Kyoto’s Arashiyama district beckons visitors with its serene landscapes and natural wonders. This 4-hour bike tour immerses travelers in the region’s captivating sights, from the mesmerizing Bamboo Forest to the UNESCO-certified Tenryuji Temple. Hikers can even venture to the Iwatayama Monkey Park to observe the Japanese macaques in their native habitat. Throughout the journey, the small group size and live English-speaking guide ensure an efficient and enriching experience. But the true allure of this tour lies in the chance to witness Kyoto’s timeless beauty up close and uncover its hidden gems.
Key Points
- 4-hour small-group bike tour that explores the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tenryuji Temple, Iwatayama Monkey Park, and the Togetsu-kyo Bridge in Kyoto.
- Includes a bicycle, helmet, bottled water, and entry fees to the attractions.
- Offers the opportunity to observe Japanese macaques in their natural habitat at the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
- Provides a serene and immersive experience in the captivating Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
- Allows visitors to explore the UNESCO-certified Tenryuji Temple and its cultural treasures.
👉 Check out our guide to the 5 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Kyoto
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Details
- Tour Itinerary
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
- Tenryuji Temple
- Iwatayama Monkey Park
- Togetsu-kyō Bridge
- Inclusions
- Booking Details
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Bike Instead?
- Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?
- What Happens if It Rains During the Tour?
- Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
- Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Kyoto
- More Cycling Tours in Kyoto
- More Tours in Kyoto
- More Tour Reviews in Kyoto
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Kyoto we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Details
The afternoon Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park Bike Tour runs for 4 hours and is a small group experience limited to 8 participants, with a live English-speaking guide.
The tour starts at Saga-Arashiyama Station and takes visitors through the stunning Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, the UNESCO-certified Tenryuji Temple, and the Iwatayama Monkey Park where they can hike for panoramic views.
Along the way, travelers will bike across the picturesque Togetsu-kyō Bridge surrounded by nature.
The tour includes a bicycle, helmet, bottled water, and entry fees.
This popular tour is likely to sell out, so travelers are advised to reserve their spot in advance and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
Ready to pedal more of Kyoto? More cycling tours we recommend
Tour Itinerary
Participants begin the tour at Saga-Arashiyama Station, where they embark on their bicycles for the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
After exploring the serene bamboo grove for 30 minutes, the group proceeds to the UNESCO-certified Tenryuji Temple, spending another half-hour admiring its impressive architecture and gardens.
The next stop is the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where visitors hike for an hour to the top of the mountain to observe the free-roaming Japanese macaques.
Finally, the tour concludes with a 15-minute visit to the picturesque Togetsu-kyō Bridge before returning to the starting point at Saga-Arashiyama Station.
- Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest for 30 minutes.
- Visit the Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Hike to the Iwatayama Monkey Park for an hour-long visit.
- Marvel at the Togetsu-kyō Bridge before the tour ends.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest captivates visitors with its verdant, towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze.
This enchanting natural wonder is a highlight of the bike tour, offering a serene and immersive experience.
As you wander through the lush, green pathways, the bamboo’s rustling creates a soothing melody, transporting you to a tranquil, otherworldly realm.
The forest’s towering bamboo groves reach skyward, casting a soft, dappled light that filters through the leaves.
It’s a truly mesmerizing and peaceful setting, providing a refreshing escape from the bustling city streets.
Tenryuji Temple
After exploring the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, the tour continues to the UNESCO-certified Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s most significant and historic Zen temples. Established in 1339, the temple grounds offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
Visitors can:
- Admire the grand main hall and its impressive wooden architecture.
- Stroll through the beautiful gardens, featuring ponds, bridges, and a stunning view of Mount Ogura.
- Explore the temple’s impressive collection of cultural treasures, including ancient calligraphies and Buddhist statues.
- Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, experiencing the refined art of tea preparation.
With its rich history and tranquil ambiance, Tenryuji Temple provides a truly immersive Zen experience for tour participants.
More Great Tours NearbyIwatayama Monkey Park
The tour then takes participants on a hike up to the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where they’ll be able to get up-close with the park’s playful residents – Japanese macaques.
At the mountaintop, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Arashiyama area while observing the monkeys in their natural habitat.
The hike is approximately 30 minutes, and once at the park, guests can spend an hour exploring the trails and observing the monkeys’ daily activities.
Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance and follow the park’s guidelines to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience.
The Iwatayama Monkey Park provides a unique opportunity to witness these fascinating primates in their stunning natural environment.
Togetsu-kyō Bridge
From the Iwatayama Monkey Park, the tour then takes participants along the Togetsu-kyō Bridge, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Arashiyama area.
This historic bridge, dating back to the 16th century, offers stunning views of the Katsura River and the lush, forested hills that line its banks.
As visitors bike across the bridge, they’ll:
- Marvel at the graceful, arched design of the bridge, which blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
- Pause to take in the serene, reflective waters of the river below.
- Spot local fishermen casting their lines from the riverbanks.
- Appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with the natural world.
Inclusions
The tour includes a bicycle and helmet for each participant, as well as bottled water and entry fees to the sites visited. These inclusions ensure that guests can comfortably and conveniently explore the bamboo forest, temple, and monkey park without additional expenses.
| Included | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Bicycle | Allows for easy and efficient transportation between locations |
| Helmet | Ensures safety during the bike ride |
| Bottled Water | Keeps participants hydrated throughout the tour |
| Entry Fees | Grants access to the attractions without the need to purchase tickets separately |
The inclusions provide a worry-free and well-rounded experience, allowing participants to fully enjoy the beauty of Kyoto’s natural and cultural wonders.
Booking Details
Booking this popular tour is likely to sell out quickly, so travelers are advised to reserve their spots in advance. From $102.62 per person, participants can secure their place and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s start.
Limited availability, so booking early is recommended.
Flexible payment options, with the ability to reserve now and pay later.
Hassle-free cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Secure your spot and enjoy the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Bike Instead?
The tour requires participants to use the provided bicycles. Bringing one’s own bike is generally not permitted, as the tour operator needs to ensure the safety and compatibility of the equipment used on the group ride.
Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children. The itinerary involves cycling and hiking, which could be challenging for young kids. The tour operator recommends it for participants aged 12 and above to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
What Happens if It Rains During the Tour?
If it rains during the tour, the operator will provide rain ponchos to keep participants dry. The tour may be adjusted to spend more time indoors, such as visiting the temples, to avoid the rain. Participants will still be able to enjoy the highlights of the tour.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour for safety and comfort reasons. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing any animals to ensure a enjoyable experience for all participants. Guests should leave their pets at home during the tour.
Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens?
The tour operator does not currently offer a senior citizen discount for this bike tour. Pricing is the same for all participants, regardless of age. Customers should contact the company directly for any potential special offers or discounts.
Kyoto: Afternoon Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park Bike Tour
“An amazing informative tour with a fantastic guide, bikes helmets and even gloves as it was a bit cold. A not miss tour.”
Recap
This bike tour through Kyoto’s Arashiyama district offers an immersive experience to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Visitors can wander the enchanting Bamboo Forest, admire the UNESCO-listed Tenryuji Temple, and observe Japanese macaques at the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
With a small group size and knowledgeable guide, this tour provides an efficient and enriching way to discover Kyoto’s serene landscapes.
You can check availability for your dates here:
