Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide in Kyoto
Kyoto, Japan

Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide

Outty Ranking 60 5.0 · 5 traveler reviews5 hoursFrom $12000

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

2

Children

Age 12 and under

0

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From, per person$12000
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Outty Ranking

60/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide worth booking?

Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide is a 5-hour experience in Kyoto, Japan, from $12000 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
60 / 100
Rating
5/5 (5)
Duration
5 hours
From
$12000 per person

This is a PRIVATE walking, Tour. Like other famous places, most travelers don't know the real potential of Arashiyama, unless someone shows it to them. We are here to make your trip to Arashiyama memorable and help you

What you get

  • Okochi Sanso Entrance Ticket
  • Shopping/Translation assistance
  • Guide Fee
  • Tenryuji Entrance Ticket
  • Monkey Park Entrance Ticket

About this experience

This is a PRIVATE walking, Tour. Like other famous places, most travelers don't know the real potential of Arashiyama, unless someone shows it to them. We are here to make your trip to Arashiyama memorable and help you the best way we can to make every second you spend in that area count. For other languages (French, Spanish, German): We cannot guarantee the availability of the Guide in the language you want, unless you contact us before booking the tour to check the Guide's availability. Please contact us before booking. We will be able to confirm the available language on your requested date.

What's included

Included

  • Okochi Sanso Entrance Ticket
  • Shopping/Translation assistance
  • Guide Fee
  • Tenryuji Entrance Ticket
  • Monkey Park Entrance Ticket

Not included

  • Shopping and Souvenirs
  • Lunch

What you'll see and do

  1. Arashiyama Park, Kameyama Area

    Explore the bamboo grove and reach the top of Arashiyama park for an amazing observation spot of the area.

    60 minutes here

  2. Okochi Sanso Garden

    Take your time to enjoy the private Okochi Sanso garden, sit and take a deep breath, with a beverage served in a former tea house turned into a rest area.

    45 minutes here · Admission included

  3. Tenryu-ji Temple

    Explore one of the most famous temples in the city, indoors and outdoors, and admire the Koi fish in the pond. Enjoy nature around you and learn more about the place you are visiting.

    45 minutes here · Admission included

  4. Arashiyama

    Stop at every single shop you want to discover that amazing shopping street in Arashiyama, and ask your guide to assist you with anything.

    60 minutes here · Admission included

  5. Togetsukyo Bridge

    Besides the bamboo grove, this is probably the second most popular spot for a picture with the Katsura river, and the Majestic view of this iconic bridge.

    15 minutes here

  6. Hike up the hill and explore the monkey park. That place is especially thrilling for families and kids.

    60 minutes here · Admission included

Where it starts and ends

Meeting point

Kyoto

Meet by the map down the stairs on the NORTH EXIT of the JR "Saga-Arashiyama" station. Get off the train, pass the gates, TURN RIGHT to the NORTH EXIT, go downstairs, and meet your guide near the map. The guide wears a "JTA" navy cap and/or polo shirt.

Hotel pickup

No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

Ends at

The tour officially ends at the Monkey Park. Please listen to your guide's instructions, grab your ticket, and go for a short hike, leading you to the monkeys and one of the best views of Kyoto. Take all the time you need, and leave the Monkey Park anytime you want. Thank you for joining us.

Before you book

Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Languages
de, en, fr, es
Ticket
Mobile Only
Runs on
Every day
Group size
Up to 12 travelers per booking
Operated by
Japan Tour Adventure

Know before you go

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The monkey park is a 20 minutes hike. While most people, including kids, can do it, please make sure your legs are strong enough. Thank you.

Photos

Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide in Kyoto, photo 2Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide in Kyoto, photo 3Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide in Kyoto, photo 4Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide in Kyoto, photo 5Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide in Kyoto, photo 6Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide in Kyoto, photo 7

What travelers are saying

Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

Knowledge and storytelling

5 mentions

Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

The guide

2 mentions

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

Good for families

1 mention

Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

Traveler reviews

5 verified traveler reviews for Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

5 star
5
4 star
0
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zghiacy · February 2026

Exceptional

Superb walking tour with Mr Toru Suzuki. Informative and entertaining, he was great company and brought the whole experience to life. Very knowledgeable and entertaining, he made the whole experience exceptional.

Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your wonderful review! 😊 We’re truly delighted to hear that you had such an exceptional experience in Arashiyama with Mr. Toru Suzuki. He will be very happy to know that his knowledge and entertaining storytelling helped bring the tour to life for you. Exploring the bamboo forest together while sharing history and stories is exactly the kind of memorable experience we hope our guests can enjoy. Thank you again for joining our tour and for sharing your kind words. We hope to welcome you back for another wonderful adventure in Japan someday! ⛩️ Warmest regards from all of us, Ayumi / Japan Tour Adventure Team

via Tripadvisor

natanyaj2022 · May 2025

A morning in Kyoto

⸻ We had an outstanding experience with our tour guide Remi in Kyoto. Despite the city being incredibly busy, he skillfully led us to quieter spots that still captured the beauty and culture of the area—allowing us to truly enjoy the atmosphere. His knowledge of Kyoto’s history, traditions, and landmarks was exceptional, and he shared it in a way that was both informative and engaging. What stood out most was how thoughtfully he included everyone in the group, taking the time to understand our individual interests and tailoring the experience so that everyone felt involved and valued. A truly professional and thoughtful guide—highly recommended.

Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your amazing 5-star review! 🌟 We’re thrilled to hear that you had such an outstanding experience with Rémi in Kyoto. Even on the busiest days, he always knows how to find those peaceful corners that capture the true spirit and beauty of the city. His deep knowledge and warm, engaging approach really make each tour special, and we’re so glad you felt cared for and included throughout the experience. Thank you again for your heartfelt recommendation — it truly means a lot to us! Warmest regards from all of us ⛩️🐒✨ Ayumi / JTA Team

via Tripadvisor

Emma4055 · January 2025

Best thing we did in Japan

Tom was excellent. His English was first rate and his knowledge of Japanese culture and history was enormous. His love and passion for Kyoto was infectious. Our teen boys were totally absorbed by his knowledge and explanations. Could not recommend this enough.

Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review and your lovely recommendation!! We are so delighted to know you enjoyed the tour with Tom!! Thrilled your sons also enjoyed learning Japanese culture and history with Tom!! Your kind words encourage us to keep delivering the best experience possible!! Warm regards, Ayumi J.T.A Team

via Tripadvisor

karin l · January 2025

Arashiyama Bamboo forest walk with Tom our delightful tour guide

We had a wonderful day exploring the beautiful Bamboo forest and Okochi Sanso Gardens topped off meeting the Snow monkeys guided by Tom , the amazing tour guide from Japan Tour Adventure. Highly recommended if you are looking for a fun entertaining and informative day out for the whole family old and young!

Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your fabulous 5-star review and your lovely recommendation!! We are so happy to know you enjoyed the tour with our guide Tom!! Your kind words encourage us to keep delivering the best experience possible!! Warm regards, Ayumi J.T.A Team

via Tripadvisor

davidgI3824WT · January 2025

Gardens and sights of paradise

We had a great day with Tom. He was exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable and the sights were fantastic. I’d highly recommend

Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your 5-star review and your lovely recommendation! So happy to know you enjoyed the tour with Tom!! Your kind words made our day!! Warm regards, Ayumi J.T.A Team

via Tripadvisor

Good to know

Duration
5 hours
Free cancellation
Up to 24h before
Minimum age to book
All ages
Availability
Bookable today
Runs on
Every day
Price range
$12000 to $75000
Hotel pickup
No pickup, meet at start point
Booked in 30 days
2
Verdict
Solid Choice

Why this scores 60

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

Traveler sentiment (30% weight)92
Review evidence (18% weight)24
Booking momentum (14% weight)17
Value for money (12% weight)32
Listing quality (10% weight)95
Local standing (8% weight)53
Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide: questions travelers ask

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

How much does Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide cost?

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Prices start at $12000 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 Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide take?

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Plan for about 5 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 Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide worth it?

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It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 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 Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide?

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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 Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide suitable for kids and families?

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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

How far in advance should I book Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide?

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Around 2 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 5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

Where does Private Walking Tour in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with Guide 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 : Gion Make Your Own Chopsticks with Engraving Option, Award-Winning Authentic Ramen Making Experience in Kyoto, Hidden Kyoto E-Biking 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?

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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?

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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.

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