Setting out on a cultural journey, the Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the art of sacred stamp collecting. Led by knowledgeable guides, this intimate walking tour allows participants to discover the significance behind the stamps obtained from temples and shrines, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Arashiyama district. With all fees covered, the tour promises a hassle-free experience, leaving travelers intrigued to uncover more about this captivating tradition.
Key Points

- The tour offers a unique cultural experience of collecting goshuin (sacred stamps) from temples and shrines in Arashiyama, Kyoto.
- The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and has a group size limited to 6 participants for an intimate experience.
- The tour includes all fees and taxes, but personal expenses for the goshuin stamp collection book are not covered.
- The tour is accessible via public transportation, but not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain.
- The tour has received 5-star ratings from previous participants, highlighting the knowledgeable guide and the overall organization of the experience.
Tour Overview

The Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region.
For $42.90 per person, travelers can join a small group of up to 6 people on a guided tour. The tour includes all fees and taxes, as well as an English-speaking guide.
Participants can collect the coveted goshuin, or stamps, from various temples and shrines in the area. The tour starts at Matsuo-Taisha Station and ends at a different location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
Looking for more options in Kyoto? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Inclusions
The Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, includes all fees and taxes as well as an English-speaking guide to assist participants throughout the experience.
The guide will provide valuable insights and help navigate the process of obtaining sacred stamps, known as Goshuin, from various temples and shrines in the area.
However, the cost of personal expenses, such as purchasing the Goshuinchō (stamp collection book) or the Goshuin themselves, isn’t included in the tour price.
Travelers are responsible for covering these optional costs during the tour.
Meeting and Pickup

