Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama | Review by Gina C

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

Nearly 120 wild Japanese monkeys live on the mountain in the Monkey Park. Have fun watching their activities throughout the four seasons.

13 Oct 2026 See More

In Kyoto’s Arashiyama, besides Togetsukyo Bridge and the Sagano Bamboo Forest path, there’s another very interesting attraction: Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama! Its biggest highlight is the chance to observe the Japanese macaques living on the mountain up close. For animal lovers, it’s a very special experience.

However, seeing the monkeys isn’t as simple as just walking into the park. You first have to hike uphill along a mountain trail, which can be a little tiring for people who don’t exercise much! You can enjoy the surrounding natural scenery along the way. Once you finally reach the top, you can see the monkeys roaming freely around the park and look out over the city of Kyoto from above. When the weather is good, the view is quite nice.

Other Reviews by Gina C

Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail

The delightful scenery attracted noble families and poets who built their homes in Sagano. Sagano bamboo trail spans about 400m (437 yards) from Nonomiya Shrine, via Tenryuji Temple’s north gate to Okochi Sanso cottage.
- Arashiyama, Sagano, Nishiyama
- Tourist Attractions
13 Oct 2026 See More

As soon as you enter the bamboo grove, towering bamboo rises straight into the sky on both sides, with layers of dense bamboo leaves overlapping to form a lush green tunnel. Walking through it feels like entering another world, surrounded by emerald-green bamboo. It feels especially peaceful and is a striking contrast to Kyoto's bustling streets.

Sunlight filters through the gaps in the bamboo leaves, accompanied by the rustling sound of the leaves in the gentle breeze. The whole scene has the distinctive atmosphere of a Japanese garden.
Togetsukyo Bridge

The bridge was built in the first half of the 9th century during the Heian period (794-1185). It has been washed out many times, but each time it has been rebuilt. It is said that the name was given by Emperor Kameyama in the Kamakura period (1185-1333), as the moon moved across the bridge as if it were crossing over it.
- Arashiyama, Sagano, Nishiyama
- Tourist Attractions
13 Oct 2026 See More

When visiting Arashiyama in Kyoto, Togetsukyo Bridge is definitely a classic attraction you shouldn't miss! The bridge spans the Katsura River and is surrounded by Arashiyama's natural scenery. Together with the Japanese-style streets and mountain views, it is full of Kyoto charm. Whether you come to see the cherry blossoms in spring, the fall foliage in autumn, or just take a walk, you can enjoy the beauty of each season.

Unfortunately, the weather wasn't on our side when I visited Togetsukyo Bridge this time, and it happened to be raining. Not only was the sky gray and gloomy, but the river had also turned muddy from the rain, losing its usual clear, emerald-green appearance. It was a bit of a shame! I had hoped to photograph the beautiful combination of blue sky, river, and distant mountains, but instead I could only admire a different side of Togetsukyo Bridge in the rain.

Although the weather wasn't ideal, standing on the bridge and watching the Katsura River flow slowly, with the distant mountains shrouded in rain and mist, created the atmosphere of a Japanese ink painting. After visiting Togetsukyo Bridge, you can also stroll around the nearby Arashiyama shopping street, enjoy some food, buy souvenirs, and experience Kyoto's leisurely pace of travel.
Katsuo-ji Temple

Surrounded by a national park in the surrounding area, Katsuo-ji Temple in Minoh is an ancient temple with a history of about 1,300 years, founded in the Nara period (710-794). Within the temple's vast grounds, which cover an area of about 80,000 square meters, are the main hall and temple gate, which were rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyori, and Sanpoukoujin Shrine, which is believed to be the first Arakami shrine in Japan.
- Hokusetsu
- Shrines & Temples
13 Oct 2026 See More

When traveling in Osaka, you definitely shouldn't miss Katsuo-ji Temple, known as the "Temple of Winning Luck"! The temple's most distinctive feature is the adorable daruma dolls found everywhere. From the steps and cracks between rocks to every corner of the temple, daruma dolls of all sizes are on display—so many that it's almost overwhelming!

The daruma at Katsuo-ji Temple aren't just decorations; they also symbolize victory and good luck. Many people come here to pray for success in their careers, passing exams, or overcoming the various challenges in their lives. The temple's Japanese garden is also very distinctive. Together with the traditional buildings and stone steps, the entire setting has a strong Japanese temple atmosphere, and walking through it feels especially peaceful.

Unfortunately, the weather wasn't very good during this visit. The sky was overcast, so the scenery lacked the brightness of sunlight, and I couldn't take the photos I had hoped for. It was really a bit disappointing! Still, even in poor weather, you can feel the unique charm of Katsuo-ji Temple. With so many daruma everywhere, you really never get tired of photographing them.