Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple
Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple

Outty Ranking 77 5.0 · 37 traveler reviews3 hoursFrom $52
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Outty Ranking

77/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 37 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple worth booking?

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple is a 3-hour experience in Kyoto, Japan, from $52 per person. It scores 77 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 37 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
77 / 100
Rating
5/5 (37)
Duration
3 hours
From
$52 per person

Ran by @guidemejapan on instagram. Join us on our hiking adventure in Arashiyama! We'll take you on amazing trails that most people never get to see. We'll also start early morning, we’ll have the peaceful Bamboo Forest all to ourselves. Along the way, you’ll discover stunning views, hidden paths and the beauty of nature. If you are lucky, you might even encounter wild monkeys! Accident and Mountain Rescue Insurance 1) In emergencies (illness, injury) requiring immediate treatment or transport, costs will be borne by the participant (or family). We may request rescue services (e.g., helicopter) without prior consent. 2) Mountain rescues can be expensive. Participants must have mountain insurance covering rescue, search, and personal liability. Termination of Tour Participation Guides may end a participant’s tour if: 1) They are unfit to continue (illness, injury, etc.). 2) Weather or natural conditions make it unsafe. 3) They act recklessly, refuse cooperation, or disrupt the tour.

What you get

    About this experience

    Ran by @guidemejapan on instagram. Join us on our hiking adventure in Arashiyama! We'll take you on amazing trails that most people never get to see. We'll also start early morning, we’ll have the peaceful Bamboo Forest all to ourselves. Along the way, you’ll discover stunning views, hidden paths and the beauty of nature. If you are lucky, you might even encounter wild monkeys! Accident and Mountain Rescue Insurance 1) In emergencies (illness, injury) requiring immediate treatment or transport, costs will be borne by the participant (or family). We may request rescue services (e.g., helicopter) without prior consent. 2) Mountain rescues can be expensive. Participants must have mountain insurance covering rescue, search, and personal liability. Termination of Tour Participation Guides may end a participant’s tour if: 1) They are unfit to continue (illness, injury, etc.). 2) Weather or natural conditions make it unsafe. 3) They act recklessly, refuse cooperation, or disrupt the tour.

    What's included

    Included

    • Hiking Trail Tour
    • English-Speaking Tour Guide

    Not included

    • Admission Fee for Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple (500 yen)

    What you'll see and do

    1. Arashiyama

      We’ll walk along the main path of the Bamboo Forest, followed by a hike up the mountain to enjoy breathtaking views of Kyoto. Afterward, we’ll visit Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, a temple famous for its 8,000 Buddhist statues.

      180 minutes here · Admission not included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Kyoto

    We will meet guests at Saga-Arashiyama Station. Our guide will be holding a board that says "GuideMe Japan" in front of the train ticket exit. There is only 1 exit for Saga-Arashiyama Station so it should be easy to meet up.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    We will meet guests at Saga-Arashiyama Station. Our guide will be holding a board that says "GuideMe Japan" in front of the train ticket exit. There is only 1 exit for Saga-Arashiyama Station so it should be easy to meet up.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 8 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    GuideMe Japan

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Photos

    Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple, photo 2Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple, photo 3Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple, photo 4Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple, photo 5Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple, photo 6Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 37 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    9 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Physical effort

    6 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Photo opportunities

    3 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Value for money

    3 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    37 verified traveler reviews for Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    36
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    ninapH5740VR · June 2026

    Se above

    Guide Taira was friendly, knowledgeable about Japanese culture and history and mindful of our security & comfortability. We had a great time.

    Response from the operator: Dear ninapH5740VR, Thank you very much for joining our Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour(Hidden Temples)and for sharing your wonderful review. We are delighted to hear that you had a great time exploring Arashiyama with Taira. It is wonderful to know that his friendly guidance, knowledge of Japanese culture and history, and thoughtful attention to your comfort helped make your experience enjoyable and memorable. We truly appreciate your kind words about Taira’s care and professionalism. Ensuring that our guests feel safe, comfortable, and connected to the stories behind each destination is something we always strive to provide. Thank you again for your support. We will be sure to share your lovely feedback with Taira. We hope to welcome you again for another unforgettable cultural experience in Japan. Best regards, GuideMe Japan Team

    via Tripadvisor

    paytonl613 · May 2026

    Would recommend 10/10

    Great experience! Great Guide! Thank you so much for a great time!

    via Tripadvisor

    KATAYUN_S · May 2026

    Adventure tourism!

    High intensity but well worth the climb! Genki was a great guide and offered interesting insights into Japan as we explored the forest. It was nice to get away from the crowds and experience the beautiful foliage and natural environment.

    via Viator

    Diane H · May 2026

    Great hike and wonderful scenery!

    It was so nice to get out of the hustle and bustle of the crowds and hike through the bamboo forest and then through bush. Lots of amazing views from up high. Our tour guide Genki was knowledgeable and caring! He made sure we had breaks and kept us safe - some of the terrain was very tight was big drops! He took great photos too. Recommend this as something different and to get away from the crowds

    via Tripadvisor

    dawnkR8376ZA · April 2026

    Loved our Guide!

    Our guide Rin, made this worth it! He was kind, informative, and make it a very special day for us. We got so much out of the experience and I highly recommend the tour and Rin as a guide!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    3 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $52 to $8,000
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    13
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by GuideMe Japan, who run 34 experiences we rank across 5 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 68.5 and 3 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything GuideMe Japan runs

    Why this scores 77

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)97
    Review evidence (18% weight)49
    Booking momentum (14% weight)42
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)61
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kyoto.

    How much does Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple cost?

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    Prices start at $52 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kyoto usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple take?

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    Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kyoto is not rushed.

    Is Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 77 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 37 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Kyoto, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple?

    +

    Around 13 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kyoto can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kyoto and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kyoto within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Kyoto?

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    On Outty we rank every Kyoto experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kyoto Ghost Tour: Dark Tales, Urban Legends, Bamboo Forest Night, Kyoto : Chopsticks Making Workshop with Engraving Option in Gion, Kyoto: Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Culture Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Kyoto?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple?

    +

    Included: Hiking Trail Tour; and English-Speaking Tour Guide. Not included: Admission Fee for Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple (500 yen). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple?

    +

    We will meet guests at Saga-Arashiyama Station. Our guide will be holding a board that says "GuideMe Japan" in front of the train ticket exit. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Kyoto. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hiking Tour Hidden Temple?

    +

    Across 37 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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