Kyoto Arashiyama: Early Morning Bamboo Forest Bike Tour

Summary

Cycle Kyoto’s bamboo groves, hidden temples and peaceful riverside

You’ll ride through Kyoto’s Arashiyama before most visitors arrive, glide beneath towering bamboo in near silence, visit ancient Zen gardens with a local guide, and cross iconic bridges with mountain views. Expect small surprises—like hidden shrines or a warm bakery scent—and leave with memories that linger long after your ride.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget the first sound that hit me — not traffic, not chatter, but the hush of wind through bamboo. We’d barely started pedaling when our guide, Yuta, grinned and pointed out a tiny bakery just opening up (the smell of sweet bread kind of mixed with the morning chill). I’m not much of an early riser, honestly, but being in Arashiyama before the crowds? Totally different world. The streets were empty except for a couple of locals sweeping their doorsteps. My bike felt wobbly at first — it’s been years — but nobody seemed to care.

The famous Bamboo Forest was almost silent except for our tires on gravel and the soft creak of stalks overhead. Yuta told us about how this spot is one of Japan’s “top soundscapes,” which sounded poetic until I actually listened — it really does feel like you’re inside a living instrument. We stopped for photos (I tried to get that perfect shot; gave up and just stared instead). After that we wound through little lanes past rice fields and shrines I’d never have found alone. At one temple garden, moss still wet from last night’s rain stuck to my sneakers. There was this old man doing tai chi under a maple tree — he nodded at us like we were part of his morning routine.

Later we crossed Togetsu-kyo Bridge — all misty mountains in the background and that slow river underneath. It’s weird how peaceful it felt even though I knew this place gets packed by midday. Yuta shared stories about the area (some local legends, some just gossip), and I realized how much more there is to Arashiyama than what you see on postcards. My legs were tired by then but I didn’t really want it to end. Still think about those quiet moments between stops, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Arashiyama's natural and cultural sites

• Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
• Stroll Tenryuji Temple garden
• Cycle scenic backstreets and temples
• Admire Togetsu-kyo Bridge view

Top questions

What time does the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest bike tour start?

The early bird bike tour starts in the morning before crowds arrive in Arashiyama.

Is there an age requirement for this Kyoto bike tour?

Yes, children must be at least 10 years old to join this tour.

Are bicycles and helmets provided on the Arashiyama tour?

Yes, your bicycle and helmet are included in the tour price.

Does the bike tour include entry to temples or gardens?

The itinerary includes visits to temple gardens and scenic spots along the route.

Is bottled water included during the bike ride?

Bottled water is provided for all participants during the tour.

How difficult is cycling around Arashiyama?

The route is suitable for all physical fitness levels; no advanced cycling skills needed.

Can families with young children join this bike tour?

This specific tour is for ages 10+, but there’s a family option for younger kids available separately.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a bicycle and helmet, bottled water to keep you refreshed along the way, plus guidance from a bilingual local who knows every shortcut and story in Arashiyama. All you need is your sense of curiosity—and maybe your camera if you want more than memories when you head back into Kyoto city.