Hotels in Arashiyama

Whispers of Nature: Discover the Enchantment of Arashiyama's Timeless Beauty

Nestled in the embrace of Kyoto's lush mountains, Arashiyama is a captivating blend of serene nature and rich culture. Stroll through the iconic Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks create an otherworldly atmosphere, and cross the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge, offering stunning views of the Hozu River. Discover the tranquil Adashino Nenbutsuji temple, adorned with thousands of stone statues, and explore the charming streets of the nearby geisha district. With its unspoiled landscapes, historic architecture, and seasonal beauty—especially during cherry blossom season—Arashiyama promises a romantic escape into Japan's enchanting heart. For the best hotel rates in Arashiyama, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Arashiyama

Arashiyama, Kyoto, is a captivating destination known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Kiyomizu Temple offers stunning views and historical significance, while Kawaramachi Street is perfect for shopping and dining. Kinkaku-ji Temple, with its iconic golden pavilion, is a must-see. For accommodations, you’ll find a range of options from quiet guesthouses to upscale hotels. For first-time visitors, Kiyomizu Temple is highly recommended for its accessibility and historical allure. Enjoy your stay in this enchanting city! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Arashiyama:

1. Near Kiyomizu TempleOpens in a new window: This area is rich in culture and history, making it a fantastic choice for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Kyoto's traditional atmosphere. With close proximity to Kiyomizu Temple, guests can easily explore iconic landmarks. Consider staying at Kyoto Higashiyama SANTOUANOpens in a new window, a cozy 2.5-star guesthouse offering dining options like a coffee shop and local breakfast. It features entertainment amenities including a flatscreen TV, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Another option is Kiyomizu GardenOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star guesthouse with comfortable accommodations and entertainment options such as a flatscreen TV. Lastly, Yadoya ManjiroOpens in a new window is another 2.5-star guesthouse that offers a traditional Japanese breakfast and essential amenities, ensuring a delightful stay near this cultural landmark.
2. Near Kawaramachi StreetOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, business engagements, and bustling city life. It's a shopping paradise, with plenty of dining and entertainment options. HOTEL U's KouroenOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, provides essential comforts and entertainment amenities like a flatscreen TV. For a guesthouse experience, Abiko Guest HouseOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star property, has a welcoming vibe and is close to shopping districts and metro stations. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, IosakahouseOpens in a new window is a hostel/backpacker type lodging that caters to travelers seeking affordability with a social atmosphere.
3. Near Kinkaku-ji TempleOpens in a new window: This serene area offers a peaceful retreat while being close to one of Kyoto's most famous temples. It's perfect for those wanting to experience the beauty of traditional Japanese culture. Imazu Sun Bridge HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, features a restaurant and breakfast options, making it ideal for starting your day right. It also boasts entertainment amenities like a flatscreen TV. Another great choice is Ocean Resort Hotel & Spa UminpiaOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel, which provides a range of meal options including breakfast and dinner, along with entertainment options like satellite TV, ensuring a comfortable stay in this culturally rich area.

What to do in Arashiyama

Arashiyama is a captivating destination perfect for a three-day getaway, featuring stunning landscapes of lush forests, serene rivers, and scenic mountains. Travelers can enjoy leisurely strolls, scenic boat rides, and immersive nature hikes, making it a wonderful escape into Japan's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Arashiyama:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Kyoto with a visit to Kiyomizu Temple, renowned for its wooden stage that offers breathtaking views of cherry and maple trees, especially beautiful in spring and autumn. After soaking in the serene atmosphere, make your way to Hokanji Temple, where you can admire the iconic five-story pagoda and enjoy the quiet charm of the area. Conclude your day at Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant site that comes alive with lanterns in the evening; take a moment to appreciate its stunning architecture and the surrounding gardens.
• Day 2: Your journey continues at Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion, where the shimmering gold leaf reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond. Next, visit Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its rock garden that invites contemplation and peace. Finally, head to Ninna-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its impressive pagoda and tranquil atmosphere—perfect for a reflective stroll through its lovely gardens.
• Day 3: Begin your exploration with a visit to Nijō Castle, an architectural marvel that showcases the power and prestige of the shogunate. After wandering through its gardens and historic rooms, make your way to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create a mesmerizing pathway up the mountain. End your day at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where you can stroll through its expansive gardens and learn about Japan's imperial history in a serene setting.

5 tips to find a great Arashiyama hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking to visit Arashiyama on a budget, the best months are January, February, and September, when hotel rates are more affordable. For international travelers, booking your flight at least two months in advance can help you secure better prices. Ideally, plan for at least 2-3 days to fully appreciate the region's main attractions, such as its stunning temples and beautiful rivers. This duration offers great value for money, allowing you to soak in the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Arashiyama without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Arashiyama, Hotels.com can be a great resource. To explore potential discounts, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the website, where you could find competitive rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, increasing your chances of snagging a great price on your Kyoto getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Arashiyama.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers may offer convenience, but it often tends to be more expensive. For more budget-friendly options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Arashiyama and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Arashiyama

Here are some famous dishes in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan:

• Sushi: Enjoy the art of sushi-making at local sushi bars in Arashiyama, where fresh fish is expertly prepared by skilled chefs. You can personalize your sushi experience by choosing from a variety of toppings and styles, including nigiri, maki, and sashimi, often served with locally sourced wasabi.
• Ramen: Dive into a steaming bowl of ramen at a cozy eatery. Here, you can savor rich broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and a variety of toppings like chashu pork, soft-boiled eggs, and green onions. Each ramen shop offers a unique twist, showcasing the region's flavors.
• Tempura: Indulge in crispy tempura made from seasonal vegetables and fresh seafood, lightly battered and fried to perfection. Often served with a dipping sauce, this dish highlights the simplicity and freshness that define Kyoto's culinary heritage, making it a must-try while exploring Arashiyama.

Best time to go to Arashiyama

Arashiyama experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.8°F (3.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.2°F (26.8°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Arashiyama are March, April, and November, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and June are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.