Private Walking Tour in Bamboo Forest & Hidden Spots in Arashiyama
Active
4h
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
If you are thinking bamboo forest and Togetsukyo bridge are the only attractions in Arashiyama, you are missing the chance to see even more beautiful and less crowded places in the area. Do join us and discover another charm in Kyoto. With just a 20 minute ride from Kyoto station, you can slip back into the scenery of 400 years past.
Meet our experienced guide in JR Saga Arashiyama station at 9am and the guide will take you to much more beautiful and less crowded amazing hidden spots only locals know in Arashiyama.
Half Day Private Walking Tour
Time: 9:00-13:00 (4 hours, no lunch)
Price: 13,000 yen (per person)
Meet our guide at JR Saga Arashiyama Station (9:00am)
Itinerary
1. JR Saga Arashiyama Station
2. Seiryoji temple
3. Saga Toriimoto Traditional Buildings Preservation Area
4. Otagi-nenbutsuji temple (entrance fee 300 yen needed)
5. Bamboo grove
6. Tenryuji Temple (entrance fee 500 yen needed)
7. Togetsukyo Bridge (tour ends here)
Available options
Private Walking Tour in Bamboo Forest & Hidden Spots in Arashiyama
What's included
Professional guide
Detailed itinerary
1
This temple is known as one of the oldest temples in Kyoto built as a villa of an aristocrat in the 9th century.
2
This area is designated as one of 4 town preservation areas in Kyoto. It used to be called Atago highway, an old highway leading to Mt. Atago which enshrines the god of fire prevention in Shintoism. You can see 2 types of traditional Japanese style houses such as Kayabuki thatched roof house and Machiya town house in the area.
3
This temple is famous for its 1200 stone statues of Rakan, disciples of Buddha. They were all hand carved by 1200 individuals visited the temple. You can experience peaceful time surrounded by cute and unique statues.
4
Stop 4
While walking though the famous bamboo grove path in Arashiyama, you can learn about mysterious plant bamboo how it has been cherished and been utilized in Japan.
5
Stop 5
Zen Buddist temple founded in the 14th century. It's designated as one of the World Cultural Heritage sites in Kyoto. You can feel the spirit of Zen, a peaceful state of your mind in this beautiful garden.
6
Stop 6
This bridge was built to get to the temple across the river. An ancient emperor named it "Moon Crossing Bridge" when he saw the moon as if it was crossing the bridge.
What's not included
Lunch
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transportation to/from attractions
Entrance fee to temple
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.1
86 reviews
5★
36
4★
36
3★
6
2★
6
1★
2
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Departure Point: Meeting point
JR Saga-Arashiyama Station at the ticket gate
* You can use JR Pass to get to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station.
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.
$87
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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