Kyoto: Sanzen-in Temple, Arashiyamas Scenic UNESCO Day Tour

Kyoto’s ancient beauty is unparalleled, and this day tour offers an immersive glimpse into its rich cultural tapestry. From the serene Sanzen-in Temple to the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, this experience promises to captivate even the most seasoned traveler. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can explore UNESCO-listed sites and uncover the stories that have shaped this remarkable city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Kyoto enthusiast, this tour is sure to leave you awestruck and eager to discover more.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 10-hour sightseeing tour in Kyoto, priced from £42.15 per person with free cancellation and optional reservation without upfront payment.
• Visits Sanzen-in Temple with ancient trees and seasonal displays, followed by exploration of Arashiyama’s Sagano Bamboo Grove and Tenryū-ji Temple.
• Includes air-conditioned transportation and a knowledgeable multilingual guide, with optional activities like Sagano Scenic Railway and Arashiyama Foot Bath.
• Offers a glimpse into the timeless allure of Kyoto’s natural landscapes and cultural treasures, with meeting points at Kyoto Station’s Hachijoguchi or Nipponbashi location.
• Tour subject to minor changes due to traffic, weather, or unforeseen circumstances, with no refunds for latecomers or no-shows.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Kyoto: Sanzen-in Temple, Arashiyamas Scenic UNESCO Day Tour provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience, allowing visitors to explore the renowned Sanzen-in Temple and the picturesque Arashiyama district.

Priced from £42.15 per person, the 10-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve a spot without upfront payment.

Highlights include a 2-hour visit to Sanzen-in Temple, known for its ancient trees and seasonal floral displays, and a 3-hour exploration of Arashiyama, including the Sagano Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple.

Transportation and a knowledgeable guide are included.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at either Kyoto Station’s Hachijoguchi area or the 1-chōme-3-6 Nipponbashi location.

You’ll spend 2 hours visiting Sanzen-in Temple, known for its ancient trees and seasonal displays.

Then, you’ll explore Arashiyama for 3 hours, including the Sagano Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Optional activities include riding the Sagano Scenic Railway and soaking in the Arashiyama Station Foot Bath, which have additional fees.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy air-conditioned transportation and the expertise of a multilingual tour guide.

Sanzen-in Temple: Exploring Ancient Beauty

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto’s Ohara district, Sanzen-in Temple stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of ancient Japanese architecture and natural landscapes.

Visitors can wander through the temple’s peaceful grounds, marveling at the graceful curves of its buildings and the serene ponds that reflect the sky.

The temple is renowned for its diverse seasonal displays, with visitors delighting in the delicate cherry blossoms of spring, the vibrant hydrangeas of summer, and the striking autumn foliage.

Exploring Sanzen-in’s ancient trees and meticulously manicured gardens offers a glimpse into the timeless allure of traditional Japanese aesthetics.

Arashiyama: Discovering the Bamboo Grove and Beyond

After exploring the serene grounds of Sanzen-in Temple, the tour continues its journey to the captivating Arashiyama district.

Visitors will wander through the famed Sagano Bamboo Grove, admiring the towering stalks swaying in the breeze.

The tour then visits the impressive Tenryū-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views of the Arashiyama mountains.

Guests can optionally ride the Sagano Scenic Railway or soak their feet in the Arashiyama Station Foot Bath, both at an additional cost.

This diverse itinerary immerses travelers in Kyoto’s natural wonders and cultural treasures.

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Optional Activities: Elevating the Experience

While the core tour provides an immersive experience through Kyoto’s natural and cultural landmarks, there are also optional activities that can elevate the journey.

For instance, visitors can hop aboard the Sagano Scenic Railway to enjoy panoramic views of the Arashiyama area. Alternatively, they can indulge in a foot bath at Arashiyama Station, soothing their feet after a day of exploration.

These add-ons, while not included in the base tour, offer guests the chance to customize their experience and create lasting memories.

With these options, the Kyoto tour becomes a truly unforgettable adventure.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour provides air-conditioned transportation to take guests to the designated meeting points and site locations.

Pickup and drop-off are arranged at the specified points, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, as the itinerary may involve some walking and uneven terrain.

Multilingual tour guides are available to assist guests in Chinese, English, and Japanese, catering to the diverse needs of international visitors.

With these transportation and accessibility considerations in mind, travelers can focus on seeing the cultural wonders of Kyoto.

Dining Recommendations

Nearby the Sanzen-in Temple and Arashiyama attractions, visitors can find a variety of dining options to refuel and savor local Kyoto cuisine.

Kyo-Mi Chaya offers soba noodles and hearty tofu dishes, while Ichifuku Chaya serves up tasty udon and rice bowls.

These casual eateries provide a chance to take in Japanese culinary traditions and refuel for the next part of the day’s exploration.

With a range of authentic options in the area, travelers can easily find a satisfying meal to complement their Kyoto sightseeing adventure.

Important Considerations

Travelers should note that the meeting point for this tour may vary depending on their booking.

The tour typically starts at 9:50 am in Kyoto or 8:40 am in Osaka. The night before the trip, you’ll receive an email with your tour guide’s contact information and vehicle details.

Keep in mind that the itinerary is subject to change due to factors like traffic, weather, or unforeseen circumstances. Plus, there are no refunds for latecomers or no-shows.

If the group has fewer than 13 participants, the tour guide will also serve as the driver.

Things To Know

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Unfortunately, the tour is a pre-set itinerary that can’t be customized. However, the company offers flexibility with start times and free cancellation, allowing you to adjust the tour to your schedule and needs.

Are Group Discounts Available for Larger Parties?

Yes, group discounts are available for larger parties. The more people in your group, the more you’ll save per person on the tour price. Just let the tour provider know the size of your group when booking.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Avoid anything that’s too formal or restrictive, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and exploring.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there are also several local dining options recommended near the tour sites if guests prefer to purchase refreshments along the way.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Extra Stops?

The tour doesn’t offer options to extend the duration or add extra stops. However, travelers can explore the area further on their own after the tour or book a customized private tour if they want more flexibility.

Sum Up

This Kyoto tour offers a captivating blend of tranquil temples, enchanting landscapes, and UNESCO-recognized wonders. From the serene Sanzen-in Temple to the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, it’s a must-see journey for anyone seeking to enjoy the cultural and natural beauty of this historic city. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, it’s the perfect way to experience the breathtaking highlights of Kyoto.

You can check availability for your dates here: