From Osaka: Arashiyama & Bamboo Grove Tour

Autumn in Kyoto

Start your journey in Osaka, and explore the ethereal Sanzen-in Temple; a thousand-year-old site known for the oldest garden in Japan, "Yusei-en". Immerse yourself in the temple's tranquillity, made magical with the changing autumnal foliage. With an expert guide, uncover the secrets of this Tendai Sect temple.

Bamboo haven

When you get to the Arashiyama and Sagano area, you'll be surrounded by cultural heritage and natural beauty. Visit ancient temples, and rent kimonos and rikshaws. Walk through the iconic bamboo grove, from Nonomiya Shrine to Okawachi Villa, an offbeat experience, where you'll listen to the hushed whispers of the wind through the bamboo leaves - a phenomenon aptly called 'Bamboo Leaf Rhapsody'. Your guide will share the rich stories of the area's ancient temples, including the World Heritage Site, Tenryu Temple. End your day at Arashiyama Station's foot bath, a hidden gem mirroring the design of JR Kyushu Yufuin Station. As you enjoy a traditional foot soak, you can delight in seasonal sweets from a local store, adding a sweet finish to your day.

Itinerary

• Leave from Osaka

• Arrive at Sanzen-in Temple and explore at your own pace

• Leave for Arashiyama

• Explore Bamboo Grove at Arayashiyama and other temples at your own pace

• Explore Tenryu Temple at your own pace

• Enjoy a traditional foot soak in Arashiyama

• Return to Osaka

From Osaka: Arashiyama & Bamboo Grove Tour

Discover the enchanting beauty of Kyoto's Arashiyama district on this full-day guided tour that includes round-trip transfers from Osaka, a traditional foot bath at Arashiyama Station, and an exploration of Tenryuji Temple. This sightseeing experience covers 4 key landmarks including the iconic Bamboo Grove, Sanzen-in Temple, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Togetsukyo Bridge. The tour is available in English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean, ensuring accessibility for all international visitors. With a duration of approximately 8 hours, you'll have ample time to immerse yourself in Kyoto's cultural heritage. Highlights include witnessing the Bamboo Leaf Rhapsody, soaking your feet at Arashiyama Station, and visiting Sanzen-in Temple with its stunning autumn foliage. The tour departs from Namba or Umeda stations in Osaka early morning and returns late afternoon, providing a stress-free day out.

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Your tour stops at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove where you'll experience the serene beauty of towering bamboo stalks swaying gently in the wind. Established as a scenic spot since the Heian period (794-1185), this grove spans over 20 acres and is one of Kyoto's most iconic natural landmarks. The grove features a winding path lined with bamboo that can reach heights up to 30 feet, creating an immersive green tunnel where visitors often pause to listen to the rustling leaves, known as Bamboo Leaf Rhapsody. In spring, cherry blossoms add vibrant colors, while autumn brings shades of red and gold from maple trees surrounding the grove. Visitors typically spend around 45 minutes here, enjoying photo opportunities and moments of tranquility. Unlike other bamboo forests in Japan, Arashiyama's unique combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Discover Sanzen-in Temple

At Sanzen-in Temple, guests can explore one of Kyoto’s most picturesque temples set amidst lush greenery. Established in 1052 by the Buddhist priest Kisen Shuho, this temple covers an area of about 64 acres and is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage. Within the grounds, visitors will see the main hall with intricate wooden carvings dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868), a large pond surrounded by maple trees, and several sub-temples such as Kannon-do Hall and Jizo-do Hall. Sanzen-in Temple is particularly famous for its autumn colors when the leaves turn shades of red and gold during October and November. Tourists usually spend about 2 hours here, taking in the serene atmosphere and learning about its rich spiritual history from expert guides. Unlike other temples in Kyoto, Sanzen-in stands out due to its vast natural setting and historical importance.

Experience Tenryuji Temple

Your tour continues at Tenryu-ji Temple where you'll delve into the heart of Japanese Zen Buddhism. Founded in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji, this temple complex covers over 26 acres and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside, visitors will find the main hall known as Hojo, which houses an ancient painting of a cloud dragon created during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), one of the oldest surviving examples of Chinese-style ink painting in Japan. The temple also features a beautiful garden designed by the famous landscape architect Muso Soseki that includes ponds, waterfalls, and meticulously arranged stones reflecting Zen principles. Tourists typically spend around 45 minutes here, admiring both architectural marvels and serene landscapes. Unlike other temples in Kyoto, Tenryu-ji's blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes it a unique destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

Tour Highlights

• Full-day guided tour from Osaka to Arashiyama
• Convenient round-trip transfers included in ticket price
• Traditional foot bath at Arashiyama Station with seasonal sweets
• Expert guide available in English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean languages
• Bamboo Leaf Rhapsody experience in 20-acre grove
• Sanzen-in Temple visit with autumn foliage views in October-November
• Tenryuji Temple exploration including ancient cloud dragon painting
• Togetsukyo Bridge walk along scenic riverfront path

Perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and cultural explorers, this full-day guided tour provides an immersive experience of Kyoto's natural beauty and historical landmarks. The 8-hour format allows you to explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, soak your feet at Arashiyama Station, and visit Tenryuji Temple, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Osaka's rich cultural heritage while enjoying the serenity of its iconic sites.