Private Tour: Kyoto's Backstreets by Bike

Cycle through the older districts of Kyoto with a private guide and get a feel for the traditions of this ancient city. Glimpse a geisha in the Gion district, see the Kyoto Imperial Palace and learn about the Emperors who ruled from Kyoto for centuries, and ride along riverbanks lined with old-style wooden teahouses and restaurants. You'll see the best of Kyoto's ancient charm with a friendly private guide explaining the history of this venerable and beautiful city.

You'll meet your friendly private guide at Kyoto Station, then pick up your bike and safety gear. When ready, grab your bike and set out with your guide to the Miyagawacho and Gion districts. As you cycle past the traditional restaurants and tea houses, you may glimpse a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) in beautiful kimono and intricate makeup, on the way to an appointment. Your guide explains the art of the geisha and the history of this ancient district.

As you leave the geisha districts, enjoy the serene atmosphere as you pedal along the Shirakawa canal, which is lined with weeping willow trees and traditional tea houses.

You'll then head to the Imperial Palace, the residences for the Imperial family and court nobles until 1868, when Japan's capital moved to Tokyo. The grounds are now a park that is open to the general public, with wide paths that wind through lush gardens. Follow your guide through the grounds and hear stories about the Emperors in Kyoto.

After touring the Imperial Palace Park, you'll head back to Kyoto station along the Kamogawa river. Locals enjoy strolling along the river, where cherry blossoms bloom along the banks in spring, and in the summer traditional restaurants open balconies that overlook the water. As you glide along the pathway, you'll catch great views of Kyoto's downtown.

Your guide returns you to Kyoto Station to conclude your tour. If you would like to continue sightseeing in Kyoto on your bike, you can arrange to keep your bike until 7pm at no extra charge.

Click on "View Additional Info" for meeting locations.

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Minimum age is 10 years
• Adult pricing applies to all travelers
• In case of inclement weather, the tour may be substitutedfor a walking tour
• Please note that a large groups may be split into smaller groups
• Tour is suitable for all abilities
• You can keep the bicycle rental after the tour until 7pm at no extra charge
• The bike needs to be returned to the starting point. Leaving the bike at your hotel will be an extra charge