Recently, Kyoto has been hit by an issue of too many tourists, but in this article, a Japanese person living in Kyoto will explain a model itinerary for avoiding the crowds and enjoying a pleasant stroll through the historic area.
Day 1 Walk around the shopping area near the hotel
Wherever you stay in Kyoto, there will usually be a shopping street nearby. A shopping street is a covered street lined with many small shops. Kyoto has many old shops, so it’s fun to start by browsing the markets and shops in the shopping streets.
Every street in Kyoto is over 1000 years old and is home to shrines, temples and historical sites. It’s a good idea to explore these little discoveries before heading to the big, famous temples.
At night, go to an izakaya or ramen shop you found during the day. Japan is the safest country in the world at night, and drinking districts are developed everywhere in cities. You can enjoy all kinds of cuisine from around the world, including Japanese, Chinese, and Western food there.
Day 2 Rent an E-Bike to visit famous tourist spots
If you look at a map, you’ll see that most of Kyoto’s historical sites are on or near hills. Because Kyoto is a city surrounded by rivers, buildings on low ground have been washed away by floods many times. And to protect the historical buildings, Kyoto’s public transportation is mediocre, and it’s also congested by a large number of tourists. So what’s the best way to avoid that and travel comfortably? Yes, an e-bike.
We have a wide range of E-Bikes for hire to suit all types of customers. We can deliver and collect from your hotel, drop off at a remote location, or transport both bike and passenger in the car.
You can reach all the famous sites in Kyoto, such as the Philosopher’s Path, Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari, in just 30 minutes by e-bike. If you ask anyone living in Kyoto City, including myself, “What is the fastest and most comfortable form of transportation in Kyoto?”, they will undoubtedly answer “e-bike.”
Please see my other article for more information on famous places and cycling routes in Kyoto city.
For those who are accustomed to cycling, and many of our customers do this, it’s also a good idea to go exploring over the mountains, to see the tea fields of Wazuka and Lake Biwa, the mountains of Kitayama, and the rivers of Kameoka. What’s interesting about Kyoto is that if you go 10km over the mountains, you can enjoy a different world full of beautiful nature.
Please also take advantage of our one-way transportation in our support vehicles and fully supported guided tours.
On hot days, limit your daytime activities and enjoy the evenings. We also offer night-time cycling tours and self-guided routes.
In particular, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine become even more mystical if you visit them in the evening or at night.
Day 3 Enjoy cultural experiences, river boating and so on
In Kyoto, there are various cultural experiences such as Yuzen dyeing, kimono dressing, matcha tea, etc. Most of the experiences are 1 to 2 hours long, but they are recommended for those who are interested in Japanese culture.
For children and young adults, batting cages and table tennis courts are a good option.
It’s a very familiar pastime for Japanese people, so there are many of them in Kyoto city.
River boating in Kameoka, west of Kyoto
Hiking to Kibune and Kurama Temple in the north of Kyoto
How many days should you stay in Kyoto?
How many nights you should stay in Kyoto will depend on your preferences and the results of your research. However, Kyoto is one of the world’s leading tourist destinations and a symbol of Japanese history and culture. You should stay at least two nights. If you enjoy cycling, walking around the city, hiking, and experiencing the culture, you could easily spend a week there without getting bored. Of course, there are other great tourist destinations in Japan, such as Ine and Miyama, so be sure to balance your itinerary with trips to those places.
Autumn is all about cycling! Autumn in Kyoto city is extremely crowded with people coming to see the autumn leaves. Trains, buses, and taxis can take tens of minutes to get on, the leaves are barely visible due to the crowds, and nearby hotel prices nearly double.
However, with an e-bike, you can see the best autumn foliage that most people never get to see, and it’s far more beautiful than near a hotel that costs thousands of dollars a night. Not only can you see the foliage, you can also explore beautiful nature and history. Be sure to rent an e-bike and ride around Kyoto in the fall! This time, we’ll introduce you to some of the areas you should definitely visit.
North side of Arashiyama
Arashiyama is famous for its autumn leaves in Kyoto, but 99% of people go to the area 300m from the station and leave because it’s too crowded. But the real highlight is beyond that. Arashiyama is originally the site of the ancient Imperial family’s tombs, which are in the area north of the station. There you can find scenery that has remained unchanged for over 1000 years, and the beautiful autumn leaves that the Imperial family loved.
Access
It is a 30-minute e-bike ride from our Saiin Rental Center.
