Kyoto is the perfect city to walk around or bike. You don’t really need a car or public transportation to visit its city center – you’ll pedal by beautiful temples, Japanese traditional gardens, and quaint historic side streets.
You can even bike through bamboo forests and explore the city in the early morning so you can escape the crowds.
I’ve curated this guide to the best bike tours that will take you deep into the heart of this ancient city. Each tour has been handpicked so whether you’re a history enthusiast or a nature lover, you’re bound to find the perfect excursion for you.
Besides, riding a bike is not only a phenomenal way to reach off-the-beaten-path locations, but a sustainable way to do it.
Worried about your fitness level? No need, as there are e-bike trips as well, and most regular bike tours are perfectly doable for most people. Hop on and check out these bike tours in Kyoto.
➥ Why can you trust me? I have a decade of experience curating travel guides and tours all over the world, and have developed a knack for identifying high-quality experiences.
I only select activities that are led by professionals, are highly-rated by previous travelers and offer great value. I spent some time in Kyoto last year, and I’m familiar enough with its landmarks and highlights to know which bike tours take you to the worthy spots in the city.
I usually use Viator to book activities around the world. I especially recommend it for its fantastic cancellation policy. If your travel plans change, you can cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are you in a rush? These are the top tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Hidden Kyoto E-Biking tour |
| MOST COMPREHENSIVE TOUR | 5 Top Highlights of Kyoto with Kyoto Bike Tour |
| PRIVATE TOUR | The Beauty of Kyoto by Bike: Private Tour |
OUR PICK: The BEST Bike Tour in Kyoto
Set off on an enchanting Hidden Kyoto E-Biking tour that will take you riding close to 5 miles (around 8 km). But not to worry! Your legs won’t suffer the exercise as the e-bikes provided will do most of the work for you.
After meeting at a bike shop, you’ll be provided with your e-bike for the day and a helmet. Please note that children under 13 are not allowed on this tour.
Following a local guide, you’ll discover both iconic temples and hidden treasures of the city. Glide by the golden splendor of the Golden Pavilion, and soak in the tranquility of Koto-in’s Zen gardens.
The tour also includes stops at the UNESCO-listed Daitokuji Temple Complex, the historical Kitano Tenmagu Shrine, and Kitanotenmangu Temple.
You’ll veer off the beaten path into quiet backstreets, revealing Kyoto’s secrets known only to locals. This tour is a perfect way to explore Kyoto’s cultural landmarks and its undiscovered corners, and it’s suitable both for first-timers and people who already know Kyoto.
➥ Why is this the best tour? It takes you to both the hotspots and hidden landmarks, with a professional guide ready to let you in on all the secrets of Kyoto. The group is small, and the e-bikes allow you to cover more ground than you would walking, without getting tired. Plus, it’s suitable for all fitness levels, making it inclusive to all.
Read what the reviews say:
“Yuta was a great guide, and this tour was so much fun! The route was easy to navigate (coming from someone who has never used an e-bike) and Yuta made sure everyone was comfortable the entire time. He gave a great explanation of the history of each site we stopped at, and it was nice to explore away from the crowds. Would definitely recommend this tour!”
Kelsey_L – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Rental of an e-bike and helmet, a guide, and water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Two Great Options
▶️ Pedal through the city’s hidden and iconic spots on a Bike Tour Exploring North Kyoto plus Lunch. Kick off with your guide leading the way to unseen corners and famed attractions.
You’ll roll into Nishi Honganji, marvel at one of the world’s largest wooden structures, and soak up serenity at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.
Bask in the beauty of the famous Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and zip along the peaceful streets on your bike.
You’ll also get to ride past the Kyoto Imperial Palace and peek into the enigmatic Gion, otherwise known as the Geisha district. What’s included? Everything from bikes to entrance fees, topped with an authentic Japanese lunch. It’s an intimate, two-wheeled journey through Kyoto’s marvels!
This tour includes: Rental of a bike and helmet, a guide, lunch, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Check out this South Kyoto in a Nutshell: Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour! It takes you to the other side of the city with a professional, who’ll lead the way on this unique excursion.
Hop on a bike to zip through narrow backstreets, uncovering sights like Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, and the Tofukuji Temple.
