Afternoon Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Monkey Park Kyoto Bike Tour
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Afternoon Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Monkey Park Kyoto Bike Tour
By Kyoto Bike Tour - The Bamboo Forest & Arashiyama
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 10-75, max of 8 per group
Duration: 4h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- Native English speaking bilingual guide
- Bicycle
- Helmet
- Bottled water
- Admission fees
- Entry/Admission - Monkey Park Iwatayama
- Entry/Admission - Bamboo Forest Street
- Entry/Admission - Tenryu-ji Temple Sogenchi Teien
- Entry/Admission - Togetsukyo Bridge
What's not included- No hotel pickup or drop off
- Gratuity for your guide (always appreciated!)
- E-bike (We use standard Cannondale city bikes)
- Start:
- Saga-Arashiyama Station, 11-1 Sagatenryūji Kurumamichichō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8373, JapanNearest train station - JR Saga Arashiyama Meeting Point is : JR Saga Arashiyama Station, Exit right at the ticket gates (See PDF in your Viator message inbox)
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 103013P4- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- E-bikes and youth bikes are available upon request (additional fee may apply)
- *AGE REQUIREMENT: Children must be at least 10 years old to participate. Please book our "Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Family Bike Tour (Infants & Toddlers)" for families with children under 10 years of age.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 103013P4
From $104.70
$94.23
per adult
Select date and travelers
Similar experiences
Itinerary
- 11-1 Sagatenryūji Kurumamichichō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8373, JapanNearest train station - JR Saga Arashiyama Meeting Point is : JR Saga Arashiyama Station, Exit right at the ticket gates (See PDF in your Viator message inbox)
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Catherine M0 contributionsFun Kyoto bike rideA fantastic way to see the sites of Kyoto and get an understanding of the layout of the city. Cass was a brilliant guide who was informative and fun to be with . Thoroughly recommend!Written January 17, 2025
- Lawson Y0 contributionsTremendous Bike Tour with Top Sights Guided by the Amazing Cass in KyotoThe Kyoto Bike Tour guided by Cass was one of the most amazing tours I've ever been on. Cass had so many tidbits about Japanese culture and religion that I was shocked to hear and I've visited numerous times. I'd never visited Kyoto before so this was the perfect introduction (and more) to the beautiful city that is Kyoto. From the divine shrines and temples to the serene forests and gardens, every sight included was breathtaking. The majority of the top sights you can search anywhere online are included in this tour with tickets and lunch covered! Cass was engaging all through out, keeping us safe as we rode along the roads of Kyoto as we had never experienced riding on the road before. He was friendly and insightful, everything you can ask for in a guide. Thank you Cass very much for the experience, easiest 5 star review in my life! Arigatou Gozaimasu! P.S. There are some heavy inclines along the way so perhaps the ebike option is preferable, especially for inexperienced bikers. We would do it if given the opportunity again!Written January 14, 2025
- Peter W0 contributionsRob the guide was excellentRob our guide showed us around the hidden gems in and around the bamboo forest. His depth of knowledge and was exceptional. Highly recommend this tour.Written January 13, 2025
- BridgesFrisbeeDog0 contributionsWonderful Bike TourOur bicycle tour of Kyoto with Peter was the highlight of our trip to Japan! Immediately upon our arrival, Peter outfitted us with bikes, helmets, water bottles and even warm gloves for the chilly day. He is a part time college professor, and an American who fell in love with Japan 27 years ago and never left. With his background, he was the perfect one to describe the places, people, and rich history of Japan in a completely relatable way. The ride itself was easy and completely enjoyable. We were on the outskirts of Kyoto, so traffic was not a problem and part of our ride was among countryside gardens and rice paddies. I highly recommend Kyoto Bike Tours and Peter as a tour guide.Written January 11, 2025