Participants will meet their guide at Matsuo-Taisha Station, located in Arashiyama’s Miyanomaecho neighborhood in Kyoto’s Nishikyo Ward.
The meeting point is easily identifiable, as it’s next to a big red Torii gate on the left and the train tracks on the right.
The tour won’t end at the same location; instead, you will be guided to a different endpoint.
Accessibility-wise, the tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly but is accessible via public transportation.
Most travelers can participate in this Goshuin collecting experience in the picturesque Arashiyama area of Kyoto.
Accessibility and Participation
Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s easily reached via public transportation. The tour is suitable for most travelers, as long as they’re able to stand and walk for the duration of the experience.
Key accessibility and participation details include:
- Primarily walking tour, with some stops to receive Goshuin stamps.
- Near major subway and train stations, making it convenient to access.
- Appropriate for participants who can navigate uneven terrain and follow an English-speaking guide.
- Advance booking recommended, as group size is limited to 6 travelers.
Reviews and Ratings
Just a single 5-star review has been left for this Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto. The review praises the knowledgeable guide, seamless organization, and unique cultural experience. While the sample size is small, the rating is excellent, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction. A breakdown of the review ratings is provided below:
| Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|
| 5 stars | 1 |
| 4 stars | 0 |
| 3 stars | 0 |
| 2 stars | 0 |
| 1 star | 0 |
The review authenticity has been verified, providing confidence in the positive feedback for this tour.
- Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari & Gion Geisha District
- Kyoto: Visit Mario Papas Hometown and Great Lunch⭐️
- Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Monkey Mountain Walking Tour
- From Kyoto/Osaka: Sagano Train Ride and Guided Day Tour
- Kyoto:Three Gardens Bike Tour
- Taste of Nishiki Market Walking Food Tour With Local Guide
Goshuin Collecting in Arashiyama
What makes the Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, so unique? The ancient temples and shrines in this scenic district offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to collect unique temple stamps, known as Goshuin.
Visitors can:
- Explore iconic landmarks like Tenryū-ji Temple and Ōkōchi Sansō Villa.
- Receive personalized Goshuin from the priests at each site.
- Learn the cultural significance and history behind this centuries-old practice.
- Curate a personalized Goshuinchō (stamp book) as a lasting memento of their Kyoto experience.
Immersing oneself in this traditional Japanese ritual elevates the Arashiyama tour into a truly memorable cultural encounter.
Highlights of the Tour
The Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, allows participants to enjoy the centuries-old Japanese tradition of collecting temple stamps, known as Goshuin.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour takes visitors to several renowned temples and shrines in the picturesque Arashiyama district.
Participants can purchase a Goshuinchō, a dedicated book for collecting Goshuin, and have it stamped at each site, creating a unique and personalized memento of their journey.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and authentic experience, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a specific dress code. Comfortable, casual attire is recommended as the tour involves walking. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for potential changes in temperature or precipitation during the activity.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
The tour allows photography during the experience. Participants are free to capture images of the shrines and temples visited throughout the tour, allowing them to document their goshuin collecting journey.
Can I Bring My Own Goshuinchō to Be Stamped?
Yes, participants can bring their own goshuinchō to be stamped during the tour. The tour includes the English guide assisting with obtaining the stamps from the temples and shrines visited.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Temple?
The tour spends about 30-45 minutes at each temple, allowing participants to collect stamps in their goshuinchō or purchase one on-site. The total tour duration is 2-3 hours, with ample time to explore the temples at a leisurely pace.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There’s no minimum age requirement stated for this tour. It’s suitable for most travelers, though it may not be wheelchair accessible. Participants should be able to comfortably walk and visit the temples.
The Sum Up
The Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto offers a unique cultural experience. Priced at $42.90 per person, the tour accommodates up to six participants and is guided by an English-speaking expert. Visitors can discover the art of collecting sacred stamps while enjoying the picturesque backdrop of Arashiyama. With all fees covered, the tour provides a hassle-free and memorable journey into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
More Private Drivers in Kyoto
- Private Airport Transfer Kansai Airport in Kyoto Using Hiace
- Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX) to Kyoto – Round-Trip Private Transfer
- Minivan Departure Transfer From Kyoto City to Kansai Airport KIX
- Kansai Airport (KIX) to Kyoto Hotels – Roundtrip Private Transfer
- Kyoto Hotels to Kansai Airport (KIX) – Departure Private Transfer
- Kansai Airport (KIX) to Kyoto Hotels – Arrival Private Transfer
More City Tours in Kyoto
- Minivan Departure Transfer From Kyoto City to Kansai Airport KIX
- City Escape: Arashiyama Park Private Day Trip
- City Cycle (With Child Seat)
- 3 Perfect Days in Japan: Private Tokyo City, Mount Fuji & Kyoto
- Japan Private Transfer From Nagoya Airport to Kyoto City
- Narita Airport to Kyoto City Japan | Private Transfer.
More Tour Reviews in Kyoto
- Kyoto and Nara Private Trip
- Learn Japanese guitar “Shamisen”
- Kyoto Sushi & Takoyaki Cooking Class near Gion and Kiyomizu-dera!
- Kyoto and Nara Day Trip – Golden Pavilion and Todaiji from Osaka
- Full Day Tour of Kyoto with Private Transportation
- Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Authentic Zen Experience
Still browsing? Here are more Kyoto experiences we've covered recently
- Kyoto and Nara Private Trip
- Learn Japanese guitar “Shamisen”
- Kyoto Sushi & Takoyaki Cooking Class near Gion and Kiyomizu-dera!
- Kyoto and Nara Day Trip – Golden Pavilion and Todaiji from Osaka
- Full Day Tour of Kyoto with Private Transportation
- Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Authentic Zen Experience
- Matcha Grinding Experience and Walking Tour in Uji Kyoto
- Kyoto Hidden Treasures: Special Temple & Garden Access Tour
- Kyoto Uji and Nara Tour with Sushi Making Experience
- Kyoto Private Customizable Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
- Himeji Castle and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge Walking Tour from Kyoto
- Full Day Kyoto Tour : Bamboo Forest, Golden Temple, Fushimi Inari
