Meeting Point

Bottom of the Grand Staircase (大階段), Kyoto Station Building

Bamboo Grove 「竹林の小径」

We’ll walk Arashiyama’s classic bamboo grove early, while it’s still relatively quiet. I’m a self-confessed Japan nut who has dedicated my life to living, studying, and working here, so I’ll share the history behind the scenery along the way.

Togetsukyo Bridge/Boat Ride「渡月橋・屋形船」

Near Togetsukyo Bridge, we’ll sit back on a traditional roofed boat and take in the mountains and river from the water. It’s a chance to rest your feet while I explain how the area’s history and nature shaped Arashiyama.

Lunch at 400-year-old Teahouse 「鮎茶屋 平野屋」

We’ll enjoy chazuke, a classic Japanese comfort dish, at an old-school teahouse that has served travelers for four centuries. The sound and view of the small river beside it make it one of my favorite meals in Kyoto.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji「愛宕念仏寺」

Right next door to our lunch spot is Saga-Toriimoto, a preserved village of thatched farmhouses and old townhouses on the old pilgrim road to Mt. Atago. Here we’ll visit Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, a temple filled with hundreds of whimsical stone statues, each with its own expression. As a practicing Buddhist, I’ll share the history and traditions behind what we see, and show you proper temple etiquette so you can visit with confidence.

Exploring Artisanal & Local Shops 「祐斎亭など」

After lunch, we’ll make our way to Yusai-tei, a hidden hillside retreat above the river. Once a Meiji-era inn where the novelist Yasunari Kawabata wrote The Sound of the Mountain, it’s now the gallery of a renowned textile dye artist, famous for its round windows that frame the scenery and reflect it on lacquered tables. From there, we’ll browse local shops or a local artist’s gallery where you can admire their craftsmanship, or stop at anything else that tickles your fancy! This area is also great for omiyage (Japanese-style souvenirs).

Local Bathhouse or Mocktail Bar Experience 「地元の銭湯・モクテルバー体験」

End the day your way. Soak away the miles at Sauna no Umeyu, a charming, tattoo-friendly neighborhood sento (public bathhouse) loved by locals. Or head next door to Ikusei, a bar in a renovated traditional townhouse that specializes in local craft mocktails, with alcoholic versions available too. I’ll walk you through proper bathhouse etiquette so you can soak like a local, or help translate so you can chat with the bartender. Either way, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day, and you’re welcome to stay as long as you like.

Ending Point

(Ikusei) Takasegawa area near Gojo「幾星 京都蒸溜室 」