Begin your day with one of Kyoto’s most famous and mystical locations: the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up Mount Inari, this sacred site offers travellers an immersive experience through Japanese spiritual history, and wander through the tunnels of torii gates, pausing to capture photos of the beautiful red pillars.

Stroll through the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene path surrounded by towering green stalks that sway gently in the breeze. It’s one of the most unique natural landscapes in Japan. Walk through the forest at a leisurely pace, allowing yourself to get lost in the peaceful atmosphere. This is a great place for meditation and photography.

Just next to the Bamboo Forest is Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most significant Zen temples. Its beautiful gardens, designed centuries ago, reflect a masterful blend of Japanese landscape art. Take your time to explore the traditional Zen garden and its surrounding ponds, admiring the contrast between the architecture and lush greenery.

Take a break from the bamboo and explore the high street of Arashiyama. Choose between free time in the area of joining the guide for a proper lunch time at a restaurant, skipping the line, and resting while eating a well-deserved full meal (lunch fee not included).

Cross the Togetsukyo bridge and enjoy the view of the river.

A short hike up the hill from the bamboo grove, Iwatayama Monkey Park is home to wild Japanese macaques. At the top, you’re rewarded with a fun encounter with these animals and sweeping panoramic views of Kyoto. The climb is a bit steep but short (about 20 minutes). Once at the summit, you can feed the monkeys and enjoy the fantastic cityscape. ALTERNATIVE - FREE TIME Guests who do not wish to enter the monkey park will have an additional 60 minutes of free time, to wander around the area, visit local shops, and explore the surroundings, until the monkey park group comes back down to continue the tour. thank you. IMPORTANT: While most guests can do this hike, it is not recommended for people with leg/knee injuries, and depending on the guest's physical condition, the hike can take longer than 20 minutes. Thank you for your understanding.

Finish your day at "Kinkakuji", the Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple famous for its top two floors entirely covered in gold leaf. The temple's reflection in the surrounding pond is mesmerising, especially in the afternoon light. Walk the path around the pavilion and take in the meticulously designed landscape, which changes dramatically with each season. The group will then get in the bus and/or train, to Kyoto station, where the tour will officially end. Guests are free to leave the group after the golden temple, if the wish to stay around the area, or if they wish to go back privately by taxi or by any other way. thank you.