Togetsukyo Bridge: Historic Landmark in Arashiyama Kyoto Japan

And here’s something interesting: its name translates to “Moon Crossing Bridge” because one of the ancient emperors saw the water’s reflection and thought it looked like a moon sailing in the sky. In Spring Sakuras surround the bridge as if showering it with confetti while in Fall the nearby mountains are decorated with bright red and golden colors. Would you like to witness this piece of history in person? Our Japan Tour Packages offer Arashiyama where one can walk across the bridge wave at the tourist boats cruising beneath the bridge and pretend to be an emperor from the past. It is one of the most amazing places to visit in Japan.

The Story Behind Togetsukyo Bridge

The name “Togetsukyo” literally means “Moon Crossing Bridge.” According to history, Emperor Kameyama named it after he watched the moon appear to cross the bridge. This poetic name adds to the romantic and cultural appeal of the bridge. Togetsukyo is a bridge with a long history connected to Kyoto’s heritage and remains a significant place for locals and tourists.

Suggested Read: Ryoan-ji Temple

Best Time to Visit Togetsukyo Bridge

• Spring: Sakuras bloom covering the area in soft pink petals. The sight of the delicate flowers around Togetsukyo is amazing. The bridge looks like a scene from an ancient painting making it a favorite spot for photographers.
• Summer: The deep greenery from the leaves along with the riverbank brings cool fresh refreshing air inside a place that feels vibrant. The warm temperature season can be good enough to take a leisurely walk across the Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge.
• Autumn: The changes into red, orange, and golden shades from the leaves made the Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge one of the most photographed pictures in Kyoto. Many visit the city for sightseeing the phenomenal fall color that surrounds this magnificent bridge.
• Winter: The mountains and bridge are covered with a blanket of snow. Togetsukyo Bridge is a peaceful white wonderland in winter.

Togetsukyo Bridge is beautiful, and no matter which time of the year you visit this place, it will never be forgotten. Every season has its uniqueness. Do not miss visiting Kiyomizu-Dera, one of the most renowned temples in Kyoto.

How to Get to Togetsukyo Bridge

By Train:

• JR Sagano Line (Sanin Main Line): From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station. The journey lasts approximately 15 minutes. Upon arrival, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Togetsukyo Bridge. 

• Keifuku Electric Railroad (Randen Line): Board the Randen Line and alight at Arashiyama Station. The bridge is a short 1-minute walk from the station. 

• Hankyu Railway: From Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, take the Hankyu Kyoto Main Line Limited Express to Katsura Station. Transfer to the Hankyu Arashiyama Line and get off at Arashiyama Station. From there, it’s a pleasant walk to the bridge. 

By Bus: Kyoto City Bus offers services to the Arashiyama area. From Kyoto Station, buses such as routes 28 and 11 head towards Arashiyama. Disembark at the Arashiyama Tenryu-ji-mae stop, which is a short walk from Togetsukyo Bridge.

By Bicycle: For those who enjoy cycling, renting a bicycle in Kyoto provides a scenic and flexible way to explore. The ride to Arashiyama is approximately 8 kilometers from central Kyoto and offers picturesque views along the way.

By Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Kyoto. A direct taxi ride from Kyoto Station to Togetsukyo Bridge takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic, and offers door-to-door convenience.

Additional Tips:

• Early Arrival: Arashiyama is a very popular tourist destination. It’s best to visit early in the day so that you can avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience at the bridge.
• Seasonal Considerations: The area is usually crowded during the cherry blossom season in spring and the koyo (autumn leaves) season in fall. Visit the place according to the season to enjoy the beauty of the seasons.
• Walking Routes: The Arashiyama district is filled with attractions such as the famous Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple. Walking from one site to another is possible and allows for an immersive experience.

You can get to Togetsukyo Bridge with any means of transportation you choose, and then, of course, you will appreciate the natural beauty and cultural values that can be found in the Arashiyama district. You might also like to go shopping in Kyoto after this.

Suggested Read: Hotels in Kyoto

Things to Do Around Togetsukyo Bridge

1. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

This place is the bamboo forest near the famous Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge, within a short walk distance. Walking through these tall stalks of bamboo resembles stepping into another world. Bamboo sways to and fro under the filtered sun, and its peacefulness can make one forget his or her present reality. The wind blows through the bamboo, creating an enchanting ambiance.

2. Iwatayama Monkey Park

Monkey Park Iwatayama is worth the short hike for a wonderful view of Kyoto and playful wild monkeys. From atop, you’ll get a fantastic view of Kyoto with its playful wild monkeys. It is a fun experience near Togetsukyo, and you will be allowed to see the monkeys up close, even feeding them in a safe environment.

3. Boat Rides on the Katsura River

Several visitors enjoy a boat ride in the river beneath Arashiyama Bridge. Wooden traditional boats seem to glide on the still waters, making it a relaxing way to view the surroundings. It is especially romantic during the autumn or the Sakura season. The boat rides provide a different view of Togetsukyo Bridge and nature around. Do visit Katsura Imperial Villa as well.

4. Exploring the Temples Nearby

Several temples surround the Togetsukyo Bridge within Kyoto, from which the great Tenryu-ji Temple, listed as a World Heritage Site comes. The pretty gardens and history of the structures add to its beauty. Its visit provides a deeper realization of Kyoto’s cultural and religious heritage.

5. Walking and Cycling Around Arashiyama

Togetsukyo’s surrounding area has excellent walking paths and cycling facilities. Bikes can be borrowed, and everyone can easily pedal through the natural scenery, temples, and house shrines made of traditional architectural designs. Wandering along a river or even cycling through the Arashiyama district shows the natural surroundings found throughout Kyoto. You must explore Nijo Castle situated nearby.

Suggested Read: Mount Fuji, Japan

Cultural Importance of Togetsukyo Bridge

Thousands of lanterns light up the bridge and the streets around it during the Arashiyama Hanatouro Festival. The lights glisten against the river and the mountains, giving the scene an even more mystique. It is through these events that it can be appreciated how Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge remains one of Kyoto’s heritage treasures. Not just a point of crossing but a part of Kyoto. You can also visit The Fushimi Inari Shrine, another popular tourist destination in Kyoto.

Nearby Places to Eat

• Arashiyama Yoshimura –  For soba noodles, a highly recommended spot. Beautiful view of Togetsukyo Bridge with the handmade soba noodles. Serve with the yummy dipping sauce.
• Shoraian – A hidden jewel that specializes in tofu dishes. The subtle flavors and refined decorations make it worth visiting for a foodie.
• Oimatsu – Traditional sweets from Kyoto; it is wonderful to enjoy those with a cup of matcha tea.
• Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama – The high-end kaiseki (traditional multi-course Japanese meals) restaurant, in which the elegance of the dining atmosphere and prepared dishes are a taste of Kyoto itself.
• Saga Tofu Ine – Another good place for fresh Kyoto-style tofu, it is a regional specialty.

Suggested Read: Philosopher’s Path Kyoto

Why You Should Visit Togetsukyo Bridge

Stepping into Togetsukyo feels as if stepping a step back into the past. The wooden slabs that echo the sound of the river along with the visual sight of mountains, you find a scenery sticking with you forever once you have left.

It does not matter whether you’re visiting Kyoto for the first time or it is your tenth; you cannot help but notice a different world behind Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge‘s view.