Kyoto is a city that rewards exploration on two wheels. Unlike bus routes that stick to main roads or walking tours that may limit how much you can see, cycling lets you weave through narrow alleys, visit tranquil temples, and experience local neighborhoods at your own pace. One of our favorite options is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Hidden Gems Bike Tour (Early Bird), which offers a serene start to your day—perfect for avoiding crowds and capturing photos of the iconic bamboo. Plus, the [5 Top Highlights of Kyoto Full Day Bike Tour (E-bike option)]](https://happytovisit.com/5-top-highlights-of-kyoto-full-day-bike-tour-e-bike/) provides a comprehensive look at Kyoto’s highlights with less exertion thanks to e-bikes, making it ideal for those wanting to see the city’s top sights comfortably.
In this guide, we’ll explore a selection of 15 of the best bike tours in Kyoto. Whether you’re after a quick morning ride, a full-day adventure, or something specialized like exploring east Kyoto’s hidden corners, there’s something for every rider. Let’s pedal through what makes each of these tours stand out.
1. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Hidden Gems Bike Tour (Early Bird)
Starting our list is a morning bike ride that helps you beat the crowds at Kyoto’s most photographed bamboo forest. This private tour is perfect for early risers and families with kids aged 10 and above. The tour covers highlights like Tenryu-ji Temple’s Zen garden and scenic backstreets of Arashiyama, with plenty of time for photos without throngs of travelers. The guide shares insights into local culture and history, making this not just a ride but an educational walk through Kyoto’s natural and spiritual riches. The route is designed to be leisurely, with admission tickets included for key sites. The reviews are glowing — guests say it’s the most enjoyable part of their trip, appreciating the peaceful atmosphere and personalized experience. At around $114, this tour offers excellent value for those looking to start their day with tranquility and authentic sights.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for early birds who want a quiet, intimate experience of Arashiyama’s bamboo and temples.
2. 5 Top Highlights of Kyoto Full Day Bike Tour (E-bike option)
For travelers eager to see more in less time, this full-day tour covers up to 27 miles (44 km), including the Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari’s torii gates, and Gion district. The e-bike option makes covering Kyoto’s hilly terrain easier, especially if your legs are tired after days of sightseeing. You’ll cycle through scenic neighborhoods, visit UNESCO sites, and explore Arashiyama’s bamboo forest, with lunch and snacks provided. The small-group size ensures personalized attention, and reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the route’s variety. At $185.88, it’s a good investment for those wanting an active, comprehensive taste of Kyoto’s highlights, perfect for those with a full day to spare and a desire to maximize their sightseeing.
Bottom line: An ideal tour for active travelers who want to see many key sights in one day, with the comfort of e-bikes.
3. Full Day Biking Tour Exploring the Best of Kyoto
Covering a broad swath of Kyoto’s top spots, this 8-hour bike tour blends cultural sites with scenic streets. Starting from the Imperial Palace and Gion, you’ll visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and Fushimi Inari Shrine, with a hearty Japanese lunch included. The small-group format (max nine) allows for personalized storytelling, and the route’s mix of major temples and neighborhoods offers a well-rounded experience. Reviewers mention the guide’s deep knowledge and the balance of riding and walking. At just under $130, it’s a solid choice for those who want an active day with lots of variety, suitable for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy a bit of history along the way.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting an all-encompassing, active exploration of Kyoto’s most famous sites.
4. GEMS of EAST KYOTO on a BIKE!
This 4-hour tour zooms through east Kyoto’s quieter streets, avoiding the crowds of popular tourist spots. The route includes Gion, Tofuku-ji Temple, and the Heian Shrine, with cycling routes designed for safety and comfort. The small group (no more than six) ensures a relaxed pace and plenty of interaction with your guide. Guests enjoy learning about Kyoto’s traditions and seeing geisha houses, shrines, and gardens up close. Admission tickets are included for sites, and the tour includes bicycle rental. At $117.96 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between depth and pace, perfect for those who want a relaxed yet rundown of eastern Kyoto.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers who prefer a shorter, intimate ride exploring Kyoto’s less crowded but equally beautiful districts.
