Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo, Temple, Monkeys & Local Mountain Brewery
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the timeless charm of Arashiyama on this immersive journey through nature, culture, and tradition.
BAMBOO GROVE
Walk beneath the soaring bamboo of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and visit the sacred Nonomiya Shrine
OKOCHI SANSO GARDEN
Explore the elegant Okochi Sanso Garden, where matcha and other drinks are served, hot or cold, in its former tea house. The drinks are included in the tour.
TENRYUJI TEMPLE
Discover the Zen beauty of Tenryu-ji, Breathtaking zen buddhist temple that belongs to the branch of Rinzai.
Then, choose between OPTION A and OPTION B
OPTION A
Stroll along Arashiyama Shopping Street, grab a snack, admire the colorful Kimono Forest, cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, and enjoy panoramic views at Iwatayama Monkey Park.
OPTION B
Go back to the train station for a short ride through the mountain, and go for a lovely lunch among locals with zero tourists. Visit the prestigious Tanzan Brewery, with sake tasting included.
Available options
Arashiyama & Sake - No Monkey
Option B in the description
Full Arashiyama & Monkey Park
Option A in the description
What's included
Okochi Sanso Entrance Ticket
Shopping/Translation assistance
Monkey Park Entrance Ticket
Tenryuji Entrance Ticket
Guide Fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Explore the bamboo grove and reach the top of Arashiyama park
2
Take your time to enjoy the private Okochi Sanso garden, sit and take a deep breath, with a beverage served in a former tea house turned into a rest area.
3
Stop 3
Explore one of the most famous temples in the city, indoors and outdoors, and admire the Koi fish in the pond. Enjoy nature around you and learn more about the place you are visiting.
4
Stop 4
OPTION A
Stop at every single shop you want to discover that amazing shopping street in Arashiyama, and ask your guide to assist you with anything.
5
Stop 5
OPTION A
Besides the bamboo grove, this is probably the second most popular spot for a picture with the Katsura river, and the Majestic view of this iconic bridge.
6
OPTION A
After the tour ends, and leaving your guide with happy memories full of bamboo and wonderful stories, hike up the hill and explore the monkey park. That place is especially thrilling for families and kids.
7
OPTION B
Leave the tourists behind you, and go back to the train station with your guide to Kameoka, an area located on the other side of the mountain.
After arriving at Kameoka, take a well-deserved rest with a local lunch (budget not included, around ¥1,500).
8
OPTION B
Our journey culminates at the prestigious Tanzan Sake Brewery, renowned for its craftsmanship and dedication to traditional brewing methods. Here, you will learn about the delicate process of sake production — from rice polishing and fermentation to maturation.
Please note: some sections of the brewery may not be accessible depending on the brewing season and production schedule. This ensures both quality control and safety during active brewing periods.
The experience concludes with a guided sake tasting, where you will savor different varieties and discover the subtle aromas, textures, and flavors that make premium Japanese sake so distinctive. Non-alcohol alternative possible, but limited to one or two types of drinks.
What's not included
Shopping and Souvenirs
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
139 reviews
5★
130
4★
8
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
81 reviews
5★
78
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
⚠️PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY⚠️
OTHER LANGUAGES (FRENCH / GERMAN / SPANISH) Some guides from our team can speak more than English and Japanese, but we cannot guarantee a specific language other than English on a shared tour. To confirm the availability of your preferred language on the date you wish to book our tour, Please contact us prior to your booking. Thank you.
While single travelers can book this tour directly, there is a "2 guests minimum" rule to give the tour a GO. in case of a single guest, the session might be cancelled and the guest will be notify as soon as possible, offering a rescheduling, or a full-refund.
This is NOT a private tour. It's a group tour that can have up to 12 people.
Please note that this is a WALKING TOUR, not a bus tour.
Please note, this tour is APPROXIMATELY 5 hours, meaning it can differ by around 30 minutes before or after the estimated time.
The access to the top of the Monkey Park consists of a short hike (15-20 minutes) through a steep path. Please get comfortable shoes and make sure you are in a reasonable physical condition to do it. Thank you.
Please get to the meeting location 15 minutes before the departure time. As we have other groups in the tour, we cannot accept any late guests. If you are late to the tour, YOU CANNOT JOIN the tour and will not be given a refund.
Our Hotline will reach out to you through what's app on departure time if you have not arrived, so please download WhatsApp prior to this tour. This will make any last minute communication easier between the guide and the guests.
Meeting point
Meet by the map down the stairs on the north side of the JR "Saga-Arashiyama" station.
Get off the train at the JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, pass the gates, turn RIGHT, go downstairs, and meet your guide near the map, next to the vending machines.
The guide wears a "JTA" navy cap and/or polo shirt.
Important notes
⚠️PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY⚠️
OTHER LANGUAGES (FRENCH / GERMAN / SPANISH) Some of our team's guides can speak more than English and Japanese, but we cannot guarantee a specific language other than English on a shared tour. Please contact us prior to your booking to confirm the availability of your preferred language on the date you wish to book our tour. Thank you.
About Kyoto
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.
Top Attractions
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.
Religious
2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike)
Free
Kiyomizu-dera
A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.
Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)
Gion
Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).
Cultural
1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event)
Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kaiseki Ryori
A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.
Dinner
Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.
Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)
A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.
Matcha Desserts
Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Obanzai
Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Cycling through the countryside
Rafting on the Hozu River
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Scenic walks in gardens and parks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional tea ceremonies
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.
15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn)
59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited/Rare
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto
By train
Kyoto Station
By bus
Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gion
Higashiyama
Arashiyama
Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)
Day trips
Nara
40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day
Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.
Uji
20 km from Kyoto • Half day
Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).
Kurama and Kibune
25 km from Kyoto • Full day
Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Festivals
Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th)
Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd
Aoi Matsuri • May 15th
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
- Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
- Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.
$90
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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