Timeline
15:53
Grab takoyaki for a warm, savory snack. The shop is open from 10:30, so you will have plenty of time to eat before heading up the mountain.
16:08
Walk up to Iwatayama Monkey Park. The 20-minute climb is worth it for the fresh air and the view of Kyoto spreading out below. Feed the macaques while the afternoon light is still bright.
16:58
Find a spot on the mountain ridge. The sun sets toward the WSW, giving you a clear view of the sky changing colors over the city. The golden light starts at 16:30, so you will be in the perfect spot as the day ends.
17:23
Walk down to % ARABICA Kyoto Arashiyama for a coffee or tea. It is only a short walk from the park and open until 18:00, giving you time to rest and digest your snack while the last light fades.
Local tip
The monkey park is a 20-minute walk. Wear sturdy shoes. The sun sets in the WSW direction, so face that way for the best view.
Check before you go
- Iwatayama Monkey Park is open late enough for sunset, but check the exact closing time as it can vary by season.
- % ARABICA Kyoto Arashiyama closes at 18:00, so head there before then.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Kyoto (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).