Shiga Prefecture, nestled near Kyoto, offers excellent rural cycling opportunities.
We love Biwako Backroads’ private 1-day tour through picturesque villages and a brewery town. Their half-day option showcases agricultural landscapes and historic temples.
For something unique, try the Ninja-themed e-bike and hiking tour up Mt. Hira. These adventures cater to various fitness levels and provide authentic local experiences.
Check out our top picks for Shiga’s best bike tours below.
Top Tours
- Biwako Backroads offers a private 1-day cycling tour near Kyoto, with professional guides, lunch, and beverage tastings, starting from JR Maibara Station.
- A half-day bike tour through rural Japan, visiting temples and providing complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks, is a beginner-friendly option.
- Hikone Half-Day Tour in a historic castle town includes bicycle use, admission fees, and snacks, with moderate fitness required and free cancellation up to 24 hours.
- Ninja Explore Private E-Bike & Hike Tour combines e-bike and hiking, with a visit to the Koka Ninja House and panoramic countryside views.
- Shiga Prefecture offers a variety of bike tours catering to different fitness levels and interests, with options for private and group tours.
Rural Villages & Brewery Town: Private 1-Day Cycling Near Kyoto
On this private one-day cycling tour near Kyoto, you’ll explore the rural villages and brewery town of Shiga Prefecture.
Operated by Biwako Backroads – Rural Japan Tours, the tour is highly recommended by 100% of travelers and has a 5.0 rating from 11 reviews.
The tour includes the use of a bicycle, a professional guide, all fees and taxes, light refreshment, lunch, and complementary alcoholic beverage tastings.
Train fares are also covered if you have a Japan Rail (JR) Pass. The meeting point is JR Maibara Station, and the tour ends at Kinomoto Station.
Expect to start at 9:00 am and confirm your booking within 48 hours, subject to availability.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, and it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
Prices start from €173.00 per person, with no refunds for cancellations.
Read our full review: Rural Villages & Brewery Town: Private 1-Day Cycling Near Kyoto Review
Book now: Check availability
Backroads Exploring Japan’s Rural Life & Nature: Half-Day Bike Tour Near Kyoto
Dive into the tranquil backroads of rural Japan on this half-day cycling tour near Kyoto.
You’ll embark on a beginner-friendly 9-mile ride through picturesque agricultural landscapes, stopping at historic temples and a natural spring. The tour starts with a convenient 20-minute bullet train ride from Kyoto to Maibara Station, the tour’s departure point.
Along the way, you’ll visit Saienji Temple and Iwaya Zenkodo Temple, enjoying the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Refuel with complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks as you soak in the serene surroundings. The cycling route is suitable for all fitness levels, making it a great option for those new to biking.
If you’re seeking to extend your adventure, consider adding a visit to the nearby Lake Biwa or Hikone Castle.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a perfect 5.0 rating, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Japan’s rural life and natural beauty.
Read our full review: Backroads Exploring Japan’s Rural Life & Nature: Half-Day Bike Tour Near Kyoto Review
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Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour Through a Castle Town Near Kyoto, Osaka
Explore the historic town of Hikone on this half-day cycling tour, starting from the city’s main station.
You’ll spend the day pedaling through this charming castle town in Shiga Prefecture, located just a short distance from Kyoto and Osaka. Along the way, you’ll visit key attractions and take in the town’s picturesque scenery.
The tour includes the use of a bicycle, admission fees to all stops, and snacks to keep you fueled. However, any additional food or drinks will be at your own expense.
While the tour is private, catering only to your group, it’s not accessible for wheelchair users or those with certain medical conditions. A moderate level of fitness is required.
Pickup service is available from within a 25,000 yen radius, and a round-trip transfer from Kyoto can be arranged for an additional 20,000 yen.
The tour ends back at the starting point, Hikone Station. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this bike tour is a convenient and affordable way to explore Hikone’s history and scenery.
Read our full review: Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour Through a Castle Town Near Kyoto, Osaka Review
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Ninja Explore Private Tour, E-Bike & Training Mt. Hike Near Kyoto
Set out on a unique Ninja-themed adventure with the Ninja Explore Private Tour, an immersive e-bike and hiking experience near the historic city of Kyoto.
Starting at 9:30 AM, you’ll meet your guide at Kōnan Station and travel on electric bikes to the Koka Ninja House, where you’ll learn about the region’s ninja history.
After exploring the house, you’ll head out on a training hike up Mt. Hira, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy bottled water, coffee, and a provided lunch.
This private tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level, with a minimum height of 140 cm.
Children under 12 aren’t recommended due to the hilly terrain.
With confirmation at the time of booking, this Ninja-inspired adventure is an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Shiga Prefecture.
Read our full review: Ninja Explore Private Tour, E-Bike & Training Mt. Hike Near Kyoto Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for These Bike Tours?
The average group size for these bike tours varies, but you can typically expect a small, intimate group of around 10-15 riders. This allows for a more personalized experience as you explore the sights at your own pace.
Do the Tours Provide Helmets and Other Safety Equipment?
Most bike tour providers offer helmets and other safety gear to ensure your comfort and security on the ride. They prioritize your wellbeing, so you can focus on enjoying the scenic routes.
Are the Bikes Suitable for People With Different Fitness Levels?
The bikes are suitable for various fitness levels. Many tours offer a range of bike models, from standard to electric, allowing participants of different abilities to comfortably explore the area. The guides can also adjust the pace to accommodate the group’s needs.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Meet Specific Interests?
Yes, the tours can be customized to meet your specific interests. Many operators offer flexible itineraries that can be tailored to your preferences, whether you’re interested in cultural sites, natural landscapes, or a combination of both.
Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for the Participants?
Most bike tour operators don’t have strict age or weight restrictions, but they may have recommendations based on the tour’s difficulty level. You’ll want to check with each provider to ensure the tour fits your needs and physical abilities.
Sum Up
Shiga Prefecture offers a diverse range of bike tours, from exploring rural villages and a brewery town to traversing a historic castle town and even hiking with ninja training. Whether you’re seeking a half-day excursion or a full-day adventure, these tours provide an immersive experience in Japan’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The variety of options ensures there’s a cycling experience to suit every traveler’s interests and fitness level.