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 Nijo Station Cycle Terminal is the most convenient

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 Randen 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!

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)

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.

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.

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.