West side of Arashiyama (Hozu river)
Although Arashiyama is the name of a mountain, I think the most beautiful sights are the Hozu River that flows through it and the autumn foliage on the mountains. There are also trolley train and boat tours, but they get very crowded at this time of year, so if you want to enjoy the autumn leaves of Hozukyo at a leisurely pace with a small group, I still recommend an e-bike.
Access
It is a 40-minute e-bike ride from our Saiin Rental Center.
A perfect E-Bike tour of Arashiyama in autumn with a support car
Kurama temple
Kurama Temple is the head temple of a sect of esoteric Buddhism, and is located in the mountains north of Kyoto. It has long been famous as a hiking spot, and there is a bicycle parking area, so it is a good idea to park your bike and explore the area on foot.
Access
It is a 30-minute e-bike ride from our Saiin Rental Center.
Hiyoshi Shrine(Mt.Hiei)
Mt. Hiei is also a place where the autumn leaves are very beautiful. Many people take the cable car up from the east side closer to Kyoto, but I recommend riding an e-bike to the east side of Lake Biwa, stopping by Hiyoshi Shrine, and then either taking the cable car up or hiking. The road along the Lake Biwa Canal on the way is very quiet and easy to ride, and the autumn leaves are beautiful. Best of all, there are only about 1% of the people on the east side.
Access
It is a 1-hour e-bike ride from our Saiin Rental Center.
Nariai temple
Although it’s far from Kyoto City, this mountain in our main area, Amanohashidate, has a 1,500-year history of pilgrimages. The contrast between the autumn leaves and the sea seen from the temple is truly spectacular. I would definitely recommend taking a guided tour, but it’s also fun to go on your own by renting an e-bike.
Access
It takes two hours by train from Kyoto, and 30 minutes by renting an e-bike in front of Amanohashidate Station.
Even if it’s not a famous spot, you can enjoy your own unique view.
I’ve introduced a few of my recommended spots, but Kyoto has autumn leaves everywhere, so to be honest, you’ll see a lot of beautiful things even if you just ride along random paths on your e-bike. The best thing about a bicycle trip is that you can take your time to find your own amazing views that aren’t in the guidebooks, without being limited to the spots I’ve just introduced. Why not try cycling around Kyoto in the fall?
Anyone who knows Kyoto to some extent will know that the best way to get around is by bicycle. Especially in recent years, with the increase in tourists, buses, taxis, and trains are all full. Yet Kyoto city is rapidly developing its bicycle infrastructure, and technological innovations such as e-bikes have made cycling more convenient than ever. So, here are some recommended shops where you can rent bicycles in Kyoto!
A bicycle rental shop with three locations in Kyoto City.
This is a city bike, so it is suitable for traveling short distances within Kyoto city. Delivery to your accommodation is also available upon reservation.
*Reservations must be made at least 2 days in advance.
This company offers full-fledged e-bike and sports bike rentals and guided tours in Kyoto, Amanohashidate, Ine, and other locations. They specialize in long-term, long-distance bicycle trips, and provide services such as chargers, pannier bags, puncture repair kits, emergency response, and tours with support cars.
while the main streets that are easy for foreigners to understand are jammed with hellish traffic, 100 meters further in you’ll find beautiful alleys where locals can coolly get around on their bicycles.
Furthermore, the roads up the hills, where you would hesitate to ride an E-Bike, are surprisingly deserted, with only local residents occasionally strolling around.
Most public facilities such as temples and shrines have free bicycle parking areas, but they may be hard to find or the signs may only be in Japanese, so if you can’t find it, just ask.
Coin-operated bicycle parking lots require Japanese currency. Recently, some parking lots also accept card payments.
Kyoto also has many city-run bicycle parking lots, which usually cost between 100 and 200 yen per day.
Depends on surrounding conditions
It’s the same in every country, but when parking on a store’s premises, make sure you take into consideration the surrounding conditions, such as whether there are any signs prohibiting bicycle parking, whether you are blocking other people’s movements, or any signs. The best thing to do is ask the store staff, if there are any.
Local Area
Be careful not to get in the way of cars or agriculture.
Explanation of each area in Kyoto city and cycling
ー Cycling route
❶〜❾ Famous areas
❶Higashiyama Area
This is an area where the most famous spots such as Kiyomizu-Temple, Sannenzaka, Yasaka Shrine, and Gion are concentrated and tourists gather. Buses, trains, and taxis are hopelessly crowded, so the smartest option is to park your E-Bike in the bicycle parking lot and walk. It takes 20 minutes by E-Bike from our Saiin Rental Center.
