Osaka Katsuo-ji & Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Arashiyama hiking 1-day tour (Spirited Away inspired)

▲ Katsuo-ji - A sacred site for praying for victory and good luck (approx. 2 hrs, admission ticket not included) The temple's boundary gate [Sanmon] and the [Purification Bridge] that dispels misfortune One of Katsuo-ji's highlights is its majestic vermilion Sanmon gate, which stands solemnly with a plaque bearing its former name [Shōō-ji]. The awe-inspiring atmosphere intensifies as you pass through this sacred gate and encounter the [Purification Bridge]. While crossing the bridge, mist sprays from the lake, allowing visitors to cleanse themselves of misfortune and immerse in spiritual purification.

▲ Katsuo-ji - A sacred site for praying for victory and good luck (approx. 2 hrs, admission ticket fee not included) One of the main highlights of Katsuo-ji is the countless daruma dolls scattered throughout the mountains and valleys. After passing through the temple gate and crossing the purification bridge, you'll soon encounter the daruma offering shelf within the temple grounds. The shelf holds countless vermilion daruma dolls of various sizes, their piercing eyes symbolizing indomitable spirit. Behind each doll lies someone's wish for victory.

▲ Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple - Spirited Away Inspired - The Hidden Temple of 1,000 Stone Arhats (approx. 50 min, free time available) Nestled in the mountains of Kyoto's Sagano district, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a hidden gem. Unlike the crowded Kiyomizu-dera or Kinkaku-ji temples, this serene sanctuary features over 1,000 unique stone arhat statues that instantly evoke the magical and mysterious world of Spirited Away.

▲ Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple - Spirited Away-Inspired Hidden Temple of 1,000 Arhats (approx. 50 min, free time available) 1,000 Arhats | Expressive Statues Blending Humanity and Divinity A distinctive feature of Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is its collection of over 1,200 stone Arhat statues scattered throughout the grounds. Carved by devotees during the Showa period, each statue boasts unique expressions—some laughing, some meditating, others seated in prayer. Some even wear glasses or hold cats while reading, radiating warmth and humor. Walking among them, you might sense their whispered conversations and a mystical, comforting energy.

▲ Free time in Arashiyama area (approx. 3 hrs) After visiting Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, you can take the shuttle to Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama or walk there on your own. Suggested itinerary: Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple > Sagatoriimoto > Mikami Shrine > Arashiyama Bamboo Grove > Tenryu-ji Temple > Togetsukyo Bridge (approx. 1 hr walking time, we recommend selecting 3–4 of these attractions for your visit).

▲ Sagatoriimoto - A Historic Street Rivaling Kyoto's Sannenzaka The main street of Sagatoriimoto features numerous well-preserved houses dating from the 19th to early 20th century. This area was designated as one of "Kyoto's Four Major Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings" in 1979. The neighborhood is characterized by its unique blend of machiya (traditional wooden townhouses with lattice windows, plaster walls, and tiled or thatched roofs that served as merchant or artisan homes) interspersed with farmhouses. Despite its proximity to bustling Arashiyama, Sagatoriimoto has maintained its quaint atmosphere for centuries, with the surrounding mountains and fields adding to its charm.

▲ Togetsukyo Bridge - A Century-Old Kyoto Landscape Painting The iconic landmark of Arashiyama! Spanning the Katsura River, Togetsukyo Bridge offers stunning views year-round: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant maple leaves in fall, and snowy scenes in winter—every angle looks like a scene from a Japanese drama. Its poetic name, meaning "the moon crossing the bridge as if passing over," adds to its charm.