Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
A top highlight for me in Kyoto was visiting the Arashiyama Monkey Park.
The admission fee was cash only; 800 yen per person, or roughly 5 dollars US.
Be prepared to hike up about 400 feet, roughly equivalent to 36 floors. The uphill climb involves stairs and switchbacks. I did not see an elevator.
Third, this is not a zoo. These monkeys roam freely—they're not behind cages.
When you reach the top, you'll find more than just cute monkeys. You can also enjoy beautiful views overlooking Kyoto.
To feed the monkeys, go into an enclosure and purchase a small bag of food for about 150 yen per family to prevent overfeeding. The monkeys stay outside, and you feed them through the windows. The people are in the cage while the monkeys are free—they know they can come to the window to get food safely.
There's also a feeding show around 10:40 AM when the monkeys become especially energetic.
I highly recommend this experience. The monkeys are fun to watch, the views are stunning, and seeing them roam freely makes the climb worth it.
A top highlight for me in Kyoto was visiting the Arashiyama Monkey Park.
The admission fee was cash only; 800 yen per person, or roughly 5 dollars US.
Be prepared to hike up about 400 feet, roughly equivalent to 36 floors. The uphill climb involves stairs and switchbacks. I did not see an elevator.
Third, this is not a zoo. These monkeys roam freely—they're not behind cages.
When you reach the top, you'll find more than just cute monkeys. You can also enjoy beautiful views overlooking Kyoto.
To feed the monkeys, go into an enclosure and purchase a small bag of food for about 150 yen per family to prevent overfeeding. The monkeys stay outside, and you feed them through the windows. The people are in the cage while the monkeys are free—they know they can come to the window to get food safely.
There's also a feeding show around 10:40 AM when the monkeys become especially energetic.
I highly recommend this experience. The monkeys are fun to watch, the views are stunning, and seeing them roam freely makes the climb worth it.
