Areas to Avoid
Areas to Avoid
Overview
Some areas of Kyoto should be avoided at all cost when on a bike.
Shijo Dori in downtown
From Yasaka Shrine in Gion all the way to beyond Omiya, Shijo is jammed with traffic. Best to stay clear. Moreover, in this part of town cycling is prohibited.
Cycling is prohibited in the following streets:
Kawaramachi Dori: Between Oike Dori and Bukkoji Dori
Shijo Dori: Between Higashi Oji Dori and Karasuma Dori
Sanjo Dori: Between Kiyamachi and Kawaramachi
Cycling along the Teramachi Mall is also prohibited.
Main Street in Arashiyama
During peak tour season, Arashiyama is very, very crowded.
Gion
Narrow streets + lots of tourists = nightmare on a bike. If you go early in the morning, however, it can be done.
In front of Kyoto Station
It’s a zoo. If you have to go, walk your bike.
Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka/Kiyomizu
These streets are narrow, steep, bumpy in places, and packed with tourists year-round.
Philosopher’s Walk
During cherry blossom season, Golden Week, and fall colors in late October and early November - it is probably best to avoid Philosopher's Walk.
