E-Bike Tours of the highlights of Kyoto!!!

Kyoto , Japan

E-Bike Tours of the highlights of Kyoto!!!

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(289 reviews)

3h - 6h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us for a fun and scenic bike ride through Kyoto’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and charming streetscapes. This tour offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and classic Kyoto charm.

Imagine yourself embarking on a delightful bike tour through the heart of Kyoto, where ancient traditions and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Feel the joy as you pedal your way to serene zen gardens, finding peaceful havens perfect for a moment of reflection.

And all with the ease of an E-bike, these fun little bikes that give you a boost up the gentle hills that surround the city.

For group tours, you can choose between the East Side course which visits the Ginkakuji Temple, with its stunning zen gardens, the Heian shrine with an incredible garden and the amazing Philosopher's Path (3.5hrs)

Or be more adventurous by exploring the West Side with visits to the top hitters, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, The Golden Pavilion and the amazing Ryoanji Rock Garden (6hrs).

Available options

E-Bike Tour (6hrs) West Side

Duration: 6 hours<br/>Bamboo Grove, Ryoanji, Kinkaku<br/>E-bike

E-Bike Tour (3.5hr) East Tour

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes<br/>East Side<br/>E-bike

What's included

E- Bike rental

Landing and facility fees

Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

EAST SIDE COURSE: 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. (note this is only visited on the East Side Course)

Stop 2

EAST SIDE COURSE: One of the most splendid zen gardens in all of Kyoto, this temple grounds is one of the most beautiful places to admire Japanese garden design. Also a place with significance as the home of a shogun leader during a time of upheaval in Japanese history. (note this is only visited on the East Side Course

Stop 3

EAST SIDE COURSE: We cruise along this famous path along a lovely canal in rich green nature. (note this is only visited on the East Side Course)

Stop 4

WEST SIDE COURSE: One of the crown jewels of Kyoto the stunning Golden Pavilion covered with over 20kg of real gold leaf~

WEST SIDE COURSE: A highlight that cannot be missed, this Bamboo Grove is set in the beautiful natural surroundings of Arashiyama.

Stop 6

WEST SIDE COURSE: Considered the most famous sand and rock style garden in the world, this is definitely worth visiting with the insights of a tour guide as they can explain the deep imagary of this special place.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

37 reviews

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4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

252 reviews

5★

245

4★

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1★

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

Meeting point

We start the tour at our bike shop located just a 1 minute walk from Kuramaguchi station which is a 11 minute subway ride from Kyoto Station.

(Newly opened Oct 1st 2025)

Important notes

You are required to fill in this short questionnaire and waiver for before arriving for the tour at 9:50am on the day

https://www.kyotofun.com/group-bike-tour-info.html

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.