How to Plan Your Kyoto Arashiyama and Golden Pavilion One Day Fulfilling Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto and don’t want the hassle of getting lost in the city, then a private tour is the perfect solution. This full-day tour takes you to some of Kyoto’s most famous sites in comfort and style. The tour covers two main destinations that every traveler should visit, Arashiyama and the Golden Pavilion, within the time-boundation of one day. In this blog post, we’ll detail everything that you need to know when planning your Kyoto Arashiyama and Golden Pavilion one-day fulfilling tour.

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour makes exploring Kyoto’s highlights easy without worrying about getting lost or navigating public transport. It starts in the morning and takes you to Arashiyama, a peaceful district in western Kyoto, where you’ll see wild monkeys cross the Togetsukyo Bridge and take a stroll in the bamboo forest. In the afternoon, the tour takes you to the must-visit attraction in Kyoto, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji). You’ll have your own personal guide who will provide you with personalized attention throughout the tour.

What’s Included

The following is included in the tour:

Guide Fee

The tour includes a guide’s fee. Your guide will give you all the necessary information about the places you visit.

Admission Fee

The admission fee of 1500 yen to Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is also included in the tour.

Food & Drink

Food and drinks are not included in the tour’s cost. However, there will be plenty of opportunities to stop for refreshments and meals during the tour.

Public Transportation Fare

The public transportation fare of about 1200 yen is included in the tour.

Meeting And Pickup

The meeting point is Kyoto Station, which is easy to reach by public transport. The tour starts at 8:00 AM, making it ideal for early birds.

End Point

The tour ends back at the meeting point, Kyoto Station.

What to Expect

During the tour, you’ll get to see a wide variety of sights, from natural beauty to man-made wonders. Here’s what you can expect to see:

Monkey Park Iwatayama

You’ll visit the Monkey Park Iwatayama and see native Japanese monkeys up close. You may even see them bathing in the hot springs or playing in the trees.

Duration: 1 hour

Admission ticket: Not included

Togetsukyo Bridge

You’ll cross the famous Togetsukyo Bridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and river. The bridge is known for its distinctive red color and is a popular spot for photography.

Duration: 20 minutes

Admission ticket: Free

Bamboo Forest

You’ll take a stroll in the bamboo forest, which is a peaceful and relaxing spot. The forest provides a great opportunity for taking photographs with the sun rays filtering through the bamboo forest, and it’s perfectly safe to walk on the trails.

Duration: 30 minutes

Admission ticket: Free

Okochi Sanso Villa

You’ll also visit the Okochi Sanso Villa, which is a peaceful and serene garden built for the famous Japanese film actor Okochi Denjiro. The villa offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Duration: 1 hour

Admission ticket: 1000 yen

Ryoanji Temple

You’ll visit the famous Ryoanji Temple, which is known for its beautiful Zen rock garden. The garden is almost 600 years old and provides a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Duration: 1 hour

Admission ticket: 500 yen

Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the visit to Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion. This stunning building is coated in gold leaf, and its surrounding garden provides the perfect backdrop for photographs.

Duration: 1 hour

Admission ticket: Included

Tour Costs

The cost of the tour is reasonable if we consider the services and sights it offers. As per the structure provided by the tour operator, here is the cost upfront:

• Private Tour with Guide Fare: 27000 yen
• Admission Fee (1500 yen)
• Public Transportation Fare (1200 yen)

The food and drink are additional costs, and it depends upon where you decide to eat.

Book Your Tour Now

Kyoto’s Arashiyama and Golden Pavilion One-Day Fulfilling Tour is a must-visit for every traveler who wishes to enjoy the city’s highlights without any hassle. While the tour is offered by a third-party company, the services provided are top-notch, making it an ideal way to explore the city in comfort and style. You can book the tour on Viator, and we recommend booking the tour well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kyoto

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Kyoto is definitely a city worth visiting. Known for its traditional temples, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage, Kyoto has a lot to offer to travelers. Here are some frequently asked questions about Kyoto to help you plan your trip:

1. What is Kyoto famous for?

Kyoto is famous for its traditional temples, shrines, and gardens. It was once the capital of Japan and has a rich cultural heritage that is still evident in the city’s architecture, cuisine, and arts. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto include the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

2. When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

The best time to visit Kyoto is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful. The cherry blossom season in Kyoto usually starts from late March to early April and attracts many tourists. In autumn, the leaves turn red and yellow, creating a picturesque view of the city.

3. What is the transportation system like in Kyoto?

Kyoto has an extensive transportation system that includes buses, trains, and subways. The city also has a bicycle rental program that is popular among tourists. Kyoto’s public transportation system is efficient, easy to use, and affordable. Most signs and announcements are in Japanese and English, making it easy for foreigners to navigate the city.

4. What is the food like in Kyoto?

Kyoto is known for its traditional Japanese cuisine, especially kaiseki ryori, a multi-course meal that focuses on seasonal ingredients. Some of the local specialties in Kyoto include tofu, wagashi (Japanese sweets), and Yudofu, a hot pot dish made with boiled tofu. The city also has many street food vendors and local izakayas (Japanese pubs) that offer a wide range of delicious and affordable dishes.

5. What are some popular souvenirs to buy in Kyoto?

Kyoto is famous for its handcrafted pottery, silk goods, gold leaf products, and traditional Japanese sweets. Some popular souvenirs to buy in Kyoto include Yatsuhashi (a type of sweet made with cinnamon and mochi), Matcha (powdered green tea), and Kyoto-style ceramics such as Kiyomizu-yaki and Raku-yaki.

