Arashiyama from Kyoto: Private & Personalized with a Local Guide

4.7
(45 reviews)

6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: Japanese and 1 more

This private Arashiyama walking tour is a flexible, personalized day trip from Kyoto that offers a unique alternative to standard sightseeing. Instead of following a rigid schedule, you'll explore at your own pace with an itinerary thoughtfully tailored to your interests.

Experience Arashiyama’s highlights and hidden corners in a way that feels dynamic and engaging. Stroll beneath towering bamboo groves, visit tranquil temples off the beaten path, and wander atmospheric streets lined with artisan shops. Along the way, enjoy captivating stories, discover local traditions, and appreciate the distinctive character that makes Arashiyama so memorable.

After booking, you'll receive a brief questionnaire to share your interests. Your guide will then create a customized, flexible itinerary to ensure your experience is truly immersive and tailored just for you.

What's Included

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

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

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.

OR
Meeting point

This is a great central point to meet your host if your hotel is not listed.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    Explore the stunning scenery of the Arashiyama district, including its world-famous Bamboo Grove. Wander serene lanes and hidden pathways with your knowledgeable local host, who will share the area’s rich history and local legends.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Discover this hidden gem tucked away on the slopes of Ogura Mountain. Jojakko-ji is a peaceful temple known for its lush moss gardens and a 12-meter pagoda offering breathtaking panoramic views over Arashiyama.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Meet the cheeky residents of this hillside park—Japanese macaques roaming freely in their natural habitat. Hike up for fantastic city views while your host shares tips on respectful wildlife interaction.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    A true highlight of Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples. Learn about Japanese Buddhism while strolling through its famous landscape garden, designed to inspire quiet reflection.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Venture off the beaten path to this wonderfully quirky temple on Arashiyama’s outskirts. Admire over 1,200 whimsical rakan statues, each with its own expression—making this a memorably unexpected stop.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Explore this former imperial villa turned temple, which played a key role in Japan’s cultural history. Ask your host about The Tale of Genji, Japan’s first novel, whose scenes are set here, and enjoy the serene pond garden and elegant architecture.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • 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.
Supplied by City Unscripted

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Tags

Nature and Wildlife Tours
Half-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Nature Walks
Excellent Quality
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.7 Based on 45 45 reviews
5 stars
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Likely to sell out
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