Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji
Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji

Outty Ranking 69 4.5 · 98 traveler reviews4 hoursFrom $78
Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

69/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.5/5

Based on 98 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji worth booking?

Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji is a 4-hour experience in Kyoto, Japan, from $78 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 98 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
69 / 100
Rating
4.5/5 (98)
Duration
4 hours
From
$78 per person

Discover Kyoto’s timeless charm on a guided morning walk through Arashiyama’s scenic wonders. Stroll the iconic Sagano Bamboo Grove, visit Tenryu-ji Temple’s Zen gardens, and enjoy peaceful views from Togetsukyo Bridge. Depending on the season and plan, explore Jojakko-ji Temple’s mossy grounds or Okochi Sanso Villa’s panoramic hilltop garden. Beat the crowds with early departures and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere of Kyoto’s nature. Tours operating from January to June and October to December 2027 include a relaxing yakatabune boat ride along the Hozu River, offering a unique view of Arashiyama from the water. Led by a licensed English-speaking guide, this tour blends cultural insight with natural beauty - perfect for first-time visitors and repeat travelers alike.

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover Kyoto’s timeless charm on a guided morning walk through Arashiyama’s scenic wonders. Stroll the iconic Sagano Bamboo Grove, visit Tenryu-ji Temple’s Zen gardens, and enjoy peaceful views from Togetsukyo Bridge. Depending on the season and plan, explore Jojakko-ji Temple’s mossy grounds or Okochi Sanso Villa’s panoramic hilltop garden. Beat the crowds with early departures and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere of Kyoto’s nature. Tours operating from January to June and October to December 2027 include a relaxing yakatabune boat ride along the Hozu River, offering a unique view of Arashiyama from the water. Led by a licensed English-speaking guide, this tour blends cultural insight with natural beauty - perfect for first-time visitors and repeat travelers alike.

    What's included

    Included

    • National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter
    • Other admission fees and transportation costs included in the tour

    Not included

    • [During July and September] Jojakko-ji Temple

    What you'll see and do

    1. Arashiyama

      From Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station, travel by public transport with non-reserved seats. Please note that seating is not guaranteed and may require standing during busy hours.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Jojakkoji Temple

      Jojakko-ji Temple offers panoramic views of Sagano and Kyoto. In autumn, the temple’s hillside bursts into color as vibrant foliage blankets Mt. Ogura, creating a stunning 360° seasonal spectacle. During summertime (July - September), instead of Jojako-ji, explore the exquisite Okochi Sanso Villa Garden, featuring beautiful landscapes.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    3. From Jojakko-ji Temple, the tour will be heading to Tenryu-ji Temple while strolling along the Sagano Bamboo Grove, a popular spot among international travelers.

      10 minutes here

    4. Tenryu-ji Temple

      A World Heritage site. This Zen temple stands in one of Kyoto's leading sightseeing areas. The Japanese garden is complemented by the beautiful landscapes of Arashiyama, and has been registered as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Togetsukyo Bridge

      This 250-meter-long bridge offers a spectacular location for viewing cherry blossoms or colored autumn leaves. Enjoy the scenery of Togetsukyo Bridge.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    6. [Only January to June & October to December 2027] Enjoy the scenery of Togetsukyo Bridge and Arashiyama from aboard the yakatabune. The guide will not board the yakatabune. *This experience is not included in 2026 tours or July to September 2027 tours.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Kyoto

    Meet your guide at the Sunrise Tours Desk on B1F of Kyoto AVANTI, located directly across from the Hachijo Exit of Kyoto Station. The meeting point is on the basement level, not the ground floor. [October - June] 8:30am [July - September] 7:05am

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    The tour ends upon arrival at Kyoto Station. Please proceed to your next destination independently

    Options you can book

    • Summer Itinerary Jul - Sep

      Itinerary changes: Visit to Okochi Sanso Villa Garden replacing the regular course of Jojakko-ji visit Summer Itinerary: Kyoto AVANTI > Saga-Arashiyama Sta.> Togetsukyo Bridge > Tenryuji > Arashiyama Bamboo Grove > Okochi Sanso Villa > Kyoto Sta.

    • 2027 Regular Tour

      Regular Course: Saga-Arashiyama Station > Jojakko-ji Temple > Arashiyama Bamboo Grove > Tenryu-ji Temple > Togetsukyo Bridge > Yakatabune

    • 2026 Regular Tour

      Regular Course: Saga-Arashiyama Station > Jojakko-ji Temple > Arashiyama Bamboo Grove > Tenryu-ji Temple > Togetsukyo Bridge

    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
    Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    JTB Global Marketing & Travel Inc.

