Arashiyama in Winter Course
In December, as the last autumn leaves fall and the cold of winter is about to arrive, Arashiyama becomes host to wonderful winter events. The serene air of the hills becomes the perfect setting for experiencing Japanese nature and beauty.
(About 5 hours)
1. Hogon-in Temple → 14:00 - 15:00
Hogon-in Temple is a sub-temple of
Tenryu-ji Temple and is only available for public viewing during certain times of the year. The scenery of the Arashiyama hills surrounding the main garden is featured in a well-known book on Edo Period gardens in Kyoto. The name of the garden, "Shishiku No Niwa", means garden of the lion's roar and contains a special lion-shaped rock known as "Shishiwa".
Details
Address: 36 Susukino Baba-cho Saga Tenryuji Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Access: 5-minute walk from Keifuku Arashiyama Station
Hours: 9:00 - 17:00
Admission: 500 yen
<5-minute walk>
2. Original Ice Cream Sagapar Arashiyama Branch → 15:30 - 16:00
In the Saga Arashiyama area, well known for its abundance of Buddhist temples, a special tofu familiar to strict vegetarian monks is used to make a healthy and delicious tofu ice cream and sells for ¥370 a serving. Considered to be a "slow food", the makers of this ice cream use only the finest ingredients for flavors such as Kyoto Matcha and
Yatsuhashi (triangular cinnamon mochi dessert of Kyoto). It is served with a variety of unique toppings such as Japanese chestnut and rice dumplings. Walking around Arashiyama, while enjoying the flavors of this healthy Japanese sweet, is a highlight of any visit.
Details
Address: 31 Tsukurimichi-cho Saga Tenryuji Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Access: A short walk from Keifuku Arashiyama Station
<5-minute walk>
3.
Foot Bath at Arashiyama Station → 16:30 - 17:00
On the platform at Arashiyama Station is a special hot spring just for your feet. After a long walk, the hot waters can have a wonderful healing effect on the tired muscles of the feet, and can even help to warm your entire body. Tickets can be purchased at the Arashiyama Station ticket window or at the information desk.
Details
Address: Tsukurimichi-cho Saga Tenryuji Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Access: A short walk from Keifuku Arashiyama Station
Admission: 150 yen (includes a small towel)
Hours: 9:00 - 20:00, until 18:00 during winter (tickets can be purchased 15 minutes prior to closing)
