On the Silver Tour, you will cycle along the picturesque Philosopher’s Path, which runs parallel to Shirakawa Canal and is lined with cherry blossom and maple trees creating a delightfully quaint atmosphere. This serene route connects the Silver Pavilion Temple in the north, to Nanzenji Temple in the south, and while both are Zen Buddhist temples, each offers its own unique character and are steeped in hundreds of years of history.
Kyoto Silver Tour
Explore Zen culture along the Shirakawa Canal
The main areas of Kyoto to explore on this cycling tour
Tour Course
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The Gran Resort Elegante Kyoto
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Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) Temple
Ginkakuji is the temple that best represents Kyoto and the wabi-sabi spirit that permeates Japanese culture. This Zen temple complex dates from 1482, when it was originally built as a villa. As well as the pavilion itself, highlights include the beautiful moss garden, raked sand garden, and Togudo Hall.
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Philosopher’s Path
Pedal slowly along this 2km path, which runs along a pretty tree-lined canal. With cherry blossom in spring, colorful leaves in autumn, dustings of snow in winter, and the rich greens of summer, it's a popular photogenic spot.
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Nanzenji Temple
At the southern end of the Philosopher’s Path lies the iconic Nanzenji Temple, renowned for its picturesque Japanese maple trees. During autumn, the temple is enveloped in a sea of vibrant red maple leaves, perfectly complementing the serene beauty of this traditional Zen temple. Tucked awa in the corner of the temple are the photogenic red-brick aqueduct and arches, constructed in the 19th century to provide water and power to the city, which add a unique historical charm to the site.
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Along Shirakawa River
Shirakawa flows gently through historic Gion, lined by willow trees fluttering in the breeze. Enjoy the view from small Tatsumi Bridge, especially scenic when framed by cherry blossoms or colorful autumn leaves.
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Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal
Finish at Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal, where the tour ends.
Tour Detail
- Tour Type
- Private guided tour
- Meeting location and time
- The Gran Resort Elegante Kyoto Morning tour: 9:00 Afternoon tour: 13:45
- Ending location and time
- Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal Morning tour: 12:30 Afternoon tour: 17:15
- Time required
- About 3.5 hours *Please note that traffic conditions and/or weather conditions may cause the cycling tour to finish later.
- Distance
- 14km
- Price per person
- 16,700 yen (for groups of 3 people or more) 21,200 yen (2 people) 34,700 yen (1 person)
- Inclusive of
- Guide fee, rental bike fee, liability and accident insurance, helmets, rain gear, original cycling map
- Recommended for
- Those that want to enjoy the meditative Zen gardens and the peaceful Philosopher's Path. There is a very light incline upto the Silver Pavilion Temple, therefore it is recommended for slightly more confident cyclists.
- Notes
- ・Please wear comfortable clothes and footwear, according to the weather and temperature of the day. We recommend wearing sunglasses and using sunscreen in summer, and wearing gloves in the winter. ・Luggage such as suitcases can be stored free of charge. However, valuables, fragile items, and food cannot be stored. ・For an additional charge of 500 yen per bicycle (1,000 yen for electric-assist bicycles), bike rental before or after the tour is available during business hours (from 9:00 to 18:00).