Private Tour
Kyoto: Arashiyama Early Access Bamboo & Temple Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience the essential beauty of Arashiyama on this perfectly condensed walking tour. In just a few hours, your expert local guide will lead you to the district's three absolute must-see sights.
Begin with the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, capturing its stunning views against the backdrop of mountains. Then, find tranquility as you explore the magnificent World Heritage garden of Tenryu-ji Temple. Finally, immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the world-famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Throughout the tour, your guide will share fascinating stories and historical context, bringing Kyoto's rich culture and natural wonders to life. This engaging itinerary is the perfect way to efficiently discover the unique charm and unforgettable scenery of Arashiyama.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Togetsukyo Bridge
Begin your Arashiyama exploration at the iconic Togetsu-kyo Bridge. Cross this famous landmark, enjoying the picturesque views of the Oi River and the surrounding mountains that make Arashiyama so beloved. Your guide will share stories about the bridge's history and significance as a symbol of the area.
Tenryu-ji Temple
Next, visit the magnificent Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take your time to explore the stunning Sogenchi Teien Garden, considered one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens. Immerse yourself in the Zen atmosphere and learn about the temple's important role in Japanese history from your guide.
What‘s Included
Local Guide
Admission to the Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
Transportation fees (The tour is conducted entirely on foot)
Food and beverages
Options
Kyoto: Arashiyama Early Access Bamboo & Temple Tour
Reviews
5 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
It was a wonderful experience
tessahH6793CZ,,Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I'm writing this review because I had a wonderful experience. Arashiyama is a little far from Kyoto Station, making it difficult to get there casually, but by participating in this tour, I was able to truly appreciate the beauty of Arashiyama. I was able to efficiently visit great tourist spots like the bamboo forest and Togetsukyo Bridge. Yumi, my guide, was also very kind and helpful.
The Best Tour Experience in Kyoto!
Q2830OMjamess,,Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I recently joined a guided tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, and it was truly one of the most unforgettable travel experiences I’ve ever had. From start to finish, everything about the tour exceeded my expectations. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing the history and culture of the area. Walking through the famous Bamboo Grove felt surreal—peaceful, majestic, and even more beautiful than the photos I had seen online. The guide shared fascinating stories about the forest and pointed out details I never would have noticed on my own, making the experience deeper and more meaningful. We also visited beautiful temples tucked between the mountains and explored charming local streets filled with traditional houses, shops, and tea stalls. The timing and pace of the tour were perfect, allowing us to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. I especially loved the scenic walk along the Katsura River. The view of the water, mountains, and sky was stunning, and it made me appreciate how special Arashiyama is—not just as a tourist spot, but as a place of natural beauty and cultural heritage. By the end of the day, I felt like I had truly experienced Arashiyama, not just “visited” it. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone traveling to Kyoto. It was educational, inspiring, and absolutely worth every moment. If you’re looking for a tour that brings Kyoto’s history and atmosphere to life, this is the one!
I'm glad I joined the tour!
84bobyb,,Nov 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I am so grateful for this tour. If I hadn't joined the tour, I would never have been able to see the beautiful scenery of Arashiyama. This was exactly the Japan I was looking for. I can't thank Ken enough for organizing the tour.
The bamboo forest is a must-see
johnfF8424TR,,Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00On this tour, we went to see the bamboo forest, and it was much better than I expected. Taka, who accompanied us on the tour, was very kind and taught us a lot about Kyoto.
If you want to take a private tour in Kyoto, this is the place to go.
jackwW1485OK,,Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you're looking for a private tour in Kyoto, I highly recommend this place! I was able to get the information and interact with the guide that only a private tour can provide. I would definitely like to use their services again when I visit Tokyo.
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Operated by JAPAN TRAVEL STAGE