Complete Kyoto Cycling Guide: Recommended Routes and Hidden Spots for Beginners
Enjoy Kyoto by Cycling
!
In Kyoto, where the culture of the ancient capital remains strong,
Cycling tourism is popular
is.
You can use your time efficiently and discover small things that you wouldn't notice if you were on foot or in a car. However, cycling Tourism attraction.
This time
Recommended cycling itineraries for beginners
or,
Bicycle rental information
We will introduce the following:
Kyoto
Please use this as a reference for your sightseeing.
table of contents
- 1 Three reasons why cycling in Kyoto is recommended
- 2 3 Recommended Classic Routes for Cycling in Kyoto
- 3 A hidden gem of a route recommended for cycling in Kyoto (Kameoka area)
- 4 Basic information about bicycle rentals in Kyoto
- 5 Cycling is an efficient way to see Kyoto
- 6 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
Three reasons why cycling in Kyoto is recommended
Cycling in Kyoto The appeal of recommending We will explain about:
Reason 1. You can enjoy Kyoto's seasonal scenery
The appeal of cycling in Kyoto teeth, You can enjoy history, culture, and the natural beauty of the four seasons. .
From cherry blossom rows in spring and fresh greenery in summer to autumn leaves and fantastic snowscapes in winter, Enjoy the beautiful scenery while cycling.
In Kyoto Bicycle rental shop There are many of them, so using them will broaden your sightseeing options.
Reason 2. You can visit areas that are difficult to get to on foot or by bus
cycling
Then, you can travel a wider area in less time than walking and avoid the bus routes.
The advantage is that you can easily move around the narrow alleys of Kyoto.
There is.
Also, bicycles allow you to avoid road congestion and traffic jams,
Sightseeing while making effective use of your time
Yes you can.
Its maneuverability makes it perfect for those who want to enjoy sightseeing with a great deal of freedom.
Arashiyama
Enjoy the seasonal scenery at various tourist spots, including the Kamo River.
Feeling the breeze while cycling is a special experience
.
For those who want to experience sightseeing in ways that can't be experienced by car or on foot, a bicycle is a recommended means of transportation.
Reason 3. There are many flat roads so even beginners can enjoy it
Kyoto is characterized by its streets that cross each other in a grid pattern. Most of the roads are relatively flat. is.
Kyoto has many tourist spots in a compact area, so even beginners will rarely get lost. Sometimes it can be quicker than using public transport. .
A special, soul-free cycling tour of Kyoto
If you are visiting Kyoto, why not try a special trip that can only be experienced by bicycle? Feel the tranquility and atmosphere of the ancient capital, and enjoy the freedom to go along narrow roads that cars cannot access and move at your own pace. After starting from the Higashiyama base, head for Fushimi Inari. After sightseeing at Fushimi Inari, head for the Lake Biwa Canal via the cycling road along the Kamo River.
3 Recommended Classic Routes for Cycling in Kyoto
Kyoto Visit the popular tourist spots of Three cycling routes We will introduce the following.
1. Kamo River Route | Kyoto Station, Kamo River, Shimogamo Shrine (about 2 hours)
Starting from JR Kyoto Station, walk along the Kamo River. Shimogamo Shrine The cycling course leading to Shimogamo Shrine is.
The attraction is Seasonal scenery that will help you forget the hustle and bustle of the city and, Enjoy the history of Kyoto There are promenades on both sides of the Kamo River, so you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. cycling You can.
Take a break along the way and enjoy the scenery, Delta where the Kamo River and Takano River meet " Kamogawa Delta " Enjoy cycling at your own pace while taking commemorative photos.
Going further north Shimogamo Shrine Arrived at.
Shimogamo Shrine world heritage It is a historic shrine registered in the It is also famous as a power spot that brings good luck in matchmaking and beauty. is.
The route along the Kamo River is Kyoto City It is also easily accessible from major tourist spots, Recommended Kyoto cycling route for beginners That's right.
2. Arashiyama Route | Arashiyama Station, Togetsukyo Bridge, Bamboo Forest Path (approx. 3 hours)
Arashiyama area teeth," Togetsukyo Bridge (Togetsukiyo)" and " Bamboo Forest Path " etc. Kyoto The area is home to many popular sightseeing spots, A recommended course for those who want to enjoy cycling while taking in the beauty of nature. .
Because tourist spots are concentrated in Each movement distance is short That's also attractive.
At Togetsukyo Bridge, a landmark of Arashiyama, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves. Enjoy the natural beauty of each season Yes, you can. You can enjoy a spectacular view from Togetsukyo Bridge in any season, and you can experience something new every time you visit.
moreover" Tenryu-ji Temple We stopped at Tenryuji, which has been designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Sogenchi Garden Enjoy a moment of exposure to Japanese architecture and the spirit of Zen, viewing the Sogenchi Teien and viewing the Cloud Dragon painting in the Hatto Hall.
After touring the temple, cycle along the bamboo forest path.
Enjoy the fantastical scenery that will make you feel as if you have wandered into another world.
3. Higashiyama Route | Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Ginkaku-ji Temple (about 4 hours)
Kyoto A popular tourist spot that represents Kiyomizu Temple " " Yasaka Shrine ",and" Ginkakuji Temple The cycling course around An attractive route to enjoy historic temples and shrines is.
There are plenty of things to see, such as the spectacular views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine, and the beautiful gardens and architecture at Ginkaku-ji Temple.
You can travel while enjoying the cityscape, so you can use your time effectively and enjoy sightseeing.
.
