Hyogo Prefecture is an underrated gem for cycling enthusiasts. Its mix of rural landscapes, historic towns, and hot spring resorts makes for varied and authentic biking experiences. We especially like the Hyogo E-Bike tour through rural Japan for its combination of natural beauty, historic sites, and the chance to pedal along old railway tracks that echo Japan’s industrial past. If you’re interested in culture and scenery combined, this is a top pick. For a shorter, more scenic outing, the Kinosaki Onsen Cycling Tour offers a relaxing ride through a famous hot spring town. Whether you prefer history, nature, or food, Hyogo’s bike tours deliver authentic experiences with minimal fuss.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of e-bike excursions and traditional cycling tours: from the 5-hour Hyogo E-Bike tour through rural Japan, which explores old mining towns and mountain paths, to the shorter 3-hour Kinosaki Onsen Cycling Tour, perfect for relaxing by the river and soaking in hot springs. There’s also a unique Shisō Region Sake Brewery Tour that combines cycling with sake tasting and cultural discovery, and a 3-4 hour e-bike trip through a historic silver mining town that’s ideal for history buffs and photography lovers alike.
1. Hyogo E-Bike tour through rural Japan
This tour is perfect for those who want a deep dive into Hyogo’s rural charm. Over 5 to 6 hours, you’ll cycle through Ikuno, a town with a 1200-year mining history, following the ore road—the remnants of a vintage railway line once used to transport ore. You’ll enjoy rivers, shrines, and stunning natural scenery along the way. The highlight is visiting the Old Official Residence of Ikuno Mine, a rare surviving example of 1876 Mitsubishi housing, and wandering the old mine cart tracks. You’ll also cross the oldest cast-iron bridge in Japan, built by French engineers over 170 years ago.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of history and nature. The guide shares insightful stories about the town’s industrial past and the French influence on Japan’s modernization. The tour is rated 5.0 out of 5 by eight reviews, with travelers praising its depth of local knowledge and scenic stops. It’s best suited for active travelers with an interest in industrial history and Japanese countryside. The price of $162.35 includes admission tickets and bike rental.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive, historical ride through rural Hyogo with beautiful scenery, this tour is a top choice. It offers a solid value for its length and the quality of experience.
2. E-Bike tour through old rural Japanese silver mining town
For around 3 to 4 hours, this E-Bike tour through old rural Japanese silver mining town allows you to explore Ikuno at a relaxed pace. The tour begins with an easy ascent, powered effortlessly by your e-bike, and takes you through a tunnel to a landscape dotted with farming fields, rivers, and wooded areas.
You’ll walk along mine cart tracks and learn about the French engineers who contributed to the town’s industrial development. A highlight is the watershed of Hyogo, where the Maruyama River flows toward the Sea of Japan, and the Ichikawa River toward the Seto Inland Sea. The tour is free to join, making it a good budget-friendly option.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 by seven reviews, travelers note the smooth ride and the informative storytelling. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts and those who want a leisurely exploration of a historic mining town. You’ll appreciate the beautiful scenery and the chance to capture photos of the landscape and passing trains.
Bottom line: This tour offers a shorter, relaxed ride into Hyogo’s mining heritage, making it perfect for history lovers or families seeking a gentle cycling adventure.
3. Kinosaki Onsen Cycling Tour Kinosaki & Riverside Experience
At just about 3 hours, this Kinosaki Onsen Cycling Tour combines scenic riverside riding with a visit to one of Japan’s most celebrated hot spring towns. The tour covers the topography and cultural highlights of Kinosaki, including its famous hot springs and local crafts. A highlight is cycling along the river to the Sea of Japan, where you experience the earthiness of this seaside town.
The guide—Natsuko—receives 5/5 reviews and is praised for her friendly, informative style. You’ll learn about the world heritage status of the San-in Coast Geopark and the importance of the Wetlands for migratory waterfowl. Along the way, you’ll enjoy greenery, views of the sea, and the traditional architecture that makes Kinosaki so charming.
This tour is ideal for those who want a short, culturally rich ride with plenty of photo ops. The price, at $85.58, offers excellent value considering the quality of the experience and the personalized attention.
Bottom line: Perfect for history, nature, and hot spring lovers wanting a short but immersive day in Kinosaki without strenuous exertion.
4. e-bike tour Shisō Region with Sake Brewery Tour
This unique combination of cycling, cultural exploration, and sake tasting makes this e-bike tour in the Shisō region particularly appealing. It features a visit to Niwata Shrine, the legendary birthplace of sake, along with a tour of Yamazaki Sake Brewery Street. You’ll cycle through the countryside on your e-bike, passing rice fields and tunnels, and enjoy a healthy fermented food lunch at a local restaurant.
What sets this experience apart is the focus on sake culture. The tour includes an educational component about the history and mythology of sake brewing in Harima Province. The culinary aspect is also notable, with a locally sourced lunch to complement the visit. While specific reviews and the exact price aren’t provided, the combination of cultural insight and tasting makes it a worthwhile choice for food and drink enthusiasts.
This tour is suited for adventurous foodies interested in Japanese brewing traditions and those wanting a full-day experience blending cycling, history, and gastronomy.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in sake and local culture, this tour offers a rich, engaging experience with beautiful rural scenery.
$88 per person
How to Choose the Best Bike Tour for You
Choosing from Hyogo’s diverse bike tours depends largely on your interests, schedule, and fitness level. If you want a deep dive into industrial history, the Hyogo E-Bike tour through rural Japan is excellent. For a more relaxed, scenic ride, the Kinosaki Onsen Cycling Tour offers a manageable, culturally immersive experience. History buffs who love mining towns should consider the Ikuno silver mine tour, which combines history and nature. Foodies and sake lovers might gravitate toward the Shisō Region Sake Brewery Tour, which blends cycling with local brewing traditions.
Practical tips: Book early, especially during peak seasons in spring and autumn when Hyogo’s scenery is at its best. For those with limited time, the shorter tours like Kinosaki or Ikuno offer satisfying experiences without requiring full-day commitments. Consider your fitness level—most tours are accessible via e-bike, which makes hills easier—and check if advance booking is needed for specific experiences or guide availability.
Final Thoughts
Hyogo Prefecture offers a rich variety of bike tours that highlight its history, nature, and culture. For a full-day adventure with historical depth, the Hyogo E-Bike tour through rural Japan delivers. If you prefer a shorter, scenic ride that can be enjoyed with minimal strain, the Kinosaki Onsen Cycling Tour provides a perfect mix of relaxation and sightseeing. History lovers will appreciate the mining town exploration, while food and drink enthusiasts should consider the Shisō Sake Brewery Tour.
No matter your interest, Hyogo’s bike tours promise authentic experiences and beautiful scenery. Remember to book early, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons, and enjoy the ride through Japan’s diverse landscape.