Kyoto Ghost Tour: Dark Tales, Urban Legends, Bamboo Forest Night

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Ghost Tour: Dark Tales, Urban Legends, Bamboo Forest Night

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(524 reviews)

1h - 2h

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

THIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL GHOST TOUR.

This is something completely different—a uniquely Kyoto experience that blends creepy, fun, and thrilling storytelling with an unforgettable night out while walking around. If you’re expecting a haunted house, an asylum, or a prison tour or similar, this might not be for you!

We’ll start by grabbing a drink and dive into spine-tingling urban legends, chilling tales, and eerie events from Kyoto’s dark history. Instead of traditional yōkai or classic ghost stories, you’ll explore atmospheric streets and shadowy bamboo forests, immersing yourself in haunting tales and unique thrills.

At one point, you’ll even walk alone in the dark for a short stretch—an eerie and unforgettable moment designed to let you feel the atmosphere on your own. It’s safe, brief, but adds a delicious sense of dread to your night.

We highly recommend visiting the beautiful Kimono Forest (always open) nearby. It’s a stunning sight and a great way to set the mood for our tour.

Available options

Ghosts & Dark Tales

What's included

A SOLO walk in the bamboo forest

An Anti Curse QR code (limited)

1 drink (alcoholic or non-acoholic)

A Japanese Curse (only lasting 24 hours!)

Urban Legends, Real Ghost Stories & Serial Killers

Detailed itinerary

We'll meet up at Saga-Arashiyama Station, right outside the ticket gates. You won't have to go down any stairs to find us. From there, we'll swing by a convenience store to grab some drinks. Then we'll take a walk towards the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. But keep in mind, the bamboo forest will be pitch dark at this time of night, making for a unique and scary experience.

Stop 2

Step into the darker side of Arashiyama—an area known for its stunning views by day, but haunted by whispers of the past by night. From ghostly samurai to vanished lovers and eerie legends passed down through generations, this tour reveals the unsettling truths that lie beneath the surface. Walk the same roads where strange things have happened—and still might. This experience is not for the weak.

As our journey reaches its finale, we'll make our way back to the Saga-Arashiyama Station. Enriched by the memorable sights and experiences, we will end our tour under the soft glow of the station lights. It's a time to reflect on our nocturnal adventure through the bamboo groves. Thank you for joining me on this unique journey through the breathtaking beauty of Arashiyama at night.

What's not included

Tips (WELCOMED)

Souvenir ghosts (they prefer to stay there)

Exorcisms (we like our ghosts just the way they are!)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

30 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

494 reviews

5★

480

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Absolutely NOT recommended for travelers that are afraid of the DARK

Not recommended to walk around the area before the tour

Must be able to walk alone in the dark

IMPORT: some topics are NOT suitable for some people (suicide, serial killers, sexual assault)

Not Your Typical Ghost Tour: Focused on Real Mysteries, Not Mythical Yōkai

Kids under 16 are not allowed due to content and activities.

A minimum of 4 guests is needed to proceed.

Meeting point

Meet inside Saga-Arashiyama Station, at the round window near the North Gate (upstairs - see pictures). Ensure WhatsApp is installed, as we use it to contact you.
Please arrive early—late arrivals cannot join once the tour begins.

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.