Arashiyama, Western district in Kyoto, Japan

Arashiyama is a western district in Kyoto, Japan, extending along the Katsura River across Ukyō and Nishikyō wards. The area includes forested slopes, temples with landscaped gardens, paths through tall bamboo groves, and a historic bridge crossing the river.

From the 8th century during the Heian period, noble families built riverside estates here to escape the summer heat of the capital. By the 14th century, the emperor ordered temples and gardens to be created, turning this area into an important religious and artistic center.

The name Arashiyama means Storm Mountain, referring to the winds that sweep through the gorge in autumn when the leaves change color. Locals come here to view cherry blossoms in spring or red maple foliage in November, often from traditional river boats.

The JR Sagano line connects central Kyoto to Saga-Arashiyama station in around 15 minutes. Regular bus services also run there, and many visitors walk or rent bicycles to explore the area.

The Iwatayama Monkey Park on the mountain slope holds a troop of about 140 Japanese macaques, while the English source counts over 170; the animals are wild but used to people. Visitors can photograph them and feed them inside a fenced enclosure at the summit, where a viewing platform 155 metres up looks over the city of Kyoto.