Forget all about regular tourist spots – at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, you’re playing waiter to a tribe of sassy Japanese macaques! Situated on Mount Iwata in Kyoto, this is not your average monkey business – here, you’re the one in the cage (well, a feeding hut) while 170 free-roaming Japanese macaques run the show outside. It is the most amazing places to visit in Japan.After a heart-pumping 20-minute hike that will make you question your life choices, you will reach monkey paradise. The views over Kyoto will make you forget all those wobbly legs. It is easily one of the unique things to do in Kyoto. Where else can you watch baby monkeys cannonball in their pool while their parents perfect the art of relaxation?
While browsing our Japan tour packages, mark this spot as a must-visit. Pro tip: visit during cherry blossom season, when these furry celebrities pose against a pink backdrop, or in fall when they channel their inner models in the blazing autumn colors. This is one of the many places to visit in Kyoto, and it is sure to possess serious monkey magic! Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Iwatayama Monkey Park.
How to Reach Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
1. By Train - JR Sagano Line (from Kyoto Station): Stop at Saga-Arashiyama Station (15 minutes, costs 129 INR). Walk 15 minutes across Togetsukyo Bridge to the park.
- Hankyu Line (from Osaka): Stop at Hankyu Arashiyama Station ( Takes 30 minutes, and costs 216 INR). Walk 15 minutes to the entrance.
- Randen Line: Take the Randen Line to Arashiyama Station (it takes 25 minutes and costs 118 INR). Then, walk 10 minutes to the park.
2. By Bus
Take Kyoto City Bus #28 to Arashiyama-Tenryuji-mae (Takes 45 minutes and costs 125 INR). Walk 10 minutes to the park.
3. By Taxi
From Kyoto Station, a taxi takes 30 minutes and costs 1650–2150 INR.
Tip: The park requires a 20–30 minute uphill hike, so wear comfortable shoes!
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What Makes Iwatayama Monkey Park Special?
1. See Monkeys in Their Natural HabitatYou will see more than 120 monkeys at Iwatayama Monkey Park. The whole environment is natural, and the monkeys are not put in cages, so you can watch them play, eat, and interact with each other. People can feed the monkeys from within a special feeding hut, which is a safe way to view the animals while following the rules of the park. This is an exciting feeding experience that kids and adults can both enjoy.
2. Stunning Views of Kyoto
The observation deck of the park offers the best view of the city in Kyoto. The whole city can be seen from atop, surrounded by mountains. This is one place where taking pictures or enjoying peaceful views is easy. Many visitors say that the view itself will get them to come to Kyoto Monkey Park.
3. Fun Break from Temples and Shrines
Kyoto is mostly famous for temples and shrines. Kyoto Monkey Park is definitely an adventure on its own since it involves short hiking with beautiful scenery and wildlife. Such a unique mix of Kyoto attractions and a lovely addition to an itinerary.
Best time to Visit Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
The park is open throughout the year, and each season has something special to offer. Spring is a magical time to visit because of the blooming cherry blossoms, which create a stunning backdrop. Autumn is equally beautiful, with bright red and orange leaves covering the hills.The best time to visit Iwatayama Monkey Park in summer is during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the hot midday sun when hiking. The winter season is less crowded and hence very peaceful. Visiting the park at any time of the year is sure to be an exciting nature and wildlife experience.
Things to Do in Arashiyama
While Kyoto Monkey Park is a highlight, the area offers many other attractions. Here are some top things to do in Arashiyama: 1. Bamboo Grove Walk
Arashiyama Bamboo is one of the photo-op places taken by people the most in Kyoto. The winding path, thickly surrounded on both sides with tall bamboo, makes the tour magical. That’s an ultimate peaceful and rather unique experience – don’t even think about losing it. You shouldn’t anyway.
2. Tenryu-ji Temple
Tenryu-ji Temple is one of Kyoto’s significant UNESCO World Heritage sites and Zen temples. It’s perfect to relax while taking a walk along these beautifully designed gardens, showing us glimpses into Kyoto’s deep history. It is one of the best things to do in Arashiyama.
3. Cross Togetsukyo Bridge
The Togetsukyo Bridge represents the spirit of Arashiyama, but with the right lights and good conditions, offers nice views to be enjoyed from both the river and mountains nearby. It’s an excellent area for picture shooting, especially concerning the natural beauty of the surroundings.
4. River Boat Tour by Hozugawa River
The ride along the Hozugawa River brings another perspective on the beauty of Arashiyama. With ample greeneries along the river banks, a cruise is an exciting way to absorb the beauty that nature offers within this place. It is one of the best things to do in Arashiyama.