- snell23mcmahon0 contributionsSnow bike riding with three teenage boysI would definitely recommend this to other family’s with teenagers. This tour was an amazing way to see all of the amazing sites of Kyoto and not doing it all in a car but actually getting out and about. Rob was interactive and kind and he explained the history of the things that we saw in an easy and understandable way that joined the dots. Even though when we went it was snowing and cold it was still an amazing experience. Couldn’t recommend enough.Written January 9, 2025
- worldstar990 contributionsFrom temples to tempura - fabulous cycle tour!We did the full day bike tour with Rob yesterday & it was a fantastic way to spend our first day in Kyoto. Rob was extremely knowledgeable & respectful about the sites we visited & very generous in sharing his insights around Japanese culture. We cycled through snow flurries & sunshine - with gentle hills & downhill runs & plenty of atmospheric backstreets & cycle paths in-between. Aside from the stunning temples we visited, we were even lucky enough to see a couple of meiko’s in Gion. It was a full day of cycling - around 50km - plus a fair amount of walking & stair climbing - but a wonderful way to see several of the main sights of Kyoto in great company. Thanks Rob!Written January 9, 2025
- B1609LEmariac0 contributionsThe best bike ride!The best bike tour yet. Our guide Rob was exceptional. Informative and knowledgable, he kept things very intersting. His passion for Japanese culture and people are very evident. He also is very patient, respectful and polite. He arrange a yummy lunch at a well sourced local venue. The bikes were easy to ride and in great condition. I wouldn't of seen half as much if I didn't do this tour. Thanks Rob.Written January 9, 2025
- J1700QWandrewm0 contributionsGreat experience for our family of fourOur guide Yuki was amazing. His English was flawless, and he taught us a lot about the history of the area, as well as sprinkling in bits about Buddhism and Shintoism. It was quite chilly at that hour - gloves and layers really helped.Written January 5, 2025
- 248dorianb0 contributionsNew Year, 8-hour Kyoto Bike Tour Highly RecommendI can’t recommend this 8-hour bike tour of Kyoto enough! Rob, our guide, was exceptional—friendly, flexible, and incredibly knowledgeable. He made sure we covered all the major sites, offering fascinating insights into each location along the way. His enthusiasm for Kyoto’s history and culture really brought the experience to life. The route was well-paced, with plenty of time to soak in the sights and take photos without ever feeling rushed. Lunch was another highlight—absolutely delicious and the perfect way to recharge before continuing our journey. This tour is the ideal way to explore Kyoto, blending adventure, culture, and great company. If you’re considering it, don’t hesitate. Thanks to Rob for making it such a memorable day!Written January 3, 2025
- chrisbI7752YW0 contributions...A nice change of scenery, beautifulThe guide, Yuki, is a great guide. I enjoyed the history and his sense of humor. His English is excellent. He said he is a college student but he speaks like he went to college in the United States. The tour was a nice change of pace on the bikes. It is end of December, so it is very cold 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect the crowds and traffic at the bridge. The Bamboo farm is beautiful, so go early before the crowds come. I really appreciate his patience as my GF has a heart problem and he took frequent breaks as we lagged behind. I would go back and do it again. Thank you Yuki!Written December 30, 2024
- jefffY3719IY0 contributionsGreat way to see KyotoAbsolute must in Kyoto. Glad we took the early morning to avoid the crowds. We were jetlagged anyway so early morning worked. Peter is extremely knowledgeable in history and geography of the area and we got to see lots of things we wouldn’t have if we walked.Written December 29, 2024
- 739jacquelinee0 contributionsBeyond expectationsThis is a MUST do for any tourists or anyone really visiting Kyoto. You will get more for your money than bargained for. Our guide was a history, cultural and linguistic genius who could talk to things beyond your travel guide books or magazines. Biking is always one of the best ways to experience a place and this tour did not disappoint!!Written December 28, 2024
- H1540WRjodiew0 contributionsA must doIt was a cold start but we were dressed to the conditions. What a great Tour. A beautiful part of Kyoto with a great guide and seeing and learning about local life and history. A highlight of our trip so far. Easily arranged a private tour for 8 of us the day before but it is shoulder season. Highly recommend.Written December 20, 2024
