• Toji - The tour begins at Toji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its five-story pagoda, the tallest wooden tower in Japan. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil walk through the temple grounds and discover its significance in Kyoto’s spiritual history.
• Umekoji Park - Upon reaching Umekoji Park, the transition from urban hustle to expansive green spaces is palpable. This park is a beloved retreat for locals, featuring seasonal blooms, shady trees, and a peaceful pond perfect for relaxation. It’s an ideal place to stretch, breathe in the fresh air, and experience a different facet of Kyoto before continuing the journey.
• Ryukoku University Omiya Campus - The tour passes through the campus of one of Kyoto’s oldest private universities, established by the Nishi Hongwanji sect of Buddhism. This offers a glimpse into modern Kyoto’s daily life and the harmonious blend of tradition and education.
• Nishi Honganji - As a major temple of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, this UNESCO site is celebrated for its stunning wooden architecture and historical importance. The guide will lead a tour through its expansive courtyard, highlighting its cultural impact on Kyoto.
• Kamogawa River - Cycling along the scenic Kamo River, a popular spot for locals to unwind, jog, and enjoy nature, provides a perfect opportunity to experience the balance between Kyoto’s urban life and natural beauty.
• Miyagawacho Kaburenjo - This lesser-known yet equally captivating geisha district, located near Gion, offers a serene ride through its charming alleys, where the traditions of old Kyoto remain vibrant.
• Heian Shrine - Constructed in 1895 to commemorate Kyoto’s 1,100th anniversary, the Heian Shrine features a striking vermilion gate and buildings modeled after the ancient Imperial Palace. Nearby, one of Japan’s largest torii gates stands prominently.
• Lake Biwa Canal - Welcome to the Biwa Aqueduct Museum, a small museum that narrates the story of the Lake Biwa Canal, an engineering marvel from the 1890s that revitalized Kyoto with water, electricity, and new life after the capital moved to Tokyo.
• Nanzen-ji Temple - Nanzenji, one of the most significant Zen temples founded in the 13th century, is renowned for its grand wooden Sanmon gate, serene Zen Gardens, and the red brick aqueduct traversing the grounds. It has symbolized Zen culture in Kyoto for centuries.
• Philosopher’s Walk - The Philosopher’s Path is a stone walkway along a canal lined with cherry trees. Named after Kyoto University professor Nishida Kitaro, who meditated here, it becomes one of Kyoto’s most picturesque spots during cherry blossom season, yet remains peaceful year-round. The tour will follow part of it en route to the next destination.
• Honen-in - Ahead lies Honen-in, a secluded temple nestled in the hills, founded in the 1600s to honor the Buddhist priest Honen, who propagated the Pure Land sect’s teachings. Its moss-covered gate and white sand patterns create a hidden, tranquil atmosphere, distinct from Kyoto’s busier temples.
• Ginkakuji Temple - Arriving at Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion, built in the late 1400s by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, visitors will find that despite its name, it was never actually covered in silver. Time will be taken to explore the gardens, raked sand, and historic architecture.
• Gion - Discover Kyoto’s most renowned geisha district, characterized by traditional wooden machiya houses and historical allure. Learn about the geiko and maiko culture while riding through the lantern-lit streets.

• Bottled water
• Entrance fees
• Bicycle use

• Lunch

Experience Kyoto like a local—on a bicycle! This engaging full-day cycling tour combines iconic sites like the Silver Pavilion and Gion with hidden treasures such as Honen-In Garden and the delightful lanes of Miyagawacho. This small-group adventure provides a leisurely pace, personalized insights from a local guide, and numerous opportunities for photos. Participants will discover serene backstreets, ancient shrines, and riverside trails that are inaccessible to tour buses. Ideal for those eager to discover the authentic Kyoto beyond the typical guidebooks.

• You need to be fit enough to ride 32 kilometers and maneuver safely on narrow paths

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