Experience Kyoto Katsura River boat Adventure in Arashiyama
Overview
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Mobile ticket
Explore the serene beauty of Arashiyama on this captivating day tour, featuring visits to unique temples and a scenic bamboo grove. Discover the whimsical stone figures at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, contemplate the memorial stones at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, and stroll along the historic Saga-Toriimoto Street. Experience tranquility at the UNESCO-listed Tenryū-ji Temple before immersing yourself in the enchanting bamboo forest. Conclude your day with a private river cruise on the Katsura River, hosted by a former maiko who shares Kyoto's rich cultural heritage through music and storytelling.
- Visit iconic sites including Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and Tenryū-ji Temple
- Enjoy a private boat cruise on the Katsura River with a former maiko
- Stroll through Arashiyama's famous bamboo grove and preserved streets
- Experience local culture and history in a small group setting
This tour requires an easy level of fitness. We use buses and boats, so unfortunately it is not wheelchair accessible at this time.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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
What To Expect
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
In the quiet hills, we first visit Ōtagi Nenbutsu-ji, a hidden temple filled with 1,200 stone guardians, each carved by ordinary people under the guidance of a devoted priest. The statues—some smiling, some mischievous, some serene—create a joyful and spiritual atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Kyoto. You can find your “favorite face" and take a photo with it.
Adashino Nembetsu-ji Temple
From here we descend to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, where thousands of stone memorials stand in neat terraces. For centuries this was a burial ground for those without family, and today the temple honors their spirits in a striking landscape of stone and silence. A bamboo path winds behind the temple, offering a quiet moment of reflection before we continue.
What‘s Included
We will use trains and buses
A private tour on the boat with the Maiko
Entrance to temples and shrines are included
Lunch and snacks are not included
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Options
Join from Kyoto Station (Kyoto Tower Starbucks) Flexible Departure
Reviews
1 review
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
We had an incredible...
John M,Feb 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had an incredible experience on this tour and thought it gave a lot of meaning to our time in Kyoto. Justin was insightful, enthusiastic, and a great overall guide. There was structure but also flexibility to explore what we wanted. We would recommend this tour to anyone looking for a unique and authentic Kyoto experience!
Multiple Options Available
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.)