Advice about Kyoto Cycling
Sights of Old Kyoto by Bicycle
Let's go to Saga Arashiyama!
Saga
Arashiyama is one of the three most popular tourist spots in Kyoto. During
the cherry blossom and autumn leaves seasons the area is overflowing with
people. On the other hand, in the other seasons it is almost unbelievably
quiet and these quiet seasons of summer and winter are perfect for enjoying
the Saga Arashiyama area's special atmosphere. Why did the nobility of the
past choose this area as a resort? When you experience the stillness at
Saga Arashiyama you will begin to understand. This area, long ago a resort
for the aristocracy, of a little far from the center of town, but it can
easily be reached by bicycle and the scenery along the way is enjoyable
too!
The Kinkakuji Cycle Terminal is
the most convenient
Arashiyama
From
Kinkakuji to the Saga Arashiyama area take Kinukake no michi(Kinukake st.).
On the way you will pass through so many amazing places but please pay attention
to travel time and your own physical limitations!
An atmospheric journey along the Keifuku Line
You can take the keifuku line from Hakubaicho to
Arashiyama. This tram-line really elegant areas.
Although the views from inside the tram are remarkable
it is also worth trying this route by bicycle. Many wonderful new discoveries
are guaranteed if you try it!
Important Point
Spring and Autumn are the busiest tourist seasons os the roads are packed with people. At these times it is impossible to get around by bicycle so it is best to park your bicycle in the Arashiyama Tourist Cycle Parking area and go about the area on foot. (The parking fee is 200yen)
Let's explore the village of Ohara!
Ohara's
Key point is the splendid scenery of Satoyama. Beginning at Sanzenin but
also at other temples we can feel the calm and peaceful atmosphere at the
later Heian period. Of course this is a highly recommended area and it can
also be accessed by bicycle. However on National Route 367 it is important
to pay attention to the volume at traffic. This road has heavy traffic between
Shiga prefecture and Kyoto city. Also the distance from Shugakuin is 10kms.
There is a small path along the way, but you should be prepared to ride
up this way slowly whilst paying attention to other vehicles.
Going back by way of Shizuhara is highly recommended. Of course the way to Ohara is highly and also on the return journey going over Ebumitoge hill will take at least 15 minutes. But after that the journey home is all downhill. Along the way if you go along the old Ohara road, you can enjoy seeing the peaceful country views around Shizuhara.
Let's try Kurama and Kifune area
Kyoto
is surrounded by mountains, and a place famous for its natural beauty. Kurama
and Kibune area represents the nature of Kyoto. Approximately 8.5km from
Kamigamo Shrine although the road is a long upslope. So this course is suitable
for advanced cyclists.
Recommendation
A smart way to get to Kurama and Kibune areas while you are cycling in
Kyoto city.
Park the bicycle at the parking space next to Demachiyanagi
Station (150yen) and take Eizan train (400yen one way to Kurama). It approximately
takes 30 minutes to Kurama.
Let's go to Kiyomizu Temple
In
the Kiyomizu area we feel most deeply the rich atmosphere of old Kyoto and
it is Kyoto's most popular spot, so throughout the year it is always busy.
Also slopes and stair ways are numerous so the best way to approach this
area is to park your bicycle at the Kiyomizu Tourist Cycle Parking area
and go along the area on foot.
The Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal is
most convenient.
From Kyoto Station to the Kiyomizu Tourist Cycle Park is
3.3km.(about 20 mins )
From the Nishiki-kita Cycle Terminal to the Kiyomizu Tourist Cycle Park is 4.1km(about 25 mins)
Find peace in Rakuhoku!
The
Rakuhoku area is still not big on the Kyoto tourist scene but seeing its
quiet scenic areas one wonders why not. A ride along the Kamogawa footpath
is both comfortable and exhilarating. What's more, as there are no stop
signs no time will be wasted. Really along the Kamogawa is the best way
to travel between North and South. So let's go to Rakuhoku!
Important Point
When
going to Entsuji Temple by way of Midorogaike, the Kurama Road is narrow,
local traffic is heavy and the slope is steep. If you have difficulty riding
your bicycle here it is better to get off and push it by hand.
Take your time at Sosui Canal
Kyotoite's strolling areas. In the cherry blossom and autumn foliage season's we are greeted by the sight of the tree lined roads.
Cycling in the Kitayama cryptomeria (Japanese cedar)
Sightseeing
in Kyoto is not only going to tourist attractions. Kyoto is surrounded by
mountains. We recommend you to get to the natural parts of Kyoto.
Cycling along the upper stream of Kamo river and cross the
Mochikoshi pass. Then you will enjoy cycling surrounded by the Kitayama
cryptomeria as well as a spring and a traditional teahouse during your journey.
We are sure that you will enjoy a different aspect of Kyoto.
Kyoto Imperial Palace Park (Kyoto Gyoen national garden) is the Central Park of Kyoto
Although
an entrance to Sendo Garden is not allowed without the permission of the
Imperial Household Agency, the Imperial garden is a park so it is possible
to take a walk 24 hours.
Flowers of each season feast our eyes and the site allows
you to relax and enjoy a few people in the specious park. Kyoto Gyoen is
good for cycling in the morning, having lunch afternoon and taking a night
cycling in the evening.