- Danielle C0 contributionsBest bike tour ever!We had an amazing time on the full day bike tour with Cass! The entire day was perfect from start to finish and we got to see and learn so much about Kyoto - we were even lucky enough to see a geisha! Cass was knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely fun to spend the day with. He even took photos of us throughout the day and provided them to us at the end of the day! Absolutely would recommend this tour and Cass as your guide!Written December 17, 2024
- milliem3760 contributionsSuch an epic tour, highly recommend!Stop reading and just book the tour, thank me later (coming from a thorough review researcher)! I had a wonderful half day bike tour with Ray today. Ended up being the only person on the tour, yet had a blast with Ray! Such a fun way to see a beautiful area of Kyoto. Ray is super knowledgeable and engaging, his knowledge of Japanese culture was impressive! This was easily one of my favourite tours. Highly recommend, will be returning next time I’m in Kyoto!!! Thanks for a wonderful day 🙂Written December 15, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
138 reviews
Excellent
136
Very good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
1
evamY4711PY
11 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
High recommendations for this tour! Convenient meeting location, excellent bikes! Peter is a gracious host- he selects the safest route for travel, adds descriptive content and great conversation. Cycling is the easiest and most enjoyable way to navigate between the Monkey Park and Bamboo Forest! Foliage colors on our early November tour were beautiful!
Written November 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Eva!
WOW, thanks so much for such an awesome review. I am so happy the two you enjoyed the tour. Thanks again for taking the time to send us this. All the best to you both.
Peter
Written November 6, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gregory W
2 contributions
Aug 2024 • Solo
I did this tour on a very hot, early September day. There ended up only being one other person, but I’m so glad I braved the weather (and my own already-tired body) to do this tour- it was so, so good. Yuki was the most personable and knowledgeable guide- it really felt like we were getting shown around the best spots by an old friend. Every location was beautiful, he gave us background and cultural insights on each temple and historical location, and biking was such a great way to enjoy the city and avoid the crowded busses. Would absolutely recommend this no matter how long you have in Kyoto, whether it’s one day or one month!
Written September 3, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wow guys! Thank you for this. I am pleased to know you enjoyed the tour and that my explanations were clear. Thank you so much.
Yuki
Written October 10, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
clobdell
Glen Ellyn, IL94 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
There's a reason why Peter and his team have almost 600 5 star reviews. Peter's wit coupled with JS' patience as they led our family of 12 on our tour made for an enjoyable afternoon. During our almost 4 hour bike tour, we visited the Mikami Shrine (everyone needs a little help from the hair god), the Bamboo Forest, the Tenryuji Temple Sogenchi Garden, the Monkey Park and we wrapped our tour up by taking in the impressive Togetsukyo Bridge.
Peter and JS helped us navigate the crowds with ease. With such a large group (12 people ranging in age from 12 to 74), we easily could have become frustrated but with Peter leading and JS bringing up the rear, the whole family enjoyed the outing with lots of laughs in between
You'll be hard pressed to find a better team of more knowledgable or engaging tour guides; I can't imagine there's a better bike tour in Japan. Peter seemed to know exactly how to capture the best photos in the Bamboo forest (despite the crowds and "influencers") and knew exactly how to keep the younger members of our group engaged.
Thanks for a memorable afternoon!
Peter and JS helped us navigate the crowds with ease. With such a large group (12 people ranging in age from 12 to 74), we easily could have become frustrated but with Peter leading and JS bringing up the rear, the whole family enjoyed the outing with lots of laughs in between
You'll be hard pressed to find a better team of more knowledgable or engaging tour guides; I can't imagine there's a better bike tour in Japan. Peter seemed to know exactly how to capture the best photos in the Bamboo forest (despite the crowds and "influencers") and knew exactly how to keep the younger members of our group engaged.
Thanks for a memorable afternoon!
