Arashiyama Hidden Gems: Walking Tour Escaping Crowds

Escape the crowds and discover the tranquil side of Arashiyama with this exclusive walking tour. Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore historic temples, serene landscapes, and hidden gems – all while avoiding the usual tourist hotspots. From the 1,200-year-old Daikakuji Temple to the picturesque Osawa-no-ike Pond, this intimate experience offers a chance to learn about Kyoto’s rich culture and natural beauty. Get ready to uncover the secrets of this enchanting district.

Key Points

• This 4-hour, 3km walking tour of Arashiyama takes small groups of up to 6 participants to hidden temple gems away from the crowds.
• The tour includes entrance fees to Daikakuji Temple, Osawa-no-ike Pond, and Seiryoji Temple, as well as optional Japanese snack experiences.
• The tour starts at Randen-ya station and ends at the serene Daikakuji Temple, allowing for a relaxing free-return walk.
• Daikakuji Temple features a 1,200-year history, a main hall with Hōkyōin-zukuri architecture, and peaceful gardens for personal reflection.
• Seiryoji Temple is a 300-year-old Buddhist temple with intricate wood carvings, golden statues, and a serene pond environment.

Tour Overview

The Arashiyama Hidden Gems walking tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the lesser-known gems of this scenic Kyoto district.

Lasting around 4 hours, the 3km tour takes travelers through the area’s serene backstreets and delightful temples, away from the crowds.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, the small group of up to 6 explores Daikakuji Temple, Seiryoji Temple, and other hidden highlights.

Entrance fees and photography assistance are included, while optional Japanese snacks can be purchased.

The tour starts at Randen-ya station and ends at Daikakuji Temple, with a free return walk available.

Inclusions and Costs

Although the tour price of $85.00 per person may seem high, the inclusions provide excellent value for travelers.

The guided tour services, original 15-page booklet, and photography assistance ensure a rich and informative experience.

Plus, the admission fees for Daikakuji Temple, Osawa-no-ike Pond, and Seiryoji Temple are covered, saving visitors 1,200 JPY.

Optional Japanese snacks, at around 500 JPY, offer an authentic taste of the local cuisine.

While travelers must prepare their own insurance, the overall package delivers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of Arashiyama’s hidden gems.

Meeting and Ending Points

The tour starts at Randen-ya, Keifuku (Randen) Arashiyama Station in Kyoto, making it easily accessible for participants.

After exploring the hidden gems, the tour ends at the serene Daikaku-ji Temple. This allows for free returning walking to the starting point, so you can extend your visit or make your own way back.

The route avoids crowds, providing a personal, relaxing experience. Just remember to remove your shoes when entering the temples, as is customary.

With a convenient meeting and ending, this tour offers a seamless way to discover Arashiyama’s lesser-known gems.

Accessibility and Recommendations

This walking tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain and steps involved. However, most travelers can participate.

Those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions may find the tour challenging.

Visitors must remove their shoes to enter the historic Seiryoji and Daikakuji Temples. Therefore, it’s recommended to wear comfortable footwear.

Since few restaurants are near the ending point, visitors should bring snacks.

Explore the Serene Daikakuji Temple

After winding through the scenic Arashiyama bamboo grove, the walking tour arrives at the serene and historic Daikakuji Temple.

Visitors must remove their shoes before entering this peaceful oasis. The temple’s stunning architecture, which blends traditional Japanese design with Chinese influences, provides a tranquil setting for reflection.

Key features include:

• The Main Hall, with its distinctive Hōkyōin-zukuri style roof
• The Osawa-no-ike Pond, renowned for its serene beauty and vibrant autumn foliage
• The peaceful temple gardens, offering a respite from the bustling city
• The opportunity to learn about the temple’s 1,200-year history and its role in Kyoto’s cultural heritage
• The chance to experience the calming atmosphere and spiritual significance of this sacred site.

Discover the Tranquil Seiryoji Temple

Departing Daikakuji Temple, the walking tour leads visitors to the tranquil Seiryoji Temple.

This 300-year-old Buddhist temple is known for its peaceful gardens and stunning architecture.

Travelers will remove their shoes before entering the main hall, where they’ll admire the intricate wood carvings and golden statues.

The temple’s pond and pagoda offer a serene respite from the crowds.

With an entrance fee of 400 JPY, Seiryoji provides a chance to take in the area’s spiritual heritage.

The knowledgeable guide shares insights about the temple’s history and significance, enriching the overall experience.

Immerse in the Picturesque Osawa-no-ike Pond

From the serene Seiryoji Temple, the walking tour winds its way to the picturesque Osawa-no-ike Pond.

This tranquil pond, nestled in the heart of Arashiyama, offers a serene respite from the bustling crowds.

Visitors can:

• Admire the stunning reflections of the surrounding lush greenery and traditional architecture on the pond’s still waters.
• Stroll along the peaceful pathways and discover hidden viewpoints for the perfect photo opportunity.
• Witness the seasonal changes, from the cherry blossoms in spring to the vibrant autumn foliage.
• Sit by the pond’s edge and savor the calming atmosphere, far from the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Explore the Daikakuji Temple grounds, which border the pond, and uncover the area’s rich history and cultural significance.

Highlights of the Walking Tour Experience

The walking tour’s highlights take visitors on an immersive journey through Arashiyama’s hidden gems.

Travelers are guided through lesser-known temples like Daikakuji and Seiryoji, exploring their serene gardens and historic architecture.

The tour also leads to the tranquil Osawa-no-ike Pond, surrounded by lush foliage.

Along the way, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary on the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Guests can savor local Japanese snacks and capture scenic photographs with the guide’s assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is a maximum of 6 travelers, allowing for a more personalized and intimate experience as the guide navigates the hidden gems of Kyoto.

Can I Cancel the Tour Free of Charge?

Yes, you can cancel the tour for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy to provide convenience for travelers.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks?

Yes, it’s recommended to bring your own snacks for the tour, as there are few restaurants near the ending point at Daikaku-ji Temple. The tour booklet suggests visitors may want to purchase optional Japanese snacks at an estimated cost of 500 JPY.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. The tour includes "photography assistance" as one of the inclusions, so visitors can take photos throughout the experience to capture the scenic beauty.

Will the Guide Provide Suggestions for Nearby Restaurants?

The guide will provide suggestions for nearby restaurants, as the tour ends at Daikaku-ji Temple where there are few dining options. Travelers are advised to bring snacks, as the guide can point out good spots to stop and eat.

The Sum Up

This intimate walking tour of Arashiyama’s hidden gems offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. Explore the centuries-old Daikakuji and Seiryoji Temples, and the picturesque Osawa-no-ike Pond, all while benefiting from an expert guide’s insights and optional photography assistance. It’s an enriching experience that allows you to learn about the area’s stunning architecture and serene landscapes.