Kamogawa River Kyoto Bike Tour Experience

Kyoto , Japan

Kamogawa River Kyoto Bike Tour Experience

Active

4h - 5h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Basically, the theme of this tour is "Japanese religion and the emperor"

We'll ride to some big shrines and temples and Kyoto imperial palace from the JR Kyoto station area.
(If it rains, We will suggest you to take city bus from JR Kyoto station)

You can learn about the one aspect of religious view from the Japanese guide.

SI: you can ask to take some your photos to your guide, except while riding your bike.
We guarantee you can bring back nice photos with your half day memory!

Secondly, We'll guide you to some local shops, street-food, ride through the backstreet.
Like... Matcha ice cream, small bakery, "Dashimaki", and Japanese croquet at the meat shop.
You can add some small change by your request.

Finally, We'll ride along the famous "Kamogawa" river on the way back.
There's a flat cycling road, you can pedall 40km(25miles)/h with taking care for the safety.

Let's go for fun bike ride with us!!

We guarantee you the highly value and some special gift for your travel.

Available options

Kamogawa River Kyoto Bike Tour Experience

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Snacks

Use of bicycle

Small souvenir

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

We just pass through the front gate of the Temple.

We'll visit some shrines, old building and Japanese garden inside the imperial palace (700m east-west, 1300m north-south).
Riding bicycle is allowed in the palace, the guide takes you to the proper route and parking area.

This is a shopping street used by local residence.
You may feel the Japanese lifestyle through this street.
Let's grab some street-food or find souvenir here!

Riding bike is not allowed here.
Please walk and push your bike for a while (100m).

Stop 4

Shimogamo-shrine is one of the oldest shrine in Kyoto (since 90 BC).

Stop 5

30 minutes cycling along the river.

Stop 6

Gion is a famous and traditional pleasure district.
You can see the very "Japanese" scenery and take some photos here, you need respect for Geisha girls they are not a performer.

I strongly recommend you a Gion-Gojyo area. (5th street cross Gion)

GIon-Shijyo(4th street cross Gion) is on the guide map, but this area is highly restricted of riding bike and there is so many Taxis.
So We sometimes getting off your bike and walk for your safty.

Available languages

Guide guide

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

10minutes walk from JR Kyoto station.
There is a rental bike shop facing to the street.
We'll be waiting with bikes at west side of the Horikawa street.

Important notes

Please directly come to our shop "Rental bike Smooth" and tell your name after 10 o'clock on the day of your tour.
(Adress: First floor of 23 Kamayamachi, shimogyo ward, Kyoto city / 京都市下京区鎌屋町23 シンエイビル１F)

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.