Written February 10, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hey guys!
Thank you so much for this amazing review! JS and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the whole group and spending the afternoon with you all. It was certainly an amazing experience to be with the extended family. Thanks again and all the best to you all.
Peter
Written February 14, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ami B
Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia20 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
We took this tour with Ray and it was just incredible! Ray was so kind, knowledgeable and attentive, he explained so much about Japanese history, culture and customs. He was so easy to listen to, and he added so much to each of the attractions with his thoughtful commentary. He took loads of fantastic pics for everyone, even somehow managing to make it look like we were the only ones in the Bamboo forest (despite it being very busy!).
After travelling just my husband and I for a week or so, it was great to hang out with the group and get to know fellow travellers, and Ray really made it warm and comfortable for everyone to get to know one another. And the bikes are such a great way to get around. One of the others in the group hadn't ridden a bike in 7 years or so and had no issues at all with the ride. If you're in Kyoto and would like an efficient and fun way to see some Arashiyama highlights, while learning a few things along the way, I cannot recommend this tour, and Ray, enough!
Thank you Ray for one of the highlights of our 3 weeks in Japan :)
After travelling just my husband and I for a week or so, it was great to hang out with the group and get to know fellow travellers, and Ray really made it warm and comfortable for everyone to get to know one another. And the bikes are such a great way to get around. One of the others in the group hadn't ridden a bike in 7 years or so and had no issues at all with the ride. If you're in Kyoto and would like an efficient and fun way to see some Arashiyama highlights, while learning a few things along the way, I cannot recommend this tour, and Ray, enough!
Thank you Ray for one of the highlights of our 3 weeks in Japan :)
Written October 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
That was such a fun one! You all had great questions and the vibe of the group was spectacular from the start. Thanks so much for the lovely review and the beautiful afternoon together. I look forward to crossing paths again in the future :).
Kindness,
Ray
Written October 19, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
danishreid
Seattle, WA3 contributions
Feb 2023 • Solo
What an amazing tour!! Absolutely loved the bamboo grove and the monkey park was definitely a highlight, with great views of the city and so many cute monkeys! Our guide Ray was super friendly and knew so much about the area and Japanese history and culture, I feel liked I learned a lot as well as seeing some amazing views. Ray took us all over western Kyoto and showed us some cool city spots that I never would have found on my own. Would definitely recommend this tour, thanks so much Ray for such an awesome, fun day!
Written February 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks! I had a great afternoon with you and the rest of the group! I am thrilled to hear you were able to learn some new things and that you enjoyed the tour. All the best to you and I look forward to your return to Kyoto :)
Kindness,
Ray
Written March 22, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Steven R
Peterborough, Canada25 contributions
May 2023
Ray is a great guide who is patient, knowledgeable, and loves the city. Highlights are the view of the city and the surrounding mountains from the monkey park (which involves a bit of an uphill hike to get to, but is enjoyable it its own right) and the feeling you get within the bamboo forest. We spent four days in Kyoto, mainly walking in the downtown area, and this was a very nice counterpoint to that. Thank you very much, Ray!
Written May 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maria D
3 contributions
Jul 2024 • Friends
Peter was considerate of the heat wave currently happening in Japan so got in touch with us a few days before to move our afternoon tour to the morning time of 8am.
He was very knowledgeable about the history of all the places we visited. He gave us 2 bottles of water which one was an ice block in addition to giving us hydration tablets (like sweets). He made it fun and relatable and took time to get to know us. Overall, the bike journey was relatively flat with a few inclines (so your legs won’t burn too much) and included a lot of stops. The pace was steady and he would constantly look back to see if everybody was ok. All tickets were paid for by the tour and he gave us enough time to explore the monkey park (it is quite steep at the beginning with the steps so bear that in mind). In the end, he gave us restaurant recommendations. He took loads of pictures and emailed it over to us by the end of the day. Would highly recommend this tour and would come back in the spring.
