Iwatayama Monkey Park, also known as Arashiyama Monkey Park, is one of the most exciting wildlife spots in Japan for families. Nestled in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, it’s home to over 100 free-roaming Japanese macaques, and visiting them is a true adventure! After a short hike up a forested hill, families are rewarded with up-close views of the monkeys, a safe indoor feeding area, and a stunning overlook of Kyoto city. It’s wild, fun, and just the right amount of challenge for active kids.
As you plan your Kyoto family adventure, our Kyoto Family Travel Guide offers more fun family stops like Arashiyama, temples with animal connections, and scenic walks. For a complete collection of every cultural experience, guide, and itinerary, all at your fingertips, be sure to explore the Kyoto with Kids Hub.
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Why It’s Great for Families
- Monkeys roam freely, making it a thrilling and memorable animal encounter that feels more like an adventure than a zoo.
- The hike up the hill is short but just enough to feel like a challenge, perfect for school-aged kids who like to move.
- You can safely feed the monkeys from inside a protected hut, making the interaction feel safe and exciting.
- The mountaintop view of Kyoto is one of the best in the city, and it’s earned!
Parent Insight: Wildlife encounters are great for teaching respectful observation. Remind kids that watching from a distance helps animals feel safe, and noticing quiet behaviors (like grooming or signals) builds patience and empathy, skills that carry over to both nature and everyday life.
Top Family Highlights
- Monkey Feeding Hut: Buy apples or nuts and feed the macaques through a mesh screen, a favorite for kids!
- Scenic Overlook: Panoramic views of Kyoto, with shaded benches and photo ops.
- Forest Trail Hike: Spot birds, insects, and maybe even monkey tracks on the way up.
- Baby Monkeys: If you visit in spring or early summer, you might see baby macaques clinging to their mothers!
- Post-Visit Cool Down: Combine your visit with a riverside rest or snack in Arashiyama below.
Good to Know
- Cost: ¥
- Best Age Range: 4+ (kids should be able to walk up the trail on their own)
- Stroller-Friendly? No, the trail is steep and uneven.
- Rest Areas: Benches at the top and a small shelter with vending machines
- Food: No food allowed on the trail, but you can buy food to feed the monkeys at the hut
Getting There
- Located in Arashiyama, the Monkey Park trail entrance is just across the Togetsukyo Bridge.
- From Arashiyama Station (Keifuku Line) or JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, it’s a 10–15 minute walk.
- Enter through a small gate beside the river, near the red torii gate and shrine.
Luca & Nico’s Tip: Monkeys like shiny objects, so keep sunglasses, snacks, and anything dangling packed away before you reach the top!
Best Family Hotels Near Monkey Park Iwatayama
Looking to stay close to Kyoto’s famous macaques? These family-friendly hotels offer fantastic access to the park and scenic Arashiyama:
- Luxury
- Suiran, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto – about an 11-minute walk or 4 min taxi from the park. A riverside retreat with its own spa, hot spring baths, and refined dining—ideal for families who want elegance and comfort.
- MUNI KYOTO by Onko Chishin – roughly a 7-minute walk or 2 min taxi to the park entrance. This stylish boutique hotel offers spacious rooms and spa services, blending contemporary comforts with traditional Kyoto style.
- Mid‑Range
- The GrandWest Arashiyama – roughly a 7-minute walk. Has spacious family suites, bicycles for guest use, and an in-house cafe, ideal for families needing space close to nature greenery.
- Budget
- Mulan Hostel – about a 10-minute walk. Offers simple, clean dorms and private rooms, including garden views, great for families seeking value without compromising location.
As you consider your accommodation options for your family’s Kyoto trip, our Kyoto Hotel Guide highlights the top family-friendly stays conveniently located near temples, train museums, and peaceful neighborhoods perfect for kids. For even more ideas on what to do during your visit, explore our Best Things to Do in Kyoto with Kids, covering everything from bamboo forests to cultural crafts and riverside picnics.
FAQs: Visiting Iwatayama Monkey Park with Kids
Curious about visiting Kyoto’s most adventurous monkey park with your kids? These answers will help you plan your trip to Iwatayama with confidence.
A: The entrance to Iwatayama Monkey Park is located in Arashiyama, just across the Togetsukyo Bridge. It’s a 10–15 minute walk from either Arashiyama Station (Keifuku Line) or JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. Look for the small gate near the red torii shrine along the riverside.
A: The hike takes about 20–30 minutes at a relaxed pace. It involves a moderate uphill trail through the forest, so it’s best suited for kids aged 4 and up who can walk independently. There are benches along the way for short breaks.
A: No, the trail is steep and uneven. Strollers are not permitted on the path. If you’re visiting with a baby or toddler, a carrier is highly recommended.
A: Yes! Visitors can safely feed the monkeys from inside a special hut using apples or peanuts available for purchase. Feeding is done through a mesh screen to protect both animals and humans.
A: Morning or late afternoon visits are ideal, especially in warmer months. The monkeys are most active when it’s cooler, and early visits help you avoid the mid-day crowds.
A: Yes! If you visit in spring or early summer, you might spot adorable baby macaques clinging to their mothers. It’s one of the highlights for families visiting with kids.
A: Absolutely. The park has clear safety rules (like no touching or staring directly at monkeys), and the feeding area is enclosed. Kids love the interaction, and it’s an unforgettable wildlife encounter in Kyoto.
A: Comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection are essential. Avoid wearing loose accessories, monkeys are curious and may try to grab shiny or dangling items.
A: Tickets for Iwatayama Monkey Park are budget-friendly for families. Admission is ¥600 for adults and ¥300 for children (ages 4–15). Children under 4 enter for free. The park is one of the most affordable family-friendly attractions in Kyoto.
A: No, Arashiyama Monkey Park Kyoto does not offer extra discounts beyond the standard child rate of ¥300. Tickets for the monkey park must be purchased at the entrance and are not included in most Kyoto tourist passes.
Until Next Time…
Monkey Park Iwatayama is the perfect mix of exercise, excitement, and education. Whether your little ones are spotting baby monkeys or conquering the trail, it’s a Kyoto experience they’ll never forget, and neither will you.
Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~
