Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryuji Temple Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Wander through the towering stalks of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and listen to the soothing rustle of the wind.

• Get up close with wild Japanese macaques and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the Iwatayama Monkey Park.

• Explore the profound Buddhist heritage at Kōryū-ji Temple, home to Kyoto's oldest wooden statue.

• Savour an authentic, freshly prepared Uji matcha drink while your guide shares captivating tales of the area's samurai history.

Hidden Gems

• The quiet, lesser-known backstreets behind Tenryuji Temple offer stunning, crowd-free photo opportunities of traditional machiya houses.

• Kōryū-ji Temple's Reihoden treasure house houses the mesmerizing Miroku Bosatsu statue, a masterpiece of ancient Japanese woodcarving often missed by rushed tourists.

• The upper trails of the Monkey Park feature a secluded feeding area where you can observe the macaques in a much more natural and peaceful setting.

What Makes it Special

• This tour goes beyond the main tourist trails by including exclusive access to Kōryū-ji Temple and the Iwatayama Monkey Park in a single seamless itinerary.

• Your English-speaking guide provides deep cultural context and historical storytelling that brings the ancient shrines and wildlife to life.

• The inclusion of a complimentary Uji matcha drink offers a perfect, authentic culinary break to recharge during your walking tour.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to experience the Bamboo Grove is early in the morning right when the tour starts, as the sunlight filtering through the stalks creates a magical atmosphere and the crowds are thinner. Autumn from mid-November to early December offers spectacular foliage, while spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, though these peak seasons will naturally draw larger crowds.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the Bamboo Grove by shooting upwards with a wide-angle lens to emphasize the towering height of the stalks against the sky.

• At the Monkey Park, use a zoom lens to get close-up portraits of the macaques without encroaching on their space or violating park rules.

• Look for the soft, diffused morning light filtering through the bamboo and temple gardens for the most flattering and atmospheric shots.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting Kōryū-ji Temple and other sacred sites, dress modestly and avoid loud conversations to maintain the peaceful atmosphere. It is customary to bow slightly before entering temple grounds, and you should always remove your shoes when indicated before stepping onto tatami mats or into wooden halls. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so a simple, polite thank you to your guide is the best way to show appreciation.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Arashiyama Hanatouro illumination event in December lights up the Bamboo Grove and nearby temples with thousands of traditional lanterns, creating a breathtaking nightscape.

• Autumn foliage season in late November transforms the hills surrounding the Monkey Park and Tenryuji Temple into a vibrant canvas of red and gold.

• Spring brings the stunning cherry blossom viewing season in early April, where the paths along the nearby Katsura River are lined with blooming sakura trees.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a safe distance from the wild macaques at the Monkey Park, never attempt to touch them, and securely store any loose items or plastic bags that might attract their attention.

• The path up to the Monkey Park can be slippery after rain, so watch your step and use the provided handrails on the steeper sections.

• Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shaded areas during summer months to prevent heat exhaustion while exploring the outdoor groves and parks.