Kyoto Early Bird English Tour: Fushimi-Inari and Arashiyama

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Early Bird English Tour: Fushimi-Inari and Arashiyama

Active

(193 reviews)

4h - 5h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Early morning is the key to avoid the crowds during peak tourist seasons! Hit three of the top historical attractions, Fushimi-Inari Shrine, Bamboo Grove, and Tenryu-ji Temple with our English speaking tour guide!

⚠️ Prior to the tour, please ensure that WhatsApp or SMS is available for easy communication. Our tour guide will use these platforms to contact you.

⚠️ Please note: The earlier the start time, the fewer crowds we will encounter—if you value a peaceful, uncrowded experience, we recommend booking the earliest time slots available.

✅ This is an English Guided Walking Tour which requires about 9,000 steps. We will use public transportation to visit each location(transportation fee NOT included).

✅ Visit Three Highlights, Fushimi-Inari-Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Groove, Tenryu-ji Zen-Buddhism Temple.

✅ Learn about the rich history of each location with our friendly and knowledgeable guide.

✅ Receive travel tips and good restaurant recommendations from our guide.

Available options

Kyoto Early Bird English Tour: Fushimi-Inari and Arashiyama

What's included

Tenryu-ji Temple

Admission Fee-Tenryu-ji Temple

Togetsu-kyo Bridge

Bamboo Forest

Fushimi-Inari Shrine

English-Speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover the spiritual heart of Kyoto at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates. Hike through the enchanting paths that lead up Mount Inari, surrounded by a deep sense of history, spirituality and nature. This iconic Shinto shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, agriculture, and business. Visitors come to pray for success, health, and happiness while exploring smaller shrines, stone fox statues, and scenic viewpoints.

Stop 2

Step into a world of tranquility and natural beauty at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto. Wander through towering bamboo groves that stretch towards the sky, creating a serene and otherworldly atmosphere. As sunlight filters through the dense canopy, the soft rustle of bamboo leaves and the gentle sway of the tall stalks will transport you to a place of peace and reflection.

Stop 3

Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the heart of Kyoto's Arashiyama district. Renowned for its exquisite Zen garden and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Tenryu-ji offers a serene escape into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped Sogenchi Teien, a pond garden designed to evoke the natural beauty of the region. The harmonious blend of water, rocks, and meticulously pruned trees creates a peaceful ambiance perfect for reflection and relaxation.

Stop 4

Togetsu Bridge, meaning “Moon Crossing Bridge,” is a historic wooden bridge in Arashiyama, Kyoto, spanning the Katsura River. Originally built during the Heian Period, the current structure dates back to 1934. The bridge is renowned for its scenic beauty, especially during cherry blossom season in spring and the vibrant autumn foliage. It offers stunning views of the Katsura River and surrounding hills, making it a popular spot for visitors. Nearby attractions include bamboo groves and temples, adding to the area’s charm and cultural significance.

What's not included

Transportation Fee

Food and Drink

Hotel Pick-Up or Drop-Off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

43 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

150 reviews

5★

148

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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 meeting point is in front of 711 inside Kyoto Station Central Ticket Gate. The guide assigned for the day will provide detailed information via WhatsApp or SMS. If neither is available or you haven't received any communication by 12 hours before, kindly contact us.

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.