While Kyoto is famous for its incredible temples and shrines, it also houses some other unique attractions. One standout is the Iwatayama Monkey Park, a must-visit if you can fit it into your itinerary. Exploring Kyoto’s Monkey Park was an absolute highlight for my kids during our time in Japan.
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is a popular tourist spot, allowing visitors to observe Japanese macaque monkeys (also known as snow monkeys) in their semi-natural habitat. Located atop a hill, the park requires a hike to reach. Once at the top, you can interact with the monkeys in a designated viewing area while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto.
Getting there
The best way to get to Monkey Park is to jump on the JR line at Kyoto Station and take the 15-minute train ride to the Saga-Arashiyama Station.
Admission and hours
Admission: 550 yen
Hours: 9am-4pm, daily
The hike to the top
The hike to the top of the mountain is through a lush rainforest – and straight uphill. Depending on the time of year you visit, this could be a lovely hike. During our July visit, the forest air was thick with humidity. Like, cut with a butter knife thick.
If you’re traveling in summer, I suggest wearing light clothing, carrying ample water, and packing portable fans (we used these, and they were a lifesaver). Our boys were 10 and 11 then, and the hike took about half an hour. I imagine that it could take a bit longer with younger kiddos.
Once you reach the top
My kids were delighted to find a playground at the top of the mountain. We were literally on the top of a mountain in Kyoto, surrounded by monkeys, and they wanted to play on the jungle gym 🤷🏻♀️.
The monkeys just roam up here. It’s crazy. I can’t think of anything comparable to this experience in the States. They can get aggressive with each other, and low key, I was terrified of them. Be sure to observe the park rules, and you’ll be fine.
You’ll notice a wooden room with caged windows where you can feed the monkeys. Inside, you can buy small bags of apples. The monkeys approach the cage, and you can feed them through the holes. This was undoubtedly the highlight of our Monkey Mountain visit (aside from the playground, of course).
Some tips:
- These rules will be plastered all over the park, but it bears repeating: 1) don’t look the monkeys in the eye, and 2) don’t pet the monkeys.
- Because they are both located on the western end of Kyoto, try to combine Monkey Park with a trip to the Golden Pavilion.
- Plan to spend about two hours at the park (this includes hiking time).
Conclusion
A trip to Monkey Mountain should most definitely be on your list of things to do when visiting Kyoto with kids. Expect an uphill hike to get to the top of the mountain. However, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic city views, the opportunity to feed snow monkeys… and a playground!!
