Arashiyama from Kyoto: Private & Personalized with a Local Guide

Kyoto, JP
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (45 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Private, personalized walking tour with a passionate local host
  • inclusion
    Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the experience to your interests
  • inclusion
    Admission to Okochi Sanso Villa and Monkey Park Iwatayama
  • inclusion
    Tickets to 4 of these 5 temples: Tenryu-ji, Jojakko-ji, Gio-ji, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Daikaku-ji
  • inclusion
    Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and tips

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities (optional)
  • exclusion
    Food and drinks
  • exclusion
    Additional tickets for any attractions not listed in the inclusions
  • exclusion
    Transportation (primarily a walking experience; public transport may be used at an additional cost)
  • exclusion
    Bicycle rentals

Meeting Point

This is a great central point to meet your host if your hotel is not listed.

Meeting point

〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, 京都府京都市 下京区烏丸通塩小路下る東塩小路町901 , Japan

End point

End Point

This is a great central point to meet your host if your hotel is not listed.

Meeting point

〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, 京都府京都市 下京区烏丸通塩小路下る東塩小路町901 , Japan

End point

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Ala Hotel Kyoto
Almont Hotel Kyoto
APA Hotel Kyoto Eki Horikawadori
APA Hotel Kyoto Ekihigashi
APA Hotel Kyoto Ekikita
APA Hotel Kyoto Ekimae
APA Hotel Kyoto Ekimae Chuoguchi
Azumaya Ryokan Kyoto
Chidori
Comfort Hotel Kyoto Toji
Daiichi Grand Hostel Kyoto
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae PREMIER
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto hachijoguchi
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Terrace Hachijo Higashiguchi
Daiya Ryokan
Dormy Inn Premium Kyoto Ekimae
DoubleTree By Hilton Kyoto Station
Dusit Thani Kyoto
eph KYOTO
Fujiya Ryokan
Glanz Kei Kyoto Station
Green Rich Hotel Kyoto Eki Minami
Guest Inn Kyoto
Guesthouse Links
Hifumi Ryokan
Hokkaikan Ohanabo
Hotel Banister Kyoto
Hotel Briller Kyoto Station South
Hotel Elcient Kyoto Hachijoguchi
Hotel Excellence Kyoto Ekimae
Hotel Excellence Kyoto Station West
Hotel Glad One Kyoto Shichijo by M's
Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Hotel Hokke Club Kyoto
Hotel Iida
Hotel Il Verde Kyoto
Hotel Japanesque Kyoto Station ZEQUU
Hotel Kanra Kyoto
Hotel Keihan Kyoto Ekiminami
Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande
Hotel Keihan Kyoto Hachijoguchi
Hotel Kuu Kyoto
Hotel Livemax Kyoto Ekimae
Hotel M's Est Kyoto Station South
Hotel M's Est Nanajo
Hotel New Hankyu Kyoto
Hotel Station Kyoto Main
Hotel Station Kyoto West
Hotel Tetora Kyoto Ekimae
Hotel The M's Kyoto
Hotel Tou Nishinotoin Kyoto
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia
Ibis Styles Kyoto Station
Iseya Ryokan
Izumiya Ryokan
Kikokuso
Kikokutei Bekkan
Kishida Ryokan
Kuwacho Ryokan
Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Honganji
Kyoto Century Hotel
Kyoto City Gardens Hotel
Kyoto Crystal Hotel III
Kyoto Hot Spring Hatoya Zuihokaku Hotel
Kyoto Plaza Hotel
Kyoto Plaza Hotel Annex
Kyoto Plaza Hotel Kyoto Station South
Kyoto Takasegawa Bettei
Kyoto Tower Hotel
Kyoto Tower Hotel Annex
LOISIR HOTEL KYOTO TOJI
MARUFUKURO
Matsubaya Ryokan
Matsumoto Ryokan
Mercure Kyoto Station
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station
Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
MONday Apart Premium KYOTO Station
MONday Apart Premium Kyotoeki Kamogawa
M’s Hotel Kyoto Station Kizuya
M’s Hotel Kyoto Station Taruya
Nagomiyado Towa Ryokan
Nazuna Kyoto Higashihonganji
New Ginkaku Inn
Niigataya Ryokan
Nishikiro Ryokan
OMO3 Kyototoji by Hoshino Resorts
Owariya Ryokan
Oyado Niwa
R&B Hotel Kyoto Eki Hachijoguchi
Rakucho
Rakuten STAY Kyoto Station
Ref Kyoto Hachijoguchi By Vessel Hotels
Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae
Rihga Gran Kyoto
RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
Rinn Kyoto Station West
Rokan Ginkaku Kyoto
Rokujo House
Royal Twin Hotel Kyoto
Ryokan Heianbo
Ryokan Kyoka
Ryokan Kyoraku
Ryokan Matsukame
Ryokan Ohto
Ryokan Sanoya
Ryokan Shimizu
RyokanYuhara
Sakura Terrace
Sakura Terrace The Gallery
Sanco Inn Kyoto Hachijoguchi
Satomo Ryokan
Shizuya Kyoto
Smile Hotel Kyoto Karasumagojo
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi
Super Hotel Kyoto Karasuma Gojo
Tennen Onsen Renka no Yu Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo
The Box Hotel Kyoto
THE THOUSAND KYOTO
Traditional Kyoto Inn Serving Kyoto Cuisine IZUYASU
Tsumugi Kyoto Ekimae
Tune Stay Kyoto
Uoiwa Ryokan
Urbain Kyoto Kawaramachidori
Via Inn Kyotoeki Hachijoguchi
Wajimaya Ryokan
Wakamiya
Yamadaya Ryokan
Yasumoto Ryokan
This is a walking tour. Your host will meet you at your selected hotel, and the tour will begin on foot. If you’d prefer to meet at a central location instead, please choose the meeting point option. If your hotel isn’t on the list, simply select the central landmark option. This is a private walking experience. Once you’ve booked, our Experience Planners will get in touch to confirm the meeting point and help with any final details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your personalized tour. NO private vehicle is included. For longer distances, your host may suggest using public transport. Any transport costs can be settled on the day.

