Kyoto’s Arashiyama district is one of Japan’s most famous sightseeing destinations. While many visitors want to experience its iconic landmarks, they also hope to escape the crowds and discover quieter places filled with beauty and history.
This private tour combines Arashiyama’s must-see attractions with peaceful hidden gems, allowing you to enjoy the area’s natural scenery, traditional culture, and refined atmosphere at a relaxed pace.
Perfect for first-time visitors as well as returning travelers, this journey offers a balanced experience of Kyoto’s most celebrated district.
Sample Itinerary
Your guide will be waiting with a Kiyora Travel sign at the Central Gate of JR Kyoto Station.
Travel to Arashiyama by public transportation while enjoying the local atmosphere.
Discover the stunning Yume Korozome (Dream Dyeing) art gallery, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern artistic expression. This beautiful riverside villa is also one of Kyoto’s most photogenic hidden gems.
Take memorable photos at Arashiyama’s iconic landmark while enjoying beautiful views of the Katsura River and the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal in the peaceful surroundings of Tenryu-ji Temple.
Please note:
During the peak travel seasons (April–May and October–November), restaurants fill quickly. We highly recommend booking your tour as early as possible.
Advance reservations are required at least 3 days before the tour.
Explore the magnificent villa and beautifully landscaped Japanese garden, offering a tranquil escape from the crowds.
Your guide will accompany you back to the station.
The tour concludes at JR Kyoto Station.
Tour Highlights
Yusai-tei Gallery – Where Light Becomes Art
Hidden beside the Katsura River, Yusai-tei is one of Arashiyama’s most peaceful cultural treasures.
Originally built in 1869 as a traditional Japanese inn, the villa later became known as the place where Nobel Prize-winning author Yasunari Kawabata wrote part of his celebrated novel The Sound of the Mountain.
Today, it is home to the remarkable artwork of textile artist Yusai Okuda. His unique Dream Dyeing (Yume Korozome) technique creates silk fabrics that change color as natural light passes through them, reflecting Japan’s deep appreciation for light, nature, and the changing seasons.
Guide’s Recommendation
- Capture the famous circular window reflection
- Experience the changing colors of Dream Dyeing
- Relax beside the Katsura River
- Listen to the gentle sound of the traditional suikinkutsu (water harp)
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
No visit to Arashiyama is complete without walking through Kyoto’s world-famous Bamboo Grove.
As towering bamboo sways gently overhead, you’ll experience one of Japan’s most photographed landscapes while learning about the cultural significance of bamboo in Japanese life.
Togetsukyo Bridge – The Symbol of Arashiyama
For over a thousand years, Togetsukyo Bridge has connected both sides of the Katsura River and has become the symbol of Arashiyama.
The bridge offers beautiful views throughout the year—from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant autumn foliage and snow-covered mountains in winter. Along the way, your guide will share the legends and history that have made this bridge one of Kyoto’s most beloved landmarks.
Tenryu-ji Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Founded in the 14th century, Tenryu-ji Temple is one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Its magnificent garden, designed by the Zen master Muso Soseki, has remained virtually unchanged for over 700 years. Sitting quietly on the temple veranda while overlooking the garden is one of the most peaceful experiences Kyoto has to offer.
For lunch, enjoy an authentic Shojin Ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), carefully prepared using seasonal ingredients and traditional Zen culinary philosophy.
Okochi Sanso Garden – Arashiyama’s Hidden Gem
Just beyond the Bamboo Grove lies one of Kyoto’s most beautiful yet surprisingly quiet gardens.
Created by legendary film actor Denjiro Okochi over nearly 30 years, Okochi Sanso combines elegant architecture, strolling gardens, tea houses, and panoramic views over Kyoto.
Far from the crowds, it is the perfect place to slow down and appreciate the timeless beauty of Japanese garden design.
Why Arashiyama?
At Kiyora Travel, our home is Asuka, Nara—the birthplace of Japan.
Many of our guests explore the ancient temples and sacred landscapes of Nara before continuing their journey to Kyoto.
Arashiyama offers a natural continuation of that story.
While Asuka reveals the origins of Japanese history, Arashiyama reflects the elegance and cultural refinement that flourished centuries later in Kyoto.
Here, Zen gardens, traditional craftsmanship, seasonal beauty, and riverside scenery come together to create one of Japan’s most inspiring landscapes.
Rather than simply visiting famous landmarks, we invite you to discover the connections between these historic regions and experience Japan through its history, culture, and enduring appreciation of nature.
This journey has been carefully designed for travelers seeking a slower pace, meaningful encounters, and the quieter side of Kyoto.