5. Afternoon Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Monkey Park Kyoto Bike Tour
A lively 4-hour ride, this tour combines the bamboo forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Monkey Park on Iwatayama, with an emphasis on wildlife and scenery. The Monkey Park offers a chance to see Japanese macaques in their natural habitat, with panoramic views of Kyoto. The route is designed to include lesser-known shrines and temples, and bike rental makes it easy to hop between spots. The reviews highlight how much fun this tour is — guests appreciate the mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural sites. The route is well-paced, and the included snacks and tickets add value at $114.39 per person.
Bottom line: Ideal for nature lovers and families wanting a mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural sites.
6. South Kyoto in a Nutshell: Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour!
This 3-4 hour tour offers a relaxed ride down Kyoto’s back streets, perfect for those who prefer gentle riding. Key sights include Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Gion district, Tofuku-ji, and the Takase Canal. The route avoids busy main roads, making it great for beginners or those wanting a peaceful experience. The guide shares insights into local customs, and bike and helmet rental are included. Guests love how this tour combines scenic views with meaningful cultural stories. At just under $86, it’s a good value for a shorter, easy-paced ride through Kyoto’s authentic neighborhoods.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a leisurely, culturally rich ride with minimal stress.
7. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest E-Biking Tour
Travel farther and faster with this electric bike tour around Arashiyama, covering 30 km of trails, temples, and scenic spots. It includes visits to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and Tōji-in Temple, plus walking through the bamboo grove itself. The guided experience is personalized, with a maximum of 8 guests, ensuring plenty of attention. Reviewers love how the e-bike makes the ride accessible and the route’s variety, from peaceful moss gardens to lively temples. The cost of around $125 offers good value considering the distance and diversity of sights. This tour is perfect for those who want to see more of Kyoto’s outskirts without tiring their legs.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a comprehensive, less strenuous way to explore Arashiyama’s natural and spiritual sites.
8. Historical Kyoto E-Bike Tour
This 5-6 hour ride covers Kyoto’s main historical sites, including Arashiyama, Gion, and Nanzen-ji. The e-bike option makes it easy to cover the sprawling city comfortably. The tour includes bicycle and helmet, with a focus on learning about Kyoto’s past while enjoying the scenery. Tour guides share stories about the Buddhism, Shintoism, and samurai influences, making it appealing for those wanting to combine culture with physical activity. Guests mention the guide’s deep knowledge and the smooth pace. At around $107, it’s a good choice for culturally curious travelers who like a longer, active day.
Bottom line: Suitable for history enthusiasts who want to see many sites without the exertion.
9. Kyoto: City Secrets eBike Tour
Discover Kyoto’s hidden corners on this approximately 3.75-hour tour. The electric bike makes exploring easier, and the guide takes you through less-visited neighborhoods, the Golden Pavilion, and Kyoto’s oldest Geisha district. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and the chance to learn about local customs while enjoying the city’s scenery. The route is well-paced, and the tour includes bicycle and helmet. At $127, it offers a specialized look at Kyoto’s secrets, perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the usual sights.
Bottom line: Best for curious travelers interested in Kyoto’s lesser-known stories and hidden streets.
10. Kyoto: Hidden Gems E-Bike Tour with Local Japanese Guide
A shorter 3.5-hour ride, this tour emphasizes local experiences and hidden temples. The guide, a local Japanese, shares personal stories and insights, making the experience authentic. Cycling past temples, shrines, and geisha houses, you get a taste of everyday Kyoto life. The small group (up to six) ensures lots of interaction. The review quotes emphasize how this tour is a great way to connect with Kyoto on a personal level. At $75, it’s a budget-friendly option that offers a deeply personal perspective.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting an intimate, eco-friendly way to see the city’s lesser-known sights.
