Experience Kyoto Katsura River boat Adventure in Arashiyama
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6h - 7h
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
Explore the serene beauty of Arashiyama on this captivating day tour, featuring visits to unique temples and a scenic bamboo grove. Discover the whimsical stone figures at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, contemplate the memorial stones at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, and stroll along the historic Saga-Toriimoto Street. Experience tranquility at the UNESCO-listed Tenryū-ji Temple before immersing yourself in the enchanting bamboo forest. Conclude your day with a private river cruise on the Katsura River, hosted by a former maiko who shares Kyoto's rich cultural heritage through music and storytelling.
- Visit iconic sites including Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and Tenryū-ji Temple
- Enjoy a private boat cruise on the Katsura River with a former maiko
- Stroll through Arashiyama's famous bamboo grove and preserved streets
- Experience local culture and history in a small group setting
This tour requires an easy level of fitness. We use buses and boats, so unfortunately it is not wheelchair accessible at this time.
Available options
Join from Kyoto Station (Kyoto Tower Starbucks) Flexible Departure
What's included
We will use trains and buses
A private tour on the boat with the Maiko
Entrance to temples and shrines are included
Detailed itinerary
1
In the quiet hills, we first visit Ōtagi Nenbutsu-ji, a hidden temple filled with 1,200 stone guardians, each carved by ordinary people under the guidance of a devoted priest. The statues—some smiling, some mischievous, some serene—create a joyful and spiritual atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Kyoto. You can find your “favorite face" and take a photo with it.
2
From here we descend to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, where thousands of stone memorials stand in neat terraces. For centuries this was a burial ground for those without family, and today the temple honors their spirits in a striking landscape of stone and silence. A bamboo path winds behind the temple, offering a quiet moment of reflection before we continue.
3
We then stroll down Saga-Toriimoto Street, a beautifully preserved approach once used by pilgrims heading to Atago Shrine. Its thatched-roof townhouses and traditional wooden buildings preserve the charm of old Kyoto. Here we slow our pace, browse small shops, or enjoy a light lunch, just as travelers and nobles once did centuries ago when visiting Arashiyama for poetry gatherings, moon-viewing, and seasonal beauty.
4
Stop 4
In the afternoon, we step into Tenryū-ji Temple, one of Kyoto’s great Zen temples and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking here is a chance to experience the principles of Zen harmony, balance, and stillness. From Tenryū-ji we wander directly into the world-famous Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks sway gently above us and light filters through in shifting shades of green and gold.
5
Our day culminates in a private boat on the Katsura River, a place long celebrated in poetry and art. Here, a former maiko (geisha apprentice) named Kohaku welcomes us in her seasonal kimono. She plays the shamisen, a three-stringed instrument central to geisha entertainment, and shares stories from her years of training in Kyoto’s exclusive hanamachi (geisha districts). Guests enjoy a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into geisha culture—normally closed to outsiders—learning about the artistry, discipline, and traditions that continue in Kyoto today
What's not included
Lunch and snacks are not included
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The Starbucks is on the first floor of the Kyoto Tower Sando commercial building, right beside the Kyoto tower entrance.
Look for the guide holding a Snow Monkey Resorts sign outside the Starbucks.
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.
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per person
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