Kyoto Arashiyama + Kiyomizu-dera Temple 1-day tour Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

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

• Admire the breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto from the famous wooden stage of Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

• Explore the historic streets of Higashiyama and sample traditional Kyoto matcha treats or local street food.

• Capture stunning photographs of the traditional architecture and serene natural landscapes with the help of your expert guide.

Hidden Gems

• Visit the nearby Nonomiya Shrine, a lesser-known spot near the bamboo grove famous for its unique stone lanterns and tranquil atmosphere.

• Look out for the hidden Jishu Shrine behind Kiyomizu-dera, dedicated to the god of love, where you can try the famous love stones walking challenge.

• Discover the quiet, moss-covered pathways around the edges of the main temple grounds that most large tour groups bypass in their rush to the main stage.

What Makes it Special

• Enjoy a completely hassle-free experience with round-trip bus transportation from Osaka and all gratuities included in your booking.

• Benefit from the deep historical and cultural knowledge of a professional tour guide who brings the ancient capitals stories to life.

• Experience two of Kyotos most iconic and geographically distinct landmarks in a single, perfectly timed itinerary without worrying about navigating public transit.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early morning departures are ideal for beating the heavy crowds at the Bamboo Grove and securing the best lighting for photographs. Autumn from November to early December offers spectacular fiery foliage at Kiyomizu-dera, while spring from late March to April brings breathtaking cherry blossoms to the Higashiyama district.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• For the best photos in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, look upward to capture the towering stalks converging toward the sky, and try to visit early to avoid crowds in your frame.

• When at Kiyomizu-dera, position yourself on the lower viewing platforms to capture the iconic wooden stage jutting out over the hillside with the city skyline in the background.

• Respect the sacred atmosphere by turning off your camera flash inside the temple halls and refraining from taking photos where explicitly prohibited by signage.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting Kiyomizu-dera and surrounding shrines, it is customary to bow slightly before passing through torii gates and to cleanse your hands at the purification fountains. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor in the bamboo grove and temple grounds, and remember that tipping is not practiced in Japan, which is why gratuities are already thoughtfully included in your tour package.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Experience the magical Arashiyama Hanatouro in December, where thousands of illuminated lanterns light up the bamboo grove and nearby streets after dark.

• Witness the spectacular special night illuminations at Kiyomizu-dera during the spring cherry blossom season and the vibrant autumn foliage season.

• Join the lively local crowds during the Gion Matsuri in July, one of Japans most famous festivals, which brings festive energy to the wider Kyoto area.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Watch your step carefully on the steep, sloping streets of Higashiyama and the uneven stone paths around Kiyomizu-dera, especially if it has recently rained.

• Stay on the designated pathways within the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to protect the delicate root systems and avoid getting lost in the dense forest.

• Keep hydrated and use sun protection during the summer months, as the walk from the bus drop-off point to the temple can be quite warm and exposed.