Zen & Hot Springs: Outdoor Calligraphy in Arima’s Serene Bamboo Forest
Explore Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns, famously loved by the 16th-century samurai warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Walk the historic streets and enjoy a relaxing dip in the therapeutic waters.
Afterward, step into a serene, quiet bamboo forest for a private outdoor calligraphy session with a local master. Feel the ultimate zen as you paint your own masterpiece to take home as a perfect souvenir.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Arima Onsen Hankyu Bus Terminal
- Arima Onsen Hankyu Bus Terminal
Guided Stroll around Arima Onsen
Choose your own way to enjoy the town! If you would like to fully experience the hot springs, you can take a dip in one of Arima’s famous public baths (Soto-yu). For a more casual option, you can enjoy a relaxing foot bath (Ashi-yu), which is a wonderful way to feel the geothermal waters without undressing. Alternatively, you can enjoy shopping in the historic streets, and I will guide you through beautiful temples and shrines deeply tied to the samurai warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
Lunch Time
Savor local culinary delights and enjoy a delicious lunch in the heart of the town.
Traditional Calligraphy Experience
Enjoy a private, 2-hour outdoor brush-writing session in a serene environment with a local master.
Cafe & Relaxation Time
Unwind at a cozy local cafe to wrap up our wonderful afternoon before heading back.
Ending Point
3:40PM Arima Onsen Hankyu Bus Terminal (4:35PM ETA OSAKA)
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94000/e38d160b-175f-486f-b995-35b518756a89.png)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
・guide fee
・Transportation costs (for both guests and the guide)
Your guide will be waiting for you at the Arima Onsen Bus Terminal (Bus Stop).
*Transportation: Direct Highway Bus (Hankyu Bus or JR Bus) from Umeda/Osaka Station to Arima Onsen.
*Fare: 1,400 JPY (one-way per person)
*Duration: Approx. 55-60 minutes
The Hankyu bus departs Umeda at 9:00 and arrives in Arima at 10:00.
Please be careful not to miss it, as it will depart on time.
・Lunch and cafe expenses (for both guests and the guide)
(about 15 USD per person)
・Calligraphy experience fee: ¥8,000 per person (Please pay on-site)
Includes all materials, the workshop, matcha/tea with sweets, and your own final artwork to take home as a souvenir. You can choose to write your creation on a postcard, a hanging scroll (Kakejiku), or a folding fan (Sensu).
・Hot spring (Soto-yu) admission fees (if you choose to bathe / around ¥650–¥800 per person)
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
*Calligraphy Experience Fee: ¥8,000 per person (Please pay on-site)
Includes Matcha or Hojicha (roasted green tea) and traditional sweets after the session.
Payment Method: Credit cards accepted.
*Flexible Calligraphy Venue:
The session will take place outdoors if the weather is clear. In case of rain or if you prefer a climate-controlled space, we can smoothly switch to a beautiful indoor atelier.
*If you would rather focus solely on exploring Arima Onsen without the calligraphy session, that is absolutely no problem at all! I can easily customize the itinerary to fit your preferences. Please contact me before booking, and we can discuss your ideal plan.
Important message from the supplier
My standard guiding hours are weekdays from 9:00 to 16:00. However, I am happy to adjust my schedule to meet your needs! If you are interested in a night tour or weekend availability, please feel free to message me for a consultation!
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Ayumi S.
Academic Knowledge & Global Mindset – Your Local Expert for Culture and Sports!
Hi everyone! I’m Ayumi, a local guide based in the Kansai area.
I studied Tourism at University, where I explore the deeper historical and cultural backgrounds of Japan's most famous sites. Having traveled to many countries myself, I know exactly what makes a trip unforgettable, authentic local experiences and stress-free environment.
Why book with me?
Academic Insight: I don’t just show you the sights; I share the "why" behind them, from the architecture of Himeji Castle to the rituals of a tea ceremony.
