Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama in Kyoto
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Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is an absolute must if you plan a trip to Kyoto! The park is a magical spot nestled in the scenic Arashiyama area of Kyoto, where you get to hang out with wild Japanese macaques in their natural habitat.
Unlike a zoo, the monkeys roam freely, and you’re the one who’s technically “in the cage”—well, if you want to feed them, that is! The park is perched on top of a hill, giving you incredible panoramic views of Kyoto while these cute, curious monkeys go about their day all around you. It’s an experience you won’t forget!
It was honestly one of the highlights of our entire 10 days in Japan (and definitely our 2 days in Kyoto between this and the traditional tea ceremony). We headed here right after exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, not really knowing what to expect—and let me tell you, it exceeded my wildest dreams.
I could’ve stayed up there forever, watching the adorable monkeys roam free with the most stunning view of Kyoto in the background. Whether you’re an animal lover or just looking for a unique experience, Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama will steal your heart!
How to Get to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
Getting to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is super simple, especially if you’re already planning to explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest—it’s just a 20-minute walk from the forest to the park entrance!
We made the trek after our bamboo adventure, and from there, it was a 20-30-minute uphill hike to reach the monkeys. Definitely wear comfy shoes (a must for any Japan packing list!), because although the hike is scenic and filled with fun monkey facts along the way, it can be a bit of a climb.
If you’re taking public transport, the easiest way is by hopping on the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station. From the station, head west toward Togetsukyo Bridge, but instead of crossing it, follow the south side of the river where signs will guide you to the park entrance. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the station to the park.
If you’re just planning on visiting the monkey park, that’s the best station to use. But if you’re also checking out the Bamboo Grove, it’s convenient to start there and walk over. Keep in mind that where you’re staying in Kyoto will affect how long it takes. We stayed near Kyoto Station (which we loved!) and our trip took about an hour, including train lines and walking. Check out the best areas to stay in Kyoto if you’re still trying to decide!
Also, make sure you stop at Ueshima Coffee House in Kyoto Saga Arashiyama for breakfast on your way! I had no idea what I was eating (some kind of ham and cheese bread), but let me tell you—Japanese bread is on another level. So fluffy, thick, and amazing! And the coffee? Chef’s kiss.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round, but if you want to avoid crowds and catch the monkeys at their most active, aim for the morning or early afternoon. The spring and fall seasons are particularly stunning, with cherry blossoms in bloom or vibrant autumn leaves making the hike up the hill even more picturesque.
Cost + Hours
The entrance fee is 600 yen for adults (around $4) and 300 yen for kids (around $2), and it is cash only. The park is open year-round, usually from 9 AM to 4 PM. Just keep in mind that they might close earlier if the weather gets bad (because even monkeys don’t like to hang out in the rain!).
At the Top
Once you’ve trekked up the hill (it’s not too bad, promise!), get ready to be surrounded by the most adorable, wild Japanese macaques! The monkeys roam freely, so you’ll get to observe them up close as they play, groom each other, and chill out with their families.
One of the coolest things is the feeding area—you go inside a little hut with a fenced window, and the monkeys reach through to grab snacks! It’s such a fun and safe way to interact with them, and watching their little hands grab food never gets old!
The food to feed them costs 100 yen per bag (around .50). And again, this is cash only.
Rules for Interacting with the Monkeys
As tempting as it is to snap selfies with your new furry friends, there are a few important rules to keep in mind for everyone’s safety. First off, no direct feeding outside of the designated feeding area! The monkeys are wild, so you’ll want to respect their space.
Also, avoid making eye contact with them—yep, apparently that’s considered rude in monkey world! Lastly, don’t touch or approach them too closely. As much as they’re used to visitors, they’re still wild animals and should be treated with care.
What to Bring
Pack light, but don’t forget the essentials! Comfortable walking shoes are a must (I was obsessed with my Dr. Scholl’s sneakers), as the walk up to the park can be a bit uneven in some spots. Also, bring water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months.
And of course, don’t forget your camera or phone—you’ll want to capture all the cute monkey moments and stunning views!
Are you ready to experience Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama in Kyoto?!
Visiting Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama was honestly one of the highlights of our entire trip to Japan! Watching the monkeys roam around freely with stunning views of Kyoto in the background made it such a unique and unforgettable experience. Plus, the hike up made it feel even more rewarding! Whether you’re already exploring Arashiyama or making a special trip, it’s 100% worth adding to your Kyoto itinerary.
If you have any questions before your trip or if there’s anything I left out, feel free to drop it in the comments—I’m happy to help! Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Japan blog posts:
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