A west Kyoto loop connecting Nijo Castle, famous Zen temples and Arashiyama, with a scenic return toward the city.
Open the route map
Use the map for the full loop, temple parking points and the return section from Arashiyama toward central Kyoto.
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Route highlights
Ryoan-ji
A UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple famous for one of Japan's most celebrated rock gardens.
Official website ↗
Ninna-ji
A historic World Heritage temple with a five-storied pagoda, gardens and the Omuro area.
Official website ↗
Tenryu-ji / Arashiyama
A major Zen temple in the heart of Arashiyama, known for Sogen Pond Garden and mountain scenery.
Official website ↗Route order
- NoriNori Kyoto — start at the Central Kyoto store
- Nijo Castle Area — first major city landmark
- Ryoan-ji — use designated bicycle parking
- Ninna-ji — use designated bicycle parking
- Tenryu-ji / Arashiyama — main sightseeing stop
- Togetsukyo Bridge — Katsura River and Arashiyama scenery
- Matsuo Bridge — begin the return section
- Uzumasa Tenjingawa — continue toward central Kyoto
- NoriNori Kyoto — finish
Timing & riding tips
- Start around 9:00–9:30 AM if you want time for temple visits and lunch.
- An E-Bike is recommended for the most relaxed ride; a City Bike suits experienced riders.
- Arashiyama becomes extremely busy in peak seasons. Park the bicycle and explore crowded sections on foot.
- Confirm bicycle parking at temples and follow local signs around Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji and Tenryu-ji.
- Allow extra time for autumn foliage, cherry blossom season and weekends.
Where can I park? See the visual parking guide
Real-location photos: Ryoan-ji — EytanPessen / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0; Ninna-ji — Cun Cun / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0; Tenryu-ji — SElefant / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0.
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