Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Entrance Fee: Everything You Need to Know

Nestled in the scenic outskirts of Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest stands as one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Visited by millions each year, the forest’s towering green stalks offer an experience both tranquil and unforgettable. Whether you’re planning your first trip or seeking updated information, understanding the entrance arrangements and nearby attractions is crucial for a hassle-free visit.

Essential Highlights

No entrance fee—the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is completely free and open to the public.
The grove is open 24/7; aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best, least crowded experience.
Access points: Main street in Arashiyama or via Tenryu-ji Temple (note: temple entry requires a separate fee).
Nearby attractions, like Iwatayama Monkey Park and Tenryu-ji Temple, do charge admission.
The forest is easily accessible from Kyoto by public transportation.
Visit the official resource for Arashiyama Bamboo Forest entrance fees for up-to-date details.

What Is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?
Is There an Entrance Fee?
How to Get to the Bamboo Forest
Best Times to Visit
Nearby Attractions & Fees
Tips for Visiting
FAQ: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Entrance Fee

What Is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest—also known as the Sagano Bamboo Grove—offers one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes.
Located in western Kyoto, the forest features walking paths lined with countless bamboo stalks swaying gently in the wind, creating a serene sensory experience[1][5]. The site is renowned not only for its beauty but also for its cultural heritage, having been cultivated for centuries near the historic Tenryu-ji Temple[5].

Two main paths: Chikurin no Komichi (the main promenade) and Chikurin no Sansakuro (the extended trail north of Nonomiya Shrine)[2].
The forest is a designated public space, making it accessible and welcoming year-round.

Is There an Entrance Fee?

Access to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is completely free; there is no entrance fee at any gate or entry point.
This policy makes it an especially attractive destination for both budget travelers and families[4][7].

Key details:

No ticket required: The entire bamboo path is a public area.
Open 24 hours: Visit anytime, but daytime hours are recommended for safety and photography[1][7].
Access through Tenryu-ji Temple: The forest can be entered from the rear of the temple garden. However, Tenryu-ji charges a separate fee for entry to its grounds (500 yen for gardens, additional 300 yen for the temple interior)[4][7].
For official fee information, visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest entrance fee page.

How to Get to the Bamboo Forest

Reaching Arashiyama is straightforward, with excellent transport links from central Kyoto.

By Train:
- Take the JR San-in (Sagano) Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (about 20 minutes)[1].
- From the station, walk approximately 15 minutes to the forest entrance.
- Other lines, such as the Hankyu Arashiyama Line, also serve the area but may not be covered by the JR Pass[1].
By Bus: Buses from various points in Kyoto also stop near Arashiyama.
For more on Japan’s entry fees and travel options, explore entrancefee.co.uk’s general guide.

Best Times to Visit

For a tranquil experience and the best photo opportunities, visit the bamboo grove early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Peak hours: The forest gets crowded between 11am and 3pm, especially in summer[8].
Best light: Morning and sunset provide softer lighting and fewer people[7][8].
Open all year: The grove remains open in all seasons, and is especially magical after snowfall[8].

Nearby Attractions & Fees

Arashiyama is more than just bamboo—several nearby sites charge their own entrance fees:

Attraction	Entrance Fee
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest	FREE
Iwatayama Monkey Park	600 yen (adult), 300 yen (child)
Tenryu-ji Temple Gardens	500 yen (about $3.50)
Tenryu-ji Temple Interior	+300 yen
Sagano Romantic Train	880 yen (adult), 440 yen (child)
Kimono Forest (Art Display)	FREE

Iwatayama Monkey Park: Just a short walk from the bamboo grove—see wild monkeys and panoramic views[4].
Tenryu-ji Temple: UNESCO World Heritage Site with famous gardens; worth combining with your forest visit[4][7].
For a detailed breakdown of local fees and opening times, see entrancefee.co.uk/arashiyama-bamboo-forest-entrance-fee.

Tips for Visiting

Maximize your visit with these expert tips:

Arrive early: Beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Avoid midday: The path is busiest late morning through early afternoon[8].
Choose your entrance: The main path is off the central street; you can also pass through Tenryu-ji’s rear gate (temple fee applies)[7].
Photography: Early light or post-rain gloom creates magical photo conditions.
Dress appropriately: Paths may be slippery after rain; wear sturdy footwear.
Nearby experiences: Don’t miss the Kimono Forest of illuminated textile pillars and scenic rides on the Sagano Romantic Train.

For planning, check the official Kyoto City tourism site, Japan National Tourism Organization, and Japan-Guide.com’s Arashiyama section.

FAQ: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Entrance Fee

Is there an entrance fee for Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?
No, entrance is free, with no tickets or passes required[4][7].

How do I get there from Kyoto Station?
Take the JR San-in (Sagano) Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station, then walk about 15 minutes to the forest[1].

When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Early mornings, before 9am, and late afternoons are least crowded and offer the best photography conditions[7][8].

Are there areas around the forest that require a ticket?
Yes, Tenryu-ji Temple and Iwatayama Monkey Park charge admission; entry to the bamboo path itself is always free[4][7].

Is the forest open year-round?
Yes, it is open 24 hours a day throughout the year, including winter[8].

Can I visit at night?
You can, but it is dark and not recommended outside of special illumination events for safety reasons[2][7].

Where can I find more detailed, updated information?
Visit entrancefee.co.uk’s Arashiyama Bamboo Forest page for current details, or check entrancefee.co.uk’s homepage for broader Japan travel tips.

Planning a trip to Japan?
Make sure to consult local resources, official tourism sites, and entrancefee.co.uk for updated guides on entrance fees, top attractions, and travel essentials for a seamless adventure.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Entrance Fee