- Western Kyoto
- Arashiyama is a touristy district on the outskirts of Kyoto. It features Togetsukyo Bridge, a Zen temple (Tenryuji), bamboo groves, shops and restaurants. Visitors can explore the area on foot, by bicycle or by rickshaw. Visitors are also able to take a two hour boat tour on Hozu River. Arashiyama is especially beautiful during the Cherry Blossom (spring) and autumn foliage seasons. The fastest way to reach Arashiyama from Kyoto Station by the JR Sagano Line (also known as JR Sanin Line). The one way ride from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station takes about 15 minutes. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, central Arashiyama can be reached in a 5-10 minute walk.
- Tenryuji is a Zen temple that has been ranked as number one among Kyoto’s “Five Great Zen Temples”. It was built in 1339 however, like many other temples in Kyoto, it was destroyed by fire several times, and thus the current buildings date from the Meiji Period. The garden is thought to be one of the oldest of its kind in Japan. Tenryuji is short walk from the Keifuku Arashiyama station.
- Katsura Imperial Villa (Katsura Rikyu) is a spectacular example of Japanese architecture and garden design. The villa and garden in their current form were completed in 1645 as the residence for members of Japan’s Imperial Family. The villa can only be viewed on tours (only available in Japanese) and permission must be obtained prior to visiting (visit http://www.kunaicho.go.jp/eindex.html for more information or http://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/order/index_EN.html for visitor application forms). From the Imperial Palace or Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Shijo Station and transfer to the Hankyu Kyoto Line to Katsura Station. From the station, the villa is a 15 minute walk. From Kyoto Station, there is also a direct bus (number 33) to the villa. Get off at Katsura Rikyu-mae, from where it is a 5 minute walk.
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