How to Visit the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
How to Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park
The Iwatayama Monkey Park was my first tourist stop in Kyoto and one of the highlights of my entire trip. Located in the Arashiyama District of Kyoto, the Monkey Park Iwatayama was within walking distance of my hotel.
How Much do Iwatayama Monkey Park Tickets Cost?
A standard admission ticket to the Iwatayama Monkey Park in the Arashiyama Area of Kyoto costs ¥600 ($3.70).
The Hike to the Iwatayama Monkey Park
After paying the entrance fee, there was a strenuous 1 km hike uphill to reach the monkeys. While the distance was not that far, the incline was quite steep and was a mix of switchbacks and stairs. I was glad I stocked up with two bottles of water at the entrance.
Along the way were benches, a cooling station, and various facts about the 120 snow monkeys at the Iwatayama Monkey Park. It took me around 30 minutes to climb to hike the one kilometer to the location of the monkeys.
A Spectacular View of Kyoto
After reaching the top of the path, I was able to view a spectacular view of Kyoto. The monkeys were visible immediately and were not at all afraid of people. There were guides available to answer questions and to make sure no one harassed the monkeys. Although the park was described as a habitat, the monkeys roamed without fencing or barriers.
How to Visit the Arashiyama Iwatayama Monkey Park - Table of Contents
- How to Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park
- The Monkeys at the Iwatayama Monkey Park
- Photos of the Japanese Macaques at the Monkey Park Iwatayama
- Feeding the Monkeys at the Iwatayama Monkey Park
- Nearby Things to do in Arashiyama
- Tours of the Arashiyama Area
- Support Buzzin’ Around the World – Visit Our Affiliates
- Earning Point and Rewards
- Related Content
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The Japanese Macaques (Snow Monkeys) at the Monkey Park Iwatayama
After the Kyoto viewpoint, there was another short path that led up into the monkey habitat. There are over 120 Japanese Macaques at the monkey park. According to my research, Japanese Macaques are also sometimes called snow monkeys because they can live in colder climates than most monkeys that typically prefer tropical climates.
Iwatayama Monkey Park Photos
took my time walking around the monkey habitat and trying to get as many good photographs as possible. The monkeys were extremely tame and quite friendly. At the same time, they were also quite mischievous. I spent over an hour taking hundreds of pictures. Below are some of my best photographs.
A Japanese Macaque at the Iwatayama Monkey Park
The Monkeys are Very Tame
The Adorable Face of a Snow Monkey
A Very Friendly Monkey
There Were Lots of Baby Monkeys
Hide and Seek
Biting Another Monkey's Butt
Monkeys Relaxing at the Arashiyama Iwatayama Monkey Park
Monkeys Playing in the Trees
Monkeys Grooming Each Other
Eating a Fig
Relaxing in a Tree
Walking on the Roof
Baby Monkey at the Monkey Park Iwatayama
Like Looking in a Mirror
Adorable Monkeys
Feeding the Monkeys at the Iwatayama Monkey Park
The final highlight of the monkey park was an enclosed room where the monkeys would eat right out of the tourists’ hands. I purchased a bag of peanuts for ¥100 ($1). It was a unique experience as I was in the cage and the monkeys came up to the cage to receive a peanut. Bags of apples were available as well.
Other Things to do in the Arashiyama Area
It takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to get to the Arashiyama Area of Kyoto from Kyoto Station. For those with a JR Pass, there are direct JR trains from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station. When you arrive, be sure to make the Monkey Park your first stop in Arashiyama.
Once you finish your visit, I highly recommend checking out a few of the other attractions within walking distance of the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is another one of the main attractions in the Arashiyama District Kyoto. There is no entrance fee to visit the Bamboo Forest.
Togetsu-kyō Bridge on the Katsura River
The monkey park is located right next to the Togetsu-kyō Bridge. The bridge passes over the Katsura River. It’s definitely worth walking across the Togetsu-kyō Bridge and taking a stroll on the banks of the Katsura River.
Gondola Rides on the Katsura River
Right next to the Iwatayama Monkey Park entrance are Katsura River gondola rides. I didn’t take one but they did look relaxing. Unfortunately, I did not notice the cost of the gondola rides.
Shopping and Dining Options Near the Iwatayama Monkey Park
There are many shops and restaurants on the opposite side of the river from the Iwatayama Monkey Park. If you have time, I highly recommend checking out the shops and eating dinner at one of the restaurants.
Tours of the Arashiyama District of Kyoto
For those interested in tours, there are a few of the Arashiyama Area that caught my eye. These tours are led by expert tour guides and provide information that cannot be learn on a solo tour. I am an affiliate partner of Viator. If you book a tour using one of the links below I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I would greatly appreciate it if you would consider booking using one of my links.
Prices are accurate as of May 2023.
 The Non-Touristy Arashiyama Private Tour with a Local - $160.34 When in Kyoto, the Arashiyama district is a must. But what if there was a way you could explore it without the touristy crowds? On this private tour, you'll see the splendor and beauty of this famous district but off the beaten path. |
 Arashiyama and Sagano Morning Walking Tour - $79.18 Stroll through dense bamboo groves to hidden mountain temples and discover centuries of Japanese heritage on this 4-hour Arashiyama and Sagano walking tour. Explore the natural wilderness of the Sagano bamboo grove with your guide. Visit the ancient Tenryu-ji Temple and learn of its 14th-century history. Head along forested paths in search of the Jojakko-ji Temple and admire its impressive pagoda. Wander across the Togetsuky? Bridge to take in beautiful valley views, and escape the busy city to appreciate the tranquil beauty of Japan's rural landscape. |
 Kyoto Arashiyama & Sagano Walking Food Tour - $110.70 This Day Experience takes you to an intriguing, fun and informative adventure with tasting unique street foods around Kyoto Arashiyama area known for Bamboo Forests & seasonal beauty of nature. |
 Arashiyama Bamboo Bike Tour (Early Bird) - $111.32 Come early morning to escape the crowds and enjoy an opportunity to truly soak in the scenic sites of the Bamboo Forest and Arashiyama. On this tour you will explore the beauty of bamboo, the tranquility of temples and some of the best scenic panoramas Kyoto has to offer without all the people. This tour includes several of the top visited destinations of Arashiyama including the world famous bamboo forest, the Togetsukyo Bridge, the gardens of the Unesco World Heritage Tenryuji Zen Temple as well as several of our own local favorite secret spots. |
 Private Kyoto Arashiyama Custom Half-Day Tour by Chartered Vehicle - $337.94 Arashiyama area in western Kyoto is one of the most beautiful places to visit especially in the cherry blossom season and the foliage season in Japan. The combination of the traditional culture with the great nature will be spectacular.. |
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