Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street Kyoto
A beautifully preserved 19th-century street in Arashiyama, offering a tranquil escape with traditional wooden houses, shops, and nearby serene temples...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street Kyoto
Best Time
Beat the crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully preserved 19th-century street in Arashiyama, offering a tranquil escape with traditional wooden houses, shops, and nearby serene temples.
"This is such a lovely place off the beaten tourist trail. Takes a bit more of a walk to get here but so worth it."
🚶♀️ Walk to escape crowds
Skip the main Arashiyama crowds and enjoy the tranquility of Saga-Toriimoto.
🍵 Savor traditional tea
Enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets at historic restaurants like Ayuchaya Hiranoya.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Traditional Machiya Houses
Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street
Step back in time amidst beautifully preserved 19th-century wooden townhouses, now housing charming shops and cafes.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
End of Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street
Discover a unique temple with over 1,200 whimsical stone statues, offering a peaceful and artistic experience.

Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
Near Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street
Explore a serene temple with thousands of stone statues and a less crowded bamboo grove, a tranquil alternative.

Moss Temple (Gioji Temple)
Short walk from Bamboo Forest
A hidden gem, this intimate moss garden offers a quiet sanctuary and a beautiful, natural escape.
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds: Timing is Key
Embrace the Walk: Getting There
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk to escape crowds
Skip the main Arashiyama crowds and enjoy the tranquility of Saga-Toriimoto.
🍵 Savor traditional tea
Enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets at historic restaurants like Ayuchaya Hiranoya.
🤫 Find hidden shrines
Keep an eye out for small, sprinkled religious shrines along the street.
📸 Photogenic street
Perfect for quiet strolls and capturing traditional Kyoto architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk to escape crowds
Skip the main Arashiyama crowds and enjoy the tranquility of Saga-Toriimoto.
🍵 Savor traditional tea
Enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets at historic restaurants like Ayuchaya Hiranoya.
🤫 Find hidden shrines
Keep an eye out for small, sprinkled religious shrines along the street.
📸 Photogenic street
Perfect for quiet strolls and capturing traditional Kyoto architecture.
🛍️ Unique souvenirs
Discover local crafts and antique-like shops for unique finds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street is lauded as a tranquil escape from Kyoto's crowds, offering a charming glimpse into 19th-century Japan with its well-preserved machiya houses. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, unique shops, and proximity to less-visited temples. While it requires a bit more walking, the serene experience is considered well worth the effort.
"It was quite a walk from Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to get to Ayuchaya Hiranoya, a beautiful historic restaurant located in the Sagano area of Kyoto. It is well known for its traditional matcha tea and Japanese sweets. We ordered matcha (of course!), Yuzu and sweets. Sakura cha was offered before our food was served."
Jeanne Margaret Chua
"I stumbled upon this street by chance, and it was good fortune that brought us together. It's out of the crowds, has cafés, restaurants (even a vegetarian one), and lots of old antique-like shops with knick-knacks. If you're observant enough, you'll notice a few religious shrines sprinkled in niches around the walkway and street."
AN Jordan
"This is such a lovely place off the beaten tourist trail. Takes a bit more of a walk to get here but so worth it. Spend the time once you are finished walking the lovely quiet back roads to the tourist bamboo forest and get to enjoy a lovely part of Kyoto."
Scott Devonport
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take city bus number 28 towards Daikakuji from Kyoto Station and get off at Saga Shakado-mae, followed by an 18-minute walk. Alternatively, it's a pleasant walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama station or Randen Saga station.
Yes, it's a beautiful walk from the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, offering a more peaceful route and a chance to discover hidden gems like Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple.
While there might be limited parking in the Arashiyama area, it's generally recommended to use public transport or walk to avoid congestion.
Yes, you can reach the area via Randen Saga station or JR Saga-Arashiyama station, followed by a walk.
The street is well-marked once you are in the Arashiyama area, and many travelers find it easy to locate by following signs towards Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street itself is free. However, individual temples and attractions along or near the street may have admission fees.
The street is generally accessible throughout the day, but individual shops and restaurants will have their own operating hours. Temples like Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and Adashino Nenbutsu-ji have specific visiting times.
The street itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. It's the surrounding temples and attractions that might require tickets.
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple typically has an admission fee for entry. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current pricing.
While not as widely publicized as major Kyoto festivals, the area can be particularly beautiful during spring and autumn due to the foliage.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street is photogenic, with its traditional machiya houses, quaint shops, and serene atmosphere. Look for charming details and quiet corners.
Photography is generally allowed at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the sacred space and other visitors.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light and fewer crowds, creating a more atmospheric and less obstructed photographic experience.
Drone usage is typically restricted in many historical and residential areas in Japan, including Kyoto. It's best to avoid flying drones to respect local regulations and privacy.
The row of traditional machiya houses is iconic. Also, the unique stone statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple offer very distinctive photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the street has several charming cafes and restaurants, including traditional Japanese eateries and places offering matcha and local sweets.
You can find traditional Japanese cuisine, local Kyoto specialties, matcha-based treats, and light snacks. Some places offer vegetarian options.
While not extensively advertised, some cafes and restaurants on or near the street may offer vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly.
Prices can vary, but you can find a range from casual cafes to more traditional restaurants. It's generally considered a pleasant dining experience off the main tourist path.
Absolutely! Many establishments on the street specialize in traditional matcha tea and delicious Japanese sweets, like those found at Ayuchaya Hiranoya.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting the nearby temples like Otagi Nenbutsu-ji or Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, the less crowded nature makes it easier to manage children. The whimsical statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji are particularly a hit with kids. The walk along the preserved street itself is pleasant and offers opportunities for discovery without the overwhelming crowds often found elsewhere in Arashiyama.
🚶♀️ Introverts & Peace Seekers
The nearby temples, especially Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, are also significantly less crowded, providing a truly tranquil experience. You can enjoy quiet meditation or simply soak in the peaceful ambiance. This area is perfect for travelers looking to connect with the cultural and natural beauty of Kyoto at their own pace, away from the typical tourist hustle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street
Walking along Saga-Toriimoto feels like stepping back in time. The quiet atmosphere, the architecture, and the surrounding natural beauty create a peaceful ambiance that many travelers seek. It's an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to appreciate the details of the old buildings and perhaps find unique souvenirs. The street is particularly enchanting during the spring and autumn seasons, when the surrounding nature adds to its picturesque charm.
Many visitors discover this street by chance or as a recommended detour from the more popular Arashiyama attractions. It's a testament to Kyoto's ability to offer both iconic sights and hidden gems. The presence of small shrines tucked away adds to the spiritual and historical depth of the area, making it a rewarding experience for those who venture off the beaten path.
Exploring the Temples Near Saga-Toriimoto
Another significant temple nearby is Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple. This temple is known for its thousands of stone statues representing the souls of the departed, creating a solemn and contemplative environment. It also features a bamboo grove that, while smaller than Arashiyama's famous one, offers a much quieter and more peaceful experience.
For those seeking a truly tranquil natural setting, Gioji Temple is a highly recommended 'moss temple.' Just a short walk away, it's a small but incredibly beautiful garden covered in lush moss, offering a serene escape and a stark contrast to the busier tourist spots. These temples collectively provide a rich cultural and spiritual dimension to a visit to the Arashiyama area, away from the main tourist throngs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit