Stroll through a UNESCO temple garden, pass under towering bamboo, cross a historic bridge, and meet wild macaques on a compact private tour of Arashiyama. Practical tips and local context help you plan the four-hour experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of Hankyu-Arashiyama station into a low winter light or the high green of summer, and the city’s pace immediately loosens. The guide leads the group toward Tenryuji’s gate, where a pond garden frames a low temple roof and the air smells faintly of pine and river water.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves several short walks and a 20–30 minute uphill walk to the monkey park.
Wildlife
History
Tenryuji was founded in 1339 and its Sogen Pond Garden reflects Zen landscape design by Muso Soseki; Togetsukyo Bridge has been a local landmark since the Heian period.
Conservation
Arashiyama is popular and foot traffic can erode paths—stay on marked trails, carry out trash, and never feed wildlife to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Reserve your spot on the Private Arashiyama Tenryuji Temple Bamboo Grove and Monkeys Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Meet at Hankyu-Arashiyama Station
Arrive at the specified Hankyu-Arashiyama meeting point (not JR Saga or Randen) 10 minutes early to find your guide easily.
Wear grippy shoes
Paths include stone steps and riverside walkways—good soles prevent slips, especially in wet weather.
Don’t feed the monkeys
Feeding macaques is prohibited and increases aggressive behavior; follow park signage and staff instructions.
Bring local cash for snacks
Small shops and food stalls in Arashiyama often accept cash only for quick eats like tofu croquettes or green tea ice cream.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides traction on stone paths, stairs, and occasional mud near the river.
Light waterproof jacket
Spring showers are common; a packable shell keeps you comfortable between sights.
spring
Layered clothing
River valleys get chilly—layers help manage temperature during morning and evening.
winter
Small change/cash
Useful for shrine offerings, snacks, and small purchases in the shopping streets.