10‏/01‏/2014

Autumn at Hozugawa River

One of Kyoto's best autumn viewing spots

By Febry Fawzi

Community writer

Local people enjoying the 16km ride that starts from Kameoka

Iconic bridge in Arashiyama: the Togetsukyō Bridge

The rickshaw is a traditional vehicle in Arashiyama

Boat park in Hozugawa river with emerald colors and autumn foliage

One of the best spots to see autumn foliage in Kyoto

The autumn foliage and its reflection in Hozugawa river

You can sit on the stone steps by the river bank along Hozugawa

Relaxing with Japanese snacks by the riverbank in Arashiyama.

Hozugawa-kudari (Hozugawa river boat ride) is the best way to enjoy the autumn foliage in Arashiyama

The emerald color of Hozugawa river and warm welcome of Arashiyama's autumn foliage

After my visit in the summer, I promised myself to come back and witness the beauty of autumn in Arashiyama. If you can, pay the ¥1000 entry fee and enjoy the magnificent view from Ōkōchi Sansō, enjoy the matcha green tea and a small dessert or maybe even go on the Hozugawa Kudari river boat cruise to enjoy nature at its best. On the other hand, if you just want to stroll around Arashiyama in the afternoon, I can recommend a stunning place to see the autumn colors, just beside the Hozugawa riverbank. From Hankyu Arashiyama station, walk straight to Togetsu-kyu, then turn left. You will see some restaurants on the right side of the street, and Hozugawa on the left side. Keep walking until the street becomes narrower. There are some stone seats that are perfect to sit on and take in the view, or to enjoy a picnic bento. It is also a pleasant place to relax after visiting Tenryu-ji and the famous Bamboo grove.