Arashiyama Park is a picturesque public recreation area surrounded by two arms of the Katsua River in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto. Come to admire the seasonal trees, feast on traditional Japanese cuisine, go on waterfront walks and cross one of the district’s iconic and most famous bridges. Arashiyama is on the southern bank of the river and in the shadow of Mount Arashiyama.
A wide terrace along the front of the park affords views of a verdant, mountainous countryside in all directions. Do as locals do, strolling alongside the riverbanks and watching the world pass by from the water’s edge. Note how the hillsides change from the pink of cherry blossoms in spring to the red of maple trees in fall and the brilliant white snow of winter. Framing the terrace are ornamental gardens interspersed by pathways, where more cherry trees blossom in springtime.
Enjoy the spectacular scenery of Arashiyama from Togetsukyo Bridge (Moon Crossing Bridge). A bridge has stood at the same spot on the river since 836. It takes its name from a story of 13th-century Emperor Kameyama, who remarked that the moon appeared to be following the course of the bridge. Rent a rowboat for an alternative view of the bridge, river and pristine surroundings.
Food stands and cafés at the park serve delicious menus of typical Japanese dishes such as ramen and soba noodle soup. Have a meal or snack before following a walking trail that meanders through other riverside parkland to Matsuo Bridge.
Another popular activity is visiting Arashiyama Monkey Park. Follow an uphill trail from the south side of Togetsukyo Bridge to a mountaintop where Japanese macaque monkeys roam freely and gather behind a fence to wait for you to feed them.
Arashiyama Park is a short walk from Arashiyama train station. From Kyoto it is just a 25-minute drive or 40-minute journey by train. Metered parking is available close to the train station. There is a fee to visit Arashiyama Monkey Park, which is open daily, except during extreme weather conditions when it closes.
