Private Kyoto Walk - Arashiyama and Kameoka Sake Brewery with tasting

This is a PRIVATE TOUR.

Walk Through the Iconic Bamboo Forest

Your day begins in the legendary Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks of emerald bamboo sway gently overhead. As sunlight filters through the dense canopy, the forest glows with a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The soft rustling of bamboo in the breeze creates a natural symphony, offering a peaceful start to your adventure and one of Japan’s most unforgettable landscapes.

Sacred Serenity at Nonomiya Shrine

Leaving the bamboo grove, we step into the tranquil grounds of Nonomiya Shrine. This ancient Shinto shrine, once serving imperial princesses, is known for its rare torii gate and deep spiritual heritage. Nestled within the forest, it offers a quiet moment for reflection and a glimpse into Kyoto’s refined court culture of centuries past.

Okochi Sanso Garden – A Hidden Masterpiece

We continue to the breathtaking Okochi Sanso Garden, the former estate of a famous Japanese film actor. This meticulously designed garden blends panoramic mountain views, elegant architecture, and seasonal beauty into a harmonious landscape.

As part of your visit, enjoy a relaxing pause in the estate’s former tea house, where matcha is included. For guests who prefer alternatives, other beverages are also available. This peaceful interlude allows you to savor the refined elegance of Japanese tea while overlooking the beautifully curated gardens — a quiet, authentic moment of Kyoto at its finest.

Tenryuji Temple – Zen Grandeur

Next, we visit the majestic Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples. Its stunning Sogenchi Garden, originally designed in the 14th century, perfectly frames the surrounding Arashiyama mountains. Here, centuries of Zen philosophy, architecture, and landscape design come together in peaceful harmony.

Scenic Ride to Kameoka

After returning to Arashiyama Station, we board a local train for a short and scenic ride through the mountains to the charming city of Kameoka. The transition from Kyoto’s historic elegance to Kameoka’s rural atmosphere offers a refreshing change of pace and a deeper look into local life.

Authentic Local Lunch

In Kameoka, we enjoy a carefully selected local lunch showcasing regional flavors and seasonal ingredients. This is a chance to experience authentic countryside hospitality and discover tastes that many visitors to Japan never encounter.

Exclusive Visit to Tanzan Sake Brewery

Our journey culminates at the prestigious Tanzan Sake Brewery, renowned for its craftsmanship and dedication to traditional brewing methods. Here, you will learn about the delicate process of sake production — from rice polishing and fermentation to maturation.

Please note: some sections of the brewery may not be accessible depending on the brewing season and production schedule. This ensures both quality control and safety during active brewing periods.

The experience concludes with a guided sake tasting, where you will savor different varieties and discover the subtle aromas, textures, and flavors that make premium Japanese sake so distinctive. Non-alcohol alternative possible, but limited to one or two types of drinks.

A Journey for All the Senses

This full-day experience blends iconic scenery, spiritual heritage, refined gardens, rural charm, tea culture, and artisanal craftsmanship. From the whispering bamboo forest and serene temple grounds to matcha in a historic tea house and premium sake tasting, this tour offers a deeper, more intimate connection to the spirit of Kyoto and its surrounding countryside.

Join us for a day that captures the true essence of Arashiyama and beyond — an unforgettable journey through beauty, culture, and taste.