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Arashiyama Hidden Gems: History, Views, and Cuisine
4.9
14 Ratings
Kyoto
Step into the world of The Tale of Genji on a deep and quiet walking tour of Arashiyama and Sagano. Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and local flavors of this hidden gem, all while enjoying a personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide.
Step into the world of The Tale of Genji on a deep and quiet walking tour of Arashiyama and Sagano. Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and local flavors of this hidden gem, all while enjoying a personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide.
Duration:
4 hours
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- Nonomiya Shrine - + Admire the unique black wooden Torii gate. Only two shrines in Japan feature a black torii gate.
- Appreciate the stunning moss garden.
- Learn the proper way to visit a temple and pray.
- Understand the differences between a shrine and a temple.
- Experience the tranquility of this spiritual place.
- Obtain a Shrine stamp…
- Nonomiya Shrine - + Admire the unique black wooden Torii gate. Only two shrines in Japan feature a black torii gate.
- Appreciate the stunning moss garden.
- Learn the proper way to visit a temple and pray.
- Understand the differences between a shrine and a temple.
- Experience the tranquility of this spiritual place.
- Obtain a Shrine stamp (Goshuin). (optional)*A stamp book and a stamp fee are required.
*”The Tale of Genji Tour” offers more insights into the tale.
- Immerse yourself in the world of the tale.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove - + Delight in the beautiful bamboo forest and the soothing soundscape of bamboo.
- Capture memorable photos with Yusuke in the bamboo forest.
- Seiryoji Temple - + Explore this ancient temple, originally built about 1,200 years ago. The current structure was built around 300 years ago.
- View the Japanese national treasure – the Shaka Nyorai Buddhism statue.
- Enjoy the magnificent building and corridor with a beautiful Japanese garden.
- Obtain a temple stamp (Goshuin). (optional)A stamp book and an additional stamp fee are required. There are two types of Temple stamps: an official stamp with a fee and a free stamp.
- Savor local sweets. (optional) *Sweets fee not included.
- Ticket is 400JPY.
*”The Tale of Genji Tour” offers more insights into the tale.
- Visit the tomb of Toru Minamoto, the model for Genji in the tale.
- Immerse yourself in the world of the tale.
- Daikaku-ji Temple - + Former Emperor’s Imperial palace known as Saga Gosho, built about 1200 years ago.
- This temple is a hidden gem where you can enjoy a traditional imperial palace without crowds.
- Discover unique architectural features such as the nightingale floor and the corridor of Murasame.
- Experience how the emperor and queen lived in this former imperial palace, moving without walking on the ground.
- Obtain a temple stamp (Goshuin). (optional)*A stamp book and a stamp fee are required.
- Ticket is 500JPY.
*”The Tale of Genji Tour” offers more insights into the tale.
- Immerse yourself in the world of the tale.
- Osawaike - + The oldest artificial pond in Japan.
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery in every season and the peaceful bamboo forest.
- Ticket is 300JPY.
What's Included
- Original Tour Booklet (about 15 pages)
- Helping to take good photos
- Learning Photography as a hobby
- Guiding
- Original Tour Booklet (about 15 pages)
- Helping to take good photos
- Learning Photography as a hobby
- Guiding
What's Not Included
- Ticket for Daikakuji temple & Osawa-no-ike Pond
- Ticket for Seiryoji temple
- Japanese snacks (Optional)- about 500 yen
- Insurance-Please prepare your insurance on your own if you need.
- Gratitude
- Ticket for Daikakuji temple & Osawa-no-ike Pond
- Ticket for Seiryoji temple
- Japanese snacks (Optional)- about 500 yen
- Insurance-Please prepare your insurance on your own if you need.
- Gratitude
Additional Information
Embark on a memorable tour experience. Enjoy a curated journey featuring “History,” “Phenomenal and Beautiful Views,” and “Good Food” as you explore the authentic and tranquil Arashiyama. Experience efficient and comfortable visits to sites while avoiding the crowds.
- This tour is perfect for those interested in both major attractions and lesser-known…
Embark on a memorable tour experience. Enjoy a curated journey featuring “History,” “Phenomenal and Beautiful Views,” and “Good Food” as you explore the authentic and tranquil Arashiyama. Experience efficient and comfortable visits to sites while avoiding the crowds.
- This tour is perfect for those interested in both major attractions and lesser-known local gems.
- A serene and intimate tour designed for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.
