Private Day Tour - Kyoto Arashiyama & Bamboo Forest Perfect Tour!

Kyoto , Japan

Private Day Tour - Kyoto Arashiyama & Bamboo Forest Perfect Tour!

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(20 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Saga/Arashiyama, located in the western part of Kyoto City, is home to many attractive spots that transport visitors back a thousand years ago, such as historic temples and shrines, bamboo forest paths, and bridges across the Katsura River.
This tour will take you through Arashiyama's scenic spots and provide you with a wealth of Kyoto's history and seasonal beauty.
Even though it's my first time, I'm sure I'll want to visit again. Let's go on a perfect tour of Arashiyama to enjoy with all five senses!

[Visit Spots]
・Nonomiya Shrine
・Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
・Jojakko-ji Temple
・Tenryu-ji Temple
・Arashiyama Shopping Street
・Togetsu-kyo Bridge
・Arashiyama Monky Park

Available options

Standard

What's included

Private Tour

Necessary expenses for the tour guide

Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Nonomiya Shrine:
This shrine is located in the bamboo forest of Arashiyama. This shrine was the setting for the 1,000-year-old historical work The Tale of Genji, and is believed to bring blessings such as marriage and fertility. Enjoy the quiet and magical atmosphere of the temple grounds, which are close to the bamboo forest path.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove:
The bamboo forest path is one of Kyoto's most famous sightseeing spots. Bamboo trees about 20 meters high stand on both sides of the 400 meter long road, making it look like a green tunnel. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll while being surrounded by the refreshing scent of bamboo.

Stop 3

Jojakko-ji Temple:
This is a temple surrounded by lush greenery located halfway up Mt. Ogura. Many maple trees are planted within the grounds, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of each season. Because it is located on a hill, you can get a panoramic view of the area around Arashiyama, and you can take pictures of the beautiful scenery along with the pagoda.

Stop 4

Tenryu-ji Temple:
It is a representative Zen temple in Arashiyama, Kyoto. This prestigious and historic temple was built by the first shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate, and there are many attractions within the grounds, including a beautiful garden and a large dragon painting. Experience Zen at a temple surrounded by the beautiful nature of Arashiyama.

Stop 5

Arashiyama shopping street:
This is Arashiyama's main street. There are many shops representing Kyoto and Arashiyama. Not only can you enjoy gourmet food unique to Kyoto, but buying souvenirs is also fun.

Togetsukyo Bridge:
This is a famous bridge that spans the Katsura River and is a symbol of the Arashiyama area. It is said that the unique name of the bridge was derived from the way the moon moves over the bridge. Take a commemorative photo on the bridge, which was designed to blend in with Arashiyama's beautiful scenery.

Arashiyama Monkey Park IWATAYAMA:
This park is home to Arashiyama's wild monkeys, and is a popular spot where you can enjoy interacting with them. You can also see the city of Kyoto from the top of the mountain. Enjoy contact with animals and nature at the same time!

What's not included

Estimated Costs of the Tour: 3,500 JPY per Person

Breakdown: Transportation: 0 JPY, Admission Fees: 2,400 JPY, Meal costs: 1,000 JPY per Person

Optional Experience Costs: 100 JPY per Person

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

18 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All transportation costs, entrance fees, food and drink costs, etc. incurred at the visited spots, will be borne by the customer.

If the weather is bad on the day, there is a possibility that the means of transportation, destinations, and routes may be changed.

The disbanding location is different from the meeting location. If you wish to change the dissolution location, please consult your guide.

There will be a lot of walking, so please wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

Meeting point

JR Saga Arashiyama Station, in front of the ticket gate

Important notes

・Please contact us using the messaging feature or WhatsApp message : +81 80-7475-5829.
・Please note that we do not answer calls. In case of any difficulties meeting up, kindly call your tour guide directly.
・All transportation costs, entrance fees, food and drink costs, etc. incurred at the visited spots, will be borne by the customer.
・If you do not arrive at the specified starting place after 60 minutes from the agreed meeting time, the tour will be considered canceled.

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.