Arashiyama Bamboo Temple, with Monkey or Secret Sake Brewery review
What the tour is like
You start at Togetsukyō Bridge, walk through the Bamboo Grove, visit Tenryū-ji temple gardens, then head to Iwatayama Monkey Park for the 20–30 minute climb, feeding, and the Kyoto view. Rafael pays attention to the heat and stops whenever someone needs shade. Tom knows the side paths and gets the group to the feeding hut when the monkeys are hungriest. The pace is steady but not rushed.
What works
- Rafael and Tom are relaxing guides who respect the pace
- Full Arashiyama loop: bamboo, temple, monkeys, mountain views
- Small group means you actually hear the guide
- Tom takes you to less-crowded feeding times
- The hike is doable for most fitness; Rafael watches for heat exhaustion
Worth knowing
- 5.5 hours is a full morning or afternoon
- The hike to the monkey park is tough in midday heat; go early
- Bamboo Grove gets crowded 11am–3pm; tour timing matters
- Park entry (¥800) paid separately at the gate in cash
- Temple entry is included but can add another 15 minutes to the walk
Usually included
- Guided 5.5-hour walk with a licensed guide (Rafael or Tom)
- Entry to the Bamboo Grove (free)
- Entry to Tenryū-ji temple gardens (included)
- The 20–30 minute hike to Iwatayama Monkey Park
- Time for monkey feeding in the rest hut
Not included
- Monkey park entry (¥800 cash — pay at the gate, not in advance)
- Meals or snacks
- Hotel pickup (meet at Togetsukyō Bridge)
Book the morning departure. The Bamboo Grove is quieter before 11am, Rafael’s pacing is perfect in the cooler hours, and Tom gets you to the monkey feeding at the right time. Bring a litre of water; the hike is hot.
Who it’s for
First-time visitors who want the full Arashiyama experience in one morning or afternoon. Couples and families with older kids. Budget conscious and want matcha included? The bamboo & matcha tour is $43. Want it private with photography focus? The 6-hour day trip with Hidetoshi ($285).
What the reviews say
Amy: "Rafael was so relaxing. He let us ask questions and didn’t rush the pace." Ruth: "Tom took us to spots in the bamboo where there were almost no people. That made the whole difference." Jason: "The hike was hard in the heat, but the view at the top made it worth it. Monkeys are wild up there."
Other tours to consider
Top pickKyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo, Matcha, Monkeys & Temple Tour
Best valueKyoto: Arashiyama Unveiled — Bamboo, Temple, Matcha, Monkeys
PrivateKyoto to Arashiyama Day Trip — Private & Personalized
Frequently asked questions
Is the 5.5-hour walk too long?
Not if you book the morning slot and pace it like Rafael does. The actual walking is about 3.5 hours spread across 5.5; the rest is time at the Bamboo Grove, temple, and monkey park. Take it slowly.
Will the hike to the monkey park kill me?
It’s 20–30 minutes uphill with about 160 metres of climb. It’s the most-complained-about part, especially in the heat. Tom and Rafael both know the pacing. Normal trainers are fine; bring water and suggest an early departure.
Can I do bamboo grove, temple, and monkeys in a different order?
This tour does them in the traditional order. If you want to pick your route, the private 6-hour day trip with Hidetoshi lets you customise the timing and focus.