京都e-bikeツアー：竹林、金閣寺、禅寺

Exceedingly disappointed with this tour. We registered, received a confirmation notice, and showed up twenty minutes early to the meeting point. We waited, and waited, and I attempted to contact the tour operator using the phone number posted on the Viator web page as well as one I found on the internet…neither number worked. I re-confirmed that we were in the correct meeting location from the info supplied in my registration. Finally, thirty minutes after the tour was supposed to start, we opted to leave. The tour time was supposed to be 1:00pm—which meant we wasted a good part of the day waiting for the tour, and then it was too late in the day to make other arrangements. I’ve filed a claim for a refund, and would not recommend this company for those looking for a tour company in Kyoto.

A fabulous, thoughtful, fun, and highly educational tour graciously delivered by Craig an English professor raised in Australia and now a Kyoto resident for 15 years. He provided an intimate bike tour for 3 of us along the main, terraced Kamo river in Kyoto, pointing out key land markers, urban changes and local activities along its banks. Remarkably, Craig taught us the influences of Shintoism, Buddhism on local shrines and temples, explained their impact on modern Japanese culture and introduced us to the concept of Zen. Craig’s comfort on a bike, intimate knowledge of beautiful Kyoto back streets, attention to our interests and curiosity, passion for finely brewed coffee (shared with us on a rest stop) and love of teaching made this tour shine.

Great way to see Kyoto. Philippe, our guide, made it interesting and fun for all of us. Love the history he provided. This stands out as a memorable tour for us. Not only did we see the usual tourist spots but we also biked through local residential areas of Kyoto. I highly recommend this tour!

Niall provided us with one of the top highlights of our entire trip. The bike ride tour of Kyoto's Zen Gardens was totally enjoyable and a great way to experience a part of Kyoto. I highly recommend this tour for anyone wishing to visit the popular sites as well as get a glimpse of many traditional neighborhoods in between. Would definitely book a tour again with Niall on my next trip to Kyoto.

We had an amazing time visiting the quieter parts of Kyoto and cruising down the Philosopher’s Path while learning so much about the history! Kevin, our guide, is originally from Canada and has been living here since he was 19! He is so incredibly knowledgeable about the culture, customs, and we learned some interesting fun things along the way! The trip was paced well and we had plenty of time for breaks as desired! After lunch he gave us a great coffee spot recommendation and it was the perfect boost to get us going for the rest of the day! We felt completely safe biking around and we went the e-bike option! I would highly recommend this tour!

We took the East district private bike tour with Philippe and it was fantastic. Our guide was really knowledgeable and nice, the pace was relaxed and the sites were so serene and beautiful. Highly recommend as a breezy and easy way to get to know Kyoto. The tour operator Niall also recommended one of the best restaurants we have visited in Japan - Kiharu, in Gion district. Must try!

Absolutely fabulous gardens and loved that our guided provided the history associated with our stops.