Arashiyama Beyond the Crowds: Bamboo Grove & Hidden Paths

5.0 (3 reviews) 3 h 15 min Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

3 reviews

5.0

Arashiyama Beyond the Crowds: Bamboo Grove & Hidden Paths — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Arashiyama Beyond the Crowds: Bamboo Grove & Hidden Paths, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Don’t walk, run to book your tour with Michael! He is truly one of the best tour guides that we have ever had and made our Kyoto experience so much more memorable. As a former teacher, he knows how to tell stories in a way that connect with both adults and children (we have two teenagers). Michael knows all of the hidden gems to visit - spots that are so cool but not crowded with other tourists. His stories are really interesting (not just what you read on Wikipedia) and he is willing to answer any and all questions honestly! You will not regret booking a tour with Michael!

-Lauren

Half-day Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 3 h 15 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–6
Guide: English
Operated by: Michael

Ages: Children (5–17 years) · Adults (18–85 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Entrance fees: Entrance fee

Itinerary

Bamboo Forest Street

20 min

A must-see in Kyoto. We will arrive before the adjacent temple opens to avoid crowds and you will learn a brief history of how it came to be.
Nonomiya Shrine

10 min

Learn how to tell the difference between a temple and a shrine, and a brief explanation about the significance of the shrine and what is commonly found at shrines.
Jojakkoji Temple

30 min Admission included

Jojakko-ji Temple is a historic Zen temple in Arashiyama, Kyoto, located near the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Bamboo Grove. This hillside Kyoto temple is known for its moss gardens, stone pathways, traditional wooden halls, and panoramic views over Kyoto city. Beautiful in every season, Jojakkoji Temple is a year-round highlight in Arashiyama, from spring cherry blossoms and summer greenery to autumn leaves and peaceful winter scenery.
Hokyoin

30 min Admission included

Our Arashiyama Kyoto walking tour continues to Hōkyō-in Temple — a quiet, off-the-beaten-path Zen sanctuary rarely included on standard Arashiyama tours. While most visitors explore the famous landmarks, we step into a secluded space that preserves one of the most unexpected and deeply human stories of Japan’s medieval warrior era. Beneath its understated grounds lies a burial that reshapes how we understand loyalty, rivalry, and respect — a story few travelers ever hear without a guide who knows where to look.
Seiryoji Temple

30 min Admission included

Our journey concludes at Seiryō-ji Temple in Arashiyama, home to one of Kyoto’s most sacred and historically significant Buddhist images. While many visitors admire its impressive main hall and move on, this temple preserves a story that connects imperial devotion, international exchange, and centuries of quiet faith. It’s the kind of place where the surface is beautiful — but the deeper meaning only reveals itself when you understand what you’re truly standing in front of.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

When you get off the train, walk towards the front of the station - the guide will be waiting for you in front of the crossing. The tour will begin promptly at 8:00am unless otherwise arranged.

End point

When you get off the train, walk towards the front of the station - the guide will be waiting for you in front of the crossing. The tour will begin promptly at 8:00am unless otherwise arranged.