Kyoto's Past: A Cycling Tour of Historic Sites and World Heritage Zen Temple
English
4 hours
Discover Kyoto on two wheels with a guided bike tour through the city’s historic streets. Cycle along scenic routes, explore districts like Gion, and enjoy a traditional Kyoto lunch. With an English-speaking guide, you’ll learn about the city’s history, culture, and hidden spots while capturing memorable photos along the way.
Food and drinks
Rental bike (Bike Insurance Bodily injury liability insurance is included) A Certified guide by MagicalTrip Entrance fee to Kennin-ji temple Photos during the tour Local Kyoto lunch at Japanese house (Vegan/Vegetarian available but fish stock is used ) Helmet (if you need) Bike lock
What's not included
Additional drinks and food fee (Available for purchase)
Meet-up in front of the 7-Eleven convenience store, outside the Hachijo-guchi exit of Kyoto Station. It's next to Hotel Via Inn Prime.
2
Head to the bike rental shop with your guide to choose bikes and get safety instructions.
3
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Kamo River as we ride past it. En route, we also discuss the history and significance of the Gion District.
4
Walk through the historic Gion district, known for its traditional wooden teahouses, as we head towards Kennin-ji Temple, one of Kyoto's five most important Zen temples.
5
Cycle to Nanzen-ji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple known for its massive Sanmon gate. Explore the temple grounds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
6
A short bike ride takes us to Heian Jingu, a Shinto shrine famous for its large torii gate and beautiful gardens.
7
Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch. Options for various dietary preferences will be available.
We take a different route back to the bike rental shop where our tour will end.
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour is approximately 4 hours long.
Yes, a delicious lunch at a Japanese tea house is included in the tour price.
Some important things to note before booking include limited vegetarian food options, potential delays due to COVID-19 restrictions, and appropriate clothing and footwear for cycling.
In case of unsuitable weather conditions, the tour may be canceled for safety reasons. If this happens, you may reschedule or receive a full refund.
The cycling tour suits all skill levels; anyone over 150cm tall can join. Safety measures will be in place to ensure an enjoyable experience for all participants.
The tour includes a rental bike, an English-speaking guide, an entrance fee to Kennin-ji temple, tour photos, lunch, and a helmet. Additional expenses such as drinks or personal purchases are not included.
This tour has no specific age limit, but participants must be at least 150cm tall for safety reasons. An adult must accompany children under the age of 18.
Great experience, enjoyed the ride, a different way to see Kyoto, and had a great guide, that made a difference, knowledgeable and informative, friendly and always making sure that we were enjoying and that everything was ok.
antetodomuchacalma
January 4, 2026
Wonderful cycling experience around Kyoto
It was a lovely cycling experience visiting temples and shrines around Kyoto, finishing off with a delicious lunch. Emi was a great guide and was happy to share other things to do around the city. A great day out!
Jovana D
November 13, 2025
antetodomuchacalma
January 4, 2026
Great experience
Great experience, enjoyed the ride, a different way to see Kyoto, and had a great guide, that made a difference, knowledgeable and informative, friendly and always making sure that we were enjoying and that everything was ok.
Jovana D
November 13, 2025
Wonderful cycling experience around Kyoto
It was a lovely cycling experience visiting temples and shrines around Kyoto, finishing off with a delicious lunch. Emi was a great guide and was happy to share other things to do around the city. A great day out!