Although the distance from Kiyomizu-dera to Yasaka Shrine is relatively short, There are many slopes in the surrounding area, and Yasaka Shrine is more than 3km away from Ginkakuji Temple. If you are not used to cycling, take breaks and go at your own pace.
There are approach roads and shopping streets around each spot, Another attraction is the opportunity to enjoy souvenirs and gourmet food. That's right.
A hidden gem of a route recommended for cycling in Kyoto (Kameoka area)
Kyoto For those who have visited the main tourist spots in Located in the west of Kyoto City Cycling in the Kameoka area is.
Kameoka area teeth" Forest of Kyoto It is a place rich in nature, and is called "the place of the most beautiful scenery in Japan." A hidden gem where couples and families can enjoy cycling is.
At Activity Japan, Tandem Bicycle Tour around the Kameoka Area You can enjoy.
A tandem bicycle is a bicycle with two people riding side by side, one in front and one behind. You can enjoy cycling together while communicating and coordinating with others. That is what is attractive about it.
Children
7 years old
You can join from here.
If you choose a plan that includes a guide, you will also receive free photos taken during your cycling trip, so if you're interested, be sure to check out the details.
Tandem Bicycle Cycling in Kyoto and Kameoka [No Guide] [Let's Ride the Trolley Train]
This plan does not support English.
Please use the course map we have prepared as a reference and move around freely in groups. There will be no guide accompanying you. We have carefully selected routes that are easy to ride on tandem bicycles, so you can enjoy cycling with peace of mind. Our company is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Torokko Kameoka Station. Please enjoy the trolley train before or after your cycling trip.
Aim for the bridge that will make you scream!! Kyoto tandem bicycle tour [guided] [free photos]
It takes about an hour to cycle from the meeting point to Hozukobashi Bridge, a round trip of about 5 km. A guide will accompany you and take photos. The photos will be given to you as a gift. Our company is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Kameoka Torokko Station. We also offer rafting services. Please enjoy the trolley train and rafting along with cycling.
Basic information about bicycle rentals in Kyoto
About bicycle rental in Kyoto information or Price range , Recommended clothing , What to bring We will explain the following:
Shop | The bicycle rental shop in front of Kyoto Station is convenient.
Kyoto
There are bicycle rental shops in various areas.
Among the many bicycle rental shops, the most convenient one is
Bicycle rental shops near JR Kyoto Station, the base for sightseeing in Kyoto
It has good access to major tourist spots and is recommended for efficient sightseeing.
Generally, you can rent a bicycle without making a reservation, but during peak seasons such as cherry blossom and autumn foliage season, the number of bicycle users increases, so It's best to make a reservation in advance .
At Activity Japan, Electrically assisted bicycles or Road bike etc. You can reserve a variety of bikes Even outside of peak season, we recommend making a reservation so you can use it immediately after your arrival.
This is a rental bicycle for sports bikes (E-BIKEs). [Can accommodate up to 50 bikes!!] [It can be folded, so it can be carried in a car or on a train!] *Bicycle bags are available for a fee. ★Kyoto has narrow roads, so it is difficult to travel by car, bus, or taxi. If you use a bicycle, it will take a long time due to waiting times and traffic jams.
[Kyoto City] Rent a touring bike and explore the surrounding area of Kyoto!
Rent a touring bike and enjoy the freedom of cycling in and around Kyoto city. Experience the sights of Kansai on two wheels and at your own pace. Interested in seeing more than just the city sights? Hopping on a touring bike is the perfect way to experience all that Kyoto and the surrounding Kansai area has to offer. Rent a bike
[Kyoto City] Rent a road bike and explore the surrounding area of Kyoto!
Rent a road bike and enjoy the freedom of cycling in and around Kyoto on a lightweight, nimble sports bike. Explore the sights of Kansai on two wheels and ride at your own pace. Interested in seeing more than just the city sights? Road biking is the perfect way to experience all that Kyoto and the surrounding Kansai area has to offer.
Price range: Approximately 2,000 to 10,000 yen per day
The fee varies depending on the type of bicycle and the time of use. Kyoto The average price for renting a bicycle in Approximately 2,000 to 10,000 yen per day is.
City bikes and electric assist bikes , Road bike Choose the bike that's best for you.
What to wear and bring: Comfortable clothes and drinks
cycling When doing so, We recommend wearing comfortable clothing to enjoy sightseeing with peace of mind. When you go out, wear comfortable, breathable clothing and shoes that are easy to walk in, such as sneakers.
Especially for women, there is a risk of the hem of their skirt getting caught in the pedals or chain, causing an accident. Pants Style is safer and more comfortable.
You can rent items necessary for cycling, such as helmets, at the shop.
During the hot summer season or when cycling long distances, it's easy to sweat, so
drink
or
towel
It is a good idea to prepare the following:
That's right.
Cycling is an efficient way to see Kyoto
Cycling in Kyoto teeth, An attractive activity that allows you to sightsee while driving through popular tourist spots and Kyoto's unique cityscapes. is.
A special experience where you can feel the breeze that you can't experience on foot. Kyoto Enjoy sightseeing efficiently by cycling.
*The content of this article is current as of March 2025.
Featured image provided by:
PIXTA
![[2025] 6 things to enjoy during Golden Week in Kyoto! Tips for avoiding crowds](https://img.activityjapan.com/wi/kyoto-goldenweek_thumb.jpg)
![Popular craft and handicraft experiences in Kyoto [for adults, couples, and children]](https://img.activityjapan.com/wi/kyoto-handcraft-acvitivy_thumb.jpg)