He was very knowledgeable about the history of all the places we visited. He gave us 2 bottles of water which one was an ice block in addition to giving us hydration tablets (like sweets). He made it fun and relatable and took time to get to know us. Overall, the bike journey was relatively flat with a few inclines (so your legs won’t burn too much) and included a lot of stops. The pace was steady and he would constantly look back to see if everybody was ok. All tickets were paid for by the tour and he gave us enough time to explore the monkey park (it is quite steep at the beginning with the steps so bear that in mind). In the end, he gave us restaurant recommendations. He took loads of pictures and emailed it over to us by the end of the day. Would highly recommend this tour and would come back in the spring.
Written July 27, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi guys
Thank you so much for this awesome review! I really enjoyed showing you around and appreciated your flexibility to move to the morning slot given the heat. Thanks again and all the best to you.
Peter
Written August 11, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Fjdwyer
Sydney, Australia1 contribution
We had an incredible afternoon cycling around Kyoto with Rob. We
loved everything about this tour, Rob was amazing, so interesting and knowledgeable, he taught us so much about the places we visited. Rob had all 5 of us including our kids aged 19, 17 and 13 entertained the whole time. The bikes are great quality and the cycling was easy for all of us. Rob is also an incredible photographer and he took the most beautiful family photos of us that I will always treasure. I recommend this tour as a must do for anyone visiting Kyoto. Thank you Rob for making our trip to Kyoto unforgettable.
loved everything about this tour, Rob was amazing, so interesting and knowledgeable, he taught us so much about the places we visited. Rob had all 5 of us including our kids aged 19, 17 and 13 entertained the whole time. The bikes are great quality and the cycling was easy for all of us. Rob is also an incredible photographer and he took the most beautiful family photos of us that I will always treasure. I recommend this tour as a must do for anyone visiting Kyoto. Thank you Rob for making our trip to Kyoto unforgettable.
Written January 7, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi guys,
Thank you for taking the time to send us a review. Your review means a lot to us and I am happy you enjoyed the experience with me. I enjoyed chatting with your kids as well. Thanks again and safe travels.
Rob
Written January 10, 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jim T
Brooklyn, NY2 contributions
Feb 2024 • Friends
Definitely book this tour if you have a free afternoon in Kyoto! Peter was an amazing guide, took us to several beautiful spots on the west side of the city and also provided many fun facts about the area and local traditions as well as gave us restaurant recommendations that would be suitable for my friend who is vegetarian. A truly awesome way to see many places and get some light exercise in as well. HIGHLY recommend!!!
Written February 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much! I am so pleased you enjoyed the tour. It really inspires me and brings a smile to my face. Thanks again! All the best, Peter
Written February 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Linda L
1 contribution
Nov 2022
This was a great tour and bike ride. Our guide, Ray, was knowledgeable, fun and had so many interesting stories. We rode very nice Cannondale bicycles. We had a great tour of the bamboo forest, rode through the local streets of Kyoto and into the farms surrounding the city. We hiked up to the monkey park and were able to feed and observe the monkeys. This was a great afternoon to see all these sights and get the history behind them. Ray took lots of pictures and added them to the dropbox. I highly recommend this tour.
Written November 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for the incredible day out and the lovely review Linda! I had a fantastic time showing you all around and enjoyed the laughter we shared. It was a real pleasure to spend the afternoon together and I await your return :).
Kindness,
Ray
- Kyoto Bike Tour -
Written December 2, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi,
Greetings!
Came across the fantastic review here, I'm planning a trip to Kyoto and looking for interesting tour to Bamboo Forest.
My concern is I'm able to ride but just not very good and pro with it and kind of on a slow pace.
Will it be ok to join the bike trip or should I just go for walking trip?
Thanks in advance.
Cheers!
Written November 1, 2022
Hello! We (two of us) are thinking about doing this on October around the 16th. It says that there is an option to rent e-bikes. How much of an upcharge will that be for 2 people? Thank you!
Written September 15, 2019
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.