During the Edo priod, Tokugawa Shogunate established the highway system connecting cities to cities. The Tokaido Highway was the most important route connecting Kyoto and Tokyo (Edo). On this tour, we will cycle around the first post town of the highway from Kyoto, Otsu. The city Otsu is also famous for Lake Biwa, Japan's biggest lake. Let's enjoy the views of the lake and historical sites while cycling.
JR Kyoto Station or your hotel
Meet up with you at JR Kyoto Station or at your hotel
We will rent bicycles and buy some snacks.
This temple is known as the place where Murasaki-Shikibu wrote "The Tale of Genji, " which is said to be the world's first full length novel.
This bridge is on the old Tokaido Highway, and was a strategic point of traffic in olden times.
We will take a short break at a park located on the ruins of Zeze Castle
Cycling in Nagisa Park with views of Lake Biwa.
The museum features a full-size model of a Hikiyama Float. The sound of musical accompaniment, lighting and slide projection create a festival mood. Closed on every monday.
This temple has the history of more than 1200 years. It is famous as a location for period dramas, such as "Rurouni-kenshin". The Buddhist bronze bell of the temple is one of the three major Buddhist bells in Japan.
You can enjoy the magnificent view of Lake Biwa from the port.
Return the rented bicycles and see you off
JR stations or Hama-otsu Sightseeing Ship Port
Guiding Services
Rental bicycles, Personal Expenses,Souvenirs,Public Transportation,Tickets,Food, Drinks, Snacks
>For those who like to enjoy cruising on Lake Biwa, a sightseeing boat will depart from the Hama-Otsu Port at 3:00 pm. Please let me know if you wish to board the ship.
>In case of rain, we will use the KeihanTrain instead of bicycles to get around Otsu city.
I usually use public transportation systems such as trains, buses, taxi, and so on.
I like outdoor activities. If you would like to do hiking, cycling etc., please feel free to ask me in advance.
Hoang P.
Full-Day Nara tour from Kyoto and Uji Green Tea Town
“Nara - bowing deer ”
The tour with Koichi wasn't just informative, it was interactive. He encouraged questions, patiently explaining even the most obscure details. His positive attitude and ability to tailor the experience to our interests was characteristic we looked for. When we mentioned a fascination with Buddhist art, he pointed out hidden treasures within the Great Buddha Hall that most tourists miss. Buddha hands was positioned in the form of “have no fear” on the right hand, and “wishes are granted” with the left. Koichi pointed out pillar inside the Great Buddha Hall has a hole the size of the Buddha statue's nostril carved in the bottom. Of course I tried to crawl through the whole and was able to make it. Koichi was happy that I came out on the other side. But perhaps Koichi's greatest strength was his genuine warmth. He treated us not just as tourists, but as guests eager to discover Nara's hidden gems. He helped us navigate the bustling crowds at the park, ensuring we had ample time to interact with the friendly deer. Also, don’t forget to by buy dear feed for bowing deer of Nara. In Osaka Castle, we witnessed the museum of fierce battles between Tokugawa and Toyotomi clans which last for couple of decades. We concluded the trip in Dotonbori Foodies Town where Koichi showed us his friend and treated us the local beer Prepare to be amazed with the guidance of Koichi in Nara and Osaka!
Koichi W.
(61 reviews)Hi! I am very grateful for your wonderful review. I will always remember how much fun I had spending my days with you. I don't know if I was able to answer all of your questions properly, but your enthusiasm and curiosity have given me even more motivation. Thanks again. Arigato-gozaimasu! Koichi
Hoang P.
Western Highlights in Kyoto for the first time visitor Full Day Tour
“Kyoto - Unforgettable”
Koichi was a fantastic guide who made our Kyoto adventure unforgettable. Kyoto is the first destination of our there day tours. He met us at the hotel with a smile, warm personality, enthusiasm and ready to navigate us to various famous places in Kyoto. Koichi wasn't just knowledgeable about the historical sites, he brought them to life with vivid stories and sketches. He could answer every question from us, from the complexities of Fushimi-Inari Shrine and its famous for many orange color gates like a tunnel to Sanjusangendo Temple architecture and its famous for 1001 statues of Kannon and the venue of archery contest. He rewarded us when we could locate the missing arrow from the archery completion. We walked around the Kyoto Imperial Palace, former palace of the Emperor of Japan and imagined the Imperial life in 17th century . At Kinkakuji Golden Temple, we were overwhelming with its magnificent beauty from different angle and ray of lights. He did not forget to take us to an authentic ramen on the way to the transfer station. This ramen place so particularly tasty that our family voted the best ramen for the whole trip in Japan. If you look for tour guide to accommodate your schedule or tailor the Itinerary to your interests, Koichi is the one. His expertise, passion, and genuine care made our Kyoto trip exceptional. If you're looking for a guide who goes beyond the typical tourist route and creates a truly personalized experience, then book Koichi!
Koichi W.
(61 reviews)Thank you very much for your heartwarming review and comments. I am very happy to have shared a wonderful time with you. This time we walked together through the main tourist attractions, but if you have a chance, let's go around the lesser known places, the real Japan. It is also fun to have a chance to interact with the local people. Koichi
Hoang P.
Full-day ( 9 hour) Hiroshima Tour from Kyoto
Customized
“Hiroshima - hopeful message of peace”
Koichi's knowledge of Hiroshima area and the Atomic Bomb Dome was profound. He presented the history with sensitivity and respect, ensuring we understood the impact of the event while fostering a hopeful message of peace. The tour through the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum was a moving experience through dark pages of history. But the day wasn't solely focused on the past. Koichi take us to Miyajima Island via a ferry. We could walk all the way to the foot of a giant, orange Great Torii Gate. We wished we could stay overnight to see its breathtaking beauty when it was submerged at high tide. Standing before the majestic Itsukushima Shrine, we learned about its history and significance in Shinto religion. He even pointed out hidden details and lesser-known facts, enriching the entire experience. We never forgot the taste and flavor of fresh oysters thank to Koichi recommended “must try” one of the best oysters in the regions. On the way back from Hiroshima to Kyoto on a shinkansen, we learned the history of sake making and were treated by Koichi a cup of sake to complete the whole experience. We left Hiroshima with a deeper understanding of its history, a newfound appreciation for peace, and a heart full of wonder for Miyajima's beauty. If you're planning a trip to Hiroshima, I cannot recommend Koichi highly enough. He is a true expert, a compassionate guide, and an inspiration.
Koichi W.
(61 reviews)Thank you again for your wonderful review. I remember the days I spent with you and your family. I am also grateful that I was able to be with you in Hiroshima. I would like to keep in mind the happiness of being able to walk with people like you in this way. I hope that people around the world will continue to live in harmony and that a peaceful world will spread without violence.