Kyoto: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari
Two of Kyoto’s most unforgettable places in one guided day: the towering green corridors of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the endless vermilion torii gates that wind up the hillside at Fushimi Inari Taisha. Your English-speaking guide handles the route and shares the stories behind each stop.
Group and private departures available
What’s Included
- English-speaking guide for the full day
- Visit to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Time at Tenryu-ji and the Togetsukyo Bridge
- Visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha and its torii gates
- Local transport between the day’s stops
- Photo stops at the most scenic viewpoints
Old Kyoto, From Bamboo Groves to Torii Gates
This is the Kyoto most travelers dream of. In a single, well-paced day you experience two of the city’s most photographed places, each with a completely different feel. The morning is calm and green among the bamboo of Arashiyama, and the afternoon is bold and bright beneath the vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari.
You will walk the famous paths of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where tall stalks rise overhead and the light filters through in soft green. Nearby you can take in the Zen grounds of Tenryu-ji and the view from the Togetsukyo Bridge over the Katsura River. Later, at Fushimi Inari Taisha, you follow the winding tunnels of torii gates up the wooded slopes of Mount Inari, passing stone foxes that are said to be the messengers of the shrine.
Your guide keeps the timing smooth, shares the meaning behind each site, and helps you find the best spots for photos, so the day feels full but never rushed.
Tour Highlights
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: the towering green corridors of Kyoto’s most famous forest path.
- Fushimi Inari Taisha: thousands of vermilion torii gates climbing the hillside.
- Senbon Torii: the dense, tunnel-like rows of gates that Kyoto is known for.
- Tenryu-ji: a celebrated Zen temple and garden beside the bamboo grove.
- Togetsukyo Bridge: the graceful Moon Crossing Bridge over the Katsura River.
- Fox statues: the kitsune guardians believed to be Inari’s messengers.
Your Day at a Glance
- MorningExplore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, with time near Tenryu-ji and the Togetsukyo Bridge.
- MiddayBreak for lunch and travel across the city toward the Fushimi district.
- AfternoonWalk the torii gate paths at Fushimi Inari Taisha and the Senbon Torii tunnels.
- EveningWrap up the day back in central Kyoto.
Order of stops and timing can vary with crowds, weather, and seasonal conditions.
What to Bring
There is a fair amount of walking, and the paths at Fushimi Inari climb uphill, so comfortable shoes make a real difference.
Good to Know
- Popular sites: both places are famous, so an early start helps you enjoy them before the busiest hours.
- Full day: plan for a relaxed full day exploring the two sides of Kyoto.
- Some climbing: the torii gate paths at Fushimi Inari rise up the hillside, with steps along the way.
- Private option: this tour is also available as a private departure for your group.
Booking & Cancellation
Send your preferred date and group size through the inquiry form and our team will confirm availability and the exact meeting details by email. We keep booking flexible and will walk you through any seasonal options, including the private departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the tour start?
The tour is based in Kyoto. Once you send your inquiry, we confirm the exact meeting point and start time with you by email.
Do we visit both Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari?
Yes. The day is designed to cover both, with the bamboo grove and Arashiyama in the morning and the Fushimi Inari torii gates in the afternoon.
How much walking is involved?
Expect a good amount of walking, with some gentle climbing along the torii gate paths at Fushimi Inari. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the pace stays relaxed.
Is there a private option?
Yes. This itinerary is available as a private tour for your group. Mention it in your inquiry and we will share the details.