❷Fushimi Inari Area
It is famous for its Senbon Torii gates and the mystical Inariyama trekking route. The shrine entrance from the station is incredibly crowded. The cycling route inside Inariyama is not obvious to tourists, so it is best to take a guided tour or park at the nearby bicycle parking lot and walk. It takes 30 minute e-bike ride from the Saiin Rental Center.
❸Arashiyama Area
This is a noble area with the tombs of the imperial family and related facilities. The road from the station to the bamboo forest is the epitome of overtourism, with more people than bamboo. After parking in the bicycle parking lot and walking a little through the crowded area, take a bike ride to the less crowded Sagano area to the north. It takes 30-minute e-bike ride from the Saiin Rental Center.
This is an area where you can enjoy a stroll through the golden temple and the large garden. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, located just south of the temple, also has an exhibition of national treasures such as Japanese swords and demon hunting, which are also recommended. It is far from the train station, so the buses are crowded. It is a 20-minute e-bike ride from the Saiin Rental Center.
❺Nanzenji Area
This area is home to the Philosopher’s Path, Ginkakuji Temple, and Nanzenji Temple, and is relatively quiet, retaining the atmosphere of an old temple town. There is also a bicycle path next to the Philosopher’s Path, so you can cycle leisurely and in the cool. There are also several free bicycle parking areas. It is a 30-minute e-bike ride from the Saiin Rental Center.
❻Kamigamo Area
Kamigamo shrine is representative of Japanese Shinto and has a different atmosphere from Buddhist temples. Even if you are not interested in Shinto, cycling along the upstream of the nearby Kamo River will give you a unique sense of exhilaration and a first-hand experience of Japanese Shintoism, which values a sense of oneness with nature. It is a 30-minute e-bike ride from the Saiin Rental Center.
❼Kurama & Kifune Area
Kurama Temple is the head temple of a special Buddhist sect and has a unique atmosphere unlike other temples. The hiking trail between there and Kifune Shrine is very popular.
❽Mt.Hiei Area
Mt.Hiei is the largest sanctuary of Japanese Buddhism, which has survived until modern times semi-independently from the government. There are over 500 facilities, and it is also a place of training for monks, called Sennichi Shugyo. Only locals know the route that can be taken by MTB, so tourists are recommended to park their bikes at the bicycle parking lot in front of the cable car station and climb the mountain.
❾Nijo Area
This area is home to Nijo Castle and Kyoto Imperial Palace, and was the political center of Kyoto. Even today, it is a busy place with many government facilities and corporate buildings. There are also many train stations, so it is a good place to stay and eat. Whether it is fun to visit here depends on your preferences.
Useful information for getting around Kyoto
Bicycle parking near tourist spots in Kyoto city (latest version for 2024)
“Bicycke Highway” ; Kamo river & Katsura river cycling road
When it comes to travelling north and south in Kyoto, the bicycle is king.
Kyoto has a grid-like layout of roads, and the main roads are jammed with traffic lights and traffic jams that prevent cars from moving at all. Trains are intermittent and require transfers. This means that bicycles are overwhelmingly advantageous in terms of speed, comfort, and cost.
Furthermore, when traveling east to west, you can travel surprisingly quickly, safely, and comfortably by using the ancient paths rather than the modern, wide roads for automobiles. You can also discover quaint shops and Jizo statues along the way.
And when you think about it, it’s only natural that much of Kyoto’s old townscape and nature remains in the hard-to-reach areas along the mountainside, while the lowlands are business districts, industrial areas, and residential areas. This means that the e-bike, which allows you to get away from the station and up hills, is the best way to discover old Kyoto.
In the past, aristocrats traveled in oxcarts and samurai rode horses in Kyoto. You too can hop on a modern-day horse, an E-Bike, and explore the inside and outside of Kyoto!
This is our Kyoto base, which just opened in August 2024.It is a little hard to find as it is renovated from a house that was originally an acupuncture clinic.Although it is not in a tourist area, it is right in the middle of Kyoto’s most popular tourist sites, such as Arashiyama, Higashiyama, Kinkakuji Temple, …
Japan is the country with the most climate zones in the world.
From high mountain climates like the Alps to cold climates like Alaska, Pacific climates like Hawaii to Mediterranean climates, this archipelago has it all. This means that you can always do your favourite activities, depending on the time of year and the location!
A. Hokkaido: Cold climate
Famous places include Sapporo, Niseko, and Furano.
There are differences between the north and south sides. In the north (Japan Sea side, such as Sapporo), it snows a lot in the winter. Summer is comfortable and dry. In the south (Pacific Ocean side, such as Kushiro), it is very cold in the winter but doesn’t snow much. In the summer, it is very foggy.
