Kyoto: Arashiyama Day Tour with Train, Boat, and Onsen

If you’re planning a day trip to Kyoto and want to experience its famed natural beauty and traditional charm in one seamless package, the Arashiyama Day Tour with Train, Boat, and Onsen might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviewing the detailed feedback and itinerary provides a clear picture of what travelers can expect—an immersive, varied day amidst Kyoto’s lush landscapes.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the scenic ride on the Sagano Romantic Train offers fantastic views of the mountains and river. Second, the boat ride on the Hozugawa River is described as both soothing and exciting, providing a different perspective of the area’s natural scenery. Lastly, the walk through the Bamboo Grove offers that quintessential Kyoto photo opportunity, paired with the chance to relax in an onsen, rounding out a day full of authentic Japanese highlights.

However, a potential consideration is that some reviewers felt the tour’s value might be less if you prefer a more flexible, self-guided experience. Plus, the onsen fee is not included in the price, so budget accordingly. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate guided experiences, want convenience, and enjoy diverse activities in a small group setting.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: From train rides to river views, the tour showcases Kyoto’s natural beauty.
• Authentic experiences: Walking through the Bamboo Grove and relaxing in a traditional onsen offer genuine cultural moments.
• Small group intimacy: Personalized attention from guides enhances the experience.
• Flexible itinerary options: Guides are willing to adapt activities based on interests, as evidenced by positive reviews.
• Value for money: At $150, the combination of transport, scenery, and cultural activities offers a compelling package.
• Consider extra costs: The onsen fee is additional, and some transportation costs outside of the tour may be on your tab.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Arashiyama Day Tour

Starting with the Sagano Romantic Train: Scenic Ride of a Lifetime

The journey begins aboard the Sagano Romantic Train, a highlight for many travelers. This train offers a leisurely ride through the mountains, with open-air cars that give you unobstructed views of Kyōto’s lush scenery. Reviewers mention how the ride is not just a means of transport but a memorable part of the day itself, with some describing it as “scenic” and “breathtaking.” This train is particularly popular for its panoramic windows and gentle pace, making it suitable for snapping photos.

The Hozugawa River Boat Ride: Calm Yet Thrilling

Next, the tour takes you on a boat ride along the Hozugawa River. This segment is often praised as a peaceful way to see the landscapes, but some reviews note an element of adventure or excitement, especially if the river has a little current. The crews speak English, which helps, though there’s no guide on the boat itself. It’s a relaxed ride that lets you take in the scenery at a gentle pace, perfect for unwinding after the train journey.

Walking Through Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove

No trip to Arashiyama is complete without strolling through the famous Bamboo Grove. The towering bamboo stalks create an almost otherworldly atmosphere—calm, mysterious, and photogenic. Reviewers highlight this as a “must-see,” with many taking countless photos to capture the magical environment. The walk is fairly short but deeply memorable, especially if timed early or late in the day when crowds are thinner.

More Great Tours Nearby

Relaxing in a Traditional Onsen

The tour concludes with an optional Onsen experience. Though the fee isn’t included, guests rave about how soaking in the natural hot spring waters surrounded by nature is the perfect way to end the day. Multiple reviewers mention the relaxing effect and the chance to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. It’s important to note that this is a separate expense, so budget for that extra cost.

The Small Group Advantage

One of the biggest perks, highlighted by happy travelers like Jolan and Michele, is the small group setting. It allows guides to be more attentive, flexible, and engaging. Guides like Itsuki have been praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and willingness to adapt the itinerary based on guests’ preferences. This personal touch elevates the experience beyond a standard tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded day in Kyoto, combining scenic transport, natural beauty, and cultural relaxation. It suits those who prefer guided experiences for convenience and insights but don’t want the rigidity of a large group. The itinerary is adaptable, making it friendly for those with varied interests—whether you’re into photography, nature, or traditional hot springs.

However, if you’re a budget traveler who prefers to explore independently or dislike extra costs (like the onsen fee), you might want to consider planning some parts of the day on your own. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or children under 3 feet tall, so plan accordingly.

Analyzing the Value

At $150 per person, this tour offers a well-curated introduction to Arashiyama’s highlights. The combination of train, boat, bamboo stroll, and optional onsen creates a day packed with diverse experiences. When you consider the cost of separate tickets for each activity—plus transportation and guide fees—it’s a good deal, especially with the peace of mind that comes from having a guide coordinate logistics.

Positive reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see less touristy sides of Arashiyama, such as the optional mineral foot bath. The flexibility shown by guides like Itsuki means you’re more likely to enjoy personalized experiences rather than a rigid schedule.

What You Should Know About the Tour

• Transportation: The scenic train ride is included, but some other transport segments outside of the tour are on your own (like returning home with Suica cards).
• Duration: The tour typically lasts a full day, providing enough time to savor each activity without rushing.
• Group Size: Small groups enhance interaction and flexibility, as per reviews.
• Additional Costs: The onsen fee and any meals or personal expenses are extra, so budget for those.

Final Thoughts

For travelers who want a balanced, authentic day in Kyoto with a mix of scenic train rides, tranquil river views, iconic bamboo landscapes, and relaxing hot springs, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially beneficial for those who value guided insights, small group intimacy, and a thoughtfully planned itinerary.

The price point is reasonable considering the variety of activities and transport included, and the positive feedback about guides’ friendliness and knowledge makes it a reliable choice. While some might find it less flexible or prefer to DIY parts of the day, the convenience and curated experiences make this tour a wonderful option for most visitors.

If your goal is to see the best of Arashiyama in one day, enjoy scenic rides, and end with a soothing onsen soak, this tour offers solid value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is transportation to and from the meeting point included?
No, the tour covers activities and transport during the day, but you are responsible for your own transportation to the meeting point and back home.

How much does the onsen cost?
The onsen fee is not included in the $150 tour price, so you’ll need to pay separately to enjoy the hot springs.

Can I change the itinerary if I’ve already seen some of the sights?
Yes, reviews mention guides being flexible and willing to adapt, such as replacing visits to the bamboo grove with other local activities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 feet (90 cm), and the tour may not be appropriate for wheelchair users due to the nature of activities.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable clothing and shoes for walking, a camera, and weather-appropriate gear.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, but you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this Kyoto Arashiyama Day Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally enriching experience. Its combination of guided convenience, beautiful landscapes, and relaxing moments makes it ideal for travelers eager to soak in the essence of Kyoto in just one day. Perfect for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, nature, and tradition wrapped into a manageable, enjoyable package.

You can check availability for your dates here: