Bamboo Grove Temple and Garden Views Tour

5.0 (79 reviews) Kyoto, Japan
Duration5h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
Group sizeUp to 12 travelers

Overview

Meeting point at Kyoto Station, easy to find and accessible to everyone. We board the train all together and travel for less than 20 minutes. Explore the highlights of Saga-Arashiyama, Western part of Kyoto. Wander through the towering stalks of Bamboo Forest, experience the serene garden and pond of Tenryuji Temple, trek the hill gardens of Okochi Sanso and enjoy the free unlimited drinks of green teas. Visit the historical Nonomiya Shrine, stroll across the colorful pillars of Kimono Forest. Take a break for lunch, indulge your cravings with local Japanese foods and sweets. Walk through the iconic Togetsukyo bridge and hike up the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where you can observe and feed the snow monkeys. Take in and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic mountain views of Kyoto.

What's included

  • Okochi Sanso Garden, Tenryuji Temple and Monkey Park
  • Guide Fee
  • Each guest should bring their own train tickets or train pass such as icoca, suica and pasmo.

What to expect

  1. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
    30m
    Walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where towering stalks sway gently overhead, creating a serene, otherworldly atmosphere. As sunlight filters through the dense green canopy, the rustling bamboo and quiet path invite peaceful reflection. Your guide will share the cultural and spiritual significance of this iconic Kyoto landmark.
  2. Nonomiya Shrine
    15m
    Step into the quiet charm of Nonomiya Jinja, a small but sacred Shinto shrine nestled in a bamboo grove. Known for its connection to imperial history and blessings for love and purification, it offers a peaceful pause along the Arashiyama path. Your guide will share its unique traditions, including the ancient role it played in preparing imperial princesses for shrine service.
  3. Tenryu-ji Temple
    30m · Admission ticket included
    Take a peaceful walk through the gardens of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a jewel of Zen design. The path winds past a tranquil pond, artfully placed stones, and seasonal plants, all set against the backdrop of the Arashiyama mountains. The serene landscape invites quiet reflection and a sense of harmony with nature.
  4. Okochi Sanso Garden
    30m · Admission ticket included
    Embark on a tranquil journey through Okochi Sanso, a hillside villa and garden crafted over 30 years by famed actor Denjiro Okochi. At the summit you will enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto, Mount Hiei, and the Hozu River gorge.
  5. Arashiyama Kimono Forest
    10m
    Kimono forest, a vibrant walkway features 600 glowing pillars wrapped in traditional kimono textiles, creating elegance and enchantment, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.
  6. Togetsukyo Bridge
    15m
    Stroll across the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, where the Katsura River flows gently beneath and the Arashiyama mountains rise in the distance. With each step, enjoy sweeping views that change beautifully with the seasons—from cherry blossoms to autumn leaves. The bridge offers a perfect moment to pause and take in the natural beauty of Kyoto.
  7. Monkey Park Iwatayama
    1h · Admission ticket included
    (20 minutes hiking)Embark on a scenic hike to Iwatayama Monkey Park, where over 120 wild Japanese macaques roam freely in their natural habitat. The well-maintained trail takes approximately 20–30 minutes to ascend, offering glimpses of the monkeys along the way. At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto city and the surrounding mountains while observing the macaques in a tranquil forest setting.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Inside JR Kyoto Station 1st Floor Main Entrance (facing Kyoto Tower) at the 7-11. The guide will be holding a placard of Me Kyoto Walking Tour.

End point

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

5.0 (79)
From
$60.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • 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.
More activities in Kyoto
From
$60.00 per person
Check availability