- Yusuke, the tour planner and guide, offers an insider’s perspective as a local expert. With experience guiding over 3,000 guests in Kyoto, Yusuke is eager to help you enjoy Kyoto by introducing the deep and peaceful Arashiyama.
For those selecting “The Tale of Genji Tour” Option:
- All locations, except the bamboo forest, are featured in The Tale of Genji. Yusuke provides context and explanations related to the tale at these sites.
*Both options visit the same locations. “The Tale of Genji Tour” option includes additional information about the tale.
- Travel/Walking time is included on the total tour duration. We will walk about 3km/55minutes during the tour with enjoying local scenery.
- You have to take off your shoes to enter inside at Seiryoji-temple and Daikakuji Temple.
- This tour will take about 4 hours.
- Please bring snacks if you need. There are not many restaurants around the ending point.
Location
Randen-ya
In front of Locker area at the Keifuku(Randen) Arashiyama station.
Randenya is shop at Keifuku(Randen) Arashiyama station.
+Google map does not show exact place when you put correct station address.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.9
(14 Ratings)
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929edytah
Apr 3, 2025
Exploring Kyoto with a local guide, who grew up in the city, allowed us to discover less popular and crowded spots, take - We had the pleasure of exploring Kyoto with a guide who grew up in this city. Thanks to him, we discovered not only the popular attractions but also less-visited spots that we would have likely missed on our own.
His patience, kindness, and attention to detail made us feel well taken care of throughout the day. Even though we were tired after a long flight from Europe and somewhat distracted with many interesting attractions, his calm and helpful nature made the tour truly enjoyable.
We are grateful for his help in taking our family photos—he has a great eye for composition, and thanks to him we have nice memories from our trip. Exploring unfamiliar places is so much more rewarding with a guide, especially one who truly knows his city.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tetsuoh836
Apr 3, 2025
Photographer's guide is amused by anecdotes. We were able to see the sights calmly in a quiet place during peak hours. - With interesting anecdotes that I had never heard before, he showed me around the city, from famous tourist spots to the beautiful, unknown Kyoto, adjusting the time of day and pace meticulously. Thanks to this, I was able to enjoy calm sightseeing with my family in crowded Kyoto. I am also grateful for the kind care she took when my son suddenly fell ill. The family photo you took was a wonderful memorial. We tourists also wanted to follow the attitude and consideration of our guides.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Filiph573
Apr 2, 2025
Sightseeing with professional and fun photographer - He told many interesting things and showed us beautiful places. He has taken fantastic photos too. We are very thankful for his guidance.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Hernangn5115vd
Dec 4, 2024
Beautiful experience - It was a beautiful full visit not only to the Arashiyama forest, but also contemplated different points of the sector with an excellent explanation of everything. Thanks to Yusuke for his patience and dedication. Fully recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mayanner2024
Nov 26, 2024
Arashiyama - I had a great time! Yusuke san was an excellent guide, organized and informative. We managed to avoid the crowds and he took us to beautiful spots. The 4 hr walking tour with him is highly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Zuligoder
Nov 25, 2024
Wonderful tour! - Fantastic tour with Yusuke, very informative and beautiful scenic spots only known to locals. Very few crowds. He also provided great tips on where to buy certain items, so helpful. Loved this tour!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Marguerite_t
Nov 24, 2024
Knowledgeable tour guide in a history-rich district - After multiple readings of THE TALE OF GENJI, I was very excited to meet Yusuke and tread in the (fictional) footsteps of the novel's characters. The route was a bit lengthy for me to walk on a warm day (I'm 68) so I was too tired to get to the last destination on the tour, but Seiruji and Jojokkoji were well worth the visit. Yusuke was very knowledgeable and patient with my slow pace.
Review provided by Viator
Farahe256
Nov 17, 2024
Special Kyoto - Amazing tour with such a nice friendly tour guide who took the time to explain the history. Highly recommend if you want a special tour
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sebd752
May 26, 2024
Calm and informative! - The views were really beautiful and my guide gave me a really in depth perspective of what Arashiyama is about.
Totally worth the price!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
T4738lrdanielw
Jun 17, 2025
Local guide with local experiences - Mr. Tanaka, a Kyoto local, possesses extensive understanding of the city and its surrounding areas, making him an excellent guide for those seeking a more authentic experience. His tours are perfect for travellers who prefer peaceful, hidden gems over the well-known, crowded landmarks. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Kyoto's quieter, local sites.
Review provided by Tripadvisor