Japan · Walking Tours

Arashiyama from Kyoto: Private & Personalized with a Local Guide

6 Hours Round trip from Kyoto Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Private Arashiyama walking tour tailored to your interests
02 Stroll through the iconic Bamboo Forest with a local host
03 Visit Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO-listed Zen temple and garden
04 Discover hidden gems such as Jojakko-ji and other quieter temples
05 See Arashiyama’s scenic streets, gardens, and traditional architecture
06 Included admission to selected temples, Okochi Sanso Villa, and Monkey Park Iwatayama
07 Flexible itinerary shaped by a pre-tour questionnaire
08 Learn about local culture, history, and literature along the way

Discover Arashiyama on a private walking experience designed around your interests, with a knowledgeable local host to bring Kyoto’s culture, history, and atmosphere to life. Wander through the famous bamboo grove, explore the grounds of Tenryu-ji, and enjoy the freedom to uncover quieter corners and lesser-known temples at a pace that suits you.

Because this is a personalized tour, your day can be shaped around what interests you most, from Zen gardens and heritage sites to scenic viewpoints, traditional architecture, and local stories. With selected entrance tickets included and a flexible itinerary created after booking, this is a thoughtful way to experience one of Kyoto’s most iconic districts beyond a standard sightseeing route.

Discover Arashiyama on a private walking experience designed around your interests, with a knowledgeable local host to bring Kyoto’s culture, history, and atmosphere to life.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access No

City Kyoto

Languages English, Japanese

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Explore the beautiful scenery of the Arashiyama district with its magical bamboo grove with a knowledgeable host by your side.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferencesDiscover hidden gems away from the crowds like the Jojakko-ji Temple, a quiet and pleasant temple surrounded by the beautiful nature on the mountainside of Ogura mountain. It offers a spectacular overlook views of Arashiyama from its 12 m tall pagoda.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferencesOne of the main highlights of this area, Tenryu-ji was ranked first among the city's five great Zen temples, and is registered as a world heritage site. Take the chance to learn more about Japanese Buddhism while relaxing in its beautiful landscape garden, created by the famous garden designer Muso Soseki.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferencesOne of the underrated -but definitely worth visiting- temples on the outskirts of Arashiyama, it houses a collection of 1200 unique and whimsical statues which rewards the adventurous visitors.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferencesFormer imperial palace, now converted into a temple, Daikakuji played a role in several historical events. Would you like to discover more about Japanese culture and literature? Ask your host to tell you more about “the Tale of Genji”, the first novel in Japanese literature, taking place right here, at Daikaku-ji.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferencesOne of the top sights in Kyoto, the main house here is a marvelous example of traditional Japanese architecture.  The entrance ticket includes a taste of Japanese finest Matcha tea and wagashi (traditional sweet). Take your time to explore the beautiful garden, and you will find out why the imperial family built retreats in Arashiyama solely for its scenery.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kyoto 1 city · 6 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Private, personalized walking tour with a passionate local host
Tickets to 4 of these 5 temples: Tenryu-ji, Jojakko-ji, Gio-ji, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Daikaku-ji
Admission to Okochi Sanso Villa and Monkey Park Iwatayama
Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the experience to your interests
Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and tips

What's Not Included

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)

Know before you go

STROLLER OR PRAM ACCESSIBLE
ANIMALS OR PETS ALLOWED
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
Not wheelchair accessible
Infants must not sit on laps
Infant seats unavailable
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.
Once you've booked your experience, your local host will personally reach out to tailor the adventure to your interests. Whether you're seeking authentic food spots, cultural insights, or hidden gems, we ensure your journey is immersive, personalized, and uniquely yours, transforming your tour into a meaningful connection with the city.
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.