Kyoto’s Arashiyama district is a captivating destination that blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. On this private tour, visitors can enjoy the serene Bamboo Grove, explore the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji Temple, and interact with playful macaques at the Iwatayama Monkey Park. Whether you’re a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, this 3-hour adventure offers a unique opportunity to discover the enchanting landscapes and vibrant wildlife of this iconic Japanese region.
Key Points
- A 3-hour guided tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, that showcases the Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsu-kyō Bridge, and Iwatayama Monkey Park.
- Pricing ranges from $154.10 to $123.28 per person, with a potential 20% savings, and full refund available for cancellations 24 hours in advance.
- The tour starts at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station and includes highlights such as 30 minutes in the Bamboo Grove and 40 minutes at the UNESCO World Heritage site Tenryu-ji Temple.
- Visitors can engage with wild macaques at the Iwatayama Monkey Park and capture stunning photos of the serene Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, and panoramic views.
- The tour includes a guided experience, visits to key attractions, and hotel pickup and drop-off, but excludes food, drinks, and personal expenses.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Kyoto Arashiyama Private Tour offers a comprehensive 3-hour guided experience through the picturesque Arashiyama district.
Priced at $154.10 to $123.28 per person, this tour provides a 20% potential savings. Guests can conveniently cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve their spot with no upfront payment.
The itinerary includes visits to the iconic Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsu-kyō Bridge, and Iwatayama Monkey Park.
Throughout the tour, guests will capture stunning photos of Arashiyama’s natural beauty and learn about the region’s rich history and cultural significance.
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Itinerary Highlights
Starting at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, the tour takes guests on a guided exploration of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where they’ll spend approximately 30 minutes immersed in the serene, towering bamboo landscape.
Next, the group will visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tenryu-ji Temple, spending 40 minutes admiring its Zen gardens.
After a 10-minute photo stop at the iconic Togetsu-kyō Bridge, the tour proceeds to the Iwatayama Monkey Park for a 20-minute visit with the wild macaques.
The tour concludes at the Arashiyama Park Nakanojima District.
Key Attractions
Guests can explore the Bamboo Forest Path and Togetsukyo Bridge, capturing stunning photos of Arashiyama’s natural beauty.
They’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, Tenryu-ji Temple, and its gardens.
At the Iwatayama Monkey Park, they can interact with wild macaques and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto.
This private tour offers a comprehensive experience, allowing guests to enjoy Arashiyama’s unique blend of natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
From the serene Bamboo Grove to the engaging Monkey Park, the tour showcases the diverse attractions that make this region a must-visit destination in Kyoto.
Inclusions and Meeting Point
This private tour includes a 3-hour guided experience, visiting Tenryu-ji Temple, walking through the Bamboo Forest, and exploring the Iwatayama Monkey Park. Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided. Food and drinks, as well as personal expenses, are excluded.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| 3-hour guided tour | Food and drinks |
| Visit to Tenryu-ji Temple | Personal expenses |
| Walk through Bamboo Forest | |
| Visit to Iwatayama Monkey Park |
The meeting point is in front of the Ticket Gate of JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, where the guide holds a yellow sign with the DeepExperience logo.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the Bamboo Forest Path and Togetsukyo Bridge
After exploring the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the tour takes visitors to the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge.
This stunning wooden bridge offers:
- Panoramic views of the Katsura River and the surrounding mountains.
- Opportunities to capture postcard-worthy photos of the iconic landmarks.
- A chance to learn about the bridge’s rich history and cultural significance.
- Time to simply soak in the serene atmosphere and appreciate the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Crossing the Togetsukyo Bridge provides a perfect transition from the enchanting bamboo forest to the next stop on the tour, the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
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Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tenryu-ji Temple
After exploring the iconic Bamboo Grove, the tour proceeds to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tenryu-ji Temple.
This 14th-century Zen temple is renowned for its stunning gardens and panoramic views of the Arashiyama mountains. The guide leads visitors through the serene temple grounds, explaining the history and significance of the buildings and landscapes.
Visitors can admire the ancient architecture, lush greenery, and tranquil ponds. The tour allows ample time to fully take in the spiritual atmosphere of this important cultural site before continuing on to the next destination, the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
Interacting With Wild Macaques at Iwatayama Monkey Park
Leaving the tranquil temple grounds behind, the tour next heads to the famous Iwatayama Monkey Park. Guests can observe and interact with the wild macaques that inhabit the park.
The highlights include:
- Ascending the short hike to the observation deck for panoramic views of Kyoto.
- Spotting the playful monkeys roaming freely in their natural habitat.
- Feeding the monkeys with food provided by the park (at an additional cost).
- Capturing memorable photos of the curious monkeys in their picturesque mountain setting.
The 20-minute visit to Iwatayama Monkey Park provides a unique opportunity to get up close with Kyoto’s famous residents.
Capturing Stunning Photos of Arashiyama’s Natural Beauty
What better way to capture the natural beauty of Arashiyama than by exploring its picturesque landscapes? From the serene Bamboo Grove to the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama offers stunning photo opportunities. Visitors can frame breathtaking panoramic views from the Iwatayama Monkey Park, showcasing the lush greenery and winding Katsura River. To help plan your photographic journey, consider the following:
| Attraction | Recommended Photos |
|---|---|
| Bamboo Grove | Vertical shots, close-ups, wide-angle |
| Togetsukyo Bridge | Spanning the river, reflections in the water |
| Iwatayama Monkey Park | Monkeys, landscapes, aerial perspectives |
With its natural wonders and photogenic settings, Arashiyama promises to delight both casual and avid photographers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe to Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park?
The Iwatayama Monkey Park is generally safe for visitors, as the wild macaques are accustomed to human interaction. However, visitors should still exercise caution and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour itinerary doesn’t include meals, so participants can bring their own food and drinks. However, any outside items must be consumed on their own time, not during the scheduled activities.
How Accessible Is the Bamboo Forest for People With Disabilities?
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove has some accessible paths, but the terrain can be uneven. Those with mobility challenges may need assistance or alternative options to fully experience the grove. It’s best to inquire about accessibility accommodations when booking the tour.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Private Tour?
The private tour does not have a minimum group size requirement. Individuals or small groups can book the tour, which provides a personalized experience with a private guide.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve their spot and pay later, allowing them to easily reschedule if needed without penalty.
The Sum Up
Kyoto’s Arashiyama district offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the serene Bamboo Grove, explore the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji Temple, and interact with playful macaques. This private tour provides a unique opportunity to experience Kyoto’s enchanting landscapes and rich traditions, making it an ideal outing for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers alike.
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