Arashiyama Highlights With Matcha Experience

Enjoy the serene beauty of Arashiyama’s iconic landmarks and cultural traditions on this captivating experience. Explore the UNESCO-listed Tenryuji Temple, wander through the mesmerizing Bamboo Grove, and cross the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge. But the true highlight? A tranquil matcha tea ceremony that unveils the art of tea preparation and offers a chance to savor seasonal Japanese sweets. Discover why this tour is a must for anyone seeking to uncover Kyoto’s cultural heritage.

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Tenryuji Temple and learn about Zen Buddhist teachings from a local guide.
• Stroll through the iconic Bamboo Grove and capture its serene, cathedral-like atmosphere.
• Enjoy a traditional matcha tea ceremony, where you’ll be guided through the intricate steps of the ritual.
• Discover Arashiyama’s cultural heritage and appreciate the region’s natural beauty.
• Travel between locations via car, ensuring a seamless and comfortable sightseeing experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Arashiyama Highlights with Matcha Experience is a private one-day tour that costs from $38.85 per person.

The 1-day tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and allows customers to reserve now and pay later.

A live tour guide is available in Setswana.

The tour is a private group experience, starting at the JR Saga Arashiyama Station and ending at the Kamogawa Station.

Key stops include Tenryuji Temple, the Bamboo Grove, and Togetsukyo Bridge, with transportation provided between locations.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour starts at the JR Saga Arashiyama Station, where visitors embark on their journey to explore the Arashiyama highlights.

First, they’ll visit the Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to discover its gardens and learn about Zen teachings.

Next, they’ll stroll through the iconic Bamboo Grove, a 30-minute experience ideal for photography.

The tour then leads to the Togetsukyo Bridge, where visitors can enjoy scenic views and take a moment to relax.

Transportation via car connects the locations, allowing for a seamless exploration of this cultural gem.

Exploring Tenryuji Temple

Nestled within the Arashiyama district, Tenryuji Temple stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivating visitors with its serene gardens and profound Zen teachings.

During the tour, guests spend 75 minutes exploring the temple’s grounds, marveling at the meticulously manicured landscapes that reflect the changing seasons.

Knowledgeable guides explain the temple’s history and significance, sharing insights into Zen Buddhism and its emphasis on harmony, respect, and tranquility.

Strolling through the peaceful pathways, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the temple’s role in Kyoto’s cultural heritage and the principles that shape Japanese spirituality.

Strolling Through the Bamboo Grove

After exploring the serene grounds of Tenryuji Temple, visitors then venture into the enchanting Bamboo Grove.

The towering bamboo stalks sway gently in the breeze, creating a natural cathedral-like atmosphere. As visitors stroll along the winding pathway, the dappled sunlight filters through the verdant canopy, casting intricate shadows on the ground.

The tranquil setting encourages a sense of serenity and contemplation. Visitors often pause to capture the iconic scenes, as the bamboo grove provides a picturesque backdrop for memorable photographs.

This serene respite offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling city streets nearby.

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Visiting Togetsukyo Bridge

From the bamboo grove, visitors amble towards the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, a renowned landmark in the Arashiyama district.

This ancient stone bridge, spanning the Katsura River, offers breathtaking vistas.

Visitors can:

• Admire the bridge’s graceful design, which blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape.
• Capture the reflection of the bridge in the tranquil waters below.
• Enjoy a moment of respite, gazing out at the serene river and the forested hills in the distance.
• Explore the charming shops and eateries lining the riverbanks, seeing the local culture.

The Matcha Tea Ceremony Experience

After exploring the iconic landmarks of Arashiyama, the tour guides lead participants to a traditional teahouse for an immersive matcha tea ceremony experience. Seated in a serene setting, guests are guided through the intricate steps of the tea ritual, embodying the principles of Wa-kei-sei-jaku. Seasonal sweets and decorations heighten the sensory experience, while each deliberate gesture encourages mindfulness. The 1-hour ceremony allows participants to savor the vibrant green matcha and appreciate the tranquility of the moment. This culture provides a fitting conclusion to the Arashiyama excursion.

Characteristic	Description
Duration	1 hour
Focus	Enjoy matcha and traditional sweets, embodying Wa-kei-sei-jaku
Seasonal Awareness	Sweets and decorations reflect nature’s transitions
Mindfulness	Each gesture is deliberate, encouraging concentration and appreciation

Inclusions and Extras

The tour includes several key elements to enhance the overall experience. The tea ceremony fee and entrance to Tenryuji Temple are covered. Transportation to the teahouse and back is provided. Participants will receive a gift of colored calligraphy by a Zen monk.

The tour also includes:

• Immersive matcha experience with traditional sweets
• Seasonal awareness reflected in the tea ceremony
• Mindful practice focusing on harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility
• Knowledgeable guide to provide context and insights throughout the tour

Important Considerations

Although the Arashiyama Highlights with Matcha Experience is a captivating tour, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. The activity is not suitable for children under 15, people with back problems, wheelchair users, or those with diabetes. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and be prepared for weather conditions, as an umbrella or raincoat may be necessary. Plus, smoking is not allowed during the tour. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, it’s important to review the participant requirements and come prepared.

Important Considerations
Age Limit	Back Problems	Wheelchair Users	Diabetes	Smoking
Not suitable for under 15	Not suitable	Not suitable	Not suitable	Not allowed

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Different Starting or Ending Location?

Yes, the tour provider may accommodate requests for different starting or ending locations, depending on availability and logistics. Guests should inquire about this option when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Guests can request a longer tour to explore more of the Arashiyama area or add additional activities like a rickshaw ride or visit to a local market. Extended tours are subject to availability and additional fees.

How Do I Communicate Special Dietary Requirements for the Tea Ceremony?

To communicate any special dietary requirements for the tea ceremony, travelers should contact the tour provider in advance. The provider can then accommodate any needs and ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience.

Is There Storage Available for Large Bags or Luggage?

The tour does not provide storage for large bags or luggage. Participants are advised to pack lightly and bring only what they can comfortably carry during the tour. Any excess items may need to be left at the starting location.

Can I Take Photos During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography is generally allowed during the tea ceremony, but guests are encouraged to be mindful and avoid disrupting the experience. It’s best to ask the host for guidance on appropriate times and methods for taking photos.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Kyoto’s cultural heritage with the Arashiyama Highlights tour. Explore the iconic Tenryuji Temple, stroll through the breathtaking Bamboo Grove, and enjoy scenic views at Togetsukyo Bridge. The tour culminates in a traditional matcha tea ceremony, where you’ll savor seasonal sweets and learn the art of tea preparation in a peaceful setting. This unique experience offers a harmonious blend of nature, history, and Japanese culture.

You can check if your dates are available here: