Arashiyama day plans: Otagi Nenbutsuji vs. Hozugawa River Boat Ride?

Going on a solo trip to Kyoto in early December and I'm a bit torn on my Arashiyama day plans. Anyone who's been to either option – would you mind sharing your experience? 🙂 I know I'll have a great time either way, but still.

Italicized the differences for easy comparison.

Option A:

  • Togetsukyo Bridge > Bamboo Forest and Okochi Sanso > Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple (via bus) > Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street > Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area

Option B:

  • Togetsukyo Bridge > Bamboo Forest and Okochi Sanso > Hozugawa River Boat Ride (via Kameoka Station from Saga-Arashiyama) > Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area

Or is there a more efficient way to go about Option B, or in general? Would love to hear thoughts.

Note: I'm staying in Gion and will be heading to Arashiyama as early as I can.

by yutaokko