Togetsukyo Bridge Arashiyama
Kyoto's Scenic Gateway to Arashiyama Mountains
Togetsukyo Bridge's origins trace to the Heian period (836 CE) when the original structure was built downstream from its current location. The name 'Togetsukyo' (Moon Crossing Bridge) derives from Emperor Kameyama's poetic observation in the Kamakura period that the moon appeared to cross the bridge as it moved across the sky. The bridge relocated to its present position in the 1600s during the early Edo period. For centuries, Togetsukyo served as vital crossing point for travelers and pilgrims visiting Arashiyama's temples, particularly nearby Tenryuji Temple.
Throughout the Edo and Meiji periods, Arashiyama developed as leisure destination for Kyoto's aristocracy and later general public, with Togetsukyo as the symbolic entrance. The bridge featured prominently in ukiyo-e woodblock prints and poetry celebrating Kyoto's natural beauty. While appearing traditionally wooden, the current bridge (reconstructed 1934, renovated 2001) employs modern materials beneath wooden railings and lamp posts that preserve historical aesthetic. The bridge survived World War II and subsequent development pressures that transformed much of Kyoto.
Today, Togetsukyo Bridge serves as Arashiyama's most iconic landmark and photographic symbol. The 155-meter span creates perfect foreground for images framing the surrounding mountains, particularly beautiful during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The bridge functions both as practical crossing and viewing platform - visitors pause mid-span to photograph mountains and river. Togetsukyo represents successful integration of functional infrastructure with scenic preservation, maintaining historical character while supporting heavy tourism traffic. The bridge embodies Arashiyama's appeal: accessible natural beauty combined with cultural heritage in Kyoto's western mountains.
Key Highlights
- Iconic 155-meter bridge with mountain backdrop
- Gateway to Arashiyama bamboo grove and temples
- Originally built 836 CE, current structure from 1934
- Classic photography spot all seasons
- Cherry blossoms (spring) and autumn colors (fall)
- Riverside parks and boat rentals nearby
Access Information
Location
Arashiyama, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto 616-8383, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Arashiyama Station (Hankyu Line) - 5 min walk
- • Saga-Arashiyama Station (JR Sagano Line) - 15 min walk
- • Arashiyama Station (Keifuku Randen Tram) - 2 min walk
Opening Hours
Bridge accessible 24 hours (outdoor public structure). Surrounding shops and restaurants: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (varies). Temples in area typically 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
Admission Fee
Free (public bridge). Boat rentals nearby: ¥1,500-3,000 depending on type and duration.
How to Get There
From Kyoto Station
Take JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama (15 minutes, ¥240), then 15-minute walk through town to bridge. Most direct from Kyoto Station. Alternatively, take bus #28 directly to Arashiyama (40 minutes, ¥230) but subject to traffic. Train more reliable.
20 minutes
From Central Kyoto (Kawaramachi/Gion)
Take Hankyu Line from Kawaramachi to Arashiyama (25 minutes with transfer at Katsura, ¥230), then 5-minute walk. Convenient from eastern Kyoto hotels. The Hankyu station proximity makes this often easiest route despite transfer.
25 minutes
From Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)
Take bus #59 or #101 to Arashiyama (30-40 minutes, ¥230). Direct bus connection allows northern Kyoto temple combination. Or Keifuku Randen tram from nearby Kitano-Hakubaicho station (scenic local train option, 25 minutes, ¥250).
40 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Photography Perspectives
Classic shot: from north riverbank looking toward bridge with mountains behind (iconic Arashiyama postcard view). From bridge itself: upstream toward mountains, downstream toward river curves. Southern approach offers bridge against Mount Arashiyama backdrop. Early morning (7-9 AM) provides soft light and minimal crowds - essential for clean shots without tourists. Autumn (mid-November) and cherry blossom season (early April) create stunning color frames but bring massive crowds. Winter (January-February) offers uncrowded snow-capped mountain views. The bridge's orientation means afternoon light generally better than morning for classic view.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (late March-early April): Cherry blossoms along riverbanks and surrounding mountains create pink frames. Autumn (mid-November): Maple trees turn vibrant red/orange - peak Kyoto autumn season, extremely crowded but spectacular. Summer (July-August): Lush green mountains, cormorant fishing demonstrations on river (evening, traditional fishing with trained birds). Winter (December-February): Snow-dusted mountains, fewest tourists, serene atmosphere. Each season offers distinct aesthetic - serious photographers visit multiple times annually.
River Activities
Boat rentals available on Katsura River: rowboats (¥1,500/hour), traditional yakata boats for groups (¥3,000-5,000 for 30 min), cormorant fishing viewing boats (summer evenings, ¥2,000-4,000). Rowing on river provides unique perspective of bridge and mountains. Summer cormorant fishing (ukai) traditional experience - fishermen use trained cormorants to catch fish, demonstrates centuries-old technique. Boat activities best during calm weather - avoid windy days. The river perspective reveals bridge's full length and setting unavailable from shore.
