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Kyoto Bicycle Tour: Scenic Routes with Cultural Insights into Shogun and Samurai Era
5.0
262 Ratings
京都市
Experience the best of Kyoto on a scenic bicycle tour. Explore the city’s historic streets, learn about the shogun and samurai era, and immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Duration:
5 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Heian Shrine - We take you to this shrine which is a recreation of the old imperial capital. We also take you into the hidden garden which boasts three big ponds and plenty of beautiful nature to admire.
What's Included
- Standard Bike rental
- Landing and/or facility fees
- Professional guide
What's Not Included
- Lunch
- Upgrade to e-bike (1,000 yen cash on the day)
Additional Information
- Pedaling your way through the bustling lanes of Kyoto is undoubtedly the most optimal way of commuting.
Kyoto’s landscape is extremely favorable for bicycling. Why get squished on crowded buses or get stuck in traffic while in a costly cab when you have the luxury of exploring the city as the locals do.
- We guide you along picturesque paths that are selected keeping your safety as a priority.
On your own, you might lose your way or end up in extremely constricted lanes. We are familiar with the safest and most enjoyable routes and will provide you with safety tips. We also guide you through serene backstreets brimming with uniqueness and allure.
- We narrate the tales of the city’s history and provide you with context along the path.
Discover the world of shogun and samurai, the geisha house, and even gain insights into Shinto and Buddhist beliefs. Understanding the cultural heritage of ancient Kyoto provides a great perspective on Japanese traditions and culture.
Location
McDonald's - Higashiyama Sanjo
We start the tour at an idylic and serene temple which is just 1 min walk from this McDonalds which is very easy to find. Just 1 min walk from Higashiyama Station and 8 min walk from Sanjo Station.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(262 Ratings)
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Pamyjon
Sep 18, 2024
Great bike tour! - We did a highlight of East Kyoto during the tour. The bikes were used as transportation to get from point A to point B. It was a nice way to get around so we could actually see the city instead of being in the metro underground. Kevin (Canada) was a very good guide and gave the perfect mix of historical tour and personal experiences.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Cecilia_d
Sep 7, 2024
Outstanding - Absolutely standout, great sites, lots of fun. Guide was very knowledgeable and informative. My favorite part was going to the market and having a picnic.
Review provided by Viator
Youngerrich
Jul 18, 2024
Great fun - Phillip was excellent guide. He knew so much about the history and be events that had occurred in Japan.
After the tour he even walked us to the correct train station.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Pmccurry
Jul 18, 2024
A fun and interesting experience - We had a fabulous time on our e-bike tour with Kevin. He helped plan a route that kept us out of the huge crowded areas yet covered many wonderful attractions. We enjoyed riding on and around the Philosopher's Path, exploring some of the most beautiful gardens in the world and sacred temples while learning the history and traditions behind what we were seeing. Kevin's easy going nature, good communication skills and knowledge of the area made this tour one not to miss.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Inspire36203283224
Jul 16, 2024
Recommended! Perfect way to visit eastern Kyoto 💯🚴🏻♀️ - Recommended! Nice way to actively see different viewings. Also refreshing for cycling because of the heat. Super nice and extensive bike tour had by Kevin (Canadian). There was plenty of time and space for questions, input and even for an extra viewing (paw bathing in the river, wonderfully refreshing). Have lunch at a local tent. Afterwards in the mountains and not touristy. Delicious Japanese curry!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
I6017llluigia
Jul 13, 2024
Bicycle tour - The views were amazing, we went through the philosopher path and temples. Philip is an excellent guide with more than 20 yrs of experience. We had a great time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Juanitakika_t
Jun 27, 2024
Memorable Ride and Hike in Kyoto! - My two daughters (17 & 21) and I had a lovely trip and Philipe was an amazing tour guide! We toured the east side of Kyoto and hiked up a beautiful mountain trail to an amazing city view! The hike was peaceful and serene but a bit challenging if you dont hike much but if you go at a slower pace its manageable and worth the beautiful view! We had a lovely picnic lunch on the philosophers pathway. It was such a wonderful and memorable day and we’re so grateful for the insight and information Philipe provided during the tour. We highly recommend this tour! Thank you so much!
Review provided by Viator
Michael_d
May 29, 2024
Amazing! - This was the highlight of our stay in Kyoto! After spending the previous day being hot, sweaty, and miserable navigating through dense crowds at the most popular sights, this tour was the complete opposite. Philippe took us off the heavily beaten path to areas that weren’t as popular but just as amazing (if not better) because they weren’t teeming with tourists. My favorite parts were riding along the Kamo River and taking routes through Gion that I wouldn’t have thought of going down had we been on our own. We initially thought it was going to be a long day, but the tour went by in a flash and I wish we could've booked another with him. We also chose to rent e-bikes which was a big help if you’re hesitant about the physical aspect of cycling. 10/10!
Review provided by Viator
Juvalila
May 21, 2024
Chilling through Kyoto - Excellent tour with Philippe.
I highly recommend it. Chilling on the bikes with fresh air during a hot day was the perfect way to stroll through the city.
Merci
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Daniel_m
May 16, 2024
Perfect day out with a great guide - We had an awesome day out, maybe our favourite in Kyoto. Kevin was a great guide, knowledgeable, passionate and fun. We went to all the spots we had on our list and Kevin gave us great insight into the historical significance of each. The bikes were comfy and well maintained, and Kyoto is the perfect city to explore by bicycle because of how flat most of the roads are. 10/10 recommend! If we had more time we would definitely book the West Kyoto tour too!
Review provided by Viator
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