Average temperatureChance of clear sky
B. Japan Sea side: Humid subtropical & dry summer
Famous places include Amanohashidate, Ine, Kanazawa, and Kinosaki.
Temperatures vary between the north(such as Aomori) and south(such as Miyazu), but summers are dry and mostly sunny, while winters are rainy or snowy throughout the year, with a rainy season from late June to early July. Typhoons rarely come.
Average temperatureChance of clear sky
C. Pacific side: Humid subtropical & dry winter
This is the region where most of Japan’s population is concentrated (such as Tokyo, Kyoto) and where industrialization is most advanced. Summers are extremely hot and humid, but winters are sunny. There is a rainy season from late June to early July, and typhoons often come from August to October. This is also an area that is prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.
Average temperatureChance of clear sky
D. Central Highlands climate
Famous places include Hida Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Hakuba.
Humidity is low and temperature is low throughout the year. It is generally cloudy. It snows a lot in winter. June is the rainy season.
Average temperatureChance of clear sky
E. Seto Inland Sea climate
Famous places include Hiroshima, Shimanami, and Kobe.
It gets really hot in the summer. Humidity is generally low. It is sunny in the summer and winter, but it tends to rain in the spring and fall.
Average temperatureChance of clear sky
F. Southwest Islands climate
Famous places include Okinawa and Ogasawara.
It is warm all year round, there is no rainy season, and typhoons come frequently.
Average temperatureChance of clear sky
A completely new climate zone: Urban
Like many cities around the world, Japan is highly urbanized and the climate is changing dramatically, especially in Tokyo and Osaka.
More and more Japanese and foreigners are flocking to the cities, where the heat from air conditioners and cars makes it hotter, and then people turn on even more powerful air conditioners… creating a vicious cycle that makes summers hotter and hotter. Every year many children and elderly people die from heatstroke, so be careful of the risk to your life if you go to Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka in the summer. Conversely, in winter the concrete jungles block out sunlight and the wind from the buildings makes you freezing.
However, the number of Japanese people living in cities and tourists going to cities continues to increase, and the countryside where I live is becoming less and less crowded. However, it has become cooler and more comfortable. I definitely recommend traveling to the countryside of Japan!
Recommended times and areas for each activity
Sightseeing in the city
*All of Japan’s major cities are on the Pacific coast.
C. Pacific Area (Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya)
Better
October to May
Bad
June to September
Cycling
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
A
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🤔
🙂
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😐
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B
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🙂
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C
🙂
🙂
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D
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E
🙂
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🙂
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F
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Famous cycling routes in each area
A. Hokkaido
Furano
Lake Shikotsu
＼Our Area／
B. Japan Sea side
Tango peninsula
Noto peninsula
C. Pacific side
Mt.Fuji
Wakayama
D. Central Highlands
Hakuba
Nakasendo
E. Seto Inland Sea
Shimanami
F. Southwest Islands
Okinawa
By the way, our area can be enjoyed in any season by changing the location and method: cycling along the sea in spring and autumn, mountain biking in the mountains in summer, and cycling within Kyoto city in winter! Please make a reservation.
To get to Ine, whether by car or public transport, you’ll first need to travel to the nearby hub station, Amanohashidate Station. Each has its pros and cons.
There is no English timetable available, so it’s best to check it on Google Maps.
[Problem]
There is only one bus per hour, and it is very crowded.
The bus can accommodate 27 people, so if you can’t get on, you have to wait for an hour.
During peak times, the train may be delayed by 1-2 hours.
Rent car (40h)
These are causing a big problem.
Ine has only about 100 parking spaces, and the roads are narrow, so traffic jams easily form. This not only makes it difficult for tourists to walk peacefully, but also disrupts ambulances and other services for residents.
For drivers, having to wait in the car for tens of minutes is very stressful.
Cycling ! (1h)
If you rent an E-Bike at Amanohashidate Station, you can get there in just one hour.
There’s no need to endure nausea for long periods of time on a sweltering bus. You won’t get frustrated with traffic jams. And you won’t be a nuisance to the local community.
What’s more, the road is flat and pleasant, with views of the most beautiful ocean along the way. You’ll also discover little things like rice fields and springs.
You can also cycle across the sandbar of Amanohashidate, which is both a shortcut and a great experience. We also offer an E-Bike rental service in Ine, and you can drop off the bike in both Amanohashidate and Ine.
If you don’t know what an E-Bike is, try it out at a shop in your country. You’ll understand firsthand how innovative it is and what a great tool it is for sightseeing in Ine. Please make use of our service!
