Kimono Forest

Attraction

Part of Arashiyama

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Attraction

N/A

0 reviews

Free

Entry Fee

Free Entry Train Access

About This Destination

600 pillars wrapped in Kyo-Yuzen fabric at Randen Arashiyama Station. Glows at night. Free, open 24h. Good evening stop after the bamboo grove.

Six hundred glowing cylinders wrapped in Kyo-Yuzen dyed fabrics transform Randen Arashiyama Station into an enchanting art installation that bridges traditional craft and contemporary design. Each pole displays a different pattern from Kyoto's 1,200-year-old textile dyeing tradition, creating a kaleidoscope of color that shifts from subtle beauty by day to magical illumination after sunset. This free public installation at the historic tram terminus has become one of Arashiyama's most photographed modern attractions.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Randen Arashiyama Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Kimono Forest?

The Kimono Forest is integrated into Randen Arashiyama Station — the terminus of the Keifuku Randen tram line. From central Kyoto, take the Randen tram from Shijo-Omiya in about 25 minutes (250 yen flat fare). From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station it's a 10-minute walk south through the main shopping street. Most Arashiyama visitors pass through the station naturally — many spot the installation on their way to the bamboo grove or Togetsukyo Bridge.

When is the best time to see the Kimono Forest?

After dark (sunset to about 9 PM) when the 600 fabric pillars are illuminated from within and create a magical glow. Year-round and free, but particularly photogenic during foliage season (mid-November) when the warm light of the pillars contrasts with cool autumn evening air. Daytime visits are pleasant but the installation comes alive at night. The path also leads to the Dragon's Pond — a small water feature for further photos.

Is there an entry fee or any restrictions?

No entry fee — the installation is on the public station concourse and is open 24 hours a day. Photography is encouraged but flash photography may disturb other passengers; tripod use is restricted at the platform during operating hours (typically 6 AM to midnight). The fabric pillars are by Yasumichi Morita; touching them is not prohibited but please be gentle. Even if you're not riding the tram, you can walk in freely.

What can I combine with the Kimono Forest?

It's the perfect early-morning or evening anchor for an Arashiyama visit. Combine with the bamboo grove (5 minutes' walk), Tenryu-ji Temple (5 minutes), Togetsukyo Bridge (3 minutes), and Iwatayama Monkey Park (10 minutes south). Many visitors finish a full day at the bamboo grove and Togetsukyo before stopping here at sunset. The station itself has matcha cafes and souvenir shops — the spinning matcha cylinder by Hakuju-do is also a popular photo stop.