Bamboo Grove & Monkey Park Together: A Half-Day in Arashiyama
The geography
The Arashiyama Monkey Park sits on Mount Iwata, on one side of the river. The Bamboo Grove (Sagano Bamboo Forest) is on the other side of Togetsukyō Bridge, in a flat area near the Tenryū-ji temple. Both are in Arashiyama district, but on opposite banks. Walking from one to the other takes roughly 15–20 minutes on flat paths along the river.
Suggested order: park first, grove second
Start early (7:00–8:00 am) and head straight to the monkey park. The monkeys are most active in the morning, and you avoid the peak crowds (10:00–16:00). Spend 60–90 minutes: climb (~25 min), enjoy the summit and feeding hut (~30–45 min), see the view, descend (~25 min). You will be down by 9:30–10:00 am.
From the park exit, walk back to Togetsukyō Bridge and cross to the other side of the river (toward the Bamboo Grove). Follow signs or ask locals; the grove entrance is famous and obvious. You will arrive at the grove around 10:00–10:30 am, which is just as peak crowds are building. Spend 30–60 minutes walking through the bamboo (it is free and never closes). Many visitors wander 15–20 minutes into the tall groves, take photos, rest, and leave.
Alternative order: grove first, park second
If you prefer to sleep in, you can reverse: visit the Bamboo Grove first (morning light is nice for photos, crowds arrive later). Rest at a nearby café. Then walk to the park around 11:00–12:00. Monkeys are calmer in the afternoon, but still active. Descend by 14:00–15:00. This avoids the morning rush at both places.
What a guided tour adds
The classic walking tour ($59, 5–5.5 h) includes both the monkey park and the Bamboo Grove, plus:
Usually included
- A live local guide who explains the district’s history and culture
- Visits to Tenryū-ji temple (one of Kyoto’s most important)
- The Okochi Sanso villa garden (stunning private estate, limited hours)
- Quiet back streets and local cafés
- No navigation stress — the guide handles it
- Optimal timing for monkey activity and crowds
Not included
- Self-guided is free (minus park entry)
- Touring takes longer (5–5.5 h vs. 3–4 h solo)
- Less deep cultural context
- You navigate yourself
For budget travellers, the matcha & monkeys tour ($31, 4 h) covers essentials: temple, bamboo, matcha tea tasting, and the monkey park.
The best view in Arashiyama
The summit clearing at the monkey park offers a panoramic view of Kyoto city — temples, pagodas, and suburbs stretching to the horizon. Many visitors say the view alone is worth the ¥800 entry.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bamboo Grove free?
Yes, completely free. It is open 24 hours, 365 days a year. No entry fee, no tickets. Just walk in.
How far is the Bamboo Grove from the monkey park?
~15–20 minutes walk. They are on opposite sides of Togetsukyō Bridge. A short, flat walk along the river connects them.
Can I do both in one day?
Yes. 3–4 hours for both self-guided (park 60–90 min, grove 30–60 min, walks in between). A guided tour takes 4–5.5 hours and adds temples and a guide.
Which should I visit first, the grove or the park?
Park first (morning monkeys are most active). Then walk to the groove for the late-morning calm. Reverse order works too if you prefer a slower morning.
Do I need a guide for the Bamboo Grove?
No, the grove is straightforward to walk. A guide adds cultural context and history. The walking tour includes both the grove and park plus temples.