I am a Japanese who loves traveling and cycling, and have traveled to many places in Japan and around the world. Among them, I would like to introduce the top 10 things that I really enjoyed while traveling in Japan.
1. Ride a bicycle between rice fields and wooden houses
Nii rice terraces (Ine)
Ine boathouses (Ine)
After experimenting with various means of travel, I have come to the conclusion that a bicycle is the best tool for experiencing Japan. That’s why I started doing bicycle tours, but there’s a real reason, not advertising.
Whenever I travel to Europe, I always ride a bicycle. Cycling through the wheat fields and brick houses of Belgium was an amazing experience. I think that foreigners will be equally impressed if they do it in Japan.
The scenery of the Japanese countryside is decidedly different from that of Europe and the United States.
Rich forests and water-filled rice fields due to heavy rain and snow (which is a problem for cycling), houses made of wood, small shrines, monkeys, deer, birds, the murmuring of the river… The Japanese countryside is full of amazing sounds and sights. It’s too fast to drive this and too exhausting to walk.
Thankfully, unlike other Asian countries, the Japanese countryside is very safe and surprisingly convenient.
There are vending machines and police stations everywhere (although the only job of the police is to watch over children on their way to school), and rural area with even only one house has high-speed smartphone communication environment and paved roads. There are some grocery stores and convenience stores. In my experience, it is much easier to run in the countryside of Japan than in the countryside of Europe, so you can run without thinking about anything other than a puncture. My company provides an emergency service for punctures, but in areas such as the Shimanami Kaido where cycling infrastructure is in place, you don’t even have to worry about that.
The reason foreign bloggers haven’t mentioned this is probably because they haven’t experienced it. It’s a pity.
2. Eat Sushi and Ramen (especially after Cycling!)
Uranagi Maru (Ine)
Inenosora GOHAN (Ine)
I have loved sushi and ramen since I was a child, and I definitely want foreigners to try it in Japan. I live in a fishing village called Ine, and the fishermen have very discerning tastes, so the sushi there is at a high level, but Sushi in big city is a taste that can be enjoyed by ordinary people.
Conveyor-belt sushi near the sea is also very delicious, even if it’s a chain store. In the interior cities, the prices will be higher, but it will be fun enough for entertainment.
By the way, I absolutely love sushi and ramen after cycling. Once you have that experience, you will never forget it.
Ramen originally came from China, but like the rest of Japanese culture, the perverted craftsmanship of the Japanese and their overly high taste demands have evolved it into an artful perfect food with unlimited vriety. It is now the most competitive meal in Japan. Many regions have local ramen, and I always end up eating local ramen when I cycle there.
3. Drink Sake after Bathing in Hot Spring (especially after Cycling!)
Ukawa Onsen
Japanese travel and hot springs are inseparable.
Japan is a country with many volcanoes and underground water, and hot springs can be found anywhere in Japan. For more than 1,000 years, hot springs have been developed to treat illnesses and heal the fatigue of travel. The ancient Romans had to use a high level of technology to install boilers in public baths, but Japanese hot springs are easy because they are naturally heated.
The most of our parents’ generation’s sightseeing tours consisted of soaking in hot springs, eating seafood, and drinking sake. Even now, traveling with hot springs is very popular for Japanese people, because scientifically it’s good for your health, more than anything, bathing in a hot spring after exercising feels great!
Dogo, Arima, Kinosaki, and Beppu Onsen have been famous for a long time, but recently, with the advancement of technology, it has become possible to create hot springs in Tokyo and Osaka as well.
In addition, the number of hot springs where tattoos are allowed has increased, including Kinosaki Onsen.
If you don’t want to show your skin to other people, there is also a private hot spring, although it is a bit expensive. It is also popular for families and couples to stay at an inn with a private hot spring.
4. Stay in stay in farm village or fishing village
Guesthouse of boathouse in Ine
Famrmer’s Guesthouse in Ayabe
This may be true all over the world, if you live in a city, you’ll see cities around the world becoming similar. It’s comfortable and convenient for business and life, but it’s not enough for those who love to travel. Of course, the old towns of Tokyo and Osaka are fading, but they still retain their individuality.
As a Japanese travel lover, I recommend stayng in a farming village or a fishing village at least once when you come to Japan. I have moved to Ine which is a combination of a fishing village and a farming village. Here, there are rich things that are not found in the city. It retains the non-Western beauty that the Japanese have cherished since ancient times.
If you stay in a rural area and take a leisurely bicycle ride for a couple of days, you can feel it. And if you stay at a guest house run by a farmer, you can feel it even more deeply.