Active & Diverse: Whether you want to go hiking in Kobe, watch a professional rugby match, Baseball game, Soccer game, or find the best hidden yakitori spots, I’ve got you covered.
Flexible & Friendly: I understand the needs of international travelers and will help you navigate Japan (including your JR Pass) with ease.
Shopping & Sweets Expert: I am a huge fan of shopping! If you need recommendations for Japanese cosmetics or the best local snacks, just ask me. I especially have a "sweet tooth" for Apple Pie and Daifuku (mochi)—I’m always on the hunt for the best ones in town!
Let’s go beyond the guidebooks and discover the real Japan together.
I look forward to meeting you in Kyoto, Osaka, or Kobe!
Reviews
Genna R.
“Kyoto Highlights in 1 Day: Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji & Arashiyama”
We had a lovely day with Ayumi. She was punctual, organised and very accommodating, made navigating public transport effortless, and booked us excellent local places for lunch and dinner that we would never have found ourselves. What we particularly enjoyed was talking with her about everyday life in Japan — schools, family life and the social system. She is naturally quiet and her style is more about helping you experience the city like a local. A great choice if you value good planning, local food discoveries and a genuine glimpse into everyday Japanese life.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94000/e38d160b-175f-486f-b995-35b518756a89.png)
Ayumi S.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Genna! I truly enjoyed our time together, especially chatting about everyday life and schools in Japan. I'm so happy to hear that you liked the lunch and dinner spots, too! Hope to see you again in Kyoto in the future. Say hi to Natasha for me, too!
Vernette L.
“Osaka Castle, Temples in Osaka and Dotonbori River cruise”
would like to commend our wonderful tour guide, Miss Ayumi, for making our Osaka trip such a memorable and enjoyable experience. She was very hospitable, accommodating, and attentive to our needs throughout the tour. She even accompanied us to a lovely place for dinner, where we truly enjoyed the food and the experience. What made the tour even more meaningful was the way she shared the history, culture, and traditions of Osaka, especially while visiting the beautiful temples. Her knowledge and enthusiasm made each place more interesting and gave us a deeper appreciation of Japan. Thank you, Miss Ayumi, for your kindness, patience, and excellent service. We truly enjoyed our time with you and would highly recommend her to anyone visiting Osaka. She is an exceptional tour guide!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94000/e38d160b-175f-486f-b995-35b518756a89.png)
Ayumi S.
Dear Vernette, Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a wonderful review after your trip! I am truly touched by your kind words. I also had such a great time spending time with you and your lovely family. It was a pleasure guiding you through Osaka! I sincerely look forward to the day we can meet again. Thank you so much!
Maria louisa L.
“Summer Festival”
We had such a fun and enjoyable experience with Ayumi. This was our first time going to a festival in Japan. Ayumi was so patient and accommodating to all our requests. She’s very knowledgable and was able to answer all our questions. She’s quick on her feet and even found a great spot where we could enjoy the parade with no crowds. When we were tired from the heat, she recommended we go to a museum which was also super fun. Before the festivities, she took us to a delicious udon restaurant. I highly recommend booking Ayumi when you come here.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94000/e38d160b-175f-486f-b995-35b518756a89.png)
Ayumi S.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It truly means a lot to me. I had such a wonderful time spending the day with your lovely family. I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed your first Japanese festival and that I could help make it a special experience. Thank you again for choosing me as your guide. Please give my best regards to everyone in your family. I hope you had a fantastic rest of your trip, and I’d love to welcome you back to Japan soon!!!
$167/ per group
More tours by Ayumi S.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24128/3f50effa-a00e-41b6-ac5c-40e8762d444c.jpg)
Kyoto Highlights in 1 Day: Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji & Arashiyama
See Kyoto’s top three icons in one efficient 8-hour day! This tour covers Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Arashiyama, saving you time and hassle with a smart, seamless route.