You’ll also ride through Gion’s secretive Geisha district, and glide along the Takase Canal. Plus, discover one of the world’s largest wooden structures at Nishi Honganji. The tour lasts half a day, and operates with small groups of up to 8.
This tour includes: Bike and helmet rental, a guide, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
The Most Comprehensive Kyoto Bike Tour for First Timers
Check out this unique 5 Top Highlights of Kyoto with Kyoto Bike Tour, the most comprehensive excursion.
Marvel at the Golden Pavilion’s shimmer and Kiyomizu Temple’s iconic city views. Capture the Fushimi Inari Shrine’s iconic red gates, and stroll through the peaceful Bamboo Forest.
You’ll then delve into the mysterious world of Geishas in Gion, learning about their culture from your guide.
In this intimate tour, limited to just eight people, you’ll cover up to 25 miles (around 40 km), immersing yourself in Japan’s beauty and soundscapes. A light lunch is included to help you refuel after all that exercise!
This tour includes: Bike and helmet rental, a guide, admission fees, and a light lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Tours by Bike
▶️ Cycle through Kyoto’s iconic forest on this Arashiyama Bamboo Bike Tour (Early Bird). You’ll skip the crowds by going out early in the morning, and enjoy a rare tranquility as you ride past serene temples and rural landscapes.
Your journey kicks off with a pro bike fitting, followed by a visit to a historic temple. Then, cruise through picturesque backstreets to the famous Arashiyama bamboo grove.
You’ll spend time in the peaceful forest before exploring hidden gems that are usually missed by tourists. A small group of seven people means you get a personal touch, and your guide’s knowledge will deepen your experience.
This tour includes: A guide, rental of a bike and helmet, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Afternoon Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Monkey Park Bike Tour is another way to explore the famous location, ideal if you’re not an early riser.
Zip through stunning views as you ride your bike toward the Bamboo Forest, which you’ll get to explore with a guide. Then, meet the Japanese macaques on their home turf at Iwatayama Monkey Park.
Marvel at Kyoto from above as you catch the views from Iwatayama Mountain. Find serenity in Sogenchi Pond Garden, located within the World Heritage Tenryuji Temple.
This tour includes: A bike and helmet rental, a guide, bottled water, and admission fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Zoom through the city’s secrets on a Kyoto Bamboo Forest Electric Bike Tour. You’ll breeze through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and beyond. Uncover hidden temples like Otagi Nenbutsu-ji with its quirky statues as you’re led by a local.
You’ll head to the tranquil Giōji Temple, nestled among moss, and along both bustling and tranquil streets. The excursion mixes urban vibes with countryside charm, providing a glimpse of Kyoto’s two sides.
The tour offers the chance to peek into Kyoto’s daily life and rich history, and the small group size – capped at eight – ensures a personalized experience.
The excursion covers close to 15 miles (around 25 km) and it’s for travelers 15 or older.
This tour includes: A guide, use of bicycle and helmet, bottled water, snacks, and temple fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Bike Tours in Kyoto
▶️ Traveling with your friends or family? Check out The Beauty of Kyoto by Bike: Private Tour, which accommodates eight of you.
A private guide will lead the way, zigzagging along hidden streets and past iconic locations, and providing the scoop on Kyoto’s past.
You’ll get to discover the Pontocho district, admire the Imperial Palace, and ride along the Philosopher’s Path. Finally, swing by Heian Shrine as you delve into the culture and history of the city. The tour is carbon neutral.
This tour includes: A private guide, bike and helmet rental, and a local drink or snack. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Zip through Kyoto’s enchanting backstreets on a Private Cycling Tour by e-bike (AM; with an authorized guide). You’ll uncover the city’s secret gems at your own pace, as the tour is catered to your group.
A professional guide will take you gliding along the Kamo River, and into the vibrant Miyagawacho and Gion districts. There, you’ll learn about Kyoto’s history and culture.
Cruise along the regal Kyoto Imperial Palace and across the Tatsumi Bridge, immersing in the old Kyoto charm and its natural beauty.
This tour includes: A private guide, a cycling map, accident insurance, and bike and helmet rentals. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
