Arashiyama Small Group Guided Tour: Bamboo Forest, Hidden Gems, Monkeys
Tour description
Tired of overcrowded tourist spots and selfie sticks poking your face? Join me on an early morning walk through the magical side of Arashiyama—before the crowds arrive!
This tour is all about peaceful beauty: we’ll start in the serene Bamboo Grove, visit the enchanting Nonomiya Shrine, stroll by the poetic Togetsukyo Bridge, At the end of the tour, you have the option to walk up Monkey Park (Ticket price 800 per adult). If the weather is nice, the entire city of Kyoto will open up before your eyes — it’s truly a breathtaking sight.
- Breathe in the silence of Arashiyama’s bamboo forest before it wakes up
- Discover the ancient love stories and legends of Nonomiya Shrine
- From mid-July to August, there lies a hidden lotus pond — a dreamlike sanctuary that reveals its true magic only at dawn. Bathed in the very first light of morning, it becomes a secret realm known only to those who rise early and wander off the beaten path.
- Cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge with mist rolling over the river
- I won’t be going up with you, but if you’d like to continue on your own at Iwatayama Monkey Park 🐵(Optional)
Plenty of hidden local trivia, photo tips, and laughs along the way!
After the tour, I’ll be happy to share all the information you need — from Kyoto’s best restaurants (I used to be a chef, and I’m a big food lover) to fun places around the city. I also work full-time as a guide, focusing on Gion’s geisha culture and the samurai history of Nijo Castle, so if you’re interested, I can introduce you to those as well!
Small group only*
(In a small group, you can relax, ask questions, and really enjoy the experience. )
What will we see on this tour?