5. Stroll around the castle and castle town
Hirosaki Castle
Takayama
I’m also a history buff, Japanese castles and castle towns are very unique.
At first unlike Europe and China, Japan has not had castle walls surrounding towns. Japanese castles only had walls to protect military facilities, or even in the early modern period, walls to protect samurai houses. This is because in Japan there was a clear distinction between fighting samurai and civilians. Occasionally civilians were involved, but targeting and attacking civilians, as in Europe and China, was considered more shameful than death. As evidence of this, during the 150-year Warring States period in Japan, in contrast to Europe and China where the situation is the same, the population of Japan has increased dramatically.
That is why the castle town has a unique atmosphere that reflects the samurai culture. Most of them were lost during World War II and the reconstruction that followed, but some still remain in the place such as Takayama, Kanazawa, Sasayama, and Izushi, and are flourishing tourist destinations.
Secondly, Japanese castles have a unique beauty because they make use of natural mountains and rivers. On the other hand, castles in Europe and China are built on flat ground and have geometrical beauty. By the way, the samurai also valued the beauty of the four seasons, and even today there are many famous places for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves in the castle.
6. Walk through the Shopping Streets and Markets in big town
Ameyoko
Jujo shotengai
When I lived in Tokyo when I was a child, I used to go to the neighborhood shopping street every day to buy sweets, taste fried foods, and look at toys.
As in Europe and the United States, motorization in Japan has led to the disappearance of local shopping streets and markets, which are now concentrated in large shopping centers. I’m pushing the bicycle against motorization, but I can’t go against the tide.
However, shopping streets and markets in the center of big cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and Kanazawa where cars cannot enter, are still lively.
Japan has a well-developed logistics system, and there are many unique products that can only be purchased there, so shopping streets in big cities will surely be fun for you.
7. Explore mysterious rivers, waterfalls and oceans
Amanohashidate
Kanabiki watarfall
The topography and weather of Japan is very varied and has directly related to people’s life and death.. That is why Japanese people have found and believed in divinity in mountains, rivers, seas, thunder, etc. since ancient times.
Nature isn’t as dynamic as the mainland, but the atmosphere created by beautiful water, trees, and small shrines is mysterious, and you can feel the spirituality of the Japanese people.
Amanohashidate, Izumo, Mt.Fuji, Miyajima, Ise and Arashiyama(Bamboo forest) are well-known and these have been believed for thousands of years. But Japan’s thousands of rural areas are full of interesting and beautiful nature, even if it’s not in the guidebook. So let’s explore the Japanese countryside by cycling or walking.
8. Take the Train
Tango Railway Yura Bridge
Tango Railway Restaurant Train
Japanese railways are among the best in the world. Whether you like it or not, you’ll be riding the trains when traveling through Japan.
Shinkansen is an attraction in itself. They run at a maximum speed of 300 km/h and run every 5 minutes without delays of 1 minute.The small railway in the countryside is also cute and fun. Any rural railway is clean, safe, and staff are courteous. There are also restaurant trains and sleeper trains for sightseeing. Commuter trains in big cities are deadly crowded, so be careful.
The Japan Rail Pass is convenient because it allows unlimited rides on trains all over Japan, and if you have a specific destination in mind, you can purchase an electronic money card/app called SUICA for convenient transportation.
For those interested in railways, I recommend visiting the railway museums in Kyoto and Omiya.
9. Walk the pilgrimage road and eat tea and dumplings.
Amanohashidate Yoshino Chaya
Magome
About 300 years ago, the pilgrimage became a big boom in Japan. And there was a system called Sankin Kotai, which feudal loads all over the country to commute from their territory to Tokyo every year. As a result, post towns and teahouses were developed along the main roads of Japan.
At that time, people were restricted from moving freely, but the pilgrimage was permitted, and with a permit from the local temple, I was able to travel safely. In addition, temples opened teahouses and ferryboats so that people could come safely.
For Japanese people, travel, tea and dango (sweets) are inseparable.
Everyone in the world enjoys taking a break with sweet and bitter drinks after cycling or trekking, so please enjoy Japanese-style temples, tea, and dumplings.
In modern times, the traditional post towns and teahouses have declined due to motorization, but you can enjoy the old style of pilgrimage such as Amanohashidate, Kumano Kodo, Magome, Tsumago, Kawagoe, and some towns along the old highway.
10. Buy and try frozen foods, retort pouches, and supermarket side dishes
Frozen Ramen (eat warm in the microwave or pan)
Hot Snacks
Why do you bother to eat frozen food when you come to Japan? You may wonder.
