Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge

What you'll do

The bamboo forest might be the main reason to visit Arashiyama, but with a host, you can see (and do) so much more. Rent a boat in the pristine lower Hozu-gawa area, row down the river between lush green mountains, or hike up mountains to see the cityscape from a scenic lookout point.

Explore Tenryū-ji Temple and its unchanged garden from centuries ago and exit into the seemingly endless, emerald-glowing Bamboo Grove, winding dreamily uphill. You could walk across the glittering Katsura River and spy excited macaques at the Arashiyama Monkey Park, or you could wander between Zen temples, breathing in the fragrant air, and celebrate the spirit of ancient Japan with a traditional kaiseki meal. 

Where you’ll go

West of Kyoto, a 25-minute tram ride away, you’ll find one of Japan’s most beautiful locations. The imperial family built retreats in Arashiyama solely for its scenery – and 1000 years later, nothing has changed. Marvel at majestic rivers and leafy peaks, and, with help from your host, experience these sights like a local: from cruising on a rowing boat through the sparkling waters or from a scenic lookout point high in the mountains.

See the ancient Tenryū-ji Temple, and exit the north gate into the otherworldly Bamboo Grove, a densely lined pathway stretching out of sight. Take a 10-minute stroll across Katsura River to Arashiyama Monkey Park, where playful macaques put on a show, then head back to town for a meal - and a bamboo ice cream!

  • Private & 100% personalized tour

  • 6 hours

  • Matched to your ideal host

  • Walking tour (may use public transport)

  • Hosted in English (On request: Arabic, Bulgarian, Cantonese, Catalan, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish)

  • Your hotel/apartment or any other central location

Experience outline

  • Explore one of the most naturally beautiful locations in Japan with a helpful host to guide your journey
  • Walk through Arashiyama’s most famous areas, including the Bamboo Grove and Tenryū-ji Temple
  • Take part in local pastimes, like rowing across the river, or hiking up the mountains for a birds-eye view
  • Get suggestions for a traditional snack like salty bamboo ice-cream from your host
  • Have a friendly local insider to suggest other areas to visit on your vacation

Things to know

What’s included

  • Private and personalized experience
  • 6 hours with a host
  • Tickets to 4 of the following 5 temples: Tenryu-ji, Jojakko-ji, Gio-ji, Otagi Nenbutsuji, Daikaku-ji
  • Tickets to Okochi Sanso Villa
  • Tickets to Monkey Park Iwatayama
  • Walking experience (other transport can be arranged at an additional cost)

What’s not included

  • Food and drinks
  • Tickets to attractions other than the ones listed above
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Transportation costs
  • Gratuities (optional)

Cancellation

  • Cancel 14 days before the experience for a full refund
  • Worry-free cancellation terms: book with peace of mind knowing that you can cancel for free up to a day before the experience and receive a full refund.

Photos taken by our hosts and guests

City Unscripted guests photos

Reviews

    We enjoyed our time in in Arashiyama. The monkey park with its views and unique experience was great. We also went to two “hidden gems” with Dairyn which were highlights. Loved the experience and would definitely recommend.

    November 2023

    Tait K

    I absolutely loved this tour Brenda was so patient and catering to our needs especially since we were travelling with a young child. The tour was beautiful we got to do everything we wanted and the day went so quickly. Brenda was so great and we learnt so much from her. She was so flexible and fantastic would highly recommend to anyone coming to Kyoto and looking to do a tour. We only really had 1 full day in Kyoto but we all fell in love with city and definitely want to come back soon.

    November 2023

    Nuha F

    The Bamboo forest and the Temple. The guide was very good and friendly. Was more than was expected we will recommend.

    November 2023

    Martin R

    Dairyn did a great job of getting us to the highlights of Arashiyama despite the crowds. She also took us to two “hidden gems” which were a little off the beaten path, but amazing and way less crowded. Would highly recommend Dairyn.

    November 2023

    Tait K

See more reviews

Meet our local hosts in Kyoto. One of them will tailor this experience to your wishes!

We’ll expertly match you to your best suited host based on your interests, personality and the experience vibe you’re after.

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