Bamboo Grove Access
Togetsukyo serves as gateway to Arashiyama's famous bamboo grove. From bridge, walk north along main street approximately 10 minutes to reach bamboo forest path. The grove creates towering green tunnel - one of Kyoto's most photographed sites. Early morning (7-8 AM) essential for crowd-free bamboo grove experience. The proximity makes bridge and bamboo natural combination, both achievable in single morning. Allow 2-3 hours for bridge, bamboo grove, and Tenryuji Temple circuit.
Nearby Temples
Major temples within walking distance: Tenryuji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage, beautiful gardens, 5 min walk, ¥500), Nonomiya Shrine (romantic shrine in bamboo, 10 min), Jojakko-ji Temple (mountaintop pagoda with views, 20 min uphill). Okochi Sanso Villa (former actor's garden estate, stunning views, ¥1,000 including matcha tea). The temple concentration makes Arashiyama full-day destination beyond just bridge viewing. Purchase Arashiyama multi-temple ticket if visiting several sites.
Arashiyama Dining
The bridge area surrounded by restaurants and cafes: tofu cuisine (Arashiyama specialty, ¥1,500-3,000), soba noodles, traditional Kyoto obanzai, riverside cafes with view seating. Main commercial street (between JR station and bridge) lined with food shops selling yatsuhashi (Kyoto confection), croquettes, ice cream, matcha desserts. Riverside terrace dining popular spring/autumn. Expect tourist pricing - meals ¥1,200-3,000 per person. The dining variety supports extended Arashiyama stays.
Crowd Management
Arashiyama experiences severe overcrowding during peak seasons (cherry blossom late March-early April, autumn colors mid-November). Togetsukyo Bridge virtually impassable midday weekends during these periods. Strategies: arrive before 8 AM or after 5 PM, visit weekdays, choose off-peak seasons. Winter and summer have reasonable crowds. The bridge's fame creates tourist concentration but surrounding areas more manageable. Consider viewing from distance rather than crossing during extreme crowds.
Practical Information
Free to cross bridge and view scenery - excellent budget attraction. Allow minimum 30 minutes for bridge area, 2-4 hours for full Arashiyama exploration including bamboo grove and temples. The area walkable but hilly if visiting mountaintop temples - comfortable shoes essential. Public restrooms near bridge. Coin lockers at Saga-Arashiyama JR station (¥300-600). Best combined with other western Kyoto sites (Kinkakuji, Ryoanji) for full-day itinerary. Or dedicate half-day to Arashiyama alone for relaxed pace. The scenic beauty and temple access make this essential Kyoto destination despite crowds.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Togetsukyo Bridge?
The bridge itself takes 10-15 minutes to cross and photograph. However, most visitors spend 2-4 hours exploring the surrounding Arashiyama area including the bamboo grove (10-minute walk), Tenryuji Temple, riverside parks, and shopping streets. A thorough Arashiyama visit combining multiple attractions takes a half-day or full day.
When is the best season to visit?
Spring (late March-early April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (mid-November) for maple foliage are peak seasons with spectacular colors but massive crowds. Summer offers lush green mountains and cormorant fishing demonstrations. Winter brings fewer tourists and serene snow-capped mountain views. Each season has distinct appeal, though autumn and spring are most photogenic.
Is there an admission fee?
No, the bridge is a public structure free to cross and photograph at any time. Surrounding shops, restaurants, and temples charge separately. Boat rentals on the river cost 1,500-3,000 yen. Nearby Tenryuji Temple costs 500 yen. This makes the bridge itself an excellent budget attraction with beautiful scenery accessible to everyone.
How crowded does it get during peak seasons?
During cherry blossom season (late March-early April) and autumn foliage (mid-November), Arashiyama experiences severe overcrowding. The bridge can be virtually impassable midday on weekends during these periods. Arrive before 8 AM or after 5 PM, visit on weekdays, or choose off-peak seasons (winter, summer) for manageable crowds.
What's the best time of day for photography?
Early morning (7-9 AM) provides soft light and minimal crowds, essential for clean shots without tourists. The bridge's orientation means afternoon light is generally better than morning for the classic view from the north riverbank. Autumn and winter offer clearest air for distant mountain shots. Avoid harsh midday sun which creates unflattering contrast.
Can I access the bamboo grove from here?
Yes, from Togetsukyo Bridge, walk north along the main street approximately 10 minutes to reach the famous bamboo grove. The grove creates a towering green tunnel and is one of Kyoto's most photographed sites. Early morning (7-8 AM) is essential for crowd-free bamboo grove experience. The bridge serves as gateway to this entire scenic area.
Are boat rides available on the river?
Yes, several boat rental options exist: rowboats (1,500 yen per hour), traditional yakata group boats (3,000-5,000 yen for 30 minutes), and summer cormorant fishing viewing boats (2,000-4,000 yen). Rowing on the Katsura River provides unique perspectives of the bridge and mountains unavailable from shore. Best during calm weather.
What restaurants are nearby?
The bridge area is surrounded by restaurants specializing in tofu cuisine (Arashiyama specialty, 1,500-3,000 yen), soba noodles, traditional Kyoto obanzai, and riverside cafes with view seating. Main commercial streets have food shops selling yatsuhashi confections, matcha desserts, and ice cream. Expect tourist pricing with meals running 1,200-3,000 yen per person.
