Guided cycling tours of Kyoto

Kyoto Cycling Tour Project

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Buddhist Shops
Nijo Castle Gate
Nishi Honganji Gate
Temple gate
Toji-in tiled-roof
Kamishichiken lantern
Ryoanji entrance road
Buddhist shops and cycling
Nishi Honganji Temple Gate and Buddhist shops

Shogun Tour

Follow in the footsteps of the Shoguns

The tour begins at the unmissable Golden Pavilion Temple with the Northern Mountains as its backdrop. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the heart of politics during the reign of the 13th-century Shogun, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Covered in shimmering gold, this stunning monument is one of the most recognisable symbols of Kyoto.

Next, enjoy a short ride to the tranquil Toji-in Temple, the familial resting place of the Ashikaga Shoguns. Immerse yourself in the quintessential Japanese aesthetic of Wabi-Sabi, a form of Zen minimalism. Take a moment in the temple hall building, where Zen masters once contemplated the world, and gaze at the exquisitely groomed sloping garden and the quaint tea house that stand before you.

The journey then takes you to the iconic Nijo Castle. Associated with the beginning of the end of the Shogunate era, and for 200 years this fortress served as the residence in Kyoto to the last Shoguns in Japan: the Tokugawa Shogunate. Being the only castle within Kyoto City proper, it was the backdrop for countless historical events that shaped the destiny of Japan and the Shoguns.

Finally, make the short trip to Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal where the tour comes to a close.

The main areas of Kyoto to explore on this cycling tour

Tour Course

  1. Waratenjin-mae bus stop (Kyoto City Bus)

    Meeting Point:
    Waratenjin-mae bus stop (Kyoto City Bus)
    After meeting-up, the tour guide will take you to the bicycle parking area. (about 2 min on foot from the meeting point)


    Waratenjin-mae Bus stop(Kyoto city bus)

  2. Kinkakuji Temple

    The world-renowned Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion Temple) was first established as a villa in 1397 for the 3rd Shogun, and was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple after his death. Today its shimmering gold-leaf-covered pavilion that reflects in the surrounding lake is one of Japan's most beautiful sights.

  3. Toji-in Temple

    Nestled in a quaint Kyoto suburb, the unassuming Toji-in served as the ancestral temple for the Ashikaga Shoguns for many centuries. Here, you can immerse yourself in the quintessential Japanese aesthetic of Wabi-Sabi—a form of Zen minimalism—that permeates the temple's serene atmosphere. Spend a moment in the tranquil temple hall, where Zen masters once contemplated the world, while gazing out at the meticulously groomed garden and traditional teahouse.

  4. Nijo Castle

    Dating back to 1603, Nijo Castle stands as a symbol of Kyoto's rich heritage. As the only castle within the historic city, its grounds are home to culturally significant structures like the Ninomaru Palace. The castle is encircled by a moat and imposing stone walls, and it has served as the backdrop for countless historic events throughout Kyoto's long and turbulent history.

  5. Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal

    Finish at Kyoto Station cycle terminal, where the tour ends.

Tour Detail

Tour Type
Private guided tour
Meeting location and time
Waratenjin-mae Bus stop(Kyoto city bus)
After meeting-up, the tour guide will take you to the bicycle parking area. (About 2 min on foot from the meeting point.)
Morning tour: 9:00
Afternoon tour: 13:45
Ending location and time
Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal
Morning tour: 12:30
Afternoon tour: 17:15
Time required
About 3.5 hours
*Please note that traffic conditions and/or weather conditions may cause the cycling tour to finish later.
Distance
10km
Price per person
18,400 yen (for groups of 3 people or more)
23,300 yen (2 people)
37,900 yen (1 person)
Inclusive of
Guide fee, rental bike fee, liability and accident insurance, helmets, rain gear, original cycling map
Recommended for
Those that are keen to visit the two of the highlights of Kyoto: The Golden Pavilion Temple and Nijo Castle; but also a more tranquil atmosphere that at a quietly hidden Zen temple. Also suitable for families with children as the tour is mainly downhill.
Notes
・Please wear comfortable clothes and footwear, according to the weather and temperature of the day. We recommend wearing sunglasses and using sunscreen in summer, and wearing gloves in the winter.
・Luggage such as suitcases can be stored free of charge. However, valuables, fragile items, and food cannot be stored.
・For an additional charge of 500 yen per bicycle (1,000 yen for electric-assist bicycles), bike rental before or after the tour is available during business hours (from 9:00 to 18:00).
Shogun Tour Booking

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