Arashiyama is a major tourism destination in Kyoto, but few visitors venture beyond the bamboo forest and central shopping area. This half day walk introduces a number of quiet locations set amidst tranquil scenery and is perfect for travellers looking to escape the city for a few hours of walking through nature.

Programme Details

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Meet the guide at the hotel and travel to Otagi Nenbutsuji, a remote Buddhist temple that holds one of the city’s most impressive sights: 1200 moss-covered stone statues arranged throughout the temple grounds. This unique mix of religion and art tells a fascinating story at this special temple.

(Otagi Nenbutsuji is closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays. A visit to the historic garden at Tenryuji Zen Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be substituted instead.)

From here, walk through the backroads – almost all downhill – of the Arashiyama district. Along the way, visit a number of memorable sites. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at a temple’s tranquil collection of small stone effigies; learn the story of an impossible romance that inspired a lush moss garden; marvel at the rustic simplicity of a preserved 17th century thatched roof house once home to a great haiku poet. Along the way, browse shops selling local folkcrafts and charming traditional goods.

Before the final approach to central Arashiyama, stop for a tea break in the garden at the traditional home of Japan’s first silent film moviestar, and then walk through the famous Arashiyama bamboo forest. Too crowded for a selfie? Worry not, as the guide will have already pointed out a secret bamboo grove earlier during the tour.

Finish on the main street of central Arashiyama, where the guide can point towards a number of other enjoyable spots in the area. From here, it’s easy to return back into the city by train or taxi.

Notes:

- The guide will suggest substitutes for any locations that are closed.
- Otagi Nenbutsuji is closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays. A visit to the historic garden at Tenryuji Zen Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be substituted instead.
- This is an outdoor walking tour, so please wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing.
- The tour may be cancelled or amended in the case of heavy rain or snow, or immediately after a large storm.
- Please contact your Travel Consultant for availability. Please note that all of the services and tours have yet to be booked and that they are proposed for your reference only. We will start making reservations after we receive your confirmation.
- Please inform your Travel Consultant of any special dietary requirements and physical conditions that you may have. We strongly recommend the purchase of a travel insurance that also covers emergency medical evacuation.

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