Kyoto Highlights: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari by Private Car

Explore the sights of Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari on this full-day, private minivan tour based out of Osaka. In Arashiyama, you'll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tenryuji, known for its beautiful architecture, gorgeous classic gardens, and lovely vistas. Then it's on to the world famous bamboo grove. Picture time! Afterwards, we slip away to the quiet, rarefied environs of the Okochi Sanso estate for gardens, architecture, and a matcha tea break too. Much more to see and stroll about in Arashimaya before we head to the awe-inspiring, ever-popular Fushimi Inari, where thousands of red gates ("torii") snake up the mountain. We'll talk about the significance and sites as we make our way up the holy pathway, but it's a private tour, so we only go as high as you want! While not included, we are happy to suggest a lunch stop along the way. This tour can be customized, so do feel free to consult with us if you've something special in mind that we don't cover on the standard tour.

1. 1

   Arashiyama

   1 hour

   Within this part of Kyoto are the following places, all described in detaile below: Tenryuji, Bamboo Grove, Okochi Sanso. But also, we'll spend some time, as you wish, strolling the town itself, both along the river and through the shopping district.

2. 2

   Tenryu-ji Temple

   45 min

   The lovely, picture-perfect gardens are sure to both astound and bring you a sense of serenity. Timeless beauty, no matter what the season. We also get views of the prayer halls, mediation areas, and the bamboo grove (which we later walk right through).

3. 3

   Bamboo Forest Street

   20 min

   You've probably seen this pictures of this, and now you get to be a part of it. A narrow road snakes up a gentle hillside, with bamboo towering both to your left and right. A classic, and for good reason.

4. 4

   Okochi Sanso Garden

   1 hour

   Perched above Arashiyama's famous bamboo grove is this luxurious former actor's estate, largely built in the 1930s. You'll enjoy some macha (Japanese powdered green tea) and a small sweet, then stroll the gardens, take in the views, and check out the impressive buildings.

5. 5

   Gion

   10 min

   We spend a few minutes driving through and stopping for a quick stroll and picture taking in the Gion district.

6. 6

   Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

   1.3 hours

   Arguably the most famous Shinto Shrine in the land, Fushimi Inari entices you ever higher up the mountain with its famous red torii (gates). Don't worry, though -- this is a private tour, so we'll only go as high as you want to! Along the way, we'll talk about what Shintoism, Japan's original religion, and we'll see plenty of significant sights aside from those red torii, too.

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Tour is priced per group. If you are 7 to 9 passengers, the price increase covers the larger vehicle. Even if you are less than 7, you can choose the 7 passengers and ride in the 9 passenger vehicle for extra space.
• If you have to bring your luggage with you to the tour, you can leave it in the trunk during the tour, subject to space constraints.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.