Half Day Kyoto Sagano Bamboo Grove & Arashiyama Walking Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Kyoto’s timeless charm on a guided morning walk through Arashiyama’s scenic wonders. Stroll the iconic Sagano Bamboo Grove, visit Tenryu-ji Temple’s Zen gardens, and enjoy peaceful views from Togetsukyo Bridge. Depending on the season and plan, explore Jojakko-ji Temple’s mossy grounds or Okochi Sanso Villa’s panoramic hilltop garden. Beat the crowds with early departures and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere of Kyoto’s nature. The 2025 plan includes a relaxing yakatabune boat ride along the Hozu River, offering a unique view of Arashiyama from the water. Led by a licensed English-speaking guide, this tour blends cultural insight with natural beauty - perfect for first-time visitors and repeat travelers alike.
Available options
Summer Itinerary Jul - Sep
Itinerary changes: Visit to Okochi Sanso Villa Garden replacing the regular course of Jojakko-ji visit<br/>Summer Itinerary: Kyoto AVANTI > Saga-Arashiyama Sta.> Togetsukyo Bridge > Tenryuji > Arashiyama Bamboo Grove > Okochi Sanso Villa > Kyoto Sta.
Regular Tour
Regular Course: Saga-Arashiyama Station > Jojakko-ji Temple > Arashiyama Bamboo Grove > Tenryu-ji Temple > Togetsukyo Bridge > Boat cruise
What's included
National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter fee
Other admission fees and transportation costs included in the tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
From Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station, travel by public transport with non-reserved seats. Please note that seating is not guaranteed and may require standing during busy hours.
2
Stop 2
Jojakko-ji Temple offers panoramic views of Sagano and Kyoto. In autumn, the temple’s hillside bursts into color as vibrant foliage blankets Mt. Ogura, creating a stunning 360° seasonal spectacle. During summertime (July - September), instead of Jojako-ji, explore the exquisite Okochi Sanso Villa Garden, featuring beautiful landscapes.
3
From Jojakko-ji Temple, the tour will be heading to Tenryu-ji Temple while strolling along the Sagano Bamboo Grove, a popular spot among international travelers.
4
Stop 4
A World Heritage site. This Zen temple stands in one of Kyoto's leading sightseeing areas. The Japanese garden is complemented by the beautiful landscapes of Arashiyama, and has been registered as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty.
5
Stop 5
This 250-meter-long bridge offers a spectacular location for viewing cherry blossoms or colored autumn leaves. Enjoy the scenery of Togetsukyo Bridge and Arashiyama from aboard the yakatabune. The guide will not board the yakatabune. During summertime (July 2 - September 22), the "yakatabune" boat cruise is excluded from this period.
What's not included
Fees other than those listed in Includes
[During July and September] Jojakko-ji Temple
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.2
51 reviews
5★
27
4★
14
3★
4
2★
5
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
30 reviews
5★
24
4★
2
3★
3
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
If the minimum number of adult participants (2) is not met by 4 days before the scheduled date, the tour on that date maybe canceled
This tour uses public transportation with non-reserved seats. Please note that seating is not guaranteed
The order of activities and arrival times may differ depending on road conditions and congestion at destinations
As this is a walking tour, please wear shoes and clothing that are suitable for walking. The total walking distance for this tour is approximately 3 km
Free for children aged 0-5 as long as they will not occupy separate seats
Summer itinerary (July - September 22): Earlier start time to avoid peak heat. Part of the itinerary changes. Visit to Okochi Sanso Villa Garden replaces Jojakko-ji visit.
Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour.
Meeting point
Sunrise Tours Desk Avanti B1 Floor (across from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit). Meet at 8:30am/During Summertime [July - September] Meet at 7:05am
Important notes
• If you have arrived at the meeting point but are having trouble finding your guide, please call the local operator, JTB Sunrise Tours, at +81 3 5796 5454 (7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Japan time) for assistance.
• You can join the tour with this voucher.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Please note that public transportation will be used during this tour and seating is not guaranteed.
• Not wheelchair accessible
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.
$80
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