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • If the minimum number of adult participants (2) is not met by 4 days before the scheduled date, the tour on that date maybe canceled
    • This tour uses public transportation with non-reserved seats. Please note that seating is not guaranteed
    • The order of activities and arrival times may differ depending on road conditions and congestion at destinations
    • As this is a walking tour, please wear shoes and clothing that are suitable for walking. The total walking distance for this tour is approximately 4 km (2.5 miles)
    • Free for children aged 0-5 as long as they will not occupy separate seats
    • Summer itinerary (July to September): Earlier start time to avoid peak heat. Part of the itinerary changes. Visit to Okochi Sanso Villa Garden replaces Jojakko-ji visit
    • [IMPORTANT NOTICE] A yakatabune river cruise is included on tours operating from January to June and October to December 2027. This experience is not included on 2026 tours or tours operating from July to September 2027
    • [January to June and October to December 2027 Tours Only] If the yakatabune cannot be boarded due to effects of high water level, etc., the tour will visit either Fukuda Art Museum or Okochi Sanso (partial refunds will not be issued). If all of the above alternative destinations are closed or unavailable for entry, the corresponding yakatabune boarding fare will be refunded (JPY 1,500/adult, JPY 1000/child)
    • Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour

    Photos

    Tenryu-ji Temple, Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-jiOkochi Sanso Villa Garden (visit only in summer), Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-jiTogetsukyo Bridge, Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-jiSagano Bamboo Grove Path, Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-jiTenryu-ji Temple, Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-jiTenryu-ji Temple, Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 98 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    5 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Pace and timing

    3 mentions

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    98 verified traveler reviews for Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    68
    4 star
    16
    3 star
    7
    2 star
    5
    1 star
    2
    Sort
    M9623BOjom · October 2026

    Stunning

    Stunning scenery & a very friendly guide (Momo)

    via Tripadvisor

    massimoaM90XT · September 2026

    Japan tokyo experience

    Wonderful experience forour holiday

    via Tripadvisor

    spookspa · September 2026

    An amazing area and very unique.

    An amazing area with beautiful bamboo. A lovely walk to take in the grandure of nature, then you come accross a small shrine or moss garden to enjoy. Can be a little crowded.

    via Tripadvisor

    michellecN8460GW · September 2026

    Excellent Bamboo Tour

    We had a fantastic experience on our guided your with Sunrise Tours and our guide Masa. He shared so much interesting information about Kyoto and the sites we visited. Masa took a lot of care in making sure we had a great experience (the shrines, temples, and the Bamboo Forest). When we wanted to get Goshuin, he was very helpful in finding them and even gave us notes for each one. It wasn't on the tour, but he assisted us getting to Monkey Park and made sure we knew where to have lunch and get back to the train station. Masa made this tour the best!👍

    via Tripadvisor

    W5536IYsamanthaf · September 2026

    Graduation girls trip

    Masa was an amazing tour guide. Very knowledgeable and helpful. Loved the places we went and the history of the area. Masa is the best.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    4 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat
    Price range
    $78 to $14,000
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    34
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by JTB Global Marketing & Travel Inc., who run 52 experiences we rank across 8 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 66.6.

    See everything JTB Global Marketing & Travel Inc. runs

    Why this scores 69

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)69
    Review evidence (18% weight)62
    Booking momentum (14% weight)56
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)84
    Local standing (8% weight)12
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji cost?

    +

    Prices start at $78 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 Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji take?

    +

    Plan for about 4 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 Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 98 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 Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji?

    +

    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 Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji?

    +

    Around 34 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?

    +

    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 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji start and how do I get there?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji?

    +

    Included: National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter; and Other admission fees and transportation costs included in the tour. Not included: [During July and September] Jojakko-ji Temple. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji?

    +

    Meet your guide at the Sunrise Tours Desk on B1F of Kyoto AVANTI, located directly across from the Hachijo Exit of Kyoto Station. The meeting point is on the basement level, not the ground floor. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji 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 Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji?

    +

    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 Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and 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 Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji if the weather is bad?

    +

    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 Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji?

    +

    Across 98 reviews averaging 4.5 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: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    What booking options are available for Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji?

    +

    There are 3 options to choose from, including Summer Itinerary Jul - Sep, 2027 Regular Tour, 2026 Regular Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji.

    Pick your date