West Kyoto & Arashiyama: Walking 1Day Tour w/Matcha & Calligraphy

Kyoto , Japan

West Kyoto & Arashiyama: Walking 1Day Tour w/Matcha & Calligraphy

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About this experience

In our tour, you will visit all must see spots in Arashiyama and North West Kyoto such as Bamboo Forest, Monkey Park, Otaginenbutsuji Temple, Tenryuji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Ryoanji Temple, Kinkakuji Temple. Especially, you will have special deep Kinkakuji experience such as Easy Japanese Calligraphy experience and Japanese Match and sweets Break in the temple with temple visiting.

*A calm and intimate tour for those who seek deeper insight into Japanese culture with small group up to 6 guests.

Available options

Basic Tour

Japanese Calligraphy Experienc<br/>Japanese Tea Break with Sweets<br/>Taxi and Bus<br/>ALL Tickets including: 4 Temples, Monkey Park

What's included

Helping to take good photos. I’m learning Photography as my hobby.

2 Taxi and 2 bus fees

Tickets for all places and activities (4 temples, Monkey Park)

Match Break with Sweets in Kinkakuji Temple

Japanese Calligraphy Experience in Kinkakuji Temple

English guided tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You can enjoy beautiful bamboo forest. Especially, we are in less people because of our early bird tour.

Stop 2

This is world heritage site. You can enjoy beautiful Japanese gardens and big tatami style Japanese living room.

Stop 3

You can enjoy very beautiful scenery at the most famous bridge in Arashiyama. Let’s take good photos!

You can see wild monkeys and feed!

You can see 1200 Buddhism statues.

Stop 6

You can see beautiful Japanese rock garden that has 15 stones but can’t see them all at once.

Stop 7

Our Kinkakuji visiting is special. Surely, we see kinkakuji temple building. In addition, we are experiencing easy Japanese calligraphy and Matcha with sweets in the kinkakuji temple.

What's not included

We will eat at local Japanese restaurant. Lunch is about 2,000 JPY. You pay what you order. It may be less or no choices for vegetarian and vegan. Please bring own lunch if you need.

Insurance: If you need, please prepare on your own.

Gratitude

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total duration includes the travel time.

Monkey Park may be also closed because of the weather conditions.

Itinerary may be changed depending on weather, and operation.

If any of the visiting places is closed, we will try to attend an alternative place.

If you are late for the tour meeting time, we may have to leave you because this is group tour.

Not recommended for person who has difficulty to walk

Meeting point

In front of Locker area at the Keifuku(Randen) Arashiyama station. Guide is waiting with holding visual sign.

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.