Arashiyama: Japan’s Garden of Eden
Arashiyama: Japan’s Garden of Eden
Arashiyama: Japan’s Garden of Eden
Arashiyama: Japan’s Garden of Eden
Arashiyama: Japan’s Garden of Eden
Arashiyama: Japan’s Garden of Eden
Arashiyama: Japan’s Garden of Eden
Arashiyama: Japan’s Garden of Eden
Arashiyama: Japan’s Garden of Eden

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, Catalan, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish)

  • Meet at your accommodation or a 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

    I'm so glad we opted for a private tour. We never would have been able to do as much as we did on our own. Personally, I thought it was great value for money. And what a magical experience! We saw so many amazing places during this 6 hour excursion. It was also very helpful in getting us oriented around Kyoto and learning the public transit system. Many thanks to Haruka, our very knowledgeable guide! I would definitely use this company again.

    February 2020

    Cristin T

    I'm so glad we opted for a private tour. We never would have been able to do as much as we did on our own. Personally, I thought it was great value for money. And what a magical experience! We saw so many amazing places during this 6 hour excursion. It was also very helpful in getting us oriented around Kyoto and learning the public transit system. Many thanks to Haruka, our very knowledgeable guide! I would definitely use this company again.

    February 2020

    Cristin T

    Dear Georgia, Thank you so much for our wonderful time together today. Very special, we wish you well in all ways.

    September 2019

    Sharon K

    Taibi started out as a guide and ended up like family! He’s very knowledgeable about Kyoto and made sure to take me off the beaten path, which is exactly what I wanted. Highly recommended!

    August 2019

    Zena D

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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