Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest E-Bike Tour & Quiet Temples

Summary

Cycle past Kyoto’s bamboo grove and hidden temples with a small group

You’ll glide through Kyoto’s neighborhoods by e-bike, visit hidden temples with hundreds of tiny Buddha statues, walk beneath soaring bamboo in Arashiyama Grove, and share stories (and snacks) with a local guide. Expect moments of quiet beauty and small surprises along the way—this isn’t just another photo stop kind of tour.

What’s the experience like?

We met up just outside central Kyoto, still half-awake, fiddling with helmet straps while our guide Yuki checked everyone’s e-bikes. I’d never been on an e-bike before — honestly thought it might feel like cheating — but the first gentle push up a side street changed my mind fast. The city faded behind us and suddenly we were gliding past old wooden houses, the smell of breakfast rice in the air. Yuki waved at a woman sweeping her genkan; she called something back in Kansai-ben that made him laugh. No idea what she said, but it felt friendly.

The first stop was a temple tucked away from the main roads — not even a sign in English outside. We parked our bikes and wandered in. Hundreds of tiny stone Buddhas peeked out from mossy corners, some with little red bibs or hats knitted by locals (Yuki explained it’s for good luck). There was this moment where sunlight hit the statues just right and everything went quiet except for birds somewhere above us. I’m not usually into “spiritual” stuff but… yeah, I felt something there.

After that came the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Even though I’d seen photos everywhere, actually walking inside was different — cooler air, that soft creaking sound when the wind moved the stalks. It was busy but not overwhelming; Yuki knew a side path where we could pause without selfie sticks in our faces. He handed out some weird little sesame snacks (I still have no idea what they’re called) and told stories about his childhood in Kyoto — apparently he used to sneak into these groves as a kid to play hide-and-seek.

The ride back was mostly downhill — thank you e-bike gods — and my legs were tired but in that good way where you know you’ll sleep well later. If you’re comfortable riding 25km or so (it’s about four hours), this day trip around Arashiyama is worth it for more than just the scenery. I keep thinking about those mossy statues, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Arashiyama Bamboo and Temples

• Meet 20 minutes before departure
• Ride Panasonic E-bikes through Kyoto
• Visit serene temple with small Buddha statues
• Walk through moss temple grounds
• Park bikes and walk Arashiyama bamboo grove

Top questions

How long is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest e-bike tour?

The tour covers about 25km over roughly 4 hours.

Is there an age limit for this Kyoto e-bike tour?

Yes, guests must be at least 15 years old to join.

Are snacks or drinks included during the bike ride?

Bottled water and snacks are provided during the tour.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist for this day trip?

You should be comfortable riding 25km or cycling for about 4 hours.

Does this tour include entry fees for temples?

Yes, all temple entry fees are included in your booking.

How many people are on each group tour?

The maximum group size is 8 guests for safety and comfort.

Where does the Arashiyama e-bike tour start?

You’ll meet near central Kyoto; details are provided after booking.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a Panasonic e-bike with helmet, bottled water to keep you hydrated, light snacks along the route, all temple entry fees covered by your guide, plus time to get comfortable on your bike before setting off together.