Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s most popular attractions. Standing amongst the towering stalks of bamboo with sunlight peeking through the leaves is magical. It’s no wonder thousands flock to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove each day.
Kyoto Station and downtown Kyoto are popular places to stay when visiting Kyoto. However, if you stay near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove you will have a totally different experience. Rather than fighting crowds and wasting time with long commutes into Arashiyama, you can hop out of bed early to explore the bamboo forest before tour buses arrive. Plus you’ll be steps away from the Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Temple, Monkey Park Iwatayama, and the gorgeous Katsura River.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or luxury ryokan experience. This list has the best hotels near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Quick Glance: Best Hotels Near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
| Hotel | Check Availability | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel Kyoto | Check Availability | Luxury travelers |
| Kadensho Arashiyama Onsen | Check Availability | Traditional onsen stay |
| Ranzan Hotel | Check Availability | Great location near bamboo grove |
| MUNI Kyoto by Onko Chishin | Check Availability | Modern luxury |
| Ryotei Rangetsu | Check Availability | Couples and honeymooners |
| Arashiyama Benkei | Check Availability | Authentic ryokan experience |
| The GrandWest Arashiyama | Check Availability | Families |
| Hotel Binario Saga Arashiyama | Check Availability | Budget travelers |
| Togetsutei Ryokan | Check Availability | Historic Kyoto atmosphere |
| Hanaikada Ryokan | Check Availability | Riverside views |
Why Stay Near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove?
Kyoto is actually quite a large city. Despite Kyoto’s wonderful public transit system, it can take 30 – 45 minutes from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama each way.
Here are some benefits of staying near Arashiyama:
- Visiting Arashiyama bamboo grove early in the morning while it’s empty.
- Walking to famous attractions like Tenryu-ji Temple, Monkey Park Iwatayama, Kimono Forest.
- Staying in a traditional Japanese ryokan that you don’t see in the central area.
- Exploring the area when it’s less crowded after day trippers head back.
Arashiyama is ideal for travelers who like to slow travel and soak up the culture. It’s one of my favorite Kyoto neighborhoods.
Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel Kyoto
Address: Japan, 〒616-8385 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, 翠嵐ラグジュアリーコレクションホテル京都
Suiran sits on the banks of the Katsura River and is generally thought to be Arashiyama’s most high-end hotel.
The hotel melds traditional Japanese style with the trappings of a modern five-star hotel. Rooms are large by Kyoto standards and many come with private open-air baths.
My favorite feature of Suiran is its location. It’s a short walk to the bamboo grove, but far enough away that it maintains a quiet riverside atmosphere.
Perks of staying here:
- Private outdoor baths
- Stunning river views
- Michelin-star quality meals
- Proximity to main sights
- Upscale spa
This is the ideal choice for travelers celebrating anniversaries, honeymoons, or special occasions.
Ryotei Rangetsu
Address: Japan, 〒616-8385 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, 7番地
For those of you dreaming of Kyoto and wishing to sleep on tatami mats while enjoying kaiseki meals and Japanese hospitality; Ryotei Rangetsu may be tough to top. Located next to iconic Togetsukyo Bridge you’ll find one of the most authentic ryokan experiences around.
Guest rooms face mountains/rivers and offer amazing views year-round.
Reviews regularly mention:
- Authentic kaiseki meals
- Amazing hospitality
- Gorgeous Japanese gardens
- Peacefulness
- Authentic atmosphere
Whether you’re visiting from abroad or live locally, this is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a traditional ryokan experience in Kyoto.
Kadensho Arashiyama Onsen
Address: 5-4 Arashiyama Nishiichikawacho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0003, Japan
Kadensho has the comfort of a hotel and the experience of staying at a ryokan.
The best feature is having your own private onsen baths. You can reserve baths for yourself with no extra cost. Highly recommended if you are traveling with your partner.
It is also within walking distance to Arashiyama Station and the bamboo forest.
Why we love Kadensho:
- Private baths for many
- Japanese-style rooms
- Free night snacks
- Nice breakfast buffet
- Good bang for your buck!
Perfect for travelers who want to experience an onsen stay without dropping major bucks. You really cant find a better deal in Kyoto.
MUNI Kyoto by Onko Chishin
Address: 3 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8385, Japan
Opening fairly recently, MUNI Kyoto is quickly earning itself an excellent reputation as one of Arashiyama’s finest luxury hotels.
MUNI isn’t your typical ryokan. While you’ll still find hints of Japanese design, it leans more towards modern luxury.
Rooms have floor to ceiling windows with impressive views of the river and mountains beyond.
