Peaceful Pedals: Arashiyama Slow Cycling Retreat

Kyoto , Japan

Peaceful Pedals: Arashiyama Slow Cycling Retreat

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Arashiyama, one of the most popular places in Kyoto, has many attractive places to visit, such as the Togetsu Bridge and the bamboo grove path.
At the same time, however, the original calm atmosphere has been lost due to tourists from all over the world. In fact, however, it is only in some areas that crowding occurs, and a short bicycle ride away, you will find the quiet countryside of Sagano, Kyoto.
The tour stops at some tourist areas, but is designed to allow you to enjoy Arashiyama by bicycle while keeping your mind at rest. The tour includes a dedicated English-speaking navigator to assist you.

・Slow cycling is an easy way for people who are not confident about their physical fitness to take part.

・All equipment for riding is provided, so you don't need to bring anything.

・The tour is also a great way to enjoy local food at speciality shops.

・The tour course can be arranged according to your wishes.

・You can take photos with your stylish BROMPTON bike.

Available options

Peaceful Pedals: Arashiyama Slow Cycling Retreat

What's included

Bicycle equipment such as helmets, Bags for wheeled transport, etc.

Bicycle rental fee

Exclusive navigator fee

Rail fare

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

400-year-old wooden bridge.
The mountain scenery is coloured with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in autumn.

Stop 2

Arashiyama is one of the most popular places in Kyoto, with the Togetukyo Bridge over the Katsura River and the bamboo forests of Sagano.
So there are many tourists, but our navigators, who know the area well, will guide you along quieter paths, away from the crowds.

Quiet, car-free area with traditional 19th-century timber-framed houses and shops, with woodland views.

The pond is located in a calm countryside setting off Arashiyama.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can feel nature at its best.

Stop 5

It is the head temple of the Myoshinji school of the Rinzai sect. The spacious grounds are lined with 46 pagoda temples, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the grounds.

The shrine was founded in the 10th century and hosts traditional seasonal events throughout the year.

Take the train back to Randen Arashiyama Station. The Randen has a unique local train atmosphere and offers a great view of the city.
The Kimono Forest at the station is an art installation of 600 poles decorated in vibrant yuzen, which glow beautifully in the backlight.

What's not included

Insurance fee (optional 500 yen)

The accompanying navigator can suggest restaurants for lunch during the tour according to the customer's wishes.

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Total duration includes travel time.

Meeting point

Navigators with BROMPTON bicycles are waiting for you near the exit of the *Hankyu Arashiyama Station ticket gates.
*Please do not confuse this with Randen Arashiyama Station.

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto

By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara

40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji

20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune

25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.