Kyoto Walking Tour of Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, Monkey Park, and Golden Temple

This tour offers a fantastic mix of Kyoto’s iconic temples, serene landscapes, and lively wildlife, all while using convenient public transit to minimize travel time. It's designed for those who want to experience both the peaceful and vibrant sides of Kyoto in one unforgettable day.

Begin your day with one of Kyoto’s most famous and mystical locations: the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up Mount Inari, this sacred site offers travelers an immersive experience through Japanese spiritual history. Wander through the tunnels of torii gates, pausing to capture photos of the beautiful red pillars. You can take a short climb to the midway viewpoint, offering a sweeping view of Kyoto city.

Take the JR Nara Line to Kyoto Station, then transfer to the JR Sagano Line and get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station.

Stroll through the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene path surrounded by towering green stalks that sway gently in the breeze. It’s one of the most unique natural landscapes in Japan. Walk through the forest at a leisurely pace, allowing yourself to get lost in the peaceful atmosphere. This is a great place for meditation and photography.

Just next to the Bamboo Forest is Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most significant Zen temples. Its beautiful gardens, designed centuries ago, reflect a masterful blend of Japanese landscape art. Take your time to explore the traditional Zen garden and its surrounding ponds, admiring the contrast between the architecture and lush greenery.

Enjoy some free time in the main street of Arashiyama, or join your guide for a proper lunch with tables and chairs, hot/cold food, and a full meal of your choice, with kids' vegetarian options. (lunch budget not included in the tour price)

A short hike up the hill from the bamboo grove, Iwatayama Monkey Park is home to wild Japanese macaques. At the top, you’re rewarded with a fun encounter with these animals and sweeping panoramic views of Kyoto.

The climb is a bit steep but short (about 20 minutes). Once at the summit, you can feed the monkeys and enjoy the fantastic cityscape.

IMPORTANT: While most guests can do this hike, it is not recommended for people with leg/knee injuries, and depending on the guest's physical condition, the hike uphill can take longer than 20 minutes. Guests not willing to go uphill to the Monkey Park will be invited by the guide for a special treat, waiting for everyone to come back down. Thank you for your understanding.

Head to the Randen Arashiyama Station, a local tram line, to the nearest station to the Golden Temple.

Finish your day at Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple famous for its top two floors entirely covered in gold leaf. The temple's reflection in the surrounding pond is mesmerizing, especially in the afternoon light. Walk the path around the pavilion and take in the meticulously designed landscape, which changes dramatically each season.

After a day filled with the sights and sounds of Kyoto, head back by bus to JR Emmachi Station, and then train to Kyoto Station.