Arashiyama from Kyoto: Private & Personalized with a Local Guide

4.7 (47 reviews) Kyoto, Japan
Duration6h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesJapanese, English
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

This private Arashiyama walking tour is a flexible, personalized day trip from Kyoto that offers a unique alternative to standard sightseeing. Instead of following a rigid schedule, you'll explore at your own pace with an itinerary thoughtfully tailored to your interests.

Experience Arashiyama’s highlights and hidden corners in a way that feels dynamic and engaging. Stroll beneath towering bamboo groves, visit tranquil temples off the beaten path, and wander atmospheric streets lined with artisan shops. Along the way, enjoy captivating stories, discover local traditions, and appreciate the distinctive character that makes Arashiyama so memorable.

After booking, you'll receive a brief questionnaire to share your interests. Your guide will then create a customized, flexible itinerary to ensure your experience is truly immersive and tailored just for you.

What's included

  • Private, personalized walking tour with a passionate local host
  • Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and tips
  • Admission to Okochi Sanso Villa and Monkey Park Iwatayama
  • Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the experience to your interests
  • Tickets to 4 of these 5 temples: Tenryu-ji, Jojakko-ji, Gio-ji, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Daikaku-ji
  • Food and drinks
  • Additional tickets for any attractions not listed in the inclusions
  • Transportation (primarily a walking experience; public transport may be used at an additional cost)
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Gratuities (optional)

What to expect

  1. Arashiyama
    Pass by
    Explore the stunning scenery of the Arashiyama district, including its world-famous Bamboo Grove. Wander serene lanes and hidden pathways with your knowledgeable local host, who will share the area’s rich history and local legends.
  2. Pass by
    Discover this hidden gem tucked away on the slopes of Ogura Mountain. Jojakko-ji is a peaceful temple known for its lush moss gardens and a 12-meter pagoda offering breathtaking panoramic views over Arashiyama.
  3. Monkey Park Iwatayama
    Pass by
    Meet the cheeky residents of this hillside park—Japanese macaques roaming freely in their natural habitat. Hike up for fantastic city views while your host shares tips on respectful wildlife interaction.
  4. Tenryu-ji Temple
    Pass by
    A true highlight of Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples. Learn about Japanese Buddhism while strolling through its famous landscape garden, designed to inspire quiet reflection.
  5. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    Pass by
    Venture off the beaten path to this wonderfully quirky temple on Arashiyama’s outskirts. Admire over 1,200 whimsical rakan statues, each with its own expression—making this a memorably unexpected stop.
  6. Daikaku-ji Temple
    Pass by
    Explore this former imperial villa turned temple, which played a key role in Japan’s cultural history. Ask your host about The Tale of Genji, Japan’s first novel, whose scenes are set here, and enjoy the serene pond garden and elegant architecture.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This is a great central point to meet your host if your hotel is not listed.

End point

This is a great central point to meet your host if your hotel is not listed.

Pickup details

This is a walking tour. Your host will meet you at your selected hotel, and the tour will begin on foot. If you’d prefer to meet at a central location instead, please choose the meeting point option.

If your hotel isn’t on the list, simply select the central landmark option. This is a private walking experience.

Once you’ve booked, our Experience Planners will get in touch to confirm the meeting point and help with any final details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your personalized tour.

NO private vehicle is included. For longer distances, your host may suggest using public transport. Any transport costs can be settled on the day.

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • After booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests, preferences, and must-sees. Your guide will personally reach out to craft a fully customized itinerary that suits your style—whether you love history, food, hidden gems, or cultural experiences.
  • This private tour is a walking experience. A private vehicle is not included.
  • Public transportation or local taxis may be used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with your host after your reservation is finalized.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.7 (47)
From
£213.15 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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£213.15 per person
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