How to Plan Your South Kyoto in a Nutshell Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour

How to Plan Your South Kyoto in a Nutshell Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour

Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, drawing millions of visitors every year. With its rich history, beautiful landscapes and culture, Kyoto is the perfect city to explore on two wheels. The South Kyoto in a Nutshell Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour offers an unforgettable way to discover the city’s hidden gems. In this guide, we will take you through all the necessary steps to plan your tour and make the most of your time in Kyoto.

Booking Your Tour

The first step in planning your South Kyoto in a Nutshell Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour is to book your experience. You can book your tour online at Viator, a reputable travel website that offers a wide range of activities and experiences all over the world. Here’s the link to book your tour: book your tour here. Booking your tour in advance is recommended as it offers flexibility in terms of selecting the date and time that works best for you.

What’s Included in Your Tour

The South Kyoto in a Nutshell Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour includes the following:
  • High-quality ‘Giant’ hybrid bike
  • Helmets
  • Bottled water
  • Gratuities
The bike and helmet rental means that you don’t have to worry about organizing gear hire. And having a guide to lead the way saves you the time and hassle of studying a map to navigate the city.

Meeting Point and Start Time

The meeting point for your tour is Cycle Kyoto, located at 7 Higashikujō Nishisannōchō Minami Ward Kyoto 601-8003 Japan. Follow this link to find us: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zdUo5p4LrkHEXmW4A?g_st=ic. If you have any troubles, please call on 08083427988. The tour starts at 9 am.

Tour Highlights and Itinerary

The itinerary of the South Kyoto in a Nutshell Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour covers some of the top tourist attractions in Kyoto, including:
  • Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine: This is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and popular shrines, famous for its thousands of red torii gates that line the pathway up the mountain.
  • Gion: This is Kyoto’s traditional geisha district that has managed to maintain its historic charm and character over the years.
  • Tofukuji Temple: This is a Zen Buddhist temple known for its beautiful autumn colors, making it a popular spot for photographers.
  • Takase Canal: This is a beautiful waterway lined with cherry blossoms in the spring, making it a perfect place for a relaxing ride.
In addition to these highlights, the tour also takes you through Kyoto’s quiet and picturesque backstreets, hidden alleys, and narrow lanes that are inaccessible by bus tours. Along the way, you will also discover many fascinating stories and insights about the city’s culture and history from your experienced guide.

Tips for a Great Tour

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your South Kyoto in a Nutshell Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour:
  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear: You will be cycling for several hours, so make sure to wear clothes and shoes that are suitable for the activity.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat: Kyoto can get quite hot in the summer, so make sure to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.
  • Bring a small backpack: You will have plenty of photo opportunities during the tour, so bring a small backpack to store your camera, phone, and other essentials.
  • Stay hydrated: Although bottled water is included in the tour, it’s always a good idea to bring an additional water bottle just in case.
  • Follow the rules of the road: While Kyoto is generally a safe city to cycle, make sure to follow the rules of the road, including traffic lights and signals.

Book Your Tour Now

The South Kyoto in a Nutshell Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour is a unique and unforgettable way to explore Kyoto. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and fascinating culture, Kyoto has a lot to offer, and this bike tour is the perfect way to discover it all. We hope this guide has helped you plan your tour and prepare for your adventure. Have fun, and enjoy your time in Kyoto!

Frequently Asked Questions about Kyoto

Are you planning to visit Kyoto for the first time? Or are you considering to explore this beautiful city again? Even if you are a frequent visitor, you may have several questions about Kyoto. So, we came up with this FAQ guide about Kyoto just for you.

1. What is Kyoto famous for?

Kyoto is famous for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscape, ancient temples, shrines, and traditional architecture. It is also famous for its serene gardens, bamboo forests, Kaiseki cuisine, imperial palaces, Geisha, and so much more.

2. How to reach Kyoto?

Kyoto is well-connected by train with Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities. You can reach Kyoto by the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo or the Sanyo Shinkansen from Osaka. The journey takes approximately two hours from Tokyo and 15-30 minutes from Osaka. Kyoto also has its own airport, the Kansai International Airport, which is about 75 minutes from Kyoto Station by express train.

3. What is the best time to visit Kyoto?

The best time to visit Kyoto is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and you can witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring or autumn leaves in autumn. But, if you want to avoid the crowd, visiting in June, July or December could be a good idea.

4. What are the must-visit places in Kyoto?

Kyoto has a lot of places to visit. Some of the must-visit places include Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Arashiyama, Gion district, Nijo Castle, Yasaka Shrine, and many more.

5. How many days are enough to explore Kyoto?

It depends on your preferences, but exploring Kyoto would take at least three or four days. However, it is always better to have seven or more days to experience this ancient city fully.

6. What’s the best way to get around in Kyoto?

The best way to get around in Kyoto is by train or bus. Kyoto has an extensive public transportation system that is efficient and cost-effective. If you are planning to visit several temples, consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus All-day Pass, which allows unlimited boarding on any Kyoto City bus.

7. What is Kaiseki cuisine?

Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese meal that originated in Kyoto. It consists of several small dishes prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients and served with a Japanese tea ceremony. So, if you are a foodie, make sure to try this unique culinary experience.

8. What are the etiquettes to be followed while visiting temples?

When visiting temples or shrines, it is essential to follow the etiquettes:
  • Remove your shoes before entering the temple or shrine building.
  • Do not touch any objects or artifacts inside the temple or shrine building.
  • Respect the silence and avoid talking loudly.
  • Do not take photographs in prohibited areas.
  • Be mindful of the surroundings and avoid littering or smoking.

9. How to experience Geisha culture in Kyoto?

Kyoto is known for its Geisha culture, and if you want to experience it, you can visit the Gion district. However, it is essential to follow the etiquettes and not disturb the Geisha or Maiko (apprentice Geisha) in their work.

10. Is it possible to stay in a traditional Japanese house in Kyoto?

Yes, it is possible to stay in a traditional Japanese house in Kyoto. Many ryokans (Japanese-style inns) and guesthouses offer traditional Japanese rooms with tatami mats, futons, and communal baths. It is a unique way to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality.

Book Your Tour Now

Kyoto is undoubtedly a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. We hope this FAQ guide has answered some of your questions and provided useful information for your next trip to Kyoto. Remember to follow the etiquettes and respect the culture and heritage of this stunning city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kyoto

Kyoto, a city located in Japan’s Honshu Island, has long been the cultural and historic capital of Japan. With thousands of temples, shrines, gardens, museums, and other attractions, it can be challenging to decide where to go and what to do. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to maximize your time as a tourist in Kyoto.

Getting to Kyoto

Before diving into the top tourist attractions in Kyoto, it’s essential to first discuss how to get to Kyoto. The two primary airports that serve Kyoto are Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport, both located in Osaka. From there, you can take the Haruka Express train, which costs around 3,700 yen, to Kyoto. You can also take a bus or hire a taxi, but the train is the most convenient and cost-effective way to get there.

Accommodation in Kyoto

Kyoto offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. If you’re on a budget, staying in a hostel or a guesthouse is a great way to save money. Some popular options include J-Hoppers Kyoto Guesthouse, Guesthouse Kyoto Costa del Sol, and Piece Hostel Kyoto. If you’re looking for a more luxurious stay, Hotel Granvia Kyoto, Ritz Carlton, and The Westin Miyako Kyoto are excellent options.

Top Tourist Attractions

Now that we’ve covered how to get to Kyoto and where to stay, let’s dive into the top tourist attractions in the city. Here are some of the must-see places in Kyoto:

1. Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha is a must-visit destination in Kyoto. This Shinto shrine is known for its thousands of torii gates, which form a tunnel up the mountain behind the shrine. The hike to the top takes around two hours, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

2. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

The Kinkaku-ji or “Golden Pavillion” is a Zen temple covered in gold leaf. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots in Kyoto and attracts crowds of people daily. It’s recommended to visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

3. Arashiyama

Arashiyama is a district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area is famous for its bamboo forests, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Togetsukyo Bridge. Take a walk through the bamboo grove and take in the fresh air and peacefulness of the area.

4. Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera is a Buddhist temple located on the eastern edge of Kyoto. The temple is known for its wooden stage, which provides a panoramic view of Kyoto. It’s also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall.

5. Gion District

Gion is a popular district for tourists, known for its traditional Japanese tea houses and geishas. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and soak in the traditional Japanese atmosphere.

Traditional Japanese Food to Try in Kyoto

No trip to Kyoto is complete without trying traditional Japanese food. Here are some must-try dishes:

1. Kaiseki Ryori

Kaiseki Ryori is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, consisting of seasonal ingredients and beautifully presented dishes.

2. Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake filled with cabbage, meat, and seafood. It’s a popular street food in Japan, and there are many restaurants in Kyoto that serve this delicious dish.

3. Sushi

Sushi is one of Japan’s most famous culinary exports. Try some sushi at a local sushi restaurant for a delicious and authentic experience.

Final Thoughts

Kyoto is a city with a rich culture and history. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan. With this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Kyoto and experience all the city has to offer. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, try the local cuisine, and take in the traditional atmosphere of the city.

How to Plan Your South Kyoto in a Nutshell Gentle Backstreet Bike Tour