How do I get there from Kyoto Station?
Take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (15 minutes, 240 yen), then walk 15 minutes to the bridge. Alternatively, take bus 28 directly to Arashiyama (40 minutes, 230 yen) but it's subject to traffic. The train is more reliable and faster. From central Kyoto, the Hankyu Line to Arashiyama Station is also convenient.
What other temples are within walking distance?
Major temples nearby include Tenryuji (UNESCO World Heritage with beautiful gardens, 5 minutes walk, 500 yen), Nonomiya Shrine (romantic bamboo shrine, 10 minutes), Jojakko-ji Temple (mountaintop pagoda with views, 20 minutes uphill), and Okochi Sanso Villa (former actor's garden, 1,000 yen including matcha tea). The temple concentration makes this a full cultural destination.
Can I visit at night?
The bridge is accessible 24 hours as a public structure. However, surrounding shops and restaurants close by 6 PM, and temples close by 5 PM. Evening illuminations aren't regular. The area becomes quiet and dark after sunset. Daytime visits offer better access to amenities and attractions, though early morning or late afternoon visits avoid peak crowds.
What makes this bridge historically significant?
Originally built in 836 CE (relocated to current position in the 1600s), the bridge has served for centuries as a vital crossing and pilgrimage route to Arashiyama temples. The name 'Togetsukyo' (Moon Crossing Bridge) comes from an emperor's poetic observation about the moon appearing to cross the bridge. It represents Kyoto's integration of infrastructure with natural beauty.
Is the bridge the same one from historical times?
The current bridge was reconstructed in 1934 and renovated in 2001. While appearing traditionally wooden, modern materials underlie the wooden railings and lamp posts that preserve historical aesthetic. This successful integration of modern engineering with traditional appearance allows the bridge to handle heavy tourism while maintaining cultural character.
What's cormorant fishing and when can I see it?
Ukai (cormorant fishing) is a centuries-old technique where fishermen use trained cormorant birds to catch fish. Demonstrations occur on the Katsura River during summer evenings. Special viewing boats (2,000-4,000 yen) let you observe this traditional fishing method. It's a unique cultural experience combining Arashiyama's natural setting with historical practices.
Are there lockers to store luggage?
Coin lockers are available at Saga-Arashiyama JR Station (300-600 yen depending on size), about 15 minutes walk from the bridge. This allows luggage storage if visiting Arashiyama as a day trip or between accommodations. Some shops may hold items briefly, but the station lockers are most reliable for extended storage during exploration.
How does it compare to other Kyoto bridges?
Togetsukyo is arguably Kyoto's most scenic bridge due to its mountain backdrop and integration with Arashiyama's natural landscape. Unlike utilitarian city bridges, this serves as both functional crossing and iconic viewpoint. The 155-meter length and riverside park setting create photographic compositions unavailable at most urban bridges. It's among Kyoto's most recognizable landmarks.
Can I combine this with other western Kyoto sites?
Yes, Arashiyama works well with other western Kyoto attractions like Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoanji Temple for a full-day western Kyoto itinerary. Alternatively, dedicate a half-day to Arashiyama alone for relaxed exploration. The concentrated temples, bamboo grove, and scenic beauty make this efficient sightseeing.
What should I know about the monkey park nearby?
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is on the opposite hillside (15-minute uphill hike, 550 yen admission). Wild Japanese macaques roam freely with city views from the summit. It's a separate attraction requiring dedicated time (1-2 hours) but combines well with bridge visit. The hike is moderately strenuous, requiring reasonable fitness.
Are there public restrooms near the bridge?
Yes, public restrooms are available near the bridge and throughout the Arashiyama area. Facilities are generally clean and maintained. Restaurants and cafes also provide restrooms for customers. During extreme peak crowds, expect some waiting at public facilities. Plan accordingly, especially if traveling with children.
What's the weather like at different times of year?
Spring (April-May) has pleasant temperatures but possible rain. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid with afternoon storms. Autumn (September-November) offers comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. Winter (December-February) is cold but less rainy with possible light snow. Autumn and spring provide most comfortable weather, though each season offers distinct scenic beauty.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Amanohashidate
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Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
An ethereal pathway through towering bamboo stalks creating a serene, otherworldly atmosphere, one of Kyoto's most iconic and photographed natural landscapes.
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates that create stunning tunnels along mountain trails, this is one of Kyoto's most iconic and photographed sites
Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
A Zen temple renowned for its elegant gardens and understated beauty, representing the refined aesthetic of Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy.
Gion District
Kyoto's most famous geisha district, where traditional wooden machiya houses line atmospheric streets and the ancient arts of geiko and maiko continue to thrive.
Heian Jingu Shrine
Vibrant vermillion shrine with massive torii gate and spectacular gardens featuring cherry blossoms, azaleas, and water lilies across four distinct sections.
Ine Funaya Boat Houses
A picturesque fishing village where traditional funaya boat houses line the bay, with boats stored on the ground floor and living quarters above, creating a unique waterfront townscape.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A Zen Buddhist temple featuring a stunning three-story pavilion covered in gold leaf, set in a classical Japanese garden