11. Kyoto Highlights Bike Tour with UNESCO Zen Temples and Lunch
![[W/Lunch] Kyoto Highlights Bike Tour with UNESCO Zen Temples](https://happytovisit.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/w-lunch-kyoto-highlights-bike-tour-with-unesco-zen-temples.jpg)
This 4.5-hour tour combines cycling with a traditional Japanese lunch at a teahouse. Starting in Gion, you’ll visit Kennin-ji and Nanzen-ji, both UNESCO-listed Zen temples, and cruise along the Kamogawa River. The guide provides detailed explanations, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. Guests appreciate the combination of cultural insights, scenic bike routes, and delicious food. For around $97, you get a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and local cuisine—great for those wanting a taste of Kyoto’s spiritual side with a meal to match.
Bottom line: Perfect for culture lovers who want a comprehensive, relaxed experience with excellent food.
12. Pedal Adventure Kyoto’s Iconic Landmarks on an E-bike Tour
This 4-hour ride focuses on Kyoto’s famous landmarks like Fushimi Inari and the Higashiyama district. The e-bike helps you navigate the hilly terrain effortlessly, and the route includes hidden spots and local stories. Reviewers commend the friendly guide and the smooth bikes, noting the experience is well-paced and educational. The tour’s value lies in how much ground you cover without fatigue—perfect for those who want to see the highlights comfortably.
Bottom line: Well-suited for travelers who want to combine comfort with sightseeing of Kyoto’s iconic sites.
13. Early Bird E-biking through East Kyoto
This 6-7 hour early-morning tour takes you along the Fushimi Inari, Tofuku-ji, and Ginkaku-ji temples, with a focus on beating the crowds. The use of e-bikes makes covering the distance easy, and included lunch adds convenience. The guide expertly navigates Kyoto’s streets, sharing stories about religion, culture, and local life. Reviewers praise the personalized attention and the chance to see Kyoto at its most peaceful. Price at $150 reflects the value of a full day of sights paired with a comfortable ride.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want to experience Kyoto’s highlights early and comfortably.
14. Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Morning Tour by Bike
This 3.5-hour morning tour is designed for early risers who want to beat the crowds at the Bamboo Forest and explore nearby scenic streets. The guided ride includes stops at Togetsukyo Bridge and Tenryuji Temple, allowing you to enjoy Kyoto’s natural beauty and quiet streets. Guests mention how much they appreciated the expert guide Peter and the relaxing atmosphere. The tour’s short duration makes it perfect for travelers with limited time but who don’t want to miss this iconic site.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting a quick, high-quality morning experience with expert guidance.
15. Kyoto: Afternoon Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park Bike Tour
A perfect afternoon option, this 4-hour ride combines bamboo forest, Zen gardens, and Monkey Park. The short hike to Monkey Park offers spectacular views and a chance to see Japanese macaques in their natural habitat. The route is designed to connect diverse sites with minimal fatigue. Reviewers highlight the beautiful scenery and informative guide. At $104 per person, it’s a well-rounded option for families or nature lovers.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a mix of wildlife, gardens, and scenic Kyoto in the afternoon.
How to Choose the Right Bike Tour in Kyoto
Selecting the perfect bike tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and time available. For a quiet morning ride in Arashiyama, the Early Bird Bamboo Forest Tour is unbeatable. If you want to cover more ground and see Kyoto’s top sights comfortably, the Full Day E-bike Tour offers great value. Budget travelers might prefer the Hidden Gems East Kyoto, while those interested in wildlife and natural scenery should consider the Afternoon Bamboo & Monkey Park Tour.
Think about how much biking you’re comfortable with; e-bikes make hills easier and extend your range. Book early in peak seasons to secure your spot, especially for popular tours like the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Hidden Gems Early Bird or the Full Day Kyoto Highlights which tend to fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Kyoto offers a wide range of bike tours tailored to different interests and fitness levels, from peaceful morning rides to full-day adventures. For a relaxed pace, the GEMS of EAST KYOTO or South Kyoto in a Nutshell are excellent options. For those wanting to maximize their sightseeing and embrace Kyoto’s history, the Full Day Kyoto or City Secrets eBike tours stand out. And if you want to see the bamboo forest at dawn, the Early Bird Bamboo Tour is hard to beat.
No matter your style, these tours help you see Kyoto in a fresh, active way. Book early, especially during popular seasons, to ensure your spot on the ride—and enjoy Kyoto from the saddle of your bike.