Exciting Outdoor Activities in Kyoto’s Beautiful Backcountry

Exploring a new place on two wheels offers an incredible sense of freedom. Feel the wind in your hair, watch the scenery change, and stop whenever you want to truly take in a view. Kyoto Prefecture offers an amazing variety of cycling experiences, from coastal rides to peaceful countryside tours.

Cycling Along the Coast

Head north to Kyoto by the Sea, and you’ll discover cycling roads unlike any other. The Kyoto E-bike Tour, for example, will have you gliding along the coastline, as guides point out fascinating local details. For independent explorers, the Self-Guided & Short Guide E-bike Tour offers the same stunning scenery and cultural immersion, but on your own schedule.

Riding Along Tea Fields and Forests

Venturing inland, Woodland Kyoto and Kyoto Tea Country offer cycling experiences through green landscapes. If you crave serene beauty, cycling through Wazuka’s tea fields is pure magic.

And on the Kyoto Yawata riverside cycling route, you can combine invigorating riverside breezes with scenic views of tea plantations and historical shrines.

Pedal Through Bamboo Groves

If you’re looking for a unique and calming adventure, the Kyoto Otokuni Bamboo Groves are a delightful hidden gem. The Kyoto Otokuni Cycling Route is a delightful 17km path that takes you through the Otokuni Bamboo Grove area. Cycle between 1.8km of towering bamboo stalks along the Muko Bamboo Path while also discovering ancient temples, shrines, and glimpses of local life. It’s an enchanting experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The area is also great for a leisurely stroll.

There’s a special kind of magic that unfolds when you explore Kyoto on foot. Each step can lead you deeper into nature, history, or a profound sense of peace. The countryside of Kyoto offers several hiking trails for travelers of all skill levels.

Hiking the Oni Trail

In Kyoto by the Sea, the Oni Trail takes you on a journey through ancient lore and oni legends. This 100km trail offers a compelling journey through ancient pilgrimage routes and thick forest paths. As you walk, breaks in the trees offer stunning views of the Sea of Japan.

Trekking Through Tea Country

In Kyoto Tea Country, the Yamashiro Kodo offers a 25km walk through rural scenery. You’ll find peace of mind in this nostalgic, quintessential Japanese landscape. Many sights await you, including Kyoto Prefecture’s largest plum grove and historic tea wholesalers! And for those seeking panoramic vistas, Mt. Kasagi in Kasagi Town promises a challenging scenic hike overlooking the Kizugawa River. The views from the top are truly spectacular, especially when autumn paints the landscape in fiery hues.

Views of an Ancient Battlefield

For a half-day hike, consider Mount Tennozan, just a short train ride away from Kyoto. This accessible trail brings to life the pivotal Battle of Yamazaki, where Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s strategic genius shaped Japan’s future. As you ascend, explore ancient temples, discover historical markers, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the tranquil plains where samurai once clashed.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or enjoy a bit of luxury, Kyoto Prefecture has several camping options for sleeping under the stars.

Experience Rural Charm at Kaya Yamanoie

In Kyoto by the Sea, Kaya Yamanoie provides an eco-conscious, authentic outdoors stay. Stay in comfort in a beautiful setting surrounded by terraced rice fields, the sounds of birds singing, and a deep sense of nostalgia. It’s an opportunity to explore rural life, savor local food, and promote sustainable practices.

Forest Camping and Riverside Relaxation

Woodland Kyoto boasts a fantastic glamping option at GRAX PREMIUM CAMP RESORT Kyoto Rurikei. This resort is all about comfort, with nine types of sites, including glamping tents, mobile homes, and cabins. Imagine a barbecue under the stars without the hassle of setting up your own gear!

For more traditional camping with plenty of activities, Kyoto Tea Country is home to Kasagi Camping Ground along the Kizugawa River. This versatile spot offers over 30,000 square meters for camping. The area surrounding the campsite is packed with ways to experience Kasagi’s lush natural environment, including canoeing and bouldering. It’s a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring and stargazing in summer.

Looking for something to beat the summer heat? The rivers and coastline of Kyoto Prefecture provide many opportunities for a variety of water activities and sports.

Coastal Cruises

In Kyoto by the Sea, the Maizuru Bay Sightseeing Boat offers a relaxing way to take in the coastal scenery, available all seasons. Enjoy a relaxing cruise, viewing naval ships and yards while learning about the port’s history. Afterward, explore the nearby Maizuru Red Brick Park, with its museums, shops, and restaurants housed in preserved former naval warehouses.

Thrilling Rapids and Fishing

Woodland Kyoto offers exhilarating river experiences. The Hozugawa River Boat Ride is a thrilling 1.5-hour journey through the ravine from Kameoka to Arashiyama, navigated by skilled boatmen. There are rapids for excitement, and you can enjoy the scenery that changes with the seasons, as the views vary throughout the year!

If you’re looking for a unique culinary adventure, Ayu Garden in Kyotamba lets you try your hand at catching ayu (freshwater smelt) in a shallow stream. You can enjoy your fresh catch grilled on the spot at a riverside barbecue. It’s a delicious fusion of outdoor activity and local food culture.

So, are you ready to trade the well-worn tourist paths for something truly extraordinary? Kyoto Prefecture is bursting with outdoor adventures, waiting for you to discover them. Which adventure will you embark on first?

*Note: Ayu Garden is exclusively available in the summer. The Hozugawa River Boat Ride may close due to weather and river conditions, and is closed during New Year’s and certain days in February and September for safety checks. Double-check the official hours of the locations and activities in this article before you go!

**Have questions? We’re here to help! For general inquiries, visit our contact page.