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The Hidden Water Cycling Tour of Kyoto
Kyoto is famous for its kaiseki and shojin ryori cuisines, but all that wouldn't exist without the crystal-clear water that flows unseen beneath the city. We'll visit some of the best wells in Kyoto and you'll drink from the oldest—over a thousand years old. You'll also hear about the stories (some outright creepy, others lovey-dovey) behind the wells.
Meeting Point
Sunny Cycle
Pick up our electric bikes in the city center
We pop into a residential zone to visit a millennium-old well that is the origin of a Noh-theater play.
I'll point out the traditional trades that still exist in the middle of the city.
Stop by the Imperial Palace and learn how the Emperors stopped their buildings from burning down. Then drink crystal-clear water from Kyoto's oldest well, a favorite of the Emperor.
Take a relaxing cycle up the main river, stop for a photo, and learn how it contributed to Kyoto's development.
Cycle through Kyoto's oldest shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn how the rivers that flow past it still impact the lives of lovebirds in the ancient capital.
Stop by an impressive 100-year-old aqueduct, built with bricks and still in use, channeling water from the Lake Biwa to modern Kyoto.
We'll see a bridge monks step across before their 1000-day pilgrimage through the mountains and cycle across another that travelers from Tokyo would have used to get to Kyoto.
Right before ending the tour we cycle through two of Kyoto's largest geisha districts. You'll find out why geishas are considered to be in the
Ending Point
Sunny Cycle
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Inclusions & Exclusions
E-bike (electronic pedal-assist bicycle) for persons up to 1.85m tall (6'0)
Wireless receiver with earpiece - every participant will get a wireless receiver to hear explanations without having to stop and strain to listen.
Transportation to the meeting point
Tour Important Information
The tour will be cancelled in the event of rain, snow, if there are strong winds, or if there is a major earthquake. You will have a chance to reschedule or choose to be refunded in full.
Guests ages 12 and up can attend. Parents are welcome to take children aged 12 and up on the tour (they must be registered as guests). Please be sure that they are ready to cycle for 3.5 hours. This tour is unsuitable for children shorter than 142cm (4’6) because the bike shop does not have bicycles for them.
You can use the toilet and deposit heavy items or luggage at Sunny Cycle before we start the tour.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Kyoto Tour Reviews
“Knowledgeable guide! ”
We had a wonderful time with this guide, who took us through a local’s perspective of Tokyo neighborhoods, and also give us tips for the rest of our stay in Japan!
“Amazing Tokyo experience!”
My family and I were incredibly impressed with the care and attention to detail that Gulay displayed during our 2 days of tours. She was attentive and flexible to our needs, as well made sure to give everyone individual attention. We did one day city tour with her and then 2 days later we went on the vintage shopping tour with her. I was able to find and purchase a 1962 King Seiko watch due to her effort In finding a vintage watch store that sold them. I would highly recommend booking with her when you are in Tokyo. Thank you David and Family
“Vintage Fashion Tour ”
We had a fantastic time with Gulay. She took us to stores and areas we would never have found. Highly recommend this tour.
