Kyoto: Arashiyama Highlights and Monkey Park in 3 Hours
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3h
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Arashiyama captures the essence of Kyoto with its serene bamboo groves, historic temples, and stunning riverside views. Starting from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, this leisurely walk immerses you in the tranquility of the Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo creates a natural tunnel. Next, visit the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji Temple, renowned for its exquisite garden and Zen ambiance. Enjoy picturesque views at Togetsukyo Bridge and end with a visit to Iwatayama Monkey Park, where you can observe wild macaques in their natural habitat while taking in panoramic vistas of Kyoto. This tour is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive Kyoto experience in a single outing.
- Stroll through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji Temple and its stunning gardens
- Capture views at Togetsukyo Bridge along the Katsura River
- Observe wild macaques at Iwatayama Monkey Park with panoramic city views
Available options
Kyoto: Arashiyama Highlights and Monkey Park in 3 Hours
What's included
3-hour guided tour of Arashiyama
Walk through the Bamboo Forest
Visit to Iwatayama Monkey Park
Visit to Tenryu-ji Temple
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
rashiyama’s Bamboo Grove Path is one of Kyoto’s most iconic natural landscapes, where towering stalks of bamboo form a peaceful green corridor that feels worlds away from the city. As sunlight filters through the leaves and the bamboo sways gently in the breeze, the atmosphere becomes calm and almost dreamlike—perfect for a quiet stroll and unforgettable photos. Walking here is not just about the scenery, but about experiencing the unique sounds and stillness that make Arashiyama so special.
2
Stop 2
Tenryu-ji is the most significant Zen temple in Arashiyama and part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. The temple is especially famous for its beautifully designed garden centered around a tranquil pond, where carefully placed stones, pine trees, and seasonal colors create a timeless landscape. With Arashiyama’s mountains rising in the background, the view feels perfectly balanced—an elegant expression of Kyoto’s Zen aesthetics and a must-visit for travelers seeking both culture and serenity.
3
Stop 3
Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama’s most famous landmark, offering classic views of the Katsura River flowing beneath and the surrounding mountains stretching beyond. Whether framed by fresh greenery, autumn foliage, or crisp winter air, the scenery here captures the postcard-perfect beauty of Kyoto. It’s an ideal spot to pause for photos, take in the open riverside atmosphere, and enjoy the timeless charm that has made Arashiyama a beloved destination for centuries.
4
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is a unique hillside park where wild Japanese macaques live freely in their natural habitat. Reaching the top rewards you with panoramic views over Kyoto and a rare opportunity to observe the monkeys up close in a mountain setting. Watching their natural behavior against the backdrop of sweeping city and valley scenery creates an unforgettable experience—combining a touch of adventure with one of Arashiyama’s most memorable wildlife encounters.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
In front of the Ticket Gate of JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. The guide will be holding the yellow sign with DeepExperience logo.
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.
$107
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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