Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Monkeys, Matcha & Temple Tour
Description
Discover the timeless charm of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district on this immersive walking tour. Begin with a peaceful visit to the historic Tenryu-ji Temple and its stunning Zen gardens, followed by a stroll through the enchanting Bamboo Grove. Step back in time at the tranquil Nonomiya Shrine before enjoying a refreshing cup of authentic matcha tea. Cross the scenic Togetsu-kyo Bridge, a beloved symbol of the area, and cap off your adventure with a short hike to Monkey Park Iwatayama, where playful macaques and sweeping views of Kyoto await. A perfect blend of culture, nature, and local flavor—all in one unforgettable day.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Meet with your guide at Tully's Coffee.
Begin your journey with a visit to Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most revered Zen temples. Stroll through its stunning gardens, where seasonal colors reflect beautifully in the temple's central pond.
Next, immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of the famous bamboo forest. Towering stalks sway gently overhead as you walk along the serene path, a truly otherworldly experience.
Step into history at Nonomiya Shrine, a charming Shinto shrine once associated with ancient purification rituals. Surrounded by mossy woods, it's a peaceful spot rich in cultural significance.
This elegant wooden bridge, known as the “Moon Crossing Bridge,” offers stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains. A beloved symbol of Arashiyama, perfect for a scenic stroll and photos.
A short hike up to Monkey Park Iwatayama. Here, you'll meet a lively troop of wild Japanese macaques and take in panoramic views of Kyoto from the mountaintop.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(1,043)
Dustin was amazing! He did an amazing job giving us the history of the area and showing us around.
The Arashiyama bamboo forest was an incredible sight to see, made only better by how lovely our tour guide, Dustin, was. He was incredibly well-versed in his history on both the area, Buddhism, and Shintoism. The climb to the top to see the monkeys was more of a hike than a walk, but it’s definitely worth the trek. Highly recommend this experience!
The Arashiyama bamboo forest was an incredible sight to see, made only better by how lovely our tour guide, Dustin, was. He was incredibly well-versed in his history on both the area, Buddhism, and Shintoism. The climb to the top to see the monkeys was more of a hike than a walk, but it’s definitely worth the trek. Highly recommend this experience!
Nice quick way to learn about Kyoto. Our guide Jack was great and resourceful. A great experience for our family. Thanks so much!
Our tour guide (MEH) was fantastic! MEH was incredibly knowledgeable and shared so many interesting facts throughout the tour. The price was very reasonable, and he was patient, friendly, and happy to answer all of our questions. He made sure everyone felt comfortable, including the kids, making it a great experience for the whole family. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for an informative, enjoyable, and family-friendly experience!
This was a great experience, and Meh was a knowledgeable guide! We saw beautiful temples and shrines, the famous bamboo forest, ate matcha ice cream, and fed the monkeys! Highly recommend!
Kahn did a fantastic job-very knowledgeable and friendly! Must do!
Gabri was very knowledgeable about the places we visited and offered cool anecdotes at each stopping points. He made sure to give us plenty of breaks for the restroom and food. He asked us questions too, which sparked our curiosity.
Gabri was great. Highly recommend him. Very engaging trip!
It’s a great tour and the bamboo forest is beautiful- a must see. Our guide Amelie was knowledgeable and friendly. Great job. The only thing is we should have had a little more information about the Monkey Park. It is a 20-30 minute uphill many steps journey to get there. Worth it for those who can make the journey but not advisable for anyone who is not really fit.
