Kyoto Early Bird English Tour: Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama & Monkey
Active
5h
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
Start your morning with two of Kyoto’s most iconic sights — the peaceful torii gates of Fushimi Inari and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. By beginning early, you can experience their beauty in a calm, uncrowded atmosphere before the daytime rush. Then, visit Monkey Park, where you can feed the monkeys and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto. Throughout the tour, your English-speaking local guide will share fascinating stories about the city’s history and culture, capture beautiful photos, and ensure a smooth and unforgettable half-day adventure!
Available options
Small Group Tour
Small Group Tour: Our small group tours are thoughtfully designed to offer participants an efficient and enriching experience of Kyoto!
Private Tour
Private Tour: Our private tour offers a flexible schedule and a relaxed pace for a personalized experience!
What's included
Professional Photos will be Taken During the Tour!
Passionate Local English-Speaking Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Fushimi Inari is one of Kyoto's most iconic Shrines, known for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that form scenic pathways up the forested Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity.
2
Stop 2
Arashiyama has been a popular destination since the Heian period (794–1185), when nobles came here to enjoy the beautiful seasonal scenery. The area is especially famous for cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in autumn. The Bamboo Grove is one of Arashiyama’s most iconic spots. Walking through the tall, swaying bamboo creates a peaceful and almost otherworldly experience. In the past, bamboo was also used for tools and building materials in daily life.
3
Stop 3
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of Kyoto’s top attractions, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by thousands of tall bamboo stalks.
4
The Arashiyama Kimono Forest is one of Kyoto’s hidden gems — a pathway of illuminated kimono-style art poles that showcase Japan’s elegant textile designs.
5
Stop 5
Togetsukyo Bridge, meaning “Moon Crossing Bridge,” is a famous landmark in Arashiyama. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty of the river, mountains, and changing seasons.
6
Monkey Park Iwatayama is located on a small mountain in Arashiyama, Kyoto. After a short hike (about 20 minutes), you’ll reach the top, where over 100 wild Japanese macaques live freely. Unlike a zoo, the monkeys are not in cages—you enter their space. You can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Kyoto city from the top, and even feed the monkeys with special snacks. It’s a fun and unique experience, especially for families and nature lovers!
What's not included
Public Transportation Fare
Admission Fee: Monkey Park Iwatayama
Food and Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This tour is designed as a WALKING experience, using public transportation and plenty of time on foot to explore Kyoto.
If you are late for the meeting time, you will not be able to join the tour or receive a refund.
Meeting point
The tour starts at the central exit of Kyoto Station, near Kyoto Tower. Your guide will be waiting by the yellow map next to the 7-Eleven, holding a board with the our logo. (Detailed meeting instructions, including pictures, will be provided after booking.)
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
![[Kyoto & Nara Day Trip] Arashiyama Train & Nara Park & Fushimi Inari Shrine's Thousand Torii Gates & Togetsukyo Bridge & Bamboo Forest Path & Kimono Forest (Departure from Osaka)](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/activities/nwrlvoqxc4roubxbiywr.jpg)
![[Kyoto's Top 3 Must-See Spots Day Tour] Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion Temple/Rokuon-ji) World Heritage Site & Kiyomizu-dera Temple Prayers & Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka & Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine's Thousand Torii Gates | Departs from Kyoto or Osaka](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/activities/xocq2plv5xrxzka7pg9l.jpg)
