This 8-hour full-day tour offers a fantastic mix of Kyoto’s iconic temples, serene landscapes, and lively wildlife, all while using convenient public transit to minimize travel time. It's designed for those looking to experience both the peaceful and vibrant sides of Kyoto in one unforgettable day.
Meet your guide by the statue of the fox "Kitsunezo", in front of the JR Inari train Station.
Your guide will be wearing the Japan Tour Adventure "JTA" uniform.
Begin your day with one of Kyoto’s most famous and mystical locations: the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up Mount Inari, this sacred site offers travelers an immersive experience through Japanese spiritual history, and wander through the tunnels of torii gates, pausing to capture photos of the beautiful red pillars.
Stroll through the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene path surrounded by towering green stalks that sway gently in the breeze. It’s one of the most unique natural landscapes in Japan. Walk through the forest at a leisurely pace, allowing yourself to get lost in the peaceful atmosphere. This is a great place for meditation and photography.
Just next to the Bamboo Forest is Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most significant Zen temples. Its beautiful gardens, designed centuries ago, reflect a masterful blend of Japanese landscape art. Take your time to explore the traditional Zen garden and its surrounding ponds, admiring the contrast between the architecture and lush greenery.
Take a break from the bamboo and explore the main street of Arashiyama.
Choose between free time in the area of joining the guide for a proper lunch time at a restaurant, skipping the line, and resting while eating a well-deserved full meal (lunch fee not included).
Cross the Togetsukyo bridge and enjoy the view of the river.
A short hike up the hill from the bamboo grove, Iwatayama Monkey Park is home to wild Japanese macaques. At the top, you’re rewarded with a fun encounter with these animals and sweeping panoramic views of Kyoto. The climb is a bit steep but short (about 20 minutes). Once at the summit, you can feed the monkeys and enjoy the fantastic cityscape.
ALTERNATIVE - FREE TIME
Guests who do not wish to enter the monkey park will have an additional 60 minutes of free time, to wander around the area, visit local shops, and explore the surroundings, until the monkey park group comes back down to continue the tour. thank you.
IMPORTANT: While most guests can do this hike, it is not recommended for people with leg/knee injuries, and depending on the guest's physical condition, the hike can take longer than 20 minutes. Thank you for your understanding.
Finish your day at "Kinkakuji", the Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple famous for its top two floors entirely covered in gold leaf. The temple's reflection in the surrounding pond is mesmerizing, especially in the afternoon light. Walk the path around the pavilion and take in the meticulously designed landscape, which changes dramatically with each season.
The group will then get in the bus and/or train, to Kyoto station, where the tour will officially end.
Guests are free to leave the group after the golden temple, if the wish to stay around the area, or if they wish to go back privately by taxi or by any other way. thank you.
Meet your guide by the statue of the fox "Kitsunezo", in front of the JR Inari train Station.
Your guide will be wearing the Japan Tour Adventure "JTA" uniform.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.
A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.
Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.
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.
Japanese Yen (JPY)
JST (UTC+9)
100VV, 50/60HzHz
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.
Kyoto Station
Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
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.
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER
Car, Bike, Scooter
Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.
Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).
Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Price varies by option