Arashiyama classic walking tour — 5 hours, bamboo grove, temple, monkeys
What a classic walking tour is like
You meet your group at Saga-Arashiyama Station (or Hankyū Arashiyama—let the tour operator know which you prefer). Rafael or Tom gathers your small group and walks you through the Togetsukyō Bridge area. First stop: the Bamboo Grove, a 15–20 minute walk through towering stalks. Then a rest and refreshment break. Next: the climb to the Arashiyama Monkey Park. The 20–30 minute hike uphill is the only strenuous bit; Rafael or Tom sets the pace. At the top: 120 wild Japanese macaques roaming free on Mount Iwata. You feed them from inside the hut (yen100 bag of apples or peanuts) while they eat outside. The famous role reversal: humans caged, monkeys free. Your guide explains the rules and the history. Rest 30–40 minutes to take photos, enjoy the view, watch the monkeys. Then the walk back down. Afterward, Tenryū-ji temple (entry extra) or Okochi Sanso villa garden. Option: instead of the monkey park, some tours include a sake brewery visit. Total time on feet: 5–5.5 hours with breaks.
Why this tour sells best
Because it covers the whole Arashiyama experience in one morning or afternoon. You see the bamboo, the temples, and the monkeys. Rafael is praised for being "relaxing and informative"; Tom is "knowledgeable" and takes people to "less-crowded spots." Amy said: "Rafael was relaxing and so informative." Ruth: "Tom took us to less-crowded spots." Sophie: "The hike is tough in the heat but absolutely worth it." Katie: "The forest and gardens were beautiful."
Physical demands
The climb to the monkey park is 20–30 minutes uphill, about 160 m of elevation gain on a well-kept dirt-and-steps path. It’s steep but not technical. Regular trainers are fine. Most visitors manage it; if you have knee issues or limited fitness, tell your guide when you meet. They’ll set a pace and suggest a break. Total walking time (including bamboo grove and temple approach): about 4–4.5 hours; rest breaks add another hour.
What’s included
What’s included
- Live guide (Rafael or Tom)
- 15–20 minute walk through the Bamboo Grove
- 20–30 minute hike to the monkey park
- Access to the monkey park and feeding hut
- Approach to Tenryū-ji temple & Okochi Sanso villa
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours
- Small-group experience, instant confirmation
Not included
- Monkey park entry (¥800 cash, paid at the gate)
- Temple or villa entry fees (optional extras)
- Food or drinks (bring a water bottle)
- Hotel pickup (tour starts at a central location)
Getting to Saga-Arashiyama Station
JR Sagano (San-in) Line from Kyoto Station (~15 min, ~¥240), or Hankyū Arashiyama Station (closest station, ~5 min walk to the meet point). Or the Randen tram to Arashiyama (~10 min walk). Let the booking know which station you prefer.
Best time to book
Cherry blossom season (late March–early April), Golden Week (late April), and autumn (September–October) are peak. Book 1–3 days ahead. Winter (December–February) and summer (June–July) have more availability. Morning tours see more monkey activity and fewer crowds.
Wear layers—you’ll warm up on the hike and cool down at the top. Bring a water bottle. The path has a rest hut at the entrance.
Alternative tours
Want something shorter or cheaper. The 4-hour bamboo & matcha tour ($43) covers the same sites plus matcha tasting. The budget value tour ($31) does it even faster. For a private experience, the 6-hour day trip ($285) is custom.
Can’t make these dates?
Browse more available Arashiyama monkey park & bamboo grove tours and find one that fits your schedule — all with instant confirmation and free cancellation.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the hike to the monkey park?
20–30 minutes uphill, about 160 m of elevation gain. The path is well-kept dirt and steps. Regular trainers are fine. Most visitors manage it; tell your guide if you need a slower pace.
Can I touch the monkeys?
No. Do not touch them, avoid eye contact (it’s a threat), don’t crouch near them. You feed them from inside the rest hut at the top—they eat outside, humans are in the cage. It’s the park’s famous safety design.
Is the monkey park entry fee included?
No. Park entry is ¥800 for adults, ¥400 for children, cash only, paid at the gate. The $59 tour covers the guide and group experience; park entry is separate.
What time does the tour start?
Tours run morning and afternoon depending on availability. Morning tours see more monkey activity. Check the booking widget for available times.
How many people are in the group?
Small groups, typically 8–12 people. You’ll have closer contact with Rafael or Tom and a more intimate experience than a large tour.
What if the weather is bad?
Tours run in light rain (the path is paved). In heavy rain or typhoons, the tour may be rescheduled. Check the cancellation policy; most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours.
Can I do just the monkey park without the temples?
This tour covers the whole Arashiyama circuit. If you only want the monkey park, pay ¥800 cash at the gate and go solo. A guide adds context and groups, which is what the $59 is for.
Is there time for shopping or lunch?
The tour is 5–5.5 hours with breaks. Afterward, the area has plenty of shops and restaurants around the stations. The tour itself doesn’t include a meal break, but your guide will suggest lunch spots.