Arashiyama Backroads Tour
This half day walk introduces a number of quiet locations set amidst tranquil scenery and is perfect for travelers looking to escape the city for a few hours of walking through nature.
Area
Kyoto & Around
Type
Wildlife & Nature
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Teens
Duration
Half Day
Meet the guide at the hotel and travel to Otagi Nenbutsuji, a remote Buddhist temple that holds one of the city’s most impressive sights: 1200 moss-covered stone statues arranged throughout the temple grounds. This unique mix of religion and art tells a fascinating story at this hidden temple.
From here, walk through the backroads – almost all downhill – of the Arashiyama district. Along the way, visit a number of memorable sites. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at a temple’s tranquil collection of small stone effigies; learn the story of an impossible romance that inspired a lush moss garden; marvel at the rustic simplicity of a preserved 17th century thatched roof house once home to a great haiku poet. Along the way, browse shops selling local folkcrafts and charming traditional goods.
Before the final approach to central Arashiyama, stop for a matcha tea break in the garden at the traditional home of Japan’s first silent film moviestar, and then walk through the famous Arashiyama bamboo forest. Too crowded for a selfie? Worry not, as the guide will have already pointed out a secret bamboo grove earlier during the tour.
Finish on the main street of central Arashiyama, where the guide can point towards a number of other enjoyable spots in the area. From here, it’s easy to return back into the city by train or taxi.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationHyatt Regency Kyoto
Located close to the center of Kyoto, a pleasant walk from the famous Geisha Gion district and opposite the Kyoto National Museum, the luxury Hyatt Regency Kyoto is a great base from which to explore the cultural heart of Japan.
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View AccommodationHoshinoya Kyoto
Stay at a romantic riverside hotel, with Japanese architecture, a meditative green setting, and a ryokan lifestyle, accessed by a peaceful private boat journey. Offering the ultimate in seclusion and tranquillity, Kyoto is just 15-minutes away.
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View AccommodationShuisui Hotel
Nara's finest luxury hotel occupies a meticulously restored 1920s Governor's residence at the edge of sacred Nara Park. Where Kengo Kuma's contemporary vision meets Taisho-era heritage, private onsen baths and World Heritage temples await at your doorstep
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View AccommodationDusit Thani Kyoto
Discover the epitome of elegance at Dusit Thani Kyoto, an exquisite sanctuary nestled in Japan's cultural heart
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View AccommodationThe Celestine Kyoto Gion
The Celestine Kyoto offers guests a truly authentic experience showcasing the best of Japanese hospitality and unique experiences within the ancient city of Kyoto. The Celestine has a fantastic location facing Yasaka Doori avenue in the heart of Gion.
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View AccommodationFour Seasons Hotel Kyoto
A luxurious addition to Kyoto, the Four Seasons Kyoto offers spacious, contemporary accommodation with a Japanese flare in the historical heart of Kyoto. Enjoy the sites of this former Imperial city during the day before returning to this Japanese haven.
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View AccommodationAman Kyoto
Inspired by the traditional ryokan and onsen it has been thoughtfully designed making it one of Japan’s most luxurious hotels.
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View AccommodationHOTEL THE MITSUI
Combining Kyoto’s cultural heritage with contemporary design, this serene hotel stands on the site of the former Mitsui family residence. With a strolling garden, tranquil ceremonial room and thermal spa, this is where old Japan meets modern elegance.
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View AccommodationThe Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
The property has an excellent location on the Kamogawa River, close to Kyoto’s downtown areas including Gion and Kawaramachi-dori and is one of the city's most desired abodes. Guest rooms offer stunning views of the river and the Higashiyama Mountains.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceNara City Tour
Be charmed by the ancient capital on this Nara day trip. Explore famous landmarks such as the 8th-century Todai-ji Temple and quiet back roads brimming with atmosphere, for a glimpse of Japan’s incredible heritage.
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View ExperienceTea with a Maiko
Discover the essence of Kyoto’s main geisha district, the neighborhood of Gion, where the captivating sight of a geisha adorned in vibrant kimonos can still be witnessed gracefully darting through the narrow streets on their errands.
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View Experience
Nishiki Market and Sushi Making
Shop like a local at Nishiki Market, then craft delicious sushi in a historic machiya townhouse. Hands-on, delicious, authentically Kyoto.
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View ExperienceKyoto Family Adventure
This tour is perfect for families, as kids will enjoy spotting the holy fox statues, learning about Shinto fortune telling, and leaving their wishes on a traditional wooden prayer board in a creative manner.
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View ExperiencePrivate Tea Ceremony & Kimono in a Machiya
Immerse yourself in Japan's heritage with a private tea ceremony in a historic Kyoto townhouse. Adorned in a beautiful kimono, learn the art of sado from a master. Experience the preparation of matcha and enjoy wagashi sweets in a tranquil atmosphere.
Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning