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
Demir T.
“A great time in Kyoto with Ayumi”
Ayumi-San was an excellent teacher regarding the history and context of our tour. We enjoyed her pace and warm personality. The food was also excellent. We are glad to have depended on her to show us around for our brief stay in Kyoto!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94000/e38d160b-175f-486f-b995-35b518756a89.png)
Ayumi S.
Demir-san, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a true pleasure guiding you through Kyoto and sharing its history and food with you. I’m so glad to hear that you enjoyed our time together. Teşekkür ederim! I wish you all the best and hope to welcome you back Kyoto,Osaka,Nara or Kobe in the future. Best regards, Ayumi
Beatrice L.
“More Than a Tour Guide — A Wonderful Friend in Kyoto”
This was our second tour with Ayumi after having such a wonderful experience with her in Osaka, and once again she made our day incredibly special. From the beginning, Ayumi was warm, patient, thoughtful and so easy to spend time with. She was especially lovely with our children and always made sure they felt included, comfortable and happy throughout the day. Travelling around Kyoto can feel a little overwhelming at first, but Ayumi patiently showed us how to use the transport system and helped us understand how to get around more confidently on our own. One of the highlights was a hidden gem matcha shop that she introduced us to. We would never have found this place by ourselves, and the matcha ice cream and matcha latte were absolutely delicious. It felt like a much more local and special experience than simply visiting the usual tourist spots. Ayumi also took us to a fantastic duck ramen restaurant, which became another memorable part of our day. The food was delicious and everyone in our family really enjoyed it. We loved that she shared places with us that felt personal and authentic. What made the tour truly special, though, was Ayumi herself. She is not only knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely kind, caring and thoughtful. After spending time with her in both Osaka and Kyoto, she no longer felt like just our tour guide — she felt more like a friend. We are so grateful that we had the chance to meet Ayumi during our Japan trip. She made our experiences in Osaka and Kyoto so much more meaningful and memorable, and we will always remember the wonderful time we spent together. Thank you so much, Ayumi, for taking such good care of our family and for giving us such beautiful memories of Japan. We would happily recommend her to anyone visiting Osaka or Kyoto and would love to see her again on a future trip.
/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 taking the time to leave such a wonderful and heartfelt review Bea! I already miss you and your family!!!!!!! Thank you for making my job so rewarding. I hope to welcome you all back to Japan again in the future! Let’s definitely keep in touch!
Beatrice L.
“An Unforgettable Osaka Experience with Ayumi”
If you are looking for a tour guide in Osaka, look no further — Ayumi is the one! If I could give her 10 stars, I would without hesitation! We feel so lucky to have had Ayumi as our guide on our first visit to Osaka. From the beginning, she was professional, friendly, and very easy to communicate with. She responded promptly to our messages and customised the itinerary according to our interests and preferences. Ayumi was also incredibly gentle and patient with our children. She happily answered all their curious questions and made them feel included throughout the day. We visited Osaka Castle, explored local streets and neighbourhoods, and experienced a more authentic side of Osaka. Ayumi took us to a sushi restaurant popular with locals, where the sushi was incredibly fresh and delicious. She also introduced us to delicious takoyaki and sweet, juicy Shine Muscat grapes, which our whole family loved! My children love manga and Pokémon cards, and Ayumi knew exactly where to take them. Whenever we mentioned something we wanted to see or do, she always tried her very best to make it happen. She also showed us how to navigate the busy Namba and Nihonbashi areas and even helped us book a wonderful yakiniku BBQ restaurant for dinner. Thank you so much, Ayumi, for your kindness, warm smile, patience, and wonderful hospitality. You made our day in Osaka truly special and unforgettable. We highly recommend Ayumi, especially to families and first-time visitors looking for a customised and personal Osaka experience!
/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 lovely message and the incredible review, Beatrice! I am truly touched by your kind words. I was the lucky one to meet such a wonderful family! It was an absolute pleasure showing you around Osaka. Seeing your children enjoy the sushi, takoyaki, Shine Muscat, and all the anime, Smisuki shops made my day so special as well. I am so happy to hear that you had an unforgettable time. I hope the rest of your trip in Japan is full of wonderful memories! Please let me know whenever you visit Osaka again you are always welcome! I also want to introduce my hometown Kobe to you next time!
$163/ 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)