Kyoto: Avoid the Crowds at the Hidden Gems of Arashiyama Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Capture a serene photograph in front of the uncrowded, hidden sections of the Arashiyama bamboo forest

• Marvel at the 8,000 uniquely carved stone images and pagodas at the atmospheric Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple

• Explore the whimsical and expressive rakan statues at Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple

• Listen to captivating historical tales about the Okusaga and Arashiyama regions from your expert local guide

Hidden Gems

• The Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple features over 1,200 stone disciples, each with a distinct, humorous facial expression carved by amateurs in the 1980s

• Adashino Nenbutsuji holds a profound history as a burial ground for unclaimed bodies, offering a deeply moving and quiet atmosphere rarely found on main tourist routes

• The Okusaga area preserves a rustic, old-world village charm that contrasts sharply with the commercialized main streets of central Arashiyama

What Makes it Special

• Carefully curated routing that intentionally bypasses the heaviest foot traffic to offer a peaceful, crowd-free experience

• Expert local storytelling that brings the ancient burial grounds and temple histories to life

• Exclusive access to two deeply spiritual and visually stunning temples often missed by standard itinerary tours

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early morning is the absolute best time to embark on this tour to enjoy the coolest temperatures and the most ethereal lighting filtering through the bamboo. Autumn, particularly late November, offers breathtaking foliage that beautifully contrasts with the grey stone statues, while spring provides a lush, vibrant green canopy.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a polarizing filter or adjust your exposure to capture the rich green hues of the bamboo forest without blowing out the sky

• Focus on the intricate, individual facial expressions of the rakan statues at Otagi Nenbutsuji for unique, character-driven portrait shots

• Respect the sacred atmosphere by turning off your camera flash and avoiding posed photos directly in front of the main altars

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the temples, it is customary to bow slightly before passing through the torii gates or entering the main halls. Keep your voices low and avoid touching the ancient stone statues to preserve them for future generations, and remember that tipping is not practiced in Japan.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Sento Kuyo festival in late August at Adashino Nenbutsuji, where thousands of candles are lit to honor the spirits of the dead

• The spectacular autumn illumination events in November, where the surrounding Arashiyama mountains and temple grounds are lit up at night

• The vibrant cherry blossom season in early April, which transforms the walking paths leading up to the temples into tunnels of pink

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Watch your step carefully on the moss-covered stone steps and uneven gravel paths, which can become slippery after rainfall

• Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shaded areas, as the walking portions of the tour can be physically demanding on hot summer days

• Keep a safe distance from any wild macaques or boars you might encounter in the deeper, forested areas of Okusaga