Family-Friendly Day in Arashiyama: A Parent's Guide to Kyoto's Must-See Spots

Arashiyama, a scenic district on the western edge of Kyoto, offers the perfect balance of nature, culture, and family-friendly activities. Known for its bamboo groves, river views, and monkey park, it’s a destination that’s as enjoyable for young kids as it is for adults. If you're planning a trip with little ones, Arashiyama’s relaxed atmosphere and walkable layout make it an ideal escape from the city for a day.

Traveling with my wife and our 1.5-year-old daughter, in January 2024, we found that planning a day trip from Osaka to Arashiyama was both manageable and rewarding. The journey was simple, and we enjoyed being able to stroll at our own pace through the quiet, kid-friendly spots. The sights were fascinating, yet not too overwhelming for a toddler.

This article shares practical tips based on our experience—covering how to get there, places that work well with young children, and strategies to make your trip as smooth as possible. The goal is to provide you with straightforward, family-focused insights to help you enjoy Arashiyama without the stress.

Getting to Arashiyama

For our trip to Arashiyama from Osaka, driving was the best choice for our family. It gave us flexibility with our schedule, ample storage for my daughter’s essentials, and the freedom to adjust our plans as needed. Here’s a recap of our experience with parking in Arashiyama and some tips if you’re planning to drive.

Why We Chose to Drive

Driving offered several advantages:

1. Flexibility: We could manage our schedule around my daughter’s needs, stop when necessary, and avoid the hassle of coordinating with train or bus schedules.
2. Convenient Storage: The car allowed us to bring all of my daughter’s essentials, from her stroller to extra clothes, making it easier to stay prepared without packing light.
3. Easy Access to Main Attractions: Parking close to key sights allowed us to explore the area on foot without navigating crowded public transportation options.

Parking in Arashiyama

We parked at Park1st. Hankyu-Arashiyama Ekimae Parking. This lot was not only close to major attractions like the Togetsukyo Bridge but also provided convenient access to the Arashiyama Monkey Park and other popular spots.

Here’s what you should know about Park1st. Hankyu-Arashiyama Ekimae Parking:

• Availability and Rates: The parking lot charges a flat rate of 1,000 yen per day for standard vehicles, making it a cost-effective option in the area. While the price recently increased due to renovations, it now includes modern payment options like credit cards and QR code payments.
• Size and Access: The parking spaces are average-sized, but the layout of the lot includes wider lanes, making it easier to navigate and park comfortably. This was a bonus for maneuvering a family vehicle.
• Additional Perks: For those planning to visit the nearby Iwatayama Monkey Park, presenting your parking receipt can earn you a 200-yen cashback, adding a nice perk for family-friendly sightseeing.

Crossing the Iconic Togetsukyo Bridge

Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama’s iconic landmark, stretches across the Katsura River, offering a timeless view of the surrounding mountains. With its traditional wooden design, the bridge attracts visitors year-round, especially in spring and autumn when cherry blossoms or fiery foliage set the landscape aglow. For families, the bridge not only provides a scenic crossing but also serves as a peaceful space to absorb the natural beauty of the area.

Our Daughter's Fascination with Rocks

Though the scenery was stunning, it was the gravel patch by the river that caught my daughter’s attention, not the bridge itself. With Togetsukyo Bridge in the background, My daughter was fascinated by the rocks scattered across the ground. She has always been captivated by small stones, and this spot gave her ample time to explore and play while I observed and snapped a few shots of her in this picturesque setting. It was a simple yet memorable moment, watching her fully engaged in her “rock collection” while the iconic bridge, mountains, and river framed the scene around us.

For us, Togetsukyo Bridge became more than a sight to behold—it was part of an experience that allowed us to pause and see things through my daughter’s eyes. These little moments gave her space to explore and gave us a unique family memory in one of Kyoto’s most beautiful spots. 

Strolling Through the Bamboo Forest

Arashiyama's bamboo grove is one of Japan’s most iconic sites, drawing tourists from all over the world to experience its mystical beauty. Walking through towering bamboo stalks on shaded paths has an almost cinematic quality, making it a must-see for many. I had high expectations for this famous forest, especially since it's so widely recommended to Western tourists as an essential Kyoto destination. I imagined it would be an immersive, serene experience, surrounded by the quiet rustling of bamboo leaves.

Our Family’s Experience: Beautiful Yet Busy

In reality, the bamboo forest was a bit underwhelming for me, largely due to the overwhelming crowds. The sheer number of people made it difficult to capture that tranquil, secluded atmosphere I’d envisioned. Despite my initial disappointment, I was determined to make the most of it. I took photos of the forest and tried to capture moments of my family walking through, with the famous green stalks towering around us. Now, looking back at those photos, I can see that even amid the crowds, the scenery is still quite picturesque, and there’s a unique beauty to it that the photos reveal better than my initial experience did.

Our daughter’s Curious Encounters

Walking through the bamboo forest, we stumbled upon small stone Jizo statues along the paths. These little statues are often adorned with tiny hats or bibs, and they’re known as protectors of travelers and children in Japanese culture. 

For us, strolling through the bamboo grove wasn’t quite the tranquil escape we expected, yet it was still a memorable part of our trip. The beauty of the place managed to shine through, even in our crowded, imperfect experience, leaving us with lovely photos and small moments that we’ll remember fondly.

Hidden Gem for Kids: Saga Park (嵯峨公園)

After the crowded experience of the bamboo forest, we stumbled upon a small oasis in Saga Park—a hidden gem that offered some peace and a much-needed break from the sightseeing hustle. Nestled close to the bamboo grove, this quiet playground felt like a secret escape. It was mostly empty, and we had a chance to unwind, enjoy some open space, and let our daughter explore freely.

Our daughter's Playtime with Local Children

Not long after we arrived, a local couple joined us with their two children, who were a bit older than our daughter. They had brought along some Anpanman sand toys, which our daughter immediately took an interest in. The couple kindly let her join in, and she was thrilled to play with new toys and interact with the older children. This unplanned moment of play with local kids added a warm, authentic touch to our day, giving her a chance to connect in a way that sightseeing alone doesn’t allow.

A Simple Family Snack and Time to Breathe

With the crowds left behind, we took a few minutes to enjoy a small snack we’d packed—baked sweet potatoes, simple but satisfying, especially for our daughter, who loves them. We could sit and breathe in the fresh air without the sense of being surrounded by throngs of people. It felt refreshing, like we’d found a small slice of calm in the middle of a bustling tourist area.

After our break, our daughter had a great time on the playground structures. I took a few candid photos of her playing, capturing these small, joyful moments that reflect our family's quieter side of travel. Saga Park turned out to be an ideal stop—a chance for her to play and for all of us to reset before moving on with our day. This simple, lesser-known spot provided just the balance we needed, making it a memorable part of our Arashiyama adventure.

Exploring Nison-in Temple

Nison-in Temple, one of the quieter stops on our Arashiyama trip, offered a welcome change of pace after the bustling crowds we’d encountered. Though I was initially hesitant about paying the entrance fee (around 500 yen, which is fairly standard for many Kyoto temples), we decided to go for it, hoping for a peaceful experience. It turned out to be worth it—mostly due to the serene, nearly empty grounds. My daughter was fast asleep in the sling, so we moved slowly, quietly taking in the atmosphere and relishing the calm.

As we walked around, though, I realized I didn’t know much about the temple itself, and I found myself wishing I’d looked into its background beforehand. Later research helped me understand what I’d missed: Nison-in Temple dates back to the Heian period and holds deep cultural significance. The name “Nison-in” comes from two principal statues enshrined there—Shaka Nyorai and Amida Nyorai. Shaka Nyorai represents prayers for the living, while Amida Nyorai symbolizes solace for the departed, making it a temple dedicated to both life and remembrance.

Reflecting on our visit, I can see how knowing more about the temple’s story could have enriched the experience. For future travelers, I’d recommend reading up on the historical context before visiting. This knowledge can add depth, making the calm paths and ancient structures feel even more meaningful, especially if you’re looking to escape the more crowded parts of Arashiyama and enjoy a tranquil, reflective stop on your journey.

Family Dining in Arashiyama: A Cozy Stop at Adashino

After our visit to Nison-in Temple, we found ourselves growing hungry, craving something hearty to keep us going for the rest of the day. We wanted to try some unique Kyoto foods, like Kyoto yuba (tofu skin), which has such a reputation as a delicacy here. However, the traditional Kyoto cuisine restaurants we came across looked quite expensive, and we decided to look for a more budget-friendly option.

As we wandered, we passed by an elegant Chinese restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a peaceful view. I remember thinking it was unfortunate that many tourists might pass it up simply because they’re set on trying “authentic” Japanese food. It was a reminder that good food experiences are often right in front of us, even if they don’t fit our original expectations. Still, we moved along, hoping for something closer to our cravings for Japanese flavors.

Finally, we found a small, unassuming eatery serving udon and soba noodles, which felt like the perfect balance of comfort and local flavor. I ordered the restaurant’s specialty, Adashino soba—a hearty dish loaded with fresh vegetables and a couple of tender slices of pork, a satisfying meal that didn’t break the bank. My wife and I enjoyed the simplicity of it, the warmth of the broth, and the balance of flavors. Meanwhile, my daughter was completely unaware of it all; she slept through the entire meal, snug in her sling.

Looking back, it’s moments like these that remind me that food experiences are as much about the family setting as the meal itself. Although my daughter wasn’t awake to enjoy the meal with us, it still felt cozy and fulfilling to be together in a small local spot, savoring our time in Arashiyama.