But don’t underestimate Japan’s technological prowess.
Frozen, retort and ready-to-eat foods in Japan have evolved dramatically over the past three years, especially while restaurants were closed due to the pandemic. To be honest, if you put it on a plate and it is served, you won’t be able to tell the difference, or it will come to a level that is more delicious than a bad restaurant. In addition, sashimi, fried food and bread sold at supermarkets have also improved dramatically during the pandemic. And unfortunately, most of these threatening frozen foods aren’t exported overseas.
In Japan these days they are called “naka-shoku(= home replacement meal)” because they are too delicious.
Most lodgings will have microwave ovens, so don’t be prejudiced and try them out.
I’ve become so dependent on these that the hardest thing for me during my stay in Europe was not being able to eat naka-shoku.
I know it’s inappropriate to rank towns. Each person has their own preferences, and each town has its own personality. But travel destinations are limited. So as far as I’ve been, and as a Japanese, I would like to pick up towns that foreigners would find fun.
1. Ine (& Amanohashidate)
Overview
First of all, let me say that I moved here from Tokyo and have been living here for over 5 years. So it would be strange to say that here is not the best.
Ine is famous for its beautiful sea and unique 230 boathouses. It has prospered as a fishing village for hundreds of years, and nearly 1,000 people still live there.
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Good Point
unique and beautiful view of the world of “3 views of Japan”
Takayama retains a traditional touch like few other Japanese cities, especially in its beautifully preserved old town. It ranks as a prime candidate among travelers wishing to add a rural element into their itineraries. Takayama gained importance as a source of high-quality timber and highly skilled carpenters during the feudal ages.
Since Takayama is a typical tourist destination, so if you like a little deeper area, I recommend going to the neighboring town of Furukawa.
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Good Point
unique view of old wood buildings
You can see the amazing carpentry skills
delicious beef
various restaurants
various hotels and guesthouses
Bad Point
usually crowded
Not a spectacular view and nature
very far from other tourist sites
very mountainous
Recommended for people like this
People who want to enjoy old-fashioned streets
People who want to enjoy the lively streets
People who want to stop by while sightseeing in Kanazawa or Shirakawa-go
3. Miyama (& Ayabe)
The thatched village or Kayabuki no Sato is the most visited attraction in Miyama. Almost the whole village is composed of old thatched houses and is carefully maintained as a cultural heritage site. You can walk around the village and enjoy the atmosphere and the breathtaking views of the thatched roofs with a mountain backdrop. To get the best sense of the area and avoid the crowds, we recommend getting here early in the morning or visiting later in the day. Staying in one of the accommodations within the village will give you the most authentic taste of village life.
The world heritage Shirakawa-go is famous as another similar village, but Shirakawa-go has become a little unnatural monument as a ruin, and Miyama is recommended because people actually live here and you can experience a more natural life.
In the nearby town of Ayabe, there are many farmhouse guesthouses with similar buildings, so if you are interested in Japanese farmhouses, I recommend those as well. Most of the inns in Miyama offer no meals, so there are surprisingly few opportunities to interact with the owners and residents, so for those who want to experience Japan’s traditional farming village more deeply, I recommend staying at Ayabe.
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Good Point
You can experience a mysterious world that appears in Japanese folk tales.
very beautiful mountains and rivers
Gibier and river fish dishes
Quiet and few cars.
Bad Point
Lack of variety in restaurants
There are not many buses. No railroad.
very mountainous
Recommended for people like this
People who are interested in old farming village life in Japan
4. Kinosaki Hot Springs
Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its 7 tattoo-friendly public hot spring bath houses. It has maintained its serene atmosphere and authentic old Japan allure for over 1300 years through its well-preserved architecture and onsen culture. Stroll along the willow-lined canal in a traditional yukata (light cotton kimono) and listen to the clip-clopping sounds of your geta echoing down the softly lit streets.
I have a friend in Kinosaki, and I think what really makes this town interesting is that the hot springs and people’s lifestyles are linked together, fostering a very cooperative and enterprising inhabitant.
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Good Point
You can experience the Japanese hot spring culture that has been around for 1000 years.
There are many shops at night, and it’s a lot of fun to wear a yukata and go around them.
Wagyu beef and seafood are delicious.
There are many express trains and buses from big cities.
Bad Point
Crowded.
It is difficult to find an inn, but it is relatively cheap and easy to stay in the neighboring town of Toyooka.
