Step into the world of The Tale of Genji on a deep and quiet walking tour of Arashiyama and Sagano. Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and local flavors of this hidden gem, all while enjoying a personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide.
Step into the world of The Tale of Genji on a deep and quiet walking tour of Arashiyama and Sagano. Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and local flavors of this hidden gem, all while enjoying a personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide.
- Nonomiya Shrine - + Admire the unique black wooden Torii gate. Only two shrines in Japan feature a black torii gate.
- Appreciate the stunning moss garden.
- Learn the proper way to visit a temple and pray.
- Understand the differences between a shrine and a temple.
- Experience the tranquility of this spiritual place.
- Obtain a Shrine stamp…
- Nonomiya Shrine - + Admire the unique black wooden Torii gate. Only two shrines in Japan feature a black torii gate.
- Appreciate the stunning moss garden.
- Learn the proper way to visit a temple and pray.
- Understand the differences between a shrine and a temple.
- Experience the tranquility of this spiritual place.
- Obtain a Shrine stamp (Goshuin). (optional)*A stamp book and a stamp fee are required.
*”The Tale of Genji Tour” offers more insights into the tale.
- Immerse yourself in the world of the tale.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove - + Delight in the beautiful bamboo forest and the soothing soundscape of bamboo.
- Capture memorable photos with Yusuke in the bamboo forest.
- Seiryoji Temple - + Explore this ancient temple, originally built about 1,200 years ago. The current structure was built around 300 years ago.
- View the Japanese national treasure – the Shaka Nyorai Buddhism statue.
- Enjoy the magnificent building and corridor with a beautiful Japanese garden.
- Obtain a temple stamp (Goshuin). (optional)A stamp book and an additional stamp fee are required. There are two types of Temple stamps: an official stamp with a fee and a free stamp.
- Savor local sweets. (optional) *Sweets fee not included.
- Ticket is 400JPY.
*”The Tale of Genji Tour” offers more insights into the tale.
- Visit the tomb of Toru Minamoto, the model for Genji in the tale.
- Immerse yourself in the world of the tale.
- Daikaku-ji Temple - + Former Emperor’s Imperial palace known as Saga Gosho, built about 1200 years ago.
- This temple is a hidden gem where you can enjoy a traditional imperial palace without crowds.
- Discover unique architectural features such as the nightingale floor and the corridor of Murasame.
- Experience how the emperor and queen lived in this former imperial palace, moving without walking on the ground.
- Obtain a temple stamp (Goshuin). (optional)*A stamp book and a stamp fee are required.
- Ticket is 500JPY.
*”The Tale of Genji Tour” offers more insights into the tale.
- Immerse yourself in the world of the tale.
- Osawaike - + The oldest artificial pond in Japan.
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery in every season and the peaceful bamboo forest.
- Ticket is 300JPY.

- Original Tour Booklet (about 15 pages)
- Helping to take good photos
- Learning Photography as a hobby
- Guiding
- Original Tour Booklet (about 15 pages)
- Helping to take good photos
- Learning Photography as a hobby
- Guiding
- Ticket for Daikakuji temple & Osawa-no-ike Pond
- Ticket for Seiryoji temple
- Japanese snacks (Optional)- about 500 yen
- Insurance-Please prepare your insurance on your own if you need.
- Gratitude
- Ticket for Daikakuji temple & Osawa-no-ike Pond
- Ticket for Seiryoji temple
- Japanese snacks (Optional)- about 500 yen
- Insurance-Please prepare your insurance on your own if you need.
- Gratitude
Embark on a memorable tour experience. Enjoy a curated journey featuring “History,” “Phenomenal and Beautiful Views,” and “Good Food” as you explore the authentic and tranquil Arashiyama. Experience efficient and comfortable visits to sites while avoiding the crowds.
- This tour is perfect for those interested in both major attractions and lesser-known…
Embark on a memorable tour experience. Enjoy a curated journey featuring “History,” “Phenomenal and Beautiful Views,” and “Good Food” as you explore the authentic and tranquil Arashiyama. Experience efficient and comfortable visits to sites while avoiding the crowds.
- This tour is perfect for those interested in both major attractions and lesser-known local gems.
- A serene and intimate tour designed for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.
- Yusuke, the tour planner and guide, offers an insider’s perspective as a local expert. With experience guiding over 3,000 guests in Kyoto, Yusuke is eager to help you enjoy Kyoto by introducing the deep and peaceful Arashiyama.
For those selecting “The Tale of Genji Tour” Option:
- All locations, except the bamboo forest, are featured in The Tale of Genji. Yusuke provides context and explanations related to the tale at these sites.
*Both options visit the same locations. “The Tale of Genji Tour” option includes additional information about the tale.
- Travel/Walking time is included on the total tour duration. We will walk about 3km/55minutes during the tour with enjoying local scenery.
- You have to take off your shoes to enter inside at Seiryoji-temple and Daikakuji Temple.
- This tour will take about 4 hours.
- Please bring snacks if you need. There are not many restaurants around the ending point.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.