The tour kicks off at 9:00 AM from Kyoto Station.
The guide will be there a few minutes early and you'll recognise them by the Japón Viajero logo. After the presentation, the guide will explain the tour conditions.
Then we'll head to Saga-Arashiyama Station and take a local bus to our first stop, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple.
It's famous for its 1,200 rakan statues, each with unique expressions that add a mix of spirituality and fun to the atmosphere. This temple offers a unique and captivating experience.
We'll continue the tour on foot to the Adashino Nembutsu-ji temple, a place that pays homage to childless souls through thousands of stone statues. The solemn atmosphere invites introspection and reflection on Japan's ancient Buddhist traditions.
The next stop is Nison-in Temple, known for its two main Buddha statues and its natural surroundings, making it an ideal place to relax and meditate amidst the tranquility of nature.
Later, we'll head to Rakushisha, the former home of the haiku poet Mukai Kyorai. Here, you can breathe the air of ancient Japan and feel the peaceful life of the poets of the past. The simplicity of the surroundings conveys a sense of calm and connection to classical literary culture.
Then, we'll visit Jojakko-ji Temple, nestled on a hillside with stunning views of Kyoto. This temple, surrounded by lush trees and crowned by a pagoda, is perfect for those looking for a space to relax in harmony with nature.
Next, we'll take a stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, one of Japan's most iconic landscapes. Here, the tall and serene bamboo trees create an atmosphere of peace, ideal for connecting with nature. Walking among these trees creates an unparalleled sense of serenity.
The tour wraps up at Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple is famous for its Zen gardens, which are designed to create harmony between the human spirit and the natural environment. As you wander through its landscapes, you'll feel a deep calm, perfect for rounding off this spiritual and natural journey.
The tour wraps up around 3-3:30 pm, after you've explored the most iconic corners of Arashiyama, both naturally and spiritually. After that, you can enjoy the shopping area of Arashiyama.
This itinerary perfectly combines the charm of the bamboo forest with the spirituality of historic temples, providing a unique opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and immerse yourself in the essence of traditional Kyoto.
