11:00a.m. (Japan time)
Depart from Saga-Arashiyama Station
After greetings from the guide, the tour will depart Saga-Arashiyama Station (start of tour video).
Rickshaw Ride
The tour will be taken on a course that departs from Saga-Arashiyama Station and goes through Nonomiya Shrine, Rakushisha (the "Hut of Fallen Persimmons"), and Bamboo Grove Path. (Does not include entry to Nonomiya Shrine and Rakushisha.) Visit sightseeing spots at an exquisite speed that is faster than walking but slower than a car. And, as the eyeline is higher than sightseeing on foot, the view from the rickshaw allows participants to enjoy a slightly different scenery and atmosphere. Communicating with the rickshaw driver, who is thoroughly knowledgeable on the local area, is also one of the highlights. Experience new encounters at the travel destination.
Sagano Bamboo Grove Path
Visit the Bamboo Grove Path, which is famous as a symbol of Sagano. You will surely be able to enjoy the picture- and video-worthy scenery. On this tour, you can not only enjoy the scenery, but also experience the bamboo grove from various angles along with an explanation from the guide on the ecology of bamboo.
Tenryu-ji Temple
This Zen temple is registered as a World Heritage Site and stands in one of Kyoto's leading sightseeing areas. The Japanese garden is complemented by the beautiful landscapes of Arashiyama, and has been registered as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty.
Lunch at Tenryu-ji Temple's Shigetsu
There will an introduction of Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, which is said to have its origins in Zen Buddhism. Buddhist vegetarian cuisine is prepared without any animal products, allowing it to gain attention among vegetarians as well. On this tour, you'll hear an explanation from the guide on the origin and preparation method of Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, the meal etiquette peculiar to Japanese food, and more.
Bamboo Craft Experience
There will be an introduction of bamboo craft, one of Japan's traditional crafts. Listen to an explanation from a bamboo craftsman and the guide and watch a bamboo basket weaving experience where a shikainami basket is made.
Sightsee on foot to Togetsukyo Bridge
The tour will travel along the shopping arcade which is lined with souvenir shops on the left and right sides. There will be an introduction of Kyoto specialty items, staple souvenirs, and more.
Togetsukyo Bridge
Togetsukyo Bridge features Mt. Matsuo and Katsura River in its background and shows off its seasonal beauty with cherry blossoms in spring, colored leaves in autumn, and more. The approximately 155 meter long bridge has a wide view and is known by many people as the symbol of Arashiyama scenery.
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
At Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, there are currently around 120 Japanese macaques living in the wild. See Japanese macaques--a rarity even within the country--right up close. From the rest area located at an elevation of 160 meters, you can enjoy a sweeping view of Kyoto City.
~12:00p.m.
Arrive at Saga-Arashiyama Station, Tour Ends