If you plan to visit Kyoto on your upcoming Japan trip, you need to head to Arashiyama for its beautiful scenery. Tourists often visit this peaceful area while renting yukata robes or kimono to feel like a true Japanese local.
With Arashiyama’s ancient capital atmosphere, together with beautiful spots for taking photos, you’ll surely have a memorable yet relaxing vacation away from the bustling city. And, while you’re in this calm place, don’t forget to take the most shots with the best Instagrammable spots in Arashiyama. Continue reading to find out.
If you want to take your pictures to the next level, we highly recommend you to hire a professional photographer with Photo Trips. You will get a local guide and amazing shots at the same time. For example, you can book this kimono photoshoot in Arashiyama with our photographer Mina!
You can also check out here some of the best photographers in Kyoto!
1. Arashiyama Kimono Forest
The Arashiyama Kimono Forest is a perfect spot for artists and tourists who love anything colorful. It’s pretty evident even from afar, making it one of the most distinct yet stylish tourist destinations in Arashiyama. Located near Arashiyama Station, the Kimono Forest is a vibrant art installation with 600 backlit pillars.
If you want the best shot, go there early in the morning and stand right in between the pillars. Your photographer should only level the camera to your height or angle it a bit higher to make you look taller. We also recommend visiting the forest at night because all the pillars will be illuminated by then.
The Arashiyama Kimono Forest is free, and it’s a perfect stroll after a long day of exploring Kyoto. Moreover, there’s even a free boot bath where you can soak your feet in the station’s central platform.
Address: Arashiyama Kimono Forest
2. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Another famous yet unique forest is the Bamboo Forest. Its beautiful scenery makes it an Instagrammable spot and a tourist favorite. Surrounded by tall bamboo trees, entering the bamboo forest feels like being transported to a new realm.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a famous couple’s destination where you can rent yukata robes and shoot the cutest and most romantic photos. The bamboo grove is long and narrow, about 400 meters, explaining why it gets crowded easily. So always head to this place early in the morning, just after sunrise, to avoid the tourists.
Address: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
3. Togetsukyo Bridge
Another favorite landmark in Arashiyama is the Togetsukyo Bridge, believed to represent the symbol of the famous Kyoto district. You’ll be amazed by how the entire bridge is shaped like a moon, enveloping the river underneath and the trees surrounding it. This 155-meter bright is built over the famous Katsura River and has always been a part of Japanese travel guidebooks.
Most parts of this bridge are made of wood, with concrete piers to make it more durable. Togetsukyo Bridge is near the Hankyu Railway Arashiyama Station.
Address: Togetsukyo Bridge
4. Tenryuji Temple
A majestic temple with multiple Instagrammable spots is Tenryuji Temple. It’s one of Kyoto’s most famous zen and peaceful temples, believed to comfort Emperor Godaigo’s ancient spirit. If you ask us, the best photo spot should be where the clear pond and the temple’s roof meet.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tenryuji Temple has an iconic Japanese garden perfect for strolling and lounging. Tourists often visit the garden to view the plants of each season. Cherry blossoms are in full bloom during spring, while autumn foliage can also be admired.
Address: Tenryuji Temple
5. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
Feeling a little more adventurous? Shoot unique photos of monkeys at the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. The monkey park is the perfect destination when you want to skip the historical sites in Arashiyama. Moreover, it’s a commercial park built next to Mt. Iwatayama, hence its name.
Getting to the Monkey Park can be a little tiring, but it’s worth it. You need to climb 120 stairs to reach the place where you can catch around 120 Japanese monkeys. These cute little creatures are tame and polite, but you still need to stand at a safe distance because they’re still wild monkeys!
The staff at the Monkey Park also allows tourists to feed the monkeys by hand, especially those on the mountaintop. What makes the photo even more beautiful is that your backdrop includes the entire Kyoto view.
Address: Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
6. Trolley Arashiyama Station
Another Instragrammable spot in Arashiyama that features rustic and ancient vibes is the Trolley Arashiyama Station, where tourists arrive or depart using the Torokko trains. All the trains are differently colored in blue, red, orange, and yellow, giving off that colorful vibe in every shot.
The railroad tracks and the station building, with the fall foliage backdrop, have a nostalgic atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for couple shoots.
Address: Torokko Arashiyama Station
7. Katsura Imperial Villa
The next one on the list might have the most beautiful garden in Arashiyama. Katsura Imperial Villa has traditional buildings and zen Japanese gardens built during the 17th century. The villas were previously owned by the Hachijo-no-miya family, official Imperial family members.
Today, the Katsura Imperial Villa is a sight among tourists because every corner is Instagrammable and postcard-worthy. If you decide to visit the place, you need to reserve or apply a date in advance so you get permitted to enter the imperial villa.
Address: Katsura Imperial Villa
8. Sagano Scenic Railway
A beautiful sight to visit in autumn for the breathtaking fall foliage is the Sagano Scenic Railway. This charming train travels along the length of the Hozu River—a slow but mesmerizing ride. The entire ride takes about 25 minutes and covers about 7 kilometers. Sagano Scenic Railway allows passengers to take in the beautiful Kyoto scenery and take all the photos they wish.
For an added experience, ride the fifth car, an open-air carriage with the windows rolled down to feel the Arashiyama breeze.
Address: Sagano Scenic Railway
9. Daikakuji Temple
Another famous temple to visit in Autumn is Daikakuji Temple, where the ponds and gardens are all surrounded by autumn leaves. Yukata robes are available to rent around the area, so you can get one before your next photoshoot.
The best shots are those outside the temple to capture the entire scenery. You will love how the majestic rooves look like the temple is owned by an ancient emperor.
Address: Daikakuji Temple
10. Okochi Sanso Villa
Finally, we recommend you to visit Okochi Sanso Villa and witness where Okochi Denjiro, a former movie star in the Showa period, used to live. The villa has a beautiful garden overlooking Hozu Gorce, Mt. Hiei, and Arashiyama.
The best photos are taken just outside the villa, where you’re surrounded by fall leaves and the villa’s outdoor decor. Even more fascinating is that you get a free matcha drink and sweets when you book a visit.
Address: Okochi Sanso Villa
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Arashiyama has always been a famous destination in Kyoto because every area is just picture-perfect. Whether looking for ancient spots that boast traditional Japanese culture, vibrant railway stations, or overlooking bridges, you can definitely find an excellent and Instragrammable spot in Arashiyama.
Look for more spots to visit in Kyoto? Check out our travel guide on the most Instagrammable photo spots in Kyoto!
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