Kyoto: Arashiyama UNESCO Walking Tour with Admission
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
[Highlights]
・UNESCO World Heritage Temple and Garden (Admission included)
・Photogenic Bamboo Grove
・Nonomiya Shrine, a Place to Pray for Love in Kyoto
・Local souvenir shops and sweets shop to stroll around
・Monkey park (Optional - Admission in not included)
Capture unforgettable photos in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove as you explore one of Kyoto’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage areas. The tour begins at Tenryu-ji Temple, where you’ll experience serene gardens and centuries of Zen tradition before walking into the mystical Bamboo Grove. Your guide will share insights into why this enchanting forest holds global cultural significance.
You’ll also pass by charming kawaii character shops and local stores—perfect for picking up matcha sweets, wagashi, or handcrafted bamboo-themed gifts. The tour then continues across Arashiyama’s famous bridge toward the Monkey Park. Your guide will purchase your ticket, and the park will be the tour’s dismissal point.
Available options
+ Chopstick Workshop
+ Chopstick Workshop: [Inclusions]
3 types is included free of charge. The other high-grade woods are available for an additional fee.
Kyoto: Arashiyama UNESCO Walking Tour with Admission
What's included
Entry ticket to the Tenryuji Temple
Local Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
A UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple known for its historic Sogenchi Garden. The garden blends perfectly with the natural scenery of Arashiyama and is especially stunning during cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons.
2
Stop 2
Kyoto’s most enchanting sights—the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. As you walk through this mystical landscape, your guide will explain why this breathtaking forest is closely connected to the UNESCO World Heritage designation, allowing you to truly feel the harmony between nature and culture.
3
Nonomiya Shrine (Arashiyama) is a small, atmospheric Shinto shrine hidden within the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Once a purification site for imperial princesses before they served at Ise Grand Shrine, it is now known for blessings related to love, safe childbirth, and academic success.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Togetsukyō Bridge is Arashiyama’s iconic landmark, offering beautiful views of the Katsura River and surrounding mountains.
Its name, meaning “Moon-Crossing Bridge,” reflects the poetic scenery that changes with every season—from cherry blossoms to autumn leaves.
5
A mountaintop park where you can see wild Japanese macaques up close. It’s a unique experience combining light hiking, nature, and wildlife, with a great panoramic view of Kyoto from the top.
The guide will accompany you across Togetsukyo Bridge and to the Monkey Park area, where the guided tour concludes.
Should you wish to visit the Monkey Park, you are welcome to continue on a self-guided hike at your own pace.
Please note that admission to the Monkey Park is not included.
What's not included
Food and drinks from street vendors are not included in the tour cost, and we won’t be stopping for dining-in during the tour
Entrance fee to the Monkey Park
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Chopsticks Studio Kyoto
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Bj2cQAMi5YGm8B8FA
The guide holding a sign that says [Local Guide Stars] will be waiting for you at the front road of the building.
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.
$28
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
