Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Walk & Garden Lunch

Summary

Wander Kyoto’s bamboo grove, Zen temples, and quiet gardens

You’ll walk Kyoto’s Arashiyama bamboo forest with a local guide, step quietly through hidden gardens and temples, sip matcha with a snack, and share lunch by the river. Expect moments of calm beauty (and maybe laughter) as you see Kyoto’s softer side up close.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked off the main street in Arashiyama just as the morning crowds started to swell. Our guide, Mayu, waved us down a narrow path lined with mossy stones — honestly, I’d have missed it if she hadn’t pointed. The air smelled like wet earth and sweet leaves after last night’s rain. It was quieter than I expected; just the crunch of gravel under our shoes and the soft clack of someone sweeping their steps nearby. Mayu explained how Japanese gardens are meant to be seen from certain angles — something about “borrowed scenery.” I tried to see it her way but mostly just felt peaceful standing there.

The Sagano bamboo grove came next. You know those photos where the stalks look almost fake? It’s real — but what you don’t see is how the wind makes them creak overhead or how light flickers green on your arms. We stopped for a matcha break at a tiny shop tucked between souvenir stands. The tea was grassy and bitter (not my usual thing), but the little sweet that came with it melted right away — like eating spring air, if that makes sense. Mayu laughed when I tried to say “arigatou gozaimasu” properly; I probably butchered it.

After wandering through Okochi Sanso Garden (the view over Kyoto caught me off guard — I still think about that), we headed towards Tenryu-ji Temple. The temple grounds were full of school kids whispering and an old man raking gravel into perfect lines. Inside, we learned about Zen paintings — honestly, I zoned out for a second just watching sunlight shift on the tatami mats. Lunch was Syo-jin cuisine near Togetsu-kyo Bridge: tofu, pickles, rice… simple stuff but somehow filling. We ended up drifting along souvenir street before heading back toward the station, still kind of dazed by all the green.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Garden Tour

• Visit hidden garden with Kyoto atmosphere
• Explore hidden gems in the area
• Walk through Bamboo forests and take photos
• Visit Okochi Sanso Garden
• Lunch near Togetsukyo Bridge
• Tour Tenryu-ji Temple and gardens
• End at souvenir street or Togetsukyo Bridge

Top questions

How long is the Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest tour?

The tour lasts about 5 hours from start to finish.

Does this day trip include lunch?

Yes, an authentic Kyoto-style lunch is included near Togetsukyo Bridge.

Are entry fees to temples and gardens covered?

Entry fees for two temples and one Japanese garden are included in your booking.

Is pickup included for this walking tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby.

Can vegetarians or vegans join this tour?

Vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free meals are available if requested at least one day in advance.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

No, it isn’t recommended for travelers who have difficulty walking or mobility issues.

What should I wear when visiting Buddhist or Shinto sites?

Please wear respectful clothing suitable for religious facilities.

Are photos included during the tour?

Yes, photos will be taken during your walk as part of the experience.

What’s included

Your half-day in Arashiyama includes entrance fees to two temples and one Japanese garden, a guided walk with a local expert, matcha tea with a small traditional snack during a break, plus an authentic Kyoto-style lunch near Togetsukyo Bridge. Photos from your day are also included so you can remember those quieter moments later on.