Kyoto Satoyama Cycling

Rent an electric-assist bicycle and explore the scenic spots of Sonobe, surrounded by beautiful nature. Our guided tours include visits to tourist attractions and lunch. If you’d prefer to explore on your own, we’ll provide you with a map of the area and recommended routes.

This is a private e-bike tour for adventure seekers who want to explore the traditional rural landscapes, historic shrines, and Japanese castles of Sonobe, Kyoto. Located just a 30-minute train ride from downtown Kyoto, Sonobe is an area known for its tranquil rural scenery. Optional experiences include koto lessons and tea ceremony.

Reservations & Registration

Book with Tripadvisor

Registration Period & Deadline: Depends on availability on the registration site
Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Basic Information

Season: Year-round
Closed Days & Excluded Dates: Every Tuesday (or the following business day if Tuesday is a holiday), August 11–16, and December 28–January 4
Meeting Time & Hours of Operation: Event Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Schedule: Nantan City Tourism Association — Namami Tenmangu Shrine — Sonobe Castle Ruins — Lunch — Maki Shrine — Nantan City Tourism Association
Duration: About 4 hours
Group Size: Minimum 2 people – Maximum 7 people
Participation Restrictions: People who are able to travel by bicycle (children 10 years old and under require prior consultation)
Meals: Available (Meal requests: Vegan, vegetarian, and allergy-friendly options available)
Language Support: Staff: Japanese,English
Guide: Japanese,English
Accessibility: Not allowed

Pricing

List Price: Starting at 15,000 yen
Included in Price: Guide fees, meal costs
Not Included in Price: Personal Expenses

Access & Meeting Place

Meeting Place & Ticket Pickup Location: Nantan City Tourism Association
6-21 Mizobe, Koyama-Higashi-cho, Sonobe-cho, Nantan City
Parking Information: Please use the private parking lots near Sonobe Station.

Operator Information

Operator Name: Nantan City Tourism Association
Address: Sonobe Town, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture
Phone Number: 0771-62-0050
Official Website: https://kyoto-satoyama-cycling.info/

Area & City/Town Introduction (Nantan City)

Located nearly in the center of Kyoto Prefecture, Nantan City is a town brimming with rich natural beauty, history, and culture. Visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons, from the thatched-roof villages of Miyama Town—where Japan’s traditional landscape remains preserved—to Sonobe, which retains the atmosphere of a castle town, and the lush rural mountains stretching along the headwaters of the Hozu River. It also offers a wealth of attractions, including gourmet cuisine featuring local ingredients, hot springs, and outdoor activities. Easily accessible from Kyoto City, it is a soothing destination where you can spend a relaxing day even on a day trip.