Fushimi Inari - Arashiyama: Torii Gates, Bamboo, Monkeys & Secret

Kyoto , Japan

Fushimi Inari - Arashiyama: Torii Gates, Bamboo, Monkeys & Secret

Active

(9 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the magic of Kyoto on a captivating walking tour that begins at the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, home to thousands of vermilion torii gates, and continues through the scenic wonders of Arashiyama.

Wander through the peaceful gardens of Tenryuji Temple, stroll beneath the towering stalks of the Bamboo Grove, and enjoy unforgettable views from the Togetsukyo Bridge. This small-group or private tour is led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide who will show you hidden gems and share local stories along the way.

Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups, this immersive experience combines cultural insight, natural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path moments—making for an unforgettable day in Kyoto.

Available options

Fushimi Inari + Arashiyama

What's included

Bamboo Forest

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Knowledgeable & Bilingual Tour Guide

Tenryuji Garden (admission paid)

Monkey Park (admission paid)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit the unique and beautiful Fushimi Inari Taisha.
Enjoy the 10.000 red Torii gates

Bamboo Grove: From the station, we will head to the famous Bamboo Grove, which is only a few minutes away. This serene path is surrounded by towering bamboo trees, and the natural beauty of this area will leave you in awe.

Tenryu-ji Garden. We will visit the Tenryuji Garden, which is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its beautiful garden is considered one of the best garden in Japan.

Stop 4

Quick lunch break

Stop 5

Guests will enjoy one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights: the Togetsukyo Bridge, whose name means “Moon-Crossing Bridge.” Spanning the Katsura River, it creates a perfect backdrop with the surrounding Arashiyama mountains. Depending on the season, the scenery changes dramatically—lush greens in summer, fiery autumn leaves, cherry blossoms in spring, and misty snow in winter.

Arashiyama Monkey Park (Iwatayama) – Located atop Mount Arashiyama, this park is home to over 120 wild Japanese macaques. After a scenic 20–30 minute uphill hike, visitors are rewarded with close-up encounters with the monkeys and sweeping views over Kyoto. You can even feed the macaques from inside a special hut while they roam freely outside, making it a unique mix of nature, wildlife, and stunning city panoramas.

What's not included

Pick up not available

Lunch & Dinner

Tips (accepted & welcomed)

Train fees are not included

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Solo travelers can book this tour, but please note there is a “2 guests minimum” requirement for the tour to proceed. If only one guest is booked, the tour may be canceled. In such cases, you will be notified promptly, with options for rescheduling or a full refund.

Tours are in English only. Want a different language like German or Italian? Please ask us before booking.

Fushimi Inari has a 60 minutes hike

Meeting point

Meet on the other side of the Inari Station (JR line), 10 minutes early.
Look for the fox near the red gates. See picture

WhatsApp is mandatory for receiving tour info and updates. Please install the app.
Due to the terrain, strollers and wheelchairs are not permitted on this tour.

Important notes

MEETING POINT: Fushimi Inari Station (Please arrive 15 minutes earlier).
Head to the area in front of the red torii gate just outside the Keihan Fushimi Inari Station. Your guide will be waiting there.
(If you’re coming from JR Inari Station, it’s a 2-minute walk — please follow signs to Keihan Fushimi Inari Station.)

WhatsApp is mandatory for receiving tour info and updates. Please install the app.

During the tour, entry tickets are required for some locations.
Your guide will purchase these tickets at each site and provide them for you.
NOTE: Tickets cannot be purchased in advance, so there may be a short wait while your guide secures them.
We appreciate your patience and are looking forward to seeing you soon!

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.