Private Tour: Kyoto's Classic Sights By Bike

See the highlights of this treasure-filled city on a bike tour with a local guide, the perfect way to immerse yourself in Kyoto! You'll start with the Nishi-Honganji temple in the center of Kyoto, and pedal to the outskirts of town where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Arashiyama district. Along the way you'll see Nijo castle, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), and Ryoanji temple, all designated as historic monuments of Kyoto on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites.

You'll meet your experienced guide at Kyoto Station and pick up your bike and safety gear. Once you're ready, hop on your bike and follow your guide to your first destination, the Nishi-Honganji temple.

Located close to Kyoto Station, the Nishi-Honganji is one of the largest temple complexes in Kyoto, yet an oasis of quiet contemplation in the middle of the city. It is also on the historic monuments of Kyoto list.

Next you'll pedal through Kyoto to get a feel for the vibrant city as you ride to your next destination: Nijo Castle. While the exterior of the edifice appears somber, inside the fortified walls you'll find lavish decor on the complex's cypress buildings, set among gardens. Examine the fine architectural details of the masterpiece as your guide shares with you about the Tokugawa Shogun who had this castle built.

After strolling the grounds of Nijo Castle, relax over lunch in a local restaurant. When you're rejuvenated, hop on your bike for about 2.5 miles (4 km) to the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji). Built in 1224 as an aristocrat's residence, the grounds were later converted into a Buddhist temple. The two top tiers of the 3-level building are embossed in gold leaf. Take note of how the gilded structure's reflection shimmers in the lake below, and the garden that is considered to be one of the finest classical gardens in Japan.

Next you'll bike over to Ryoanji temple and see its famous Zen rock garden. Then follow your guide to the Arashiyama district on the outskirts of Kyoto. Enjoy views of the river, a mountain and bamboo forests as you cycle through the beautiful surroundings. After taking in some of Kyoto's many treasures on this relaxed bike day tour (suitable for all cycling abilities), your guide will return you to Kyoto Station.

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• In case of inclement weather, the tour maybe substituted for a walking tour
• Tour is suitable for all abilities
• Large groups may be split into smaller groups
• Nijo Castle is officially closed on every Tuesday during January, July, August and December. When Tuesday is a public holiday, Nijo castle will be closed on Wednesday. Nijo will be officially closed from 26th December to 4th January. During these periods, cycling tours which contain Nijo Castle will be adjusted to visit another sightseeing spot or café.
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking