🌿 A Local’s Guide to Arashiyama: Quiet Spots You Should Visit
Hidden Places, Peaceful Walks & Local Tips from Arashiyama
Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most beautiful districts, famous for its bamboo forest, river views, and temples.
But it can also become crowded—especially between 10:00 and 15:00.
As locals living and hosting a cooking class in Arashiyama,
we're often asked:
"Where can I enjoy Arashiyama without the crowds?"
"Is there a quiet spot that only locals know?"
Yes, absolutely.
This guide introduces our favorite quiet, peaceful, and lesser-known places in Arashiyama—perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds and experience the calm side of Kyoto.
🌾 1. The Back Path of the Bamboo Forest (North Entrance)
Most tourists enter the Bamboo Forest from the main southern entrance near Tenryu-ji Temple.
It's beautiful—but often very crowded.
However, the north entrance, near Okochi Sanso Garden, is remarkably calm.
Why locals love it:
・Fewer tour groups
・Soft natural light
・Great photography spots
・Quiet early morning & late afternoon
Best time to visit:
・Before 9:00 AM
・After 4:00 PM
This path shows the bamboo grove at its most peaceful.
🌊 2. The Riverside Walking Path Along Katsura River
Most visitors cross the famous Togetsukyo Bridge, take photos, and leave—but they miss the quiet riverside walk that stretches along the Katsura River.
What you'll find:
・Calm water views
・Cherry blossoms in spring
・Bright green hills in summer
・Colorful foliage in autumn
・A peaceful winter landscape
This long, relaxing path is ideal for:
・Slow walks
・Photography
・Picnics
・Meditation
・Enjoying nature
If you want the "real Kyoto atmosphere," this is the place.
🌸 3. Nakanoshima Park (The Island Under Togetsukyo Bridge)
Most people don't realize that the area under the bridge is a park—Nakanoshima Park.
It's incredibly peaceful compared to the bridge itself.
Why it's special:
・Views of both the river and mountains
・Seasonal flowers and cherry blossoms
・Benches for relaxing
・Great spot for snacks or coffee
The sound of the river is surprisingly calming.
🏯 4. Jojakko-ji Temple (Quiet Even in Peak Seasons)
Located on a hillside near the bamboo forest, Jojakko-ji is one of the most underrated temples in Arashiyama.
Why locals recommend it:
・Quiet, less touristy
・Beautiful moss gardens
・Wooden pagoda with mountain views
・Stunning autumn foliage
Unlike Tenryu-ji or Kinkaku-ji, this temple maintains a peaceful, intimate atmosphere.
🌱 5. Rakushisha (The Hut of Fallen Persimmons)
A tiny, poetic cottage once home to a famous haiku poet.
If you enjoy Japanese culture, literature, or peaceful gardens, this is a hidden gem.
Highlights:
・Thatched-roof house
・Quiet garden
・Haiku history
・A timeless atmosphere
It feels like stepping into old Japan.
🪷 6. Adashino Nenbutsu-ji (A Quiet Temple Hidden in the Hills)
This temple is famous for its thousands of stone statues honoring the forgotten dead.
But despite its beauty, it remains relatively uncrowded.
Why visit:
・A unique spiritual experience
・Calm, reflective environment
・Beautiful bamboo path nearby
・Fewer tourists due to its distance from central Arashiyama
Perfect for travelers seeking peace and meaning.
🍵 7. Local Teahouses & Small Cafés Off the Main Path
Away from the busy streets, Arashiyama has many tiny cafés run by local families.
You'll find:
・Matcha
・Traditional sweets
・Scenic garden views
・Seasonal specialties
Tip: Look for small "喫茶 (kissaten)" signs—they often lead to wonderful hidden cafés.
🍙 8. The Quiet Residential Streets of Saga & Kuru-Sato
If you want to experience real local life, wander into the quiet residential streets north of the bamboo forest.
What you'll find:
・Traditional wooden houses
・Small shrines
・Friendly neighbors
・Zero crowds
It's a great place for photos and peaceful walks.
🍜 9. Bonus: Enjoy a Vegan Cooking Class in a Local Home
For many travelers, the best way to experience the quiet side of Arashiyama is to step inside a local home and learn Japanese cooking.
In our vegan cooking class near Arashiyama, guests enjoy:
・A calm, cozy Japanese home environment
・Learning two types of vegan ramen
・Making handmade vegan gyoza
・Clear explanations about vegan ingredients
・A relaxing experience away from crowds
Guests often say this gave them
"a different, peaceful side of Arashiyama that tourists never see."
👉 Book Your Vegan Ramen & Gyoza Cooking Class in Kyoto
🌟 Final Tips for Enjoying Arashiyama Quietly
・Arrive early (before 9 AM)
・Explore north of the bamboo forest
・Walk along the river, away from the bridge
・Visit smaller temples instead of only the famous ones
・Take side paths whenever possible
・Enjoy local cafés and hidden gardens
・Combine sightseeing with a cozy cooking class
Arashiyama has a magical atmosphere—but the real beauty is found in its quiet corners.
Take your time, walk slowly, and enjoy the peaceful side of Kyoto.
Enjoyed reading? Join our Vegan Ramen & Gyoza Class in Kyoto!
Book a Cooking Class