What to expect

1
Arashiyama

Explore the stunning scenery of the Arashiyama district, including its world-famous Bamboo Grove. Wander serene lanes and hidden pathways with your knowledgeable local host, who will share the area’s rich history and local legends.

2

Jojakkoji

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Discover this hidden gem tucked away on the slopes of Ogura Mountain. Jojakko-ji is a peaceful temple known for its lush moss gardens and a 12-meter pagoda offering breathtaking panoramic views over Arashiyama.

3
Monkey Park Iwatayama

Meet the cheeky residents of this hillside park—Japanese macaques roaming freely in their natural habitat. Hike up for fantastic city views while your host shares tips on respectful wildlife interaction.

4
Tenryu-ji Temple

A true highlight of Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples. Learn about Japanese Buddhism while strolling through its famous landscape garden, designed to inspire quiet reflection.

5

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

Venture off the beaten path to this wonderfully quirky temple on Arashiyama’s outskirts. Admire over 1,200 whimsical rakan statues, each with its own expression—making this a memorably unexpected stop.

6
Daikaku-ji Temple

Explore this former imperial villa turned temple, which played a key role in Japan’s cultural history. Ask your host about The Tale of Genji, Japan’s first novel, whose scenes are set here, and enjoy the serene pond garden and elegant architecture.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    After booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests, preferences, and must-sees. Your guide will personally reach out to craft a fully customized itinerary that suits your style—whether you love history, food, hidden gems, or cultural experiences.
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Public transportation or local taxis may be used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with your host after your reservation is finalized.
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    This private tour is a walking experience. A private vehicle is not included.
Provided by City Unscripted

What our experts say

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    Try the sweet shop near the bridge.
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    Visit the Monkey Park early for fun!
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    Explore the hidden temples along the way.
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    Enjoy lunch at a local eatery nearby.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the enchanting district of Arashiyama, nestled in the heart of Kyoto, on a captivating day trip. Immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of this picturesque area, famous for its Bamboo Grove and mischievous monkeys. This private and personalized experience allows you to explore the hidden gems and lesser-known sites, ensuring a unique adventure tailored to your interests and preferences.

What to Expect?

During this 360-minute tour, you can expect to embark on a journey through Arashiyama's stunning scenery with a knowledgeable and friendly local host as your guide. Lose yourself in the ethereal bamboo grove, where sunlight filters through the tall stalks, creating a magical atmosphere. Venture beyond the tourist hotspots and discover hidden gems like the Jojakko-ji Temple, offering breathtaking views of Arashiyama from its towering pagoda. And don't forget to make a visit to the cute and playful monkeys at the Arashiyama Monkey Park.

Who is this for?

This unique experience is suitable for all travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family in search of a memorable excursion, this tour caters to all.

Why Book This?

Embarking on this personalized tour allows you to make the most of your time in Arashiyama, as your host will curate the itinerary based on your interests and preferences. You'll not only explore famous landmarks like Tenryuji Temple, but also uncover lesser-known temples and sublime gardens that are off the beaten path. The chance to delve into Japanese culture, history, and literature, all while in the company of a local expert, makes this experience truly worthwhile.

Good to Know

Ensure to answer a short questionnaire about your personality and interests upon booking. This will help match you with a like-minded host who will communicate directly with you to suggest an itinerary. Keep in mind that this itinerary is flexible, allowing you to make spontaneous decisions during the experience. With the freedom to tailor the tour to your liking, you'll be guaranteed an unforgettable adventure.

Reviews

Previous travelers rave about the personalized approach of this experience, praising their hosts for their extensive knowledge and the unique insights they provided. Visitors particularly enjoyed the opportunity to explore hidden temples and relax in the serene landscapes of Arashiyama. Words like "amazing," "captivating," and "unforgettable" are frequently used to describe this private and personalized tour.

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