Recommended for people like this
Those who want to enjoy traditional Japanese trips such as hot springs, seafood, and yukata
5. Kyoto Arashiyama & Higashiyama
Arashiyama is an important sightseeing district in Kyoto. It’s filled with temples and shrines, but the star attraction is the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. Arashiyama is particularly popular during the cherry blossom and fall color seasons.
The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama’s well known, central landmark. Many small shops, restaurants and other attractions are found nearby, including Tenryuji Temple, Arashiyama’s famous bamboo groves and pleasure boats that are available for rent on the river.
North of central Arashiyama the atmosphere becomes less touristy and more rural, with several small temples scattered along the base of the wooded mountains. The area north of the Togetsukyo Bridge is also known as Sagano, while “Arashiyama” technically refers just to the mountains south of the river but is commonly used to name the entire district.
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Good Point
It’s an easy-to-understand tourist spot, with souvenir shops and restaurants.
You can enjoy the gorgeous and traditional atmosphere of Kyoto.
Beautifully maintained bamboo groves and rivers
Bad Point
Too crowded. That’s all.
Recommended for people like this
For the time being, people who want to go to sightseeing spots that everyone goes to
There is a true Kyoto that can only be seen by E-Bike.
Magome served travelers of the Nakasendo, a major route that connected Tokyo with Kyoto during the feudal ages.
The town has been beautifully restored with a broad stone walkway lined with wooden buildings and carefully tended foliage. Magome’s embellished preservation contrasts with the rugged authenticity of neighboring Tsumago. The two towns are connected by the Magome-Tsumago Trail, a route which was part of the Nakasendo.
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7. Shimanami Kaido (Onomichi~ Imabari)
Shimanami Kaido is actually a toll road that consists of a series of bridges and roads that connect Honshu (Japan’s biggest main island) to Shikoku. It passes over a family of six small islands that dot the ocean that separates the two islands, scatting in a linear fashion, like stepping-stones along the Seto Inland Sea.
Cycling is a popular means of experiencing the Shimanami Kaido. At about 70 kilometers, the bike route is a bit longer than the toll road, but because there are no large inclines, it can be comfortably completed in a day by intermediate cyclists.
There are plenty of rental bicycles available, and you can drop them off and return by boat.
It’s a bit monotonous and tired to visit all 6 islands, so I personally recommend travelling slowly in about 2 islands.
8. Fukuoka Hakata Street Food Stalls
When I was working in Fukuoka, I would go to Hakata almost every week and eat ramen at a food stall. Recently, Hakata ramen shops have opened in Tokyo and Osaka, but the unique ramen in Hakata is still the best.
Fukuoka’s open air food stands (Yatai) are possibly the city’s best known symbol. There are dozens of yatai scattered across Fukuoka, but the best place to find them is on the southern end of Nakasu Island. Located in the middle of the city, Nakasu Island has a long row of around 20 yatai that are attractively situated along the water.
And for adults, the night town is full and you can enjoy the best service.
9. Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a vibrant, historical city with convenient access from Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. With rich craft traditions, distinctive local cuisine, traditional architecture and cutting-edge contemporary art, Kanazawa is an interesting destination.
Kanazawa was the center of the Kaga domain during the Edo period (1603–1867). The city was the seat of power of the ruling Maeda family, among the richest lords in Japan. The Maeda family built lavishly around Kanazawa, including Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle. A short stroll away is the picturesque Nagamachi samurai district, where some of the Maedas’ retainers lived.
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10. Tokyo Ameyoko & Akihabara
It’s very close to my parents’ house in Tokyo, and I used to play there all my teenage years.
Ameyoko is a busy market street along the Yamanote Line tracks between Okachimachi and Ueno stations. The name “Ameyoko” is a short form for “Ameya Yokocho” (candy store alley), as candies were traditionally sold there. Alternatively, “Ame” also stands for “America”, because a lot of American products used to be available when the street was the site of a black market in the years following World War 2. Today, various products such as clothes, bags, cosmetics, fresh fish, dried food and spices are sold along Ameyoko.
A 15-minute walk from Ameyoko, or one stop by train, is the famous Akihabara.
Akihabara is famous for its many electronics shops and has also gained recognition as the center of Japan’s otaku (diehard fan) culture. Many shops and establishments devoted to anime and manga are dispersed among the electronic stores in the district.
When I was a kid, Ameyoko and Akihabara were very chaotic and seedy markets, which I enjoyed a lot.
The two towns, symbolic of Japan’s past as a kingdom of electronics and logistics, have given up their roles to China and Singapore, and are now centers of Japanese pop culture.
As a Japanese, this is a little disappointing, but I think it has become a more comfortable and enjoyable place for many tourists.
