The “Bamboo Grove Path” in Arashiyama, one of the most iconic spots, offers an extraordinary experience as if you’ve slipped into another world or back to the Heian period.

When visiting the Bamboo Grove Path, it’s almost mandatory to rent a kimono. The serene atmosphere of this ancient capital can be truly felt when you stroll through the bamboo grove in traditional attire, an experience that might feel out of place in western clothing.

However, if you plan to rent a kimono in Arashiyama and explore the Bamboo Grove Path, there are several important things to keep in mind.

This article will introduce you to the key points to consider for those planning to visit the Bamboo Grove Path in Arashiyama with a kimono rental, so be sure to read it before your trip.

Points to Consider When Exploring the Bamboo Grove Path with Kimono Rental

When renting a kimono to explore the Bamboo Grove Path in Arashiyama, make sure to keep these four points in mind:

1. Pay attention to your footwear.
2. Be prepared for crowds, especially during high season.
3. Make quick decisions when choosing a dining place during peak hours.
4. Ensure you are adequately dressed for cold weather.

1.1. Pay Attention to Footwear

The Bamboo Grove Path may seem less challenging when viewed in photos, but in reality, it involves some uphill walking that can surprisingly require physical effort. The path spans a distance of approximately 400 meters, so those who are not accustomed to regular physical activity might find it somewhat demanding.

Therefore, when walking the Bamboo Grove Path in a rented kimono, it’s essential to make careful choices regarding your footwear, as well as the geta or zori sandals. Opt for comfortable shoes and sandals that are suitable for walking and minimize the risk of blisters.

However, many visitors may still prefer the aesthetic appeal of traditional geta or zori sandals, as they complement the kimono beautifully. While the Bamboo Grove Path itself does not have particularly steep or difficult terrain, wearing geta or zori sandals may make it a bit more challenging to walk, potentially leading to tiredness. So, if you choose to wear geta or zori sandals with your kimono rental for your visit to the Bamboo Grove Path, be mindful of this factor.

Be Prepared for Crowds During High Season

Another important point to keep in mind is the experience of visiting Arashiyama during peak tourist seasons, such as spring and autumn. As mentioned earlier, the Bamboo Grove Path is an extremely popular tourist spot, and during these high seasons, it attracts a significant influx of visitors.

If you are expecting the tranquil, empty bamboo grove scenes featured in travel websites’ photos, visiting during these peak seasons may not meet those expectations.

Furthermore, as the number of tourists increases, popular viewpoints and photo spots will naturally become crowded. Depending on the timing, you may struggle to capture good photos or find yourself in overcrowded situations where taking photos becomes challenging.

In such cases, it’s recommended to either visit Arashiyama on a weekday when there are fewer people or explore less crowded areas within the Bamboo Grove Path.

Especially within the Bamboo Grove Path, there are some wonderful photo spots as you venture further into the grove. So, if it appears crowded, it’s recommended to take a short walk to explore these picturesque spots.

Quick Decision-Making for Dining During Crowds

The third point to keep in mind is related to the previously mentioned peak tourist seasons, such as spring and autumn, and concerns your choice of dining establishments and taking regular breaks.

During high tourist seasons, most eateries tend to get crowded. Particularly, well-known restaurants, trendy cafes, and dining establishments featured in travel websites or magazines can become extremely congested. At times, you might even find yourself waiting for an extended period.

Therefore, when visiting Arashiyama or the Bamboo Grove Path during such high seasons, it’s advisable to enter a restaurant with available seating as soon as you find one. While the desire to dine at a stylish restaurant in Arashiyama is understandable, during peak seasons, saying things like, “There might be a better place around” or “I’m not in the mood right now” can lead to all seats being quickly occupied.

Since the Bamboo Grove Path, as mentioned earlier, covers a considerable distance, taking breaks whenever possible is beneficial for your well-being.

Prepare for Cold Weather

Arashiyama Weather and Clothing Tips

Arashiyama in early autumn is cool and comfortable, but the temperature drops in the evening, which might feel cold to some people.

When renting a kimono, you might not feel the cold as much since you’ll be wearing multiple layers compared to western clothing. However, it’s a good idea to be cautious and carry warm clothing just in case.

However, autumn can also have warm days, and walking through the bamboo grove may make you perspire, so consider the weather, the time of day you plan to visit, and whether you tend to feel hot or cold. Be prepared with appropriate clothing.

For information on dealing with kimono-related issues in Arashiyama, you can check here: Handling Kimono Mishaps While Exploring Arashiyama

Convenient Kimono Rental at Nishika Kyoto Arashiyama

We’ve mentioned various points to consider, but the bamboo grove is a must-visit spot in Arashiyama. If you plan accordingly and follow basic precautions, you can have a wonderful and fulfilling time here.

The tall bamboo groves lining both sides, the fences made of dried branches, and the absence of modern structures and clutter in the surroundings make it feel like you’ve traveled back in time to old Japan.

As mentioned earlier, renting a kimono is a must for such a lovely experience in the bamboo grove. If you’re considering a kimono rental shop in Arashiyama, we highly recommend “Nishika Kyoto Arashiyama.”

Nishika Kyoto Arashiyama – Convenient Location Near the Station

The primary reason to recommend “Nishika Kyoto Arashiyama” is its excellent location.

Located just a 3-minute walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station, it offers easy access. Additionally, it’s about a 3-minute walk to Togetsukyo Bridge and approximately a 15-minute walk to the bamboo grove, making it a convenient base for exploring these popular spots.

If it’s about a 15-minute walk, it’s not too difficult to reach while exploring the surroundings on foot. Even if walking is strenuous for you, taking a taxi won’t be too expensive, and it’s much more convenient than using a kimono rental shop in a less convenient location.

Perfect Kimono Patterns for the Bamboo Grove

The recommendation for Nishika Kyoto Arashiyama is not just about its location. The wide variety of kimono patterns available at the store is also a compelling reason.

The bamboo grove has a unique “Japanese ambiance” different from traditional temples and buildings in Kyoto. It’s a place where the natural surroundings dominate with minimal human-made elements, yet it exudes a refined and elegant sense of wabi-sabi. Similar patterns would complement this atmosphere.

Nishika Kyoto Arashiyama offers over 100 different kimonos and yukatas at all times, making it easy to find a pattern that suits you as well as one that matches the serene atmosphere of the bamboo grove. Since you’re about to enjoy the graceful bamboo scenery, why not choose a kimono that matches the location?

Most Affordable Kimono Rentals in Arashiyama

Nishika Kyoto Arashiyama offers reasonable pricing and a wide range of plans, which adds to its appeal.

Depending on the store and plan, the average kimono rental cost in Arashiyama ranges from approximately 2,000 yen to 4,000 yen for the cheaper options.

On the other hand, Nishika Kyoto Arashiyama offers plans starting at 1,990 yen, making it one of the more affordable options in Kyoto.

They also have various plans, including couple plans, student plans, and men’s plans, making it suitable for friends and couples alike.

Author of this article

Kyoto Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku operates four kimono rental shops in Kyoto city, including locations in Arashiyama, Gion, Kiyomizu Temple, and in front of Kyoto Station. In 2023, they served over 230,000 customers in the Kyoto area!
They offer affordable plans, with a kimono dressing plan starting from 3,500 yen, and a hair setting plan from 5,500 yen.
Close to popular tourist spots such as Togetsukyo Bridge, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Koshindo, and Yasaka Shrine!
Kyoto Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Gion Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Arashiyama Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Kiyomizu Temple Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Kyoto Station Front Store