Sagano vs. Arashiyama: Same Bamboo Grove, Two Names
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Check ticket availabilitySagano is the district; Arashiyama is the broader area
Sagano is the official district name in western Kyoto. Arashiyama is the larger mountain area and district name that encompasses Sagano. Tourists use 'Arashiyama' for the entire region. The bamboo grove sits in Sagano proper, but everyone calls it the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Both names are correct; both refer to the same place.
The confusion: signage says both
Nonomiya Shrine is officially in Saga Tenryū-ji (using the Sagano district name). Shops and signs often say Arashiyama. Google and most English sources say Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. You might see 'Sagano bamboo forest' or 'Arashiyama bamboo grove' — they are the same path.
Do not worry about the name. Search 'Arashiyama Bamboo Forest' on your maps and you will find the grove. Search 'Sagano' and you will find the district. Both lead to the same place. The signs use both names.
How to navigate the names
On maps, search for "Arashiyama Bamboo Grove" or "Sagano Bamboo Forest" — both will drop a pin at the same location. The JR station is Saga-Arashiyama, combining both district names. You cannot get lost by name; they overlap.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a difference between the Sagano and Arashiyama bamboo forests?
No. Sagano is the district name; Arashiyama is the larger area. The bamboo grove is in Sagano and is called Arashiyama by tourists. Both names are correct.
Why do the signs say different names?
Official signage uses the district names (Saga Tenryū-ji, Nonomiya in Sagano). Tourist sources say Arashiyama. You are at the same place.
Which name should I search?
Either works. Search 'Arashiyama Bamboo Forest' or 'Sagano Bamboo Grove' — both will find the same location on your maps.