Arashiyama Highlights With Matcha Experience

Exploring the serene Arashiyama district in Kyoto is a must for any cultural enthusiast. This tour offers the chance to experience the iconic bamboo grove, meditate at the Tenryuji temple, and partake in a traditional matcha tea ceremony led by a Zen monk. Guests can even try their hand at calligraphy, creating a unique memento of their visit. With a blend of natural beauty and rich culture, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Japan’s traditions.

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Key Points

Explore the scenic highlights of Arashiyama, Kyoto, including a matcha green tea ceremony led by a Zen monk.
Witness a captivating calligraphy demonstration by a Zen monk and receive a personalized calligraphic artwork.
Visit the iconic Tenryuji temple, one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples, as part of the tour.
Immerse in Kyoto’s cultural heritage through this immersive experience featuring traditional Japanese tea ritual and calligraphy.
The tour concludes at Kami-katsura Station, providing easy access to explore more of Kyoto’s attractions.

Tour Overview

Travelers will experience the highlights of Arashiyama, a renowned district in Kyoto, Japan. This private tour includes a matcha green tea experience and traditional tea ceremony.

Participants will also witness a Zen monk’s calligraphy demonstration. The tour covers the iconic Tenryuji temple, one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples.

Throughout the experience, travelers will enjoy the serene and picturesque landscape of Arashiyama, renowned for its bamboo grove, river, and mountain views.

The tour concludes at Kami-katsura Station, allowing easy access to explore more of Kyoto’s attractions.

Looking for more options in Kyoto? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Inclusions

The tour includes the tea ceremony fee, which allows participants to experience the traditional Japanese tea ritual.

Visitors also receive entrance to Tenryuji temple, one of Kyoto’s most prominent Zen temples.

As an added perk, guests will receive a colorful calligraphy piece created by a Zen monk.

Gratuities are taken care of, so there are no hidden costs.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for the tour is JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, located in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, with the postal code 〒616-8373.

Look for a sign with your name held in the plaza outside the station’s ticket gates.

The tour ends at Kami-katsura Station in Kamikatsura Miyanogocho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto (postal code 615-8227).

The tour starts at 1:00 PM and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Confirmation is received at booking, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts with no penalty.

Tour Details

The tour starts at 1:00 PM.

It’s not wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.

The tour includes:

Exploring the highlights of Arashiyama, Kyoto
Experiencing a traditional matcha tea ceremony
Viewing a colored calligraphy demonstration by a Zen monk
Visiting the iconic Tenryuji temple
Ending at the Kami-katsura Station

While the tour doesn’t accommodate wheelchairs, it’s an immersive experience for those who can participate, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Booking Information

Prices for the Arashiyama Highlights tour start from $39.93 per person, varying based on group size.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in their planning.

The tour includes a tea ceremony fee, entrance to Tenryuji temple, and a special calligraphy piece – all with gratuities covered.

The tour begins at 1:00 PM and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.

It’s located near public transportation for easy access.

There's plenty more to explore in Kyoto

Arashiyama: A Cultural Gem

Nestled in the western outskirts of Kyoto, Arashiyama is a captivating cultural gem that beckons visitors to enjoy the timeless traditions of Japan.

This enchanting district boasts:

Lush bamboo groves that create a serene, otherworldly atmosphere.
Historic Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning garden views.
Colorful Togetsu-kyo Bridge, a beloved landmark offering panoramic vistas of the Katsura River.
Unique shopping opportunities featuring traditional crafts and local delicacies.
A chance to experience the refined art of the tea ceremony and witness a Zen monk’s calligraphy demonstration.

Arashiyama’s blend of natural beauty and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Japan.

The Matcha Experience

Immersing oneself in the rich tea culture of Arashiyama is a highlight of this captivating tour. Participants will experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony led by a Zen monk. They’ll learn the intricate rituals and etiquette of preparing and serving matcha, a vibrant green tea. Afterwards, guests can try their hand at calligraphy under the monk’s guidance, creating a personalized work of art to take home.

Experience	Description	Duration
Matcha Preparation	Observe the precise steps of whisking the fine matcha powder into a frothy, emerald liquid	15 mins
Tea Ceremony	Participate in the choreographed, meditative ritual of serving and drinking matcha	30 mins
Calligraphy	Practice the elegant brushstrokes of Japanese calligraphy with personalized guidance	20 mins

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the tour to your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor the experience to suit your interests and needs within the overall tour structure.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography is generally allowed during the tea ceremony, but participants should be respectful and avoid disrupting the ceremony. It’s best to check with the tour guide or tea house staff about any specific photography guidelines.

What Should I Wear for the Tour?

For the tour, one should wear comfortable, modest clothing. Casual attire is appropriate, but avoid shorts, tank tops, or anything too revealing. Dress respectfully for the cultural experience and temple visit.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

You can’t bring your own food and drinks on this private tour. The tour includes a tea ceremony experience, so outside refreshments aren’t allowed. The guide will provide all necessary snacks and beverages during the experience.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?

The tour guide is fluent in English, allowing seamless communication during the experience. Their expertise ensures a smooth and informative tour for participants, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the Arashiyama highlights and matcha experience.

The Sum Up

The "Arashiyama Highlights With Matcha Experience" tour offers a unique blend of Kyoto’s natural beauty and cultural traditions. Visitors can enjoy the serene bamboo grove, explore the Tenryuji temple, and partake in a traditional matcha tea ceremony led by a Zen monk. This experience provides a memorable and enriching way to connect with the essence of Kyoto.