Fun Kyoto Ride! Bamboo Trails, Farm Harvest & Local Eats

Embarking on a Kyoto scooter tour can be a fantastic way to see the city beyond the usual crowded temples and bustling streets. This experience promises a combination of scenic riding, hands-on farm activity, and cultural visits — all while riding an eco-friendly EV scooter.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to glide through quieter, less touristy bamboo forest paths that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a secret world. Second, the immersive harvesting activity at BNR Farm offers a genuine taste of rural life, which is increasingly rare in popular Japan travel itineraries. Lastly, the Kyoto-style lunch featuring vegetables you’ve picked yourself makes for a memorable, delicious meal that truly highlights local ingredients.

That said, a key consideration is the requirement of an international driver’s license—which is essential for renting the scooter. It might add a layer of planning for those unfamiliar with licensing in Japan. This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, culinary experiences, and want a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path taste of Kyoto.

Good To Know

• Eco-friendly transportation: Ride quiet, zero-emission EV scooters through scenic Kyoto landscapes.
• Authentic farm experience: Harvest seasonal vegetables at BNR Farm, adding a genuine rural touch.
• Culinary highlight: Enjoy a Kyoto-style meal featuring your own harvested vegetables.
• Cultural visits: Explore historic temples like Shoji-ji and Matsuo Taisha with over 1,300 years of history.
• Limited group size: Intimate tours (max 6 participants) allow for personalized attention.
• Weather considerations: Tours might be canceled if rain probability exceeds 60%, so check the forecast.
• Pre-booking required: At least 2 days in advance, especially during busy seasons.
• Language support: Guides speak English and Japanese, making it accessible for international travelers.
• Flexibility: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for full refunds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Kyoto on an EV Scooter: The Perfect Balance of Fun and