Independent hotels in Arashiyama

Arashiyama District is in western Kyoto, Japan. It is a district made famous by its quaint shopping areas, bamboo groves, and cherry blossoms. It is a popular tourist destination during the autumn months when the cherry trees are flowering and the maples turn a rich hue of gold and red.

A popular attraction in Arashiyama District is the massive and spectacular bamboo groves. The cherry blossoms in November and April are also one of the most beautiful sights in the district.

Iconic landmarks in Arashiyama District are the Togetsukyo Bridge and Tenryuji Temple, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Monkey Park Iwatayama provides some entertaining moments with these cheeky primates. A trip to Jojakkoji Temple in the mountains will offer you a fantastic view of Kyoto through the maple tree forest.

Discover the older sections of Arashiyama District at Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street with heritage buildings dating back to the Meiji period. They have been kept in pristine condition and converted into quaint little shops and restaurants.

Every district in Japan has its own unique culinary feel. One of the most sought after restaurants in Arashiyama District is Hirokawa, serving fresh eels sourced from farms throughout Japan. One recommendation in Arashiyama District is the yudo, which is a silky soft tofu simmering in a rich broth served at Yodofu Sagano. More tofu dishes can be found at Takemura Restaurant. They make this winter cuisine using the pure well waters in Arashiyama District. The Shigetsu Restaurant situated in the Tenryu-ji Temple offers authentic Buddhist vegetarian cuisine called shojin ryori.

Shopping in Arashiyama District is a delightful experience. Stores offer traditional handicrafts and modern shopping facilities. The Platz has a good mix of traditional fabrics and clothing and souvenirs. Items of interest can be found at the Chiri-men Craft Museum—it has an unusual stock of items made from textiles using the traditional chiri-men weaving technique.

Syoryuen is a main stream shopping centre in Arashiyama District that offers everything from food and clothing, shoes, bags, and handicrafts. Cute gift items can be found at SANBI-DOU. Shoyeido has a tradition for making all kinds of incense products and ISHIKAWA BAMBOO SHOP produces a multitude of bamboo-related products unique to the district.