Full Day Kyoto Walk in Fushimi, Arashiyama, Monkey, and Kinkakuji

Exploring the cultural heart of Japan, this full-day walking tour in Kyoto showcases the city’s iconic sites. Visitors will enjoy the tranquil beauty of Fushimi Inari Shrine, wander through the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, encounter playful monkeys at the famous Monkey Park, and marvel at the stunning Kinkakuji Temple. With a small group size, a bilingual guide, and efficient use of public transportation, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience. What secrets will unfold as you traverse Kyoto’s historic streets?

Good To Know

• This full-day Kyoto Walk tour covers the highlights of Fushimi, Arashiyama, Monkey Park, and Kinkakuji over approximately 8 hours.
• The small-group tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers and includes a bilingual local guide, entrance tickets, souvenir photos, and lunch.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with leg or knee problems.
• Punctuality is crucial, as late arrivals will not be accommodated, and participants are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early.
• The tour utilizes public transportation, and participants are responsible for the costs, with a Suica or Icoca card recommended for convenience.

Tour Overview

The full-day Kyoto Walk tour covers the highlights of Fushimi, Arashiyama, Monkey Park, and Kinkakuji (Golden Temple), lasting approximately 8 hours.

This small-group tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers and starts at the Kitsunezo statue near the JR Inari train station, concluding at Kyoto Station.

The tour includes a bilingual local guide, entrance tickets to key sites, souvenir photos, and lunch.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though individuals with leg or knee problems may face challenges.

Guests are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early and use a Suica or Icoca card for public transportation.

Inclusions

As part of the Kyoto Walk tour, the package includes a bilingual local guide to lead the group.

Entrance tickets to Tenryuji Temple, Monkey Park, and the iconic Golden Temple are also covered.

Travelers will receive souvenir photos they can download after the tour.

Lunch is included, and the tour recommends using a Suica or Icoca card for convenient travel on trains and buses.

This full-day experience provides a comprehensive introduction to Kyoto’s top sights, with the guidance of a knowledgeable local to enhance the experience.

Accessibility and Participation

Although the Kyoto Walk tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible. Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for individuals with leg or knee problems.

A minimum of 2 guests is required for the tour to proceed, so single travelers may face cancellation. Guests should arrive 15 minutes early, as late arrivals won’t be accommodated. WhatsApp communication is encouraged for timely updates.

The tour involves walking and using public transportation, so transportation costs aren’t included. Participants should be prepared for a full day of exploring Kyoto’s highlights on foot.

Tour Guidelines

This is a walking tour that uses public transport, so transportation costs are not included. Guests should arrive 15 minutes before the start time, as late arrivals will not be accommodated. WhatsApp communication is encouraged for timely updates.

Language and Cancellation Policy

English is the primary language used on this tour, though other languages like French, German, and Spanish may be available upon request, though not guaranteed.

Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour starts. The tour also offers a lowest price guarantee, so guests can book with confidence.

Participants are encouraged to use WhatsApp to stay updated on any timely changes. Punctuality is key, as late arrivals won’t be accommodated.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Where does the Fushimi Inari Shrine lie within the Kyoto Walk Tour? It serves as the starting point of this full-day excursion. At the iconic JR Inari station, guests will find the Kitsunezo statue, the designated meeting location. From here, the tour ventures through the vibrant vermilion gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, exploring its winding trails and numerous shrines. This Shinto shrine is renowned for its striking torii gates that ascend the Inari mountain, offering a picturesque backdrop for the day’s adventure.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

After exploring the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Kyoto Walk Tour takes visitors to the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Surrounded by towering bamboo stalks, the path winds through this tranquil oasis. The dappled sunlight filters through the green canopy, creating a calming atmosphere.

Visitors can stroll at their own pace, taking in the sights and sounds of this natural wonder. The Bamboo Grove is a highlight of the tour, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

Guests can capture stunning photos to commemorate their journey through this unique and serene landscape.

Monkey Park and Kinkakuji Temple

After departing the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the Kyoto Walk Tour takes visitors to the Iwatayama Monkey Park, home to a troop of Japanese macaques.

Guests climb up a 30-minute trail to reach the park’s observation deck, where they can feed the monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto.

The tour then continues to the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion.

This Zen temple’s top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, creating a stunning reflection in the pond.

Guests can explore the temple’s grounds and gardens before heading back to Kyoto Station.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Guests should dress in a casual, relaxed manner suitable for a full day of sightseeing and walking.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a provided lunch is included in the tour package, so bringing your own may not be necessary. Check with the tour guide for any specific guidelines.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes restroom breaks at various points along the way. Guests will have opportunities to use restroom facilities during the day as needed. The guide will ensure there are sufficient breaks provided throughout the full-day walking tour.

Can We Extend the Tour or Add Additional Stops?

The tour doesn’t typically offer extensions or additional stops, but guests can discuss potential modifications with the guide. Any changes would depend on availability, timing, and group consensus. The tour’s itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive Kyoto experience within the allotted time.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Day of the Tour?

If the weather is bad on the day of the tour, the tour operator will assess the conditions and decide whether to proceed, modify the itinerary, or reschedule the tour. Guests will be notified of any changes in a timely manner.

The Sum Up

This full-day walking tour of Kyoto’s iconic sites offers an immersive cultural experience. Explore the serene Fushimi Inari Shrine, the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Monkey Park before witnessing the stunning Kinkakuji Temple. With a small group, a bilingual guide, and inclusive transportation, this tour provides a comprehensive and stress-free way to discover the beauty and history of Kyoto.