Kyoto Arashiyama: Bamboo Grove, Monkey Park & Garden Walk

Summary

Kyoto’s bamboo grove whispers, gardens bloom and monkeys watch from above

You’ll wander Kyoto’s legendary Bamboo Grove before pausing at ancient shrines, stroll through lush temple gardens after rain, cross Togetsukyo Bridge for riverside views, then hike up to meet wild monkeys overlooking Arashiyama. End with matcha tea in a hidden garden retreat — moments you’ll remember long after leaving Kyoto.

What’s the experience like?

Someone handed me a tiny paper ticket at Saga-Arashiyama Station — I was still fumbling with my umbrella because it had rained that morning, but our guide, Emi, just grinned and said the weather always keeps things interesting here. We started walking through narrow streets where the air smelled faintly of wet stone and something sweet (maybe those yatsuhashi snacks? I never figured it out). Emi pointed to a shrine tucked behind bamboo, explaining how Nonomiya Shrine is famous for wishes about love or exams. There were wooden plaques everywhere with scribbled hopes in Japanese and English — one from someone in Manchester about “passing maths.” That made me smile.

The main reason I’d booked this Kyoto Arashiyama walking tour was the Bamboo Grove. It’s quieter than I expected if you go early. The wind makes this soft clacking sound as the stalks sway overhead — honestly, it felt like stepping into another world for a few minutes. Then we wandered into Tenryu-ji Garden. Emi told us to slow down here, and she was right; there’s something about mossy stones after rain that makes everything glow green. Lunch was quick — a steaming bowl of soba at a place near Togetsukyo Bridge (I still think about that broth sometimes), then we crossed the bridge itself while some local kids tried to feed ducks below.

I wasn’t really prepared for the hike up to Monkey Park — it’s not Everest or anything, but my legs definitely noticed the last bit. The view at the top is wild though: Kyoto sprawled out under low clouds, and these macaques just wandering around like they own the place (which I guess they do). One monkey stared me down while I tried to take a photo; Emi laughed and said he’s probably seen more tourists than anyone in town. Afterward, we slipped off the main path toward Okōchi Sansō Garden. It’s peaceful there — hardly anyone else around — and you get matcha with a tiny sweet while looking out over rooftops and distant hills. The quiet kind of settles in your bones.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Arashiyama's nature and culture

• Meet at Saga-Arashiyama Station
• Visit Nonomiya Shrine
• Walk through Bamboo Grove
• Explore Tenryu-ji Garden
• Take quick lunch break
• See Togetsukyo Bridge
• Hike to Arashiyama Monkey Park
• Relax at Okōchi Sansō Garden

Top questions

How long is the walk to Arashiyama Monkey Park?

The hike takes about 20-25 minutes uphill from Togetsukyo Bridge to reach Monkey Park.

Is lunch included on this Kyoto Arashiyama walking tour?

No, lunch is not included but there is a break near Togetsukyo Bridge where you can buy food locally.

Are entry fees covered for Tenryuji Garden and Monkey Park?

Yes, admission fees for Tenryuji Temple/Garden and Monkey Park are included in your tour price.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

Solo travelers can book but there must be at least two guests total for the tour to run; otherwise you’ll be offered rescheduling or refund options.

What language does the guide speak?

Tours are conducted in English only unless otherwise arranged in advance.

How difficult is the hike up to Monkey Park?

The path is moderately steep but manageable for most fitness levels; allow 20-25 minutes each way.

Where does this Kyoto Arashiyama tour start?

The meeting point is Saga-Arashiyama Station in western Kyoto.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Saga-Arashiyama Station where the tour begins.

What’s included

Your day includes entry tickets for Tenryuji Temple and Monkey Park (with that short but memorable hill hike), guided walks through Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove and Okōchi Sansō Garden, time at shrines and bridges with stories from your bilingual English-speaking guide, plus a break for lunch on your own before finishing up among quiet garden paths with matcha tea served overlooking Kyoto’s rooftops.