MUNI features:
- Stylish minimalist interiors
- A fine dining restaurant
- River views
- Large rooms
- Steps from the bamboo grove
If you’re visiting Arashiyama and you’re more of a modern hotel kind of traveler than a ryokan kind of traveler, then you’ll love MUNI.
The GrandWest Arashiyama
Address: 48-32 Arashiyama Kamikaidocho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0016, Japan
It can be hard to find rooms big enough for your family in Kyoto.
That’s where the GrandWest Arashiyama steps in. They offer larger rooms and apartment style living spaces.
Parents love the extra space, and kids love the proximity to Arashiyama’s outdoor activities.
Features Include:
- Large suites
- Kitchen amenities in some rooms
- Close convenience stores
- Rooms designed with families in mind
Value is great too.
Hotel Binario Saga Arashiyama
Address: Japan, 〒616-8372 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryuji Hiromichicho, 3-4 コミュニティ嵯峨野
Travelers on a budgetRanzan Hotel do not have to compromise on comfort.
Hotel Binario Saga Arashiyama is a comfortable hotel located minutes from the bamboo forest and several train stations.
Rooms are basic but clean and adequate.
Pros:
- Low Prices
- Access to Transportation
- Decent Breakfast
- Warm hospitality
- Close to sights by foot.
It represents one of the better value stays in the area.
Ranzan Hotel
Address: Japan, 〒616-8385 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, 33 京都・嵐山 ご清遊の宿らんざん
Great fantasy location near most major attractions in Arashiyama.
Rooms are available both Japanese-style and western style.
Lots of rooms have garden views. Even though Arashiyama is popular you still feel relaxed.
Togetsutei Ryokan
Address: 54-4 Arashiyama Nakaoshitacho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0004, Japan
Togetsutei Ryokan has been welcoming guests for over 100 years. It offers visitors a traditional taste of Kyoto.
In addition to a storied past, the inn offers many renovated comforts.
Why book at Togetsutei?
- History
- Location on the river
- Traditional dining
- Scenic views year-round
- Attentive service
Make Togetsutei Ryokan your next pick if soaking up tradition is important to you.
Hanaikada Ryokan
Address: 57 Arashiyama Nakaoshitacho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0004, Japan
Few locations boast views along the Katsura River quite like Hanaikada Ryokan. You can find several references to this by travelers online.
The highlight for most is the rooftop open-air bath which overlooks the river and mountains.
The view is breathtaking during the autumn foliage season in particular.
Mentions from travelers commonly include:
- View of the river
- Rooftop bath
- Traditional rooms
- Quietness
- Close to Togetsukyo Bridge
Things to Do Near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
There are many things to see and do near the bamboo forest.
Visit Tenryu-ji Temple
One of Kyoto’s most significant Zen temples, Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The temple’s picturesque gardens are a must-see, even if you aren’t typically a fan of religious sites.
Cross Togetsukyo Bridge
This iconic bridge is the symbol of Arashiyama. It also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Explore Monkey Park Iwatayama
At Monkey Park Iwatayama, you can hike up a hill to view wild Japanese macaques and see panoramic views of Kyoto.
Ride the Sagano Romantic Train
This scenic train travels along the Hozugawa River and provides beautiful views year-round.
Take a River Boat Cruise
For something a little more relaxing, take a river cruise through the Hozugawa Gorge.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Arashiyama?
Spring and fall are undoubtedly the best times to visit.
Hanami (Cherry Blossom Season)
From late March to early April, sakura flowers adorn the city of Kyoto.
Koyo (Autumn Foliage Season)
In November, Arashiyama becomes one of Japan’s most picturesque places.
Summer
The nature is beautiful as everything is lush and green. Summer days can get very hot and humid though.
Winter
This is the off-season so you won’t have to deal with big crowds.
Final Thoughts
Staying at one of the hotels near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove will allow you to see a side of Kyoto that most tourists don’t. While staying in central Kyoto is convenient, Arashiyama is peaceful and filled with natural beauty. You’ll also feel more connected to traditional Japan by staying here.
Luxury travelers should check out Suiran and MUNI Kyoto.
If you are traveling with your spouse, check out Ryotei Rangetsu or Hanaikada for a romantic getaway.
If you are traveling with family, The GrandWest Arashiyama is a great option.
On a budget? Stay at Hotel Binario Saga Arashiyama or Ranzan Hotel to save some cash.
Regardless of where you choose to stay in Arashiyama, you will love waking up steps away from Kyoto’s famous bamboo forest.
Hotels Near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: 10 Best Places to Stay in Kyoto (2026)