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Full-Day Arashiyama and Kinkakuji Tour in Kyoto
This tour offers a rich blend of Kyoto's natural beauty and historic grandeur. Starting at Tenryuji, we will explore this Zen temples stunning garden. A short walk leads to the Sagano Bamboo Forest, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene atmosphere. We continue to Okochi Sanso, the former villa of a famous silent film actor. After lunch, we head to Ryoanji, known for its iconic rock garden. The final stop is Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, which provides a wonderful conclusion to the day.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Randen Arashiyama Station
- *In front the entrance to the station.
Tenryuji
We explore the stunning gardens that seamlessly blend with the surrounding Arashiyama landscape.
Sagano Bamboo Forest
Explore the towering bamboo stalks and the serene, otherworldly atmosphere they create.
Okochi Sanso
Explore the former villa of a famous silent film actor, featuring exquisite gardens and panoramic views.
Hozu River and Togetsukyo Bridge
Walk along the beautiful river and view the iconic bridge.
Lunch
Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in the town of Arashiyama.
Ryoanji
Explore the grounds of this Zen temple, known for its iconic rock garden that epitomizes Zen simplicity.
Kinkakuji
The Golden Pavilion, whose shimmering reflection on the pond provides a breathtaking conclusion to this immersive cultural and scenic experience.
Ending Point
Kinkakuji
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide service is included in the price of this tour.
*Guests should bring ¥5,000 in cash for admission tickets to temples and transportation.
*Guests should bring additional cash for lunch, snacks and souvenirs.
Tour Important Information
*Depending on where the guests are staying we may want to set the meeting point at JR SAGA-ARASHIYAMA STATION. This will be discussed through emails before the day of the tour.
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 Maricel E.
Hello, my name is Maricel. I'm from the Philippines and I've been living in Kyoto Japan for 17 years now. I am an experienced Kyoto tour guide with a deep passion for showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and history and landmarks. I am dedicated to providing engaging and informative guided tours tailored to the interests and preferences of each visitor. Committed to creating unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of Kyoto’s tranquility and beauty, I am looking forward to guiding you while you are here.
Reviews
Arthur C.
“Full day tour in Kyoto”
Maricel is an excellent tour guide. She brought us to the most important sights in Kyoto (Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle, Bamboo Forest and the Gion District) and explained the local culture very well. She is also an excellent photographer and she took photos of us with her phone which she shared with us. We will cherish the memories and would highly recommend her as an excellent tour guide. We would love to have her again should we return to Kyoto.
Bernardo H.
“East Kyoto half day tour”
Having Maricel as guide is fun. She's very knowledgeable about Kyoto's history and culture. Gave us great insights about temples, shrines and Gion. Managed to keep our group of 8 motivated.
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Maricel E.
Thank you for your excellent review. I had so much fun being with the whole group. Warm hearted people from Portugal. Regards to everyone, hope to see you all again.
Danny D.
“Tagalog-Friendly Half-Day Kyoto Tour”
We were a group of six, including two older parents, and our Tagalog-speaking guide made the whole experience smooth and enjoyable. She kindly opened up her schedule for us since we’re kababayan, and from the start, she was warm, professional, and super accommodating. During our visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, she gave our parents the option to relax and shop around the base while the rest of us hiked up to the top of the red torii gates. She made sure everyone felt comfortable and included, no matter the pace. She also took great photos for us and answered all our questions with ease—switching between Tagalog, English, and Japanese like it was second nature. The tour felt personal and relaxed, with just the right balance of history, local insight, and flexibility. Highly recommended, especially for Filipino travelers looking for a guide who truly understands your language and culture.
$344/ per group
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