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Explore Arashiyama's instagrammable bamboo forest, historic temples and gardens, and one of Japan's most famous and iconic bridge
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
The bamboo forest might be the main reason to visit Arashiyama, but with a host, you can see (and do) so much more. Rent a boat in the pristine lower Hozu-gawa area, row down the river between lush green mountains, or hike up mountains to see the cityscape from a scenic lookout point.
Explore Tenryū-ji Temple and its unchanged garden from centuries ago and exit into the seemingly endless, emerald-glowing Bamboo Grove, winding dreamily uphill. You could walk across the glittering Katsura River and spy excited macaques at the Arashiyama Monkey Park, or you could wander between Zen temples, breathing in the fragrant air, and celebrate the spirit of ancient Japan with a traditional kaiseki meal.
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Daus was an outstanding guide. He provided historical and local knowledge at each place we visited that made for a very fun day.
Show moreAda is fantastic! She gave us a great day without a lot of instructions to see the bamboo forest and its surrounding areas (i.e. pretty much surprise me!) and I appreciate that we were taken to hidden gems with less tourists. She is also great at taking pictures so we have great memories of the trip to take them with us. She’s super fun to be around!
Show moreAlexis was a fantastic guide and passionate about what he does. Although not of Japanese birth, he has a deep understanding of Japanese culture due to his years in Japan. He is very straightforward in his no nonsense approach to the the facts and history of the tour highlights. We certainly covered a lot of ground , but he was always checking on our well being to make sure it was within our limits.
Show moreEs war ein wunderschöner Tag den wir gemeinsam mit Harun im Arashiyama Bamboo Grove und Umgebung verbracht haben. Wir haben so viele Schreine gesehen, und insbesondere der mit den vielen Steinskulpturen hat es uns angetan. Genau wie der ZEN-Garten und die weiteren Bambuswälder neben dem großen. Empfehlung: nur eine Tour am Tag, wenn man nicht über 20 Kilometer gehen will. Harun ist ein sehr aufmerksamer und guter Guide, der auch auf unsere Wünsche eingegangen ist. It was a wonderful day that we spent together with Harun in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the surrounding area. We saw so many shrines and we were particularly impressed by the one with all the stone sculptures. Just like the ZEN garden and the other bamboo forests next to the big one. Recommendation: only one tour per day if you don't want to go over 20 kilometers. Harun is a very attentive and good guide who also responded to our wishes.
Show moreAmazing! Ai was the best guide I could’ve wished for. She was so sweet and accommodating. She clearly read my notes and helped plan a trip to my needs. She also helped me learn new words in Japanese. She was also great about stopping for water and bathroom breaks. Ai was truly wonderful - she definitely made me want to try City Unscripted again!
Show moreIt is a great pleasure and privilege to recommend Mia to you for your Kyoto visit. She is a truly outstanding guide. Along with her impressive expertise on Kyoto and excellent language skills, she has an exceptional ability to understand her client's interests and needs and to organize a wonderful experience. Mia's tours are the best! You will be well looked after and enjoy a very special trip to the beautiful city of Kyoto. My tour was in the first week of April, 2024. I was visiting Japan from Boston, Massachusetts.
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