Exploring Kyoto by bicycle is a fantastic way to discover the city’s historic landmarks, scenic neighborhoods, and hidden gems at your own pace. With numerous rental shops offering a variety of bicycles to suit every rider’s needs, visitors can easily navigate Kyoto’s streets and immerse themselves in its rich culture and beauty. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to five top-rated bicycle rental shops in Kyoto, each offering quality bikes, convenient locations, and excellent service for an unforgettable cycling experience.
Kyoto Cycling Tour Project
- Locations: 552-13, Higashiaburanokojicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, 600-8235 (Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal)
- Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal
- Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit (Shinkansen Exit) Cycle Terminal
- Fushimi Cycle Terminal
- Nijo Station Cycle Terminal
- Shijo Horikawa Cycle Terminal
- Gojo Horikawa Cycle Terminal
- Hotel Emion Kyoto Cycle Terminal
- Karasuma Gojo Cycle Terminal
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed Day: None
- Bicycle Rental Rates: Starting from ¥1,000 per day
- Official Website: Kyoto Cycling Tour Project
The Kyoto Cycling Tour Project offers a seamless solution with its network of seven “Cycle Terminals” across the city, designed for convenient bike rentals and returns. These strategically located terminals allow tourists to plan their sightseeing routes flexibly, ensuring that the entire city’s beauty is within reach, all while maintaining a safe distance from the crowds typically found in buses or subways. Whether starting at one terminal and ending at another, the project caters to various plans and itineraries, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry up close, at their own pace.
Chirin Chirin
- Address: 439-19, Wasui-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:30 PM (Daily)
- Closed Day: None
- Bicycle Rental Rates: Starting from ¥1,000 per day
- Official Website: Chirin Chirin
Chirin Chirin revolutionizes exploring Kyoto with its unique delivery-only bicycle rental service. Without the need for a physical store, bikes are delivered directly to your location, be it Kyoto Station or your accommodation, making it incredibly convenient for tourists. This service allows for an environmentally friendly and hassle-free way to enjoy the historic sights of Kyoto, enriching your travel experience by providing a flexible and eco-conscious means to navigate the city’s beauty.
Kyoto Raku-Chari
- Address: Room Omori 1F, 124-3-2 Shin-Hiyoshi-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)
- Closed Day: None
- Bicycle Rental Rates: Starting from ¥1,100 per day
- Official Website: Kyoto Raku Chari
Kyoto Raku Chari stands out as Kyoto’s first and only staffed rental shop specializing in electric-assist bicycles, though they’ve recently added a few regular bikes due to customer demand. This unique establishment prides itself on offering personalized services, including guided tours by knowledgeable staff, ensuring a tailored and immersive exploration of Kyoto. With operation days varying, it’s advisable to check in advance by phone. They also offer a convenient “half-day plan” allowing up to four hours of use, making it easy for visitors to discover Kyoto’s charm at their own pace, with the added boost and ease provided by an electric-assist bike.
Kyoto Eco Trip
- Address:
- Main Store: 58, Higashi-Kujo Muro-machi, Minami-ku, Kyoto
- Shijokarasuma Store: 466 Kannondo-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed Day: None
- Bicycle Rental Rates: Starting from ¥1,200 per day
- Official Website: Kyoto Eco Trip
Kyoto Eco Trip is Kyoto’s largest bicycle rental service with three locations, including a main store near Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit. They offer 11 types of bicycles, from city cycles to electric-assist bikes, and provide a free original bike map for an enhanced exploration experience. Available without reservation if bikes are in stock, they offer convenient options for multi-day use without the need for daily returns. Their diverse electric-assist bike selection caters to various preferences, and additional services like extended hours and delivery to accommodations are available for an added fee, making exploring Kyoto by bike convenient and enjoyable.
Miyabiya
- Address: 323, Kamishuzuya-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
- Opening Hours: 8:45 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed Day: None
- Bicycle Rental Rates: Starting from ¥900 per day
- Official Website: Miyabiya
Located near Kyoto Station and nestled in a traditional Kyoto townhouse, “Kyoto Miyabiya” offers an ideal way to explore the city via bicycle. With a diverse selection of 30 types of bicycles, including city bikes, electric-assist bikes, mini-velos, cross bikes, mountain bikes, road bikes, children’s cycles, and bikes with child seats, there’s a perfect option for every visitor. Enjoy a leisurely tour of Kyoto’s sights with your choice of bike. The shop, situated close to Higashi Honganji Temple and housed in a renovated townhouse, invites both walk-ins and reservations. Customers who book in advance receive a complimentary tourist map and mineral water. Additionally, those renting road or cross bikes have the option to use the shower room for an extra 200 yen, adding a touch of convenience to your cycling adventure in Kyoto.
With its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture, Kyoto is best explored on two wheels. Whether you’re cruising through the historic streets of Higashiyama or cycling along the scenic Kamo River, these top-rated bicycle rental shops in Kyoto provide visitors with the perfect means to discover the city’s timeless charm and beauty. Rent a bike today and embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure through Kyoto’s captivating streets and neighborhoods.
