Explore Arashiyama’s hidden temples and serene bamboo forests. Discover wabi-sabi’s beauty in imperfection on this tranquil Kyoto walking tour.
Explore Arashiyama’s hidden temples and serene bamboo forests. Discover wabi-sabi’s beauty in imperfection on this tranquil Kyoto walking tour.
- Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple - Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a tranquil and lesser-known treasure, offering a distinctive and personal experience. The temple is famous for its collection of over 1,200 stone statues, known as rakan, each with unique facial expressions, creating a whimsical yet peaceful atmosphere. The serene gardens and natural…
- Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple - Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a tranquil and lesser-known treasure, offering a distinctive and personal experience. The temple is famous for its collection of over 1,200 stone statues, known as rakan, each with unique facial expressions, creating a whimsical yet peaceful atmosphere. The serene gardens and natural surroundings provide a calm space for reflection, away from the busy areas of Kyoto.
※Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is closed on Wednesdays.
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple will be visited instead.
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Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple - (Every Wednesday)
Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a serene Buddhist temple located in Kyoto’s Sagano district. Established in 811 by the monk Kūkai, it was created to honor those who passed away without family or proper burial. The temple grounds are filled with approximately 8,000 stone statues commemorating these forgotten souls, creating a profoundly moving atmosphere. - Saga Toriimoto Traditional Buildings Preservation Area - Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street is a historic hiking trail that leads from the base of Mount Atago to its summit, one of the highest points in Kyoto. Visitors can wander through a traditional village with thatched-roof houses, preserving the authentic charm of ancient Japan.
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Sabou Sagano - Enjoy a short break with one drink served (Coffee/Tea/Juice).
※Other drinks and menu items, including matcha, will be at your own expense. -
Jōjakkō-ji Temple - Jojakko-ji Temple is a peaceful retreat that combines nature, spirituality, and stunning views. Known for its beautiful gardens and historical significance, this temple offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and connection to Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
In spring, the temple is surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms, while in autumn, vibrant maple trees add color to the landscape. The temple is also a wonderful spot for appreciating Kyoto’s natural beauty year-round. -
Mikami Shrine - Mikami Shrine is a unique and spiritually significant site dedicated to beauty, specifically hair. Known as the shrine of hair, it is revered for its association with hair care, and visitors often come to pray for beautiful hair or to maintain healthy hair.
One of the most distinctive features of Mikami Shrine is the hair offerings. Visitors can leave small locks of hair at the shrine, symbolizing their desire for better hair. The shrine also offers hair-related prayers, where worshippers seek blessings for hair growth or beauty. - Ogura Pond - Ogura Pond is nestled among lush greenery, offering visitors a peaceful retreat. The calm waters reflect the surrounding trees and mountains, creating a picturesque scene that changes with the seasons, from the fresh greens of spring to the fiery colors of autumn.
The pond is tied to the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu, a famous collection of 100 classic Japanese poems written by different poets. The name “Ogura” refers to the poet Ogura Hyakunin Isshu, and the pond is thought to represent the spiritual beauty and poetic inspiration found in Kyoto’s natural landscape.
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Bamboo Forest Street - (Photo Spot)
The bamboo grove is one of Kyoto’s most photographed locations, and for good reason. The sheer height of the bamboo stalks, the gentle curves of the path, and the natural beauty around you create perfect opportunities for stunning photos. - Arashiyama Park, Kameyama Area - The park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Arashiyama Mountains, with its dense greenery and peaceful riverside settings. Whether walking along the river or relaxing in the park, the panoramic views create a serene and calming atmosphere.
With walking paths that wind through the park and along the Hozu River, Arashiyama Park invites visitors to take leisurely strolls, enjoy the quiet atmosphere, and explore the surrounding areas. The park is a great place to enjoy a relaxed walk or even rent a bike to explore more of the scenic routes.
- Togetsukyo Bridge - Togetsukyo Bridge spans the Hozu River in the picturesque Arashiyama district. Known for its majestic views of the surrounding mountains and river, this centuries-old bridge is not only a functional crossing but also a symbol of Kyoto’s rich cultural and natural beauty.
From Togetsukyo Bridge, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the Hozu River, with its crystal-clear waters winding through the valley. The surrounding mountains, especially the Arashiyama peaks, provide a stunning backdrop, particularly during autumn when the foliage turns fiery red and orange. In spring, the cherry blossoms along the river create a tranquil and picturesque scene.

- Tea and coffee
- Guided walk of Arashiyama
- Local Guide
- Admission fee for Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple and Jojakko-ji Temple
- Tea and coffee
- Guided walk of Arashiyama
- Local Guide
- Admission fee for Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple and Jojakko-ji Temple
Experience Arashiyama in a unique way with this small-group walking tour. While you will still explore renowned attractions like the Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge, the guide will also take you to lesser-known temples steeped in history, traditional villages, and picturesque local spots often overlooked by tourists. This tour is crafted to be both…
Experience Arashiyama in a unique way with this small-group walking tour. While you will still explore renowned attractions like the Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge, the guide will also take you to lesser-known temples steeped in history, traditional villages, and picturesque local spots often overlooked by tourists. This tour is crafted to be both visually stunning and culturally enriching, offering a deeper appreciation of Kyoto’s enduring charm.
・Discover the renowned Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge
・Uncover hidden temples with rich histories and genuine village streets
・Take postcard-perfect photos of seasonal landscapes and cultural landmarks
・Gain cultural insights and stories from an experienced local guide
・Enjoy a small-group setting for a relaxed and personalized experience
- Bus fee is excluded, have IC card or coins (¥230) prepared.
- Every Wednesday Otagi-Nenbutsu temple is closed, we will take you Adashino-Nenbutsu temple instead.
- A moderate amount of walking is involved. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
- The tour will take place rain or shine.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.