Cycling Basics

Cycling Basics

Overview

The city of Kyoto was built in a basin, around which are mountains except for the southern flank. That means that winters are fairly cold – though not much snow – and summers are stiflingly hot.

For cyclists, Kyoto is both wonderful and at times enraging place in which to ride.

Convenience

It is great because of the scale of the city. Unless you are going up into the hills, or farther afield – for example, to Katsura Imperial Villa, south Kyoto, or Arashiyama - it is often faster and easier to go from point A to point B on a bike.

Geography

Moreover, with the exception of those hills, the main parts of Kyoto are almost always flat.

Lots of Cylists

You will have company on the road, lots of it. Kyoto is home to many cyclists. Most of them are riders on the all-purpose “mama-chari,” the good old reliable no-speed or three-speed bike with a basket up front.

College Town

Kyoto is a college town, so there are many undergraduate and graduate students zipping around town on their bikes.

Last, more and more adults are commuting to work: it’s faster, healthier, and cheaper than taking public transportation.

CycleKyoto will help you explore Kyoto with route suggestions, safety pointers, and other tips.