With kids
Arashiyama Monkey Park
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is a hillside park across the river from central Arashiyama, home to around 120 wild Japanese macaques. From the rest area near the top, at 160 m, you can see across Kyoto, and on clear days even Kyoto Tower.
Getting there is part of the adventure: it is about a 20-minute uphill walk from the entrance, starting with 120 steps and then an easier slope. The official site says the path is well kept and small children can manage it.
What to see and do
Food bags are sold at the summit rest area for ¥100. You feed the monkeys only from inside the hut, placing food on the feeding shelf rather than handing it over directly.
The rest area at 160 m looks out over the whole city.
A play area with a very long slide, bars, seesaws and swings.
Watch mothers, babies and troop life going on around you, at a respectful distance.
Good to know
- The climb begins with 120 steps, so a baby carrier is easier than a stroller. Toilets are only at the entrance and at the summit rest area.
- Park rules: do not touch the monkeys, do not stare into their eyes, and stay about 2 m away. No outside food for the monkeys, no pets (even in carriers) and no drones.