Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama Kyoto

Setting out on a Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, allows travelers to enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage. Led by an English-speaking guide, this affordable experience grants access to historic temples and shrines, where participants can engage in the age-old tradition of collecting sacred stamps. Beyond the spiritual journey, the tour offers the opportunity to purchase personal souvenirs, creating lasting memories of this iconic destination. Uncovering the art of Goshuin collecting promises to be a truly unique and rewarding adventure.

Good To Know

• This guided tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, allows visitors to explore historic temples and shrines while collecting unique Goshuin stamps.
• The tour is priced at $43.12 per person with a maximum of 6 travelers and is rated 5.0 based on 1 review.
• The tour includes an English-speaking guide and all necessary fees, but personal items like Goshuinchō or Goshuin are not covered.
• The meeting point is at Matsuo-Taisha Station in Arashiyama, and the tour ends at a different location provided upon booking.
• Goshuin collecting is a cultural tradition in Japan, and the tour provides an opportunity to connect with Kyoto’s cultural heritage through local crafts.

Tour Overview

This guided Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, allows participants to explore the area’s historic temples and shrines while collecting unique stamps, known as "goshuin," in their personal stamp books.

The activity takes place in the Arashiyama district and is priced from $43.12 per person. The tour accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers and has received a 5.0 rating based on 1 review.

It includes an English-speaking guide and all fees, though personal expenses like the stamp book aren’t covered. The tour starts at Matsuo-Taisha Station and ends at a different location.

Inclusions

The Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, includes all fees and taxes, as well as an English-speaking guide.

However, personal expenses like a Goshuinchō or Goshuin aren’t included.

The tour offers the following key inclusions:

1. All necessary fees and taxes to participate in the experience.
2. An English-speaking guide to provide information and assistance throughout the tour.
3. Note that any personal items, such as a Goshuinchō or Goshuin, aren’t covered in the tour cost and must be purchased separately.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the Goshuin Collecting Tour is Matsuo-Taisha Station in Arashiyama, Kyoto.

Travelers will find a big red Torii gate on the left and train tracks on the right.

The tour ends at a different location, which will be provided upon booking.

Participants should arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour group has a maximum of 6 travelers.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation, and most travelers can participate.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Booking Information

Travelers receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Plus, travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, securing their place while staying flexible.

The key booking details are:

1. Confirmation received within 48 hours
2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
3. Reserve Now and Pay Later option available

This booking process provides travelers with convenience, flexibility, and peace of mind when planning their Goshuin collecting experience in Arashiyama, Kyoto.

Accessibility and Participation

The Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto is not wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation. Most travelers can participate in this activity. The tour involves walking to various shrines and temples, so a moderate level of mobility is required.

Accessibility	Near Public Transportation	Most Travelers Can Participate
✘	✓	✓
Not wheelchair accessible	Located near public transit	Most people can join the tour
Requires moderate mobility	Easy access via trains/buses	Activity suitable for most guests

The Art of Goshuin Collecting

As an integral part of the tour, goshuin collecting allows visitors to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Japan.

Goshuin are sacred stamps obtained from temples and shrines, which pilgrims collect in a dedicated journal called a goshuinchō.

The art of goshuin collecting involves:

1. Visiting revered temples and shrines to receive the unique stamps.
2. Carefully preserving the goshuinchō as a cherished memento of the spiritual journey.
3. Connecting with the centuries-old tradition of pilgrimage and reverence for the divine.

This experience offers a profound connection to Japanese culture and spirituality.

Exploring Arashiyama’s Temples and Shrines

Arashiyama, the scenic district in western Kyoto, is home to a rich tapestry of temples and shrines that serve as the backdrop for the goshuin collecting experience.

Visitors can explore the iconic Tenryū-ji temple, with its stunning Zen garden, or the serene Nonomiya Shrine, known for its peaceful ambiance.

The Iwatayama Monkey Park offers breathtaking views of the Katsura River and the surrounding mountains.

Along the way, travelers can collect the unique stamps from each temple and shrine, creating a personalized memento of their journey through Arashiyama‘s spiritual landscape.

Cultural Immersion and Souvenirs

While exploring the temples and shrines of Arashiyama, visitors can enjoy the rich cultural traditions of Japan.

One of the must-do activities is goshuin collecting, where worshippers receive a unique stamp or seal from each temple or shrine they visit. This serves as a memento and record of their spiritual journey. Visitors can purchase a goshuinchō, a special notebook, to collect these stamps.

Plus, they can purchase traditional souvenirs such as:

1. Ukiyo-e prints
2. Handcrafted ceramics
3. Matcha tea sets

These souvenirs allow visitors to take a piece of Kyoto’s cultural heritage back home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear for the Tour?

For this tour, comfortable and casual clothing is recommended. Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off, as you’ll be visiting various shrines and temples. Bring layers in case of changes in weather. Avoid overly formal or restrictive attire.

How Much Time Is Allowed at Each Temple/Shrine?

The tour allows ample time at each temple and shrine, typically 15-20 minutes per stop. This provides sufficient opportunity to explore, collect Goshuin, and soak in the atmosphere of the sacred sites.

Can I Purchase the Goshuinchō During the Tour?

Participants can’t purchase the goshuinchō during the tour, as it’s not included in the tour price. However, the tour guide can provide information on where to purchase the goshuinchō before or after the tour.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Temples/Shrines?

Photography is generally allowed inside the temples and shrines, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting worship or ceremonies. It’s best to check with the tour guide or staff for any specific guidelines.

Are There Any Special Requirements for Entering the Temples/Shrines?

There may be specific dress code or behavior requirements for entering temples and shrines. Visitors should dress respectfully and follow the posted rules to ensure a smooth and respectful experience at these sacred sites.

The Sum Up

The Goshuin Collecting Tour in Arashiyama, Kyoto, offers a unique cultural experience for travelers. By exploring historic temples and shrines while collecting Goshuin stamps, participants can enjoy the rich spiritual heritage of the region. With an English-speaking guide, picturesque scenery, and the opportunity to purchase souvenirs, this tour provides a memorable way to connect with Kyoto’s vibrant cultural traditions.