Kyoto Afternoon E-Bike Tour of Hidden Gems and Temples
Active
3h
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
Explore Kyoto like a local on this afternoon electric bike tour, designed to connect iconic landmarks, temples loved by Japanese visitors, and lesser-known historical sites in one efficient route.
Ride comfortably through the city as you visit Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, and the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. Along the way, discover the former headquarters of Nintendo and explore the peaceful atmosphere of Tofukuji Temple, a major Zen temple often missed by international travelers.
Led by a local guide, this tour blends famous sights with quieter cultural spots for a deeper look into Kyoto. Starting and ending in Gion, it’s an ideal afternoon experience for travelers who want to explore actively and avoid the crowds.
Available options
Kyoto Afternoon E-Bike Tour of Hidden Gems and Temples
What's included
Guide In-person: English
Use of bicycle
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour begins at Kyoto Tourist Lounge Gion, where you’ll meet your local guide and receive your electric bike and helmet before setting off.
2
Your first stop is Marufukuro (former Nintendo headquarters), a historic building where Nintendo originally operated as a playing card company. Learn about Kyoto’s lesser-known modern history and how this small local business evolved into a global entertainment brand.
3
Stop 3
Next, you’ll visit Sanjusangendo Temple, one of Kyoto’s most important temples and a site especially famous among Japanese visitors. You will enter the hall and see the impressive display of 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
4
Stop 4
The route then continues to Tofukuji Temple, a major Zen temple known for its architecture, gardens, and seasonal scenery. Your guide will explain Zen philosophy and the role temples played in shaping Kyoto’s culture and landscape.
5
Stop 5
In the afternoon, you’ll reach Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Japan’s most iconic destinations, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Learn why this shrine became the spiritual and commercial center of the Fushimi area while exploring the shrine grounds on foot.
What's not included
Insurance
600 Yen per person cash for the Sanjyusangendo temple
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Height must be over 145 cm (Not recommended for children under 12)
The provider is not responsible for the loss, damage, or theft of any personal belongings during the course of the E-bike tour, nor for the recovery of any items left behind.
The provider assumes no responsibility for any injury, illness, accident, or other physical or mental harm occurring before, during, or after participation in the E-bike tour.
The provider reserves the right to modify the itinerary, change the route, or cancel the tour at any time during the tour due to severe weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances that may impact the safety or feasibility of the tour.
Meeting point
It is in front of Kyoto Tourist Lounge Gion. Please use Google Map to find the location. It is faced on Yamatoooji-Dori street.
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.
$100
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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