Private Guided Kyoto Bike and Photo Tour
Active
2h - 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
This bike easygoing tour is guided by a local photographer and local guide, offering a relaxed and casual way to explore Kyoto while your journey is captured naturally.
We use electric bicycles, so there is no need to worry about physical fitness. The pace and route are adjusted to match your comfort level.
You will ride along scenic riverside cycling paths and quiet backstreets with fewer tourists, discovering hidden gems of Kyoto away from the crowds. We stop along the way to take natural, candid photos and enjoy the local atmosphere. This tour is suitable for beginner cyclists and those seeking an authentic Kyoto experience.
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 to 4 hours. The itinerary is flexible and can be customized based on your interests and time. Please note that not all listed locations will be visited in a single tour.
After the tour, 80–120 edited photos will be delivered online within a few days.
Stops may vary depending on time, weather, and guests’ preferences.
Available options
Private Guided Kyoto Bike and Photo Tour
What's included
Bike rental is included
Bike equipment including a lock, lights, a basket, and a helmet
All entrance fee is included(up to JPY1,000 per person)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Enter through the impressive main gate of Nanzen-ji Temple and stroll through the peaceful temple grounds. As you walk through the garden, you’ll encounter the famous brick aqueduct which is Nanzen-ji Suirokaku, a popular photo spot where you can capture classic Kyoto scenery in a calm and spacious atmosphere.
2
Stop 2
This area is known for one of Kyoto’s most refined and elegant garden landscapes. After exploring the beautifully maintained grounds, we walk up a small hill where you can enjoy a panoramic view over Kyoto city.
It’s a perfect spot to appreciate Kyoto’s balance of nature, architecture, and quiet beauty, as well as to take memorable photos from above.
3
Stop 3
One of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, Kinkaku-ji is famous for its brilliant gold exterior reflected on the surrounding pond. No matter how many times you visit, the scenery remains breathtaking.
We take time here to enjoy the atmosphere and capture photos that showcase the timeless beauty of Kyoto.
4
Located in the heart of Kyoto, Higashi Hongan-ji is a massive and impressive temple known for its overwhelming scale and serene presence. Despite being centrally located, it remains surprisingly calm and spacious.
You’ll have time to walk around the grounds and experience the quiet grandeur that makes this temple so special.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Pass through the giant torii gate and enter the vivid red architecture of Heian Shrine. Behind the shrine lies a spacious and relaxing garden area where you can slow down and enjoy a peaceful moment away from the crowds.
This spot offers a nice contrast between bold colors and calm surroundings, making it ideal for relaxed sightseeing and photography.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
If you’d like to feel Kyoto’s natural side, the Kamo River area is the perfect place. Enjoy open views, fresh air, and a relaxed riverside atmosphere while cycling along the water.
Depending on the season, you may see local wildlife and people enjoying daily life in Kyoto, making this a great spot for natural, candid photos.
7
Stop 7
Tofuku-ji Temple is famous for its expansive grounds and dramatic landscapes, especially its beautiful valleys and wooden bridges. The temple offers a calm and spacious atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy Kyoto’s seasonal beauty at a relaxed pace.
It is particularly well known as one of Kyoto’s top spots for autumn colors, but remains a peaceful and photogenic place throughout the year.
8
Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, known for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up the mountainside. Walking through the gates creates a unique and immersive experience unlike anywhere else in Japan.
Rather than hiking the entire trail, we explore selected areas based on time and crowd conditions, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere and capture memorable photos without feeling rushed.
What's not included
Please bring your own drinks and light snacks. If needed, we can stop to purchase them during the tour- feel free to let me know
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The bicycle shop is more than 100 years old. It looks very traditional Japanese building. There is Blue Bottle Coffee shop up stairs.
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.
$64
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
