Kyoto: Arashiyama Walking Tour With Tea and Foot Bath

Kyoto’s Arashiyama district offers a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. Visitors can embark on a walking tour through the area’s lush landscapes, including the renowned Tenryu-ji Temple and its expansive gardens. Strolling through the towering bamboo forest and crossing the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge provide breathtaking vistas. After exploring the natural wonders, guests can indulge in a soothing foot bath and savor expertly prepared matcha tea, fully seeing the tranquil ambiance. This enchanting experience unveils Arashiyama’s timeless beauty and the refined traditions that make Kyoto a captivating destination.

Key Points

• Set out on a serene walking tour through Arashiyama, exploring Tenryu-ji Temple, the iconic Bamboo Grove, and Togetsukyo Bridge.
• Discover the tranquil Nakanoshima Park along the Katsura River, offering a peaceful respite from the city.
• Indulge in a relaxing foot bath and savor traditional matcha tea at a local cafe, completing the Arashiyama experience.
• Immerse in the harmonious blend of nature, architecture, and Japanese culture throughout the walking tour.
• Witness the breathtaking vistas of the Arashiyama mountains and the Katsura River, showcasing Kyoto’s natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Tenryu-ji Temple and Gardens

After entering the Tenryū-ji Temple complex, visitors are immediately captivated by the serene beauty of its expansive gardens.

Lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and carefully pruned trees create a harmonious landscape. The temple’s main hall, with its elegant architecture, stands as the centerpiece, reflecting in the waters below.

As guests wander the grounds, they’re treated to stunning views of the Arashiyama mountains in the distance.

The gardens offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city, inviting visitors to slow down and enjoy the temple’s centuries-old history and natural splendor.

Strolling Through the Bamboo Forest

From the tranquil gardens of Tenryū-ji, visitors venture forth into the captivating Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

The towering stalks create a serene, otherworldly atmosphere as they sway gently in the breeze. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting a warm, verdant glow over the path. Visitors marvel at the sheer scale and density of the bamboo, their eyes drawn upwards by the towering trunks.

The crunch of gravel underfoot and the faint rustling of leaves create a peaceful soundscape, transporting travelers to a realm where time seems to slow. This enchanting forest offers a true respite from the bustle of everyday life.

Crossing the Iconic Togetsukyo Bridge

Leaving the serene bamboo forest behind, visitors now set their sights on the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. This historic bridge spans the Katsura River, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and river.

As they cross the bridge, visitors can:

• Admire the traditional Japanese architecture and craftsmanship of the bridge
• Pause to take in the breathtaking vistas of the Arashiyama landscape
• Snap photos of the bridge, framed by the lush greenery and flowing water

The Togetsukyo Bridge is a must-visit destination, providing a picturesque connection between the bamboo grove and the next stop on the walking tour.

Discovering Nakanoshima Park

As visitors cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, they’ll soon find themselves in the serene surroundings of Nakanoshima Park.

This peaceful oasis along the Katsura River offers a welcome respite from the bustling streets. Strolling along the riverside paths, travelers can admire the lush greenery, colorful flowers, and traditional Japanese bridges.

The park’s relaxing atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely break, allowing visitors to soak in the natural beauty. Benches and picnic spots provide ample opportunities to rest and recharge before continuing the Arashiyama walking tour.

Nakanoshima Park is a hidden gem that showcases Kyoto’s tranquil side.

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Enjoying Matcha Tea and Foot Bath

After exploring the serene Nakanoshima Park, the walking tour culminates with a relaxing stop at a local cafe.

Here, participants can indulge in a soothing foot bath and savor a matcha tea experience:

• Dip tired feet into the warm, therapeutic waters of the foot bath, allowing the tension to melt away.

• Sip on a fragrant cup of traditional matcha, expertly prepared by the cafe staff.

• Enjoy the tranquil ambiance as you gaze out at the surrounding scenery, fully immersed in the moment.

This calming conclusion is the perfect way to cap off the Arashiyama walking adventure.

Preparing for the Tour

How can one best prepare for the Arashiyama Walking Tour?

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves moderate walking. A water bottle and sun protection like a hat and sunscreen are recommended, given the outdoor nature of the activities.

An umbrella or raincoat could also come in handy, as the weather in Kyoto can be unpredictable.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility concerns should take note.

Important Tour Details

One key detail about the Arashiyama Walking Tour is that participants can reserve their spot with no upfront payment. This allows guests to secure their place on the tour and pay later.

The tour starts promptly at the scheduled meeting time, so it’s important for guests to arrive on time. If they’re unable to meet the guide, they should contact the provided emergency contact.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the moderate walking involved. Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, water, and weather-appropriate gear like hats, sunscreen, and umbrellas.

• No upfront payment required to reserve your spot
• Arrive on time as the tour starts at the scheduled meeting time
• Contact emergency support if unable to meet the guide

Getting to the Meeting Point

The meeting point for the Arashiyama Walking Tour is provided on Google Maps, allowing participants to easily navigate to the starting location. The tour begins at a convenient central spot, making it accessible for those staying in Kyoto.

Transportation	Duration	Cost
Walking	10-15 minutes	Free
Bus	15-20 minutes	¥230
Taxi	5-10 minutes	¥1,000-¥1,500

Regardless of how visitors choose to arrive, the guide will be waiting at the designated meeting point to kickstart the immersive Arashiyama experience. With clear directions and options to suit various needs, getting to the tour’s starting point is a seamless process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify any age restrictions. It’s suitable for participants of all ages, though the moderate walking involved may not be suitable for very young children or elderly guests who have mobility issues.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is focused on exploring Arashiyama’s scenic sights, and the inclusion of a foot bath makes it unsuitable for bringing along pets. Participants must follow the tour guidelines for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, there’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a set 2.5-hour experience. While you can’t bring pets, the tour does include a relaxing tea and foot bath stop to unwind after the walking portion.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Towel for the Foot Bath?

No, a towel is not required for the foot bath. The tour includes a drink and foot bath at a local cafe, so the cafe will provide towels and all necessary items for the foot bath experience.

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. This allows for a more personalized experience with the guide. Private bookings provide flexibility in scheduling and group size, ensuring an enjoyable tour tailored to the group’s preferences.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the serene splendor of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district. Wander through the iconic bamboo forest, cross the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge, and unwind with a soothing foot bath and matcha tea. This walking tour offers a truly tranquil escape, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this enchanting region.

You can check if your dates are available here: