Walk through towering bamboo, visit a UNESCO Zen temple, sip authentic Uji matcha and meet a troop of wild macaques on a short hill hike. This half-day Arashiyama tour mixes nature, culture and easy hiking.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the train into Arashiyama and the air changes: the Katsura River pulls at the banks while a corridor of bamboo rises, leaves clicking like an old clock. The path beneath the groves is cool and dim, sunlight threading through tall stalks that tilt and sway, as the distant bridge frames a river that seems to dare you to slow your pace.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic walking fitness; includes short uphill section to Monkey Park with uneven steps.
Wildlife
History
Arashiyama rose as an aristocratic retreat in the Heian period; Tenryu-ji dates to the 14th century and anchors the area’s Zen landscape gardening tradition.
Conservation
Heavy visitation strains the bamboo grove and monkey habitats—follow marked paths, avoid feeding wildlife, and use local waste bins to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Monkeys, Matcha & Temple Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early to beat crowds
Arrive or choose a morning tour slot—bamboo paths and Togetsu-kyo are far less congested before mid-morning.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails to Monkey Park include steep stone steps that can be slippery when wet—closed-toe shoes with traction are best.
Keep a safe distance from macaques
Observe the macaques from the viewing areas; do not feed or touch them—signs are enforced and monkeys can be bold.
Bring a reusable water bottle
Hydration is important during the walk and short hike; refill points are limited around temple grounds.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction on stone steps and muddy trails to the monkey lookout.
Light rain jacket
Spring showers and sudden drizzle under the bamboo make a compact rain layer useful.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated on the walk and short uphill sections—refill before leaving central Kyoto.
summer
Compact camera or smartphone
Capture bamboo shafts, temple details and macaque behavior; zoom recommended for animal shots.