5. Explore Okochi-Sanso Villa
Near the Bamboo Grove, visit Okochi-Sanso Villa, previously the residence of a great actor. Surrounding the villa are some gorgeous gardens, and the view from the top is peaceful to watch Arashiyama. Even sit on a bench, and relax with a cup of traditional Japanese matcha tea.
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Best places to visit in Kyoto
Here are some of the top attractions in this beautiful city:1.Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Kinkaku-ji is one of the best places to visit in Kyoto. It is a Zen Buddhist temple covered entirely with gold leaf and located beside a very calm pond. The view it offers is amazing. Its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere make it one of Kyoto’s most iconic sites.
2. Fushimi Inari Shrine
The Fushimi Inari Shrine is another popular tourist destination in Kyoto. This shrine is famous for its thousands of red torii gates that create tunnels along the trails of Mount Inari, both a spiritual site and a beautiful hiking place. It is one of the best places to visit in Kyoto, which provides both cultural significance and views.
3. Arashiyama
Outlying the city, Kyoto, you’ll find this beautiful, relaxed setting of blending nature and culture at Arashiyama, with the presence of popular sites such as Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, where you find wild Japanese macaques and obtain great views across the city from viewpoints and another must is Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for a trek along towering stalks of bamboo under a uniquely peaceful atmosphere. Among the attractions here, Arashiyama is even one of the best destinations in Kyoto, aside from Togetsukyo Bridge and Tenryuji Temple.
4. Kiyomizu-Dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most renowned temples in Kyoto and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The large wooden stage extending over the hillside offers an incredible view of Kyoto, particularly during cherry blossom season. It is one of the most preferred Kyoto attractions due to its surroundings and magnificent architecture.
5. Gion District
Another very iconic part of Kyoto is the Gion District. The place is very famous for traditional wooden houses, teahouses, and geisha culture. It is wonderful to walk around, especially at night when lanterns light up the streets. This is probably one of the most famous districts in Kyoto and surely one of the best places to visit in Kyoto.
6. Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle is a historical place in Kyoto famous for its architecture and beautiful gardens. The nightingale floors are a design within the castle, which are intended to chirp when stepped upon, as an early warning system. This peaceful spot in the city is one of the top Kyoto attractions: the castle and its surroundings.
7. Philosopher’s Path
The Philosopher’s Path is a lovely walk along the canal lined with cherry trees. It is a peaceful retreat in Kyoto. The pathway is particularly beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms are at their peak. It is an excellent place for a reflective walk as it connects several important temples, including Ginkaku-ji, known as the Silver Pavilion.
8. Nanzen-ji Temple
Another gem in Kyoto is Nanzen-ji Temple, one of the largest Zen temples in town. The beauty of the temple lies in the beautiful gate and impressive gardens created to provide a peaceful atmosphere. A less crowded version of some other popular sites, it is considered a peaceful spot to visit in Kyoto.
9. To-ji Temple
UNESCO World Heritage, The To-ji Temple is also known as the tallest wooden structure in Japan – a five-storey pagoda. This temple also possesses the most beautiful gardens and some historical items. For anyone interested in history and architecture, this would be one of the best places to visit in Kyoto.
10. Kyoto Imperial Palace
The Kyoto Imperial Palace was a residence of the Imperial family till the capital moved to Tokyo during the 19th century. The palace, surrounded by great gardens, has a lot of history and the rich royal culture of Kyoto and is one of the best places to visit for anyone interested in Japan’s royal past.
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Tips for Visiting Kyoto Monkey Park
- Arrive Early: Visit in the morning when it is less crowded, so you can appreciate the park and the monkeys in a quiet setting.
- Follow the Rules: Don’t touch the monkeys or look them directly in the eye; that might scare them or provoke them.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The uphill hike can be steep, so proper footwear is essential.
- Bring Water: In summer, hydration during the hike is essential
- Don’t Rush: Take your time to enjoy the view from the top and watch the monkeys interact.
- Do not forget to shop in Kyoto, especially in Nishiki Market.
- Stop at a restaurant – There are many small restaurants in Kyoto
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is one of the most fun places to visit for travelers of any age in Kyoto. From the relatively short but highly rewarding hike up to the mischievous monkeys and stunning vistas, the park is an unforgettable experience.Combine a visit to Iwatayama Monkey Park with other Arashiyama activities, including the Bamboo Grove exploration, visiting Tenryu-ji Temple, or taking a boat ride on the Hozugawa River. Such activities in Arashiyama will make your visit to this area even more enjoyable.
Plan your visit to Kyoto Monkey Park without missing this wonder. Arashiyama Monkey Park is certainly one of the best places to visit in Kyoto, and for sure, an adventure of its kind: wild, natural, and stunning. Add it to your travel list-you won’t be disappointed!