Kyoto Highlights in 1 Day: Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji & Arashiyama
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22831/70851e6a-c24f-4550-8a74-8f22132595ba.jpg)
Osaka Castle & History Private Tour: Premium Hospitality by a Former Hotelier
"From 'Worry' to 'Wonder' Experience Osaka from the Best Seat in the City." Join a professional guide who specializes in accessible travel. I eliminate the stress of long walks and steep stairs, ensuring every family member can enjoy the tour at their own pace.
Osaka Castle & History Private Tour: Premium Hospitality by a Former Hotelier
Kyoto Highlights: Bamboo Grove & Ancient Temples (4-Hour Private Tour)
Short on time? Experience the best of Arashiyama in just 4 hours! We follow a smart, one-way route from a peaceful hidden gem through the magical Bamboo Forest down to the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. By entering Tenryu-ji Temple from the north gate, we avoid crowds and backtracking Saving your precious time and energy. Enjoy a seamless morning with a local professional guide!
Kyoto Highlights: Bamboo Grove & Ancient Temples (4-Hour Private Tour)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24003/632064b9-2b68-4a43-88b4-e3ff54d09e3c.jpg)
Osaka Essentials: A Guided Food and Shopping Experience in Namba
Discover the best of Osaka’s vibrant culture, incredible food, and trendy shopping with a local guide! This tour is completely customizable to match your interests. We can dive into Kuromon Ichiba Market, known as "Osaka's Kitchen," If you love pop culture, anime, and unique gadgets, we'll explore the energetic streets of Ota Road. We’ll also wander through the bustling heart of Namba, perfect for shopping. Tell me what you love, and we will craft the perfect Osaka experience just for you!
Osaka Essentials: A Guided Food and Shopping Experience in Namba
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Hyogo
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19348/db0edd79-ffd1-4cff-b253-a98dce0b592e.jpeg)
“Discover Hyogo’s Best-Kept Secrets – No Tourists, Just Locals”
You’ll explore hidden temples and shrines like Nakayama-dera, Kiyoshikōjin, Mondo Yakujin, and Nishinomiya Shrine — places deeply loved by locals but completely under the radar for tourists. Experience shakyo (sutra copying), zazen meditation with a monk, and peaceful walks through sacred grounds. It’s not about ticking off famous landmarks — it’s about feeling the real Japan. If you want to go where even most Japanese have never been, this is your tour!!
“Discover Hyogo’s Best-Kept Secrets – No Tourists, Just Locals”
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/74454/a3ab365c-6e5c-4d1d-b92e-83e0bda2a9c6.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3895/69420.jpg)
Awaji island : Hyogo Golden Route (one of five tours)
Hyogo prefecture is about 150km long in north-south direction. There are many sight seeing spots, not only Kobe, Himeji but also Izush-Toyooka, Tanba-Sasayama Awaji island. So Hyogo government decleared "Hyogo Golden Route" as recommended tours. I would like to guide those areas where tourists do not know well. Each area is one day tour. You can have a different experience from Kyoto or Osaka.
Awaji island : Hyogo Golden Route (one of five tours)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/9939/80856.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/8728/f0d29ce3-f453-4254-8331-2e987ffca976.jpg)
Himeji Castle & Koko-en Japanese garden walking tour
Meet at JRHimeji station Himeji Castle: the first world heritage site in Japan. One of only 12 castles which keep the original main keep. You might come across SAMURAI and can take a picture with them. Koko-en Japanese garden: consists of 9 different sorts of gardens such as samurai mansion garden, bamboo garden, pine tree garden, tea leaves garden (Macha tasting) etc. You'll see many pretty plants and Koi carps swimming in the pond.
Himeji Castle & Koko-en Japanese garden walking tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/21328/135514ec-fca6-4688-9867-52f303cea67d.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24130/64912843-93a8-428c-a980-f28973ad98c8.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24130/7e0beae1-b47a-4090-a50f-f0a0fa68a341.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24130/13829fa5-772f-461a-9065-48a7d03b8814.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24130/1d0ebf4c-db1e-4437-9ace-3c8e17f4f6fd.jpg)