Half-day tour in scenic Arashiyama

Discover the picturesque district of Arashiyama on the tranquil outskirts of Kyoto, where nature, history, and tradition come together to create an enchanting atmosphere.

You’ll meet your guide at your hotel before taking a local train together to Arashiyama, in Kyoto’s western district. Here, a serene ambience surrounds you with beautiful scenery and fascinating stories about the area’s history and culture. The first stop is Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO world heritage Zen temple, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and meticulously landscaped garden, framed by the mountains beyond. Your guide will offer insights into Zen Buddhist philosophy and explain how harmony between nature and humanity is a cornerstone of Japanese thought.

The tour will continue through Arashiyama’s famous bamboo grove, where tall, swaying bamboo stalks cast a magical green light over the path. Your guide will share stories about bamboo’s significance in Japanese culture and craftsmanship – a natural material that has been used for centuries in both art and architecture.

The tour then continues to Okouchi Mountain Villa, the former residence of samurai film star Okouchi Denjiro. Here, you can take in the views of the surrounding mountains and explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and small teahouses. Your guide will put the location into context, sharing insights about Kyoto’s artistic heritage and the many films that have drawn inspiration from the area’s dramatic scenery. 

You will also visit the small Nonomiya Shrine, which dates back to the Heian period. The tour then concludes at the famous Togetsu-kyo Bridge, whose name means “Moon Crossing Bridge”. It is celebrated for its picturesque surroundings, where the mountains and the Katsura River create a stunning finale to the day’s guided experience. 

From here, your guide will be happy to offer suggestions for further exploration or a place to enjoy lunch in Arashiyama. 

Duration: Approx. 4 hours

Group size: Maximum 8 people

This excursion is open to TourCompass’ own guests only.

We recommend that you book the excursion when booking the tour.