6. What are some must-visit temples and shrines in Kyoto?

Kyoto is home to many temples and shrines, each with its own unique charm and history. Some must-visit temples and shrines include:

• Kiyomizu-dera Temple: One of the most famous temples in Kyoto, known for its stunning views and architecture.
• Fushimi Inari Taisha: A shrine famous for its thousands of torii gates that form a tunnel-like path up the mountain.
• Kinkaku-ji Temple: A temple famous for its stunning golden pavilion set amidst a beautiful garden.
• Ginkaku-ji Temple: A temple also known as the “Silver Pavilion,” famous for its unique architecture and beautiful garden.
• Nanzen-ji Temple: A large temple complex with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

7. What is the nightlife like in Kyoto?

Kyoto is not known for its nightlife, but there are still plenty of options for those looking for some entertainment after sunset. The city has many local izakayas that offer affordable drinks and snacks, as well as more upscale bars and clubs in the downtown area. Pontocho and Gion are two popular districts for nightlife in Kyoto.

8. How many days do I need to explore Kyoto?

To fully explore Kyoto, it’s recommended to spend at least three days in the city. This will give you enough time to visit the major temples, shrines, and other tourist attractions, as well as explore the local markets and neighborhoods. Of course, the more time you have, the more you can see and experience in Kyoto.

9. What are some unique experiences to have in Kyoto?

Kyoto offers many unique experiences that are not found elsewhere in Japan. Some of these include:

• Geisha and Maiko Experience: Kyoto is known for its geishas, who are highly skilled entertainers trained in traditional arts such as music, dance, and tea ceremony. You can have a geisha or maiko experience in Kyoto, which includes having tea or dinner with a geisha or watching a traditional dance performance.
• Temple Stay: Some of the temples in Kyoto offer temple stays, where you can experience the daily life of a Buddhist monk, participate in meditation sessions, and enjoy simple vegetarian meals.
• Bamboo Forest Walk: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto, but you can also explore other bamboo forests around the city, such as Sagano Bamboo Forest.
• Kimono Rental: Renting a kimono and strolling around the city is a popular activity in Kyoto, especially during cherry blossom and autumn seasons.

10. How can I get to Kyoto?

Kyoto can be easily accessed by train or bus from major cities in Japan, such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Hiroshima. The Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto takes around 2.5 hours, while the train from Osaka to Kyoto takes only around 30 minutes. Kyoto also has an international airport (Kansai International Airport), which is about one hour away by train.

Book Your Tour Now

Kyoto is a city that offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, there is something for everyone in Kyoto. By planning your trip in advance and learning more about the city, you’ll be able to make the most out of your visit and have a memorable experience.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan’s former capital, is a cultural and historical gem, and a must-visit destination for all globetrotters. The city features an array of temples, shrines, gardens, traditional cuisine, and markets that capture the essence of Japan’s ancient culture. In this guide, we will discuss some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Kyoto.

Visit Kyoto’s Famous Temples and Shrines

Kyoto is known as the “City of Ten Thousand Shrines” for a good reason. The city has 1600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, which makes it an ideal destination for anyone interested in religion and spirituality. Some of the top temples and shrines to visit include:

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. It is a Zen temple that features a stunning golden pavilion surrounded by a pond and lush gardens. The temple dates back to the 14th century and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha is a shrine famous for its thousands of red torii gates that line the mountain trails. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, and is visited by worshippers who come to pray for good harvests and prosperity.

Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 8th century. It features a wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto. The temple is also known for its “love stones,” which are said to grant wishes for love and marriage.

Explore Kyoto’s Traditional Neighborhoods

Kyoto’s traditional neighborhoods, also known as machiya, are a great place to experience Japan’s culture and history. These neighborhoods contain old wooden houses, narrow alleys, and traditional shops that sell crafts, textiles, and Japanese sweets. Some of the best neighborhoods to visit include:

Gion

Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, where you can catch a glimpse of the geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas) as they make their way to appointments. The neighborhood also features traditional teahouses, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Pontocho

Pontocho is a narrow alley that runs parallel to the Kamo River. It features traditional restaurants, bars, and teahouses that offer a perfect setting for an authentic Japanese experience.

Enjoy Kyoto’s Traditional Food and Drink

Kyoto is known for its traditional cuisine, which is delicate, flavorful, and healthy. Some of the dishes to try include:

Kaiseki Ryori

Kaiseki Ryori is a traditional multi-course dinner that features seasonal ingredients and a variety of cooking techniques. It is a must-try for anyone interested in Japanese cuisine.

Matcha

Matcha is a powdered green tea that is used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. Kyoto is known for producing some of the best matcha in Japan, so be sure to try it at one of the traditional teahouses.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with cabbage, seafood, meat, and other fillings. It is a popular street food in Japan and a must-try for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal.

Experience Kyoto’s Festivals and Events

Kyoto is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year, many of which have been celebrated for hundreds of years. Some of the top festivals to experience include:

Gion Matsuri

Gion Matsuri is one of Japan’s most famous festivals and takes place in July. The festival features parades, traditional music, and a procession of giant floats.

Aoi Matsuri

Aoi Matsuri is a traditional festival that takes place in May. It features a procession of people dressed in ancient costumes, which makes for a great photo opportunity.

Jidai Matsuri

Jidai Matsuri is a historical festival that takes place in October. It features a parade of people dressed in costumes that represent different eras of Kyoto’s history.

Book Your Tour Now

Kyoto is a fascinating city that offers a wealth of cultural and historical experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring temples and shrines, traditional neighborhoods, sampling delicious cuisine, or attending festivals and events, Kyoto has something to offer everyone. We hope this guide has given you some ideas for how to spend your time as a tourist in Kyoto. Happy travels!