Private tour in Kyoto Russ M

Kyoto Off-the-beaten Path Bike Tour

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Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Russ M.

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Hello! I’m a professional guide from Wales, and for the past seven years, I’ve been sharing my passion for Kyoto history, culture, and nature with travelers. With a Master’s in Garden History from the University of Bristol and a Postgraduate Certificate in Environmental Education from the University of Wales, I specialize in uncovering the stories behind Kyoto’s breathtaking gardens and landscapes. I first came to Japan in 2010 as a musician touring with my band. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with this country’s culture and married someone from Kanazawa . My background as a songwriter has made me a skilled storyteller, able to bring places to life with humor and personal connections. A fellow guide once told me I make people feel instantly at ease—a compliment I treasure. Over the past decade, I’ve explored Kyoto in depth, discovering off-the-beaten-path treasures that I love sharing with guests. Whether it’s a tucked-away garden, a quiet temple, or a bustling corner of the Kansai live music scene, I’ll take you to places that most tourists never experience. I welcome travelers from all over the world and am happy to tailor tours to your interests. Whether you're a garden lover, a music enthusiast, or simply curious about Kyoto’s rich history and topography, I’m here to make your visit unforgettable. With countless 5-star reviews and a deep love for meeting people, I look forward to showing you the best of Kyoto and Kansai.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Russ M.

Overview of your Kyoto tour

When I came to live in Japan it was this area that I chose, making a home alongside the Takano River. For eight years the Tadasu no Mori (Forest of Truth) was my evening stroll although many Kyotoites are afraid to visit there at night! Let me take you to the less well known north of kyoto including- to the shrine I was married in and the place where David Bowie filmed a commercial for Japanese vodka

Your Kyoto tour itinerary

-Tadasu no Mori (the forest of truth) -Kawai shrine -Shimogamo main shrine -Takano River -Views of Mount Hiei (guardian mountain of Kyoto) -Takaragaike -Lunch -Kamigamo Shrine -Shodenji -Kamo river bike track descent -Demachiyanagi Shotengai -Imperial palace grounds local snacks As with every TourByLocals tour, this tour is of course customisable. Please contact me using the orange "message guide" button to discuss this. This tour does include lunch but if you have particular food requests please contact me and I can arrange this.

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Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Bicycle

Japanese commuter bike

What's included
Private Guide
Tickets: temple entry
Equipment: japanese commuter bike
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Kyoto, Kyoto, 606-8205, Japan

We will meeet at the top of the escalator of exit 7 of Demachiyanagi station on the Keihan Line in Kyoto

Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
History
Architecture
Religious Sites
Art And Culture
Food And Drink
Bike
Tour reference number
1399945
Languages
English
French
Japanese
Activity level
Moderate

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Kyoto best suited for?

This private tour in Kyoto is perfect for travellers who want to explore the less frequented northern areas of the city. It's ideal for those interested in experiencing local culture and history, as well as for anyone looking to enjoy a unique biking adventure through scenic spots like the Tadasu no Mori, Kawai shrine, and the Takano River. With Russ M. as your guide, you'll gain deeper insights into the area from someone who has lived there for years.

Can this private tour in Kyoto be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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