For Future Visitors: Tips on Dining with Family in Arashiyama

If you’re visiting Arashiyama and looking for family-friendly dining spots, there are some good options to consider:

• Kyoto yuba and kaiseki meals (traditional multi-course Japanese cuisine) are wonderful if you’re open to a higher price range; several places offer these specialties nearby.
• Smaller shops with soba or udon are typically more affordable, filling, and accommodating to young kids, with simpler flavors that tend to be universally appealing.
• Amenities to look for: Many smaller eateries won’t have high chairs, so a portable chair or baby sling is a good idea. Menus in Kyoto can also be limited in kid-friendly options, but basic udon, soba, and rice bowls are usually safe bets.
• Food quality in Arashiyama can be excellent, but popular spots may be crowded; arriving at slightly off-peak hours can make for a quieter experience.

Our dining experience was simple but memorable. These casual, affordable stops can be just as rewarding as the high-end dining experiences, especially with little ones in tow.

Sweet Treats for the Family: Green Tea and Dango at Dangoro (団五郎)

My daughter had missed out on lunch earlier, so we needed a spot where she could have something more filling before continuing with our adventure. We ordered a small udon dish for her, a simple meal she enjoys and can easily handle herself, while my wife and I settled on dango and green tea for dessert.

The dango was a lovely treat—chewy, lightly sweetened rice dumplings skewered on a stick, and it paired wonderfully with the rich, earthy taste of the matcha tea. It felt like a quintessential Kyoto experience, embracing both the local flavors and traditions. The matcha felt particularly fitting here in Kyoto, where green tea is deeply rooted in the region’s culture.

For families traveling with young children, I’d definitely recommend stopping for dango or matcha. The serving sizes at these shops are generally small, making it easy to share a bit of Japanese culture with little ones without overwhelming them.

The Arashiyama Monkey Park Adventure

Our stop at the Arashiyama Monkey Park was an adventure in itself. Right before we started the climb, my wife decided to dash back to the car for the Ergo Baby carrier we’d gotten at Costco. The sling from Amazon just wasn’t going to cut it for the steep hike, and with my daughter to carry, it was definitely the better choice. While I waited, my daughter found herself transfixed by a huge, plastic ice cream cone in front of a small snack stall, a sight I couldn’t resist capturing in a photo. Even at two, her fascination with everyday things was often the highlight of our trips, and this simple snapshot of her was no exception.

As soon as my wife returned, we started the climb. The trek up to the top was no small feat! Even with the carrier, I could feel every step, and it seemed endless at times. My wife, too, was feeling the strain, so naturally, I couldn’t resist snapping a quick shot of her mid-climb. It’s one of those moments we can laugh about now, but I distinctly remember wondering if we’d ever actually make it to the top.

When we finally did, the panoramic views over Kyoto were pretty incredible. But, was the tough climb worth it? I’d say yes, but mainly because of the way the park is set up for visitors and the animals. The monkeys at this park aren’t caged. Instead, they roam freely around, which creates a more natural environment and lets visitors observe them as they move around the area. At the same time, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel a little uneasy—they were macaques, known for their cheeky behavior, and I was definitely on my guard.

 

The park does a pretty good job of keeping everyone safe. One way they’ve achieved this is by setting up a feeding area where humans are inside an enclosed space and can feed the monkeys through wires. This “caging the humans” setup, as I like to call it, felt more respectful to the animals than traditional zoo enclosures. Plus, it’s a nice twist to have the animals roaming freely instead of being contained.

 

While I managed to get a few shots of the scenic views and the park itself, my camera gear posed a bit of a challenge. I’d brought only a fixed focal-length wide lens, which isn’t ideal for capturing animals at a distance. If you’re hoping to get close-up shots of the monkeys, definitely consider bringing a telephoto lens.

On the way back down, we came across a little play area with swings, slides, and even a swing—a spot that gave my daughter her first swing experience! It also provided the perfect little break for us before tackling the rest of the descent.

Tips for Families Visiting Arashiyama Monkey Park

Practical Tips: If you’re visiting with young kids, the hike is challenging, so definitely bring a good carrier (and maybe not the Amazon sling!) and be prepared for a workout. You’ll also want to carry snacks, water, and sun protection. And after your visit, the small play area offers a nice chance for kids to burn off some extra energy.

Essential Tips for a Family Day Out in Arashiyama

• Best Time to Visit: Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak crowds, especially if you're with young children. This allows for a more relaxed experience at popular spots like the Bamboo Grove and the Monkey Park.
• Packing Essentials: Bring snacks, water, baby wipes, and a spare set of clothes for your little one. A lightweight stroller can be handy for some areas, but a baby carrier might be more practical for steep or uneven paths, like the hike to the Monkey Park.
• Navigating with a Stroller: Some areas are stroller-accessible (e.g., the Bamboo Grove and park areas), but for more rugged spots or the hike to the Monkey Park, it’s better to carry children in a sling or carrier.
• Cultural Tips: When visiting temples, be mindful of the quiet, respectful atmosphere. If your child is napping or playing, keep noise to a minimum to respect other visitors. It’s also worth noting that some temples charge an entrance fee—decide if it's worth it for your family's time and budget.

These simple tips can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience for both parents and children!