Sanzen-in Temple and Arashiyama Exploration in Kyoto Day Trip

08:40 1st meeting point: Nipponbashi Exit 2 (Namba/Shinsaibashi Area) 09:50 2th meeting point: Kyoto Station Hachijō Exit – Sightseeing Bus Parking Area ※ Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure. The tour will depart on time and will not wait for latecomers. 10:30 Kyoto – Sanzen-in Temple Sanzen-in Temple, located in Ohara in northern Kyoto, is one of the three monzeki temples of the Tendai sect. The spacious grounds are filled with ancient trees, lush moss, and flowing streams. Seasonal scenery includes cherry blossoms in April, azaleas in May, hydrangeas in July, and vibrant autumn foliage. The temple's two pond-style gardens—Shūheki-en and Yūsei-en, designed by Kanamori Sōwa—are the best places to admire Sanzen-in’s beauty throughout the year. The principal image, a wooden statue of Amida Nyorai flanked by two attendants, is designated a National Important Cultural Property.

13:30 Kyoto – Arashiyama The Arashiyama area consists of the Arashiyama and Sagano districts. It offers rich cultural landmarks, seasonal natural scenery, and the nostalgic Sagano Scenic Railway. The area is home to many temples and shrines, including the UNESCO World Heritage site Tenryu-ji Temple. Between Nonomiya Shrine and Okochi Sanso Villa lies the famous Bamboo Grove Path. Arashiyama is one of Japan’s top cherry blossom and autumn foliage destinations, attracting large crowds in spring and fall, while remaining peaceful in summer and winter—perfect for travelers seeking tranquility. You can also find traditional eateries, wagashi shops, charming boutiques, kimono rentals, and rickshaw services, making it an ideal place to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere.

Sagano Bamboo Forest Path The Sagano Bamboo Forest, about 500 meters long, can be reached on foot from Nonomiya Shrine toward Okochi Sanso Villa. Walking through the bamboo grove, you can hear the natural sound of wind rustling through the bamboo leaves—selected as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan.” 16:30 Return Happily conclude the day’s itinerary and begin the return journey. The return time is for reference only and may be earlier depending on traffic and tour progress. 16:50 Kyoto – Kyoto Station Hachijō Exit – Sightseeing Bus Parking Area 17:50 Osaka