Guide
Located adjacent to Arashiyama Station, the terminal station of the Randen (Keifuku Electric Railroad), "Kimono Forest" is a highly original space where Kyoto's traditional beauty meets modern design. The installation features approximately 600 acrylic pillars decorated with traditional "Yuzen" patterns, supervised by designer Yasumichi Morita. These pillars are illuminated by LED lights, creating a colorful and mesmerizing landscape that can be enjoyed both day and night.
Moving beyond the concept of a simple train station, this facility has become a vital photo spot for tourists, elevating Kyoto's traditional aesthetic into a contemporary art experience. The station is integrated with the "Arashiyama Hannari Hokkari Square," a sophisticated commercial space where you can relax and shop during your sightseeing breaks.
Arashiyama Station has a long history of supporting Kyoto's tourism since its opening in 1910. Historically, the upper floors of the station building housed the "Arashiyama Ladies Hotel," Japan's first hotel exclusively for women, which concluded its service in 2002. Following a full renovation in 2007, the station took on its current form as a commercial facility.
In 2013, another major renovation took place, which included the removal of ticket gates, the extension of platforms, and the renovation of restrooms. During this period, the "Kimono Forest" was installed around the platform, featuring the LED-illuminated kimono-patterned pillars. This transformed the station into a modern design landmark where visitors can visually experience the beauty of traditional kimono. The ability to continuously incorporate new styles while honoring its historical roots is a defining characteristic of this location.
The greatest draw is undoubtedly the sight of the 600 kimono-patterned pillars. Each pillar features a different Yuzen design, and seeing them glow under the light makes you feel as though you have wandered into a magical forest of kimono.
Additionally, the station concourse utilizes approximately 3,000 pieces of natural bamboo, creating a beautiful harmony between natural materials and artificial LED light. At the adjacent "Arashiyama Hannari Hokkari Square," you can enjoy shopping for Kyoto-style crafts, seasonal cosmetics, and uniquely designed T-shirts. You can also visit the rooftop-level panoramic plaza to enjoy the surrounding views.
Kimono Forest shows different expressions depending on the season and time of day. The nighttime illumination is particularly popular, offering a much more mystical and ethereal atmosphere than the daytime. Visiting during the cherry blossom season (around March and April) allows you to enjoy the scenery while feeling the essence of Kyoto's changing seasons.
Here, you can experience "viewing art" during your transit. Simply walking through the station allows you to be enveloped by the traditional colors of Kyoto. You can also browse the onsite shops for high-quality souvenirs, such as T-shirts featuring Kyoto-inspired designs, seasonal