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Arashiyama

Arashiyama 1
Travel guide
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Travel guide

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Best time to visit Arashiyama

Data source：Meteostat
Last updated：2025-09

Weather in Arashiyama throughout the year

  • Spring (March–May): Average 50–66°F, mild climate but with relatively high rainfall, especially abundant in April and May. Common activities: Cherry blossom viewing, bamboo grove walks, temple visits. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt, raincoat essential.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 74–85°F, hot and humid, with considerable rainfall, especially from June to August. Common activities: Hozugawa River boat ride, strolling through Arashiyama town, enjoying the cool atmosphere of cafes and restaurants. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, hat, sunglasses, raincoat essential.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 57–80°F, pleasant and comfortable climate, with reduced rainfall. Common activities: Maple leaf viewing, strolling along streets colored with autumn leaves, visiting historical sites. Recommended clothing: Comfortable long-sleeved clothing, light jacket.
  • Winter (December–February): Average 41–44°F, cold and dry, with low rainfall. Common activities: Hot spring bathing, tasting local cuisine, appreciating the winter scenery of Arashiyama. Recommended clothing: Warm coat, hat, scarf, gloves.

Weather in Arashiyama

Annual average temperature: approx. 63.0°F / Annual rainfall: approx. 1656 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: August

Arashiyama weather by month

Month
Temperature (°F)
Rainfall (mm)
January
41.2°F
47.4
February
43°F
72.5
March
50.9°F
131.3
April
61.5°F
182.2
May
66.7°F
199.8
June
74.7°F
248.8
July
84°F
176
August
85.1°F
254.7
September
80.8°F
127.3
October
66.4°F
105.2
November
57°F
91.9
December
45°F
19.2

7-day weather forecast for Arashiyama

11/12
Thursday
Overcast
62.4°F/44°F
11/13
Friday
Cloudy
68.4°F/50.1°F
11/14
Saturday
Overcast
65.4°F/49.6°F
11/15
Sunday
Light drizzle
61.9°F/56.9°F
11/16
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
64.3°F/51.6°F
11/17
Tuesday
Cloudy
61.7°F/46.3°F
11/18
Wednesday
Patchy rain nearby
64.6°F/52.9°F

Arashiyama travel FAQs and useful info

What is Arashiyama famous for?

Arashiyama is famous for its stunning bamboo grove, serene temples like the UNESCO World Heritage site Tenryu-ji Temple, and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. The district, located in western Kyoto, is a designated Place of Scenic Beauty known for its natural beauty that changes with the seasons, offering beautiful scenery of mountains, rivers, and a popular bamboo forest.

Is Arashiyama a day trip from Kyoto?

Although Arashiyama is located on the western edge of Kyoto, it is just a short train ride (around 20 minutes) from the city center, making it one of the easiest day trips for visitors looking to experience Kyoto's natural beauty.

How long do you need at Arashiyama?

You should spend at least a half-day (4-6 hours) in Arashiyama to see its main attractions like the Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge, but a full day (6-8 hours or more) is ideal to include Tenryu-ji Temple, the Monkey Park, and other temples or a river cruise. Your visit length depends on how many sights you want to see, including the popular bamboo forest, the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge, and the Tenryu-ji Temple.

Is it worth visiting Arashiyama?

Arashiyama is a district of Kyoto that is full of famous and beautiful locations. Visitors can explore the towering Sagano Bamboo Forest, as well as admire the historic Togetsukyo Bridge and serene Tenryu-ji Temple. The area however, has many other hidden gems that are just as worth exploring.

What are the main attractions in Arashiyama?

The main attractions in Arashiyama include the world-renowned Sagano Bamboo Forest, the UNESCO World Heritage site Tenryu-ji Temple with its beautiful gardens, and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Visitors also enjoy exploring the Iwatayama Monkey Park for panoramic views and discovering other temples like Jojakko-ji.