Arashiyama
嵐山 · 우쿄구
Contents
8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Orientation1:36
Welcome to Arashiyama, a district that has served as a sanctuary for the Japanese aristocracy since the Heian period. Nestled on the western outskirts of Kyoto, this area is a masterclass in 'Satoyama'—the traditional integration…
Listen in the app2Togetsukyo Bridge — The Moon Crossing Bridge1:19
We stand at the Togetsukyo Bridge, the definitive symbol of Arashiyama. The name, which translates to 'Moon Crossing Bridge,' stems from a comment by Emperor Kameyama, who noted that the moon seemed to be traveling across the…
Listen in the app3Tenryuji Temple — A UNESCO World Heritage Garden1:16
Just a short walk from the bridge is Tenryuji, the 'Temple of the Heavenly Dragon.' Founded in 1339 by the Shogun Ashikaga Takauji to honor the soul of Emperor Go-Daigo, it is the head temple of its own branch of Rinzai Zen…
Listen in the app4Sagano Bamboo Forest — A Soundscape of Green1:09
Entering the Sagano Bamboo Forest is like stepping into a 'separate world.' This 400-meter path, stretching from the north gate of Tenryuji toward Nonomiya Shrine, is lined with towering stalks of bamboo that filter the sunlight…
Listen in the app5Nonomiya Shrine — The Shrine of Ritual Princesses1:11
Tucked away at the end of the bamboo forest is Nonomiya Shrine, an unassuming yet deeply historical site. This shrine served as a place of purification for the 'Saio'—ritual princesses chosen from the Imperial family. …
Listen in the app6Otagi Nenbutsu-ji — The 1,200 Whimsical Rakan1:14
For those willing to travel further into 'Oku-Saga'—the quiet backside of Arashiyama—the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple offers one of the most heartwarming experiences in Kyoto. This temple is home to 1,200 'Rakan' statues,…
Listen in the app7Iwatayama Monkey Park — A Panoramic View1:09
Crossing back over the Togetsukyo Bridge and ascending a steep 20-minute hike, we reach the Iwatayama Monkey Park. This park is home to a troop of about 120 Japanese Macaques, also known as 'Snow Monkeys.' Unlike a zoo, the…
Listen in the app8Closing1:16
As our day in Arashiyama comes to an end, reflect on the 'Layers of Beauty' we have uncovered. From the 'Komorebi' in the bamboo forest to the whimsical smiles of the Rakan, this district is a testament to the Japanese ability to…
Listen in the app
What is Arashiyama?
Arashiyama is a place in 우쿄구 with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | 우쿄구 |
|---|---|
| Type | Heritage |
| Story sections | 8 |
| Total length | 10 min 10 s in all |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 35.0096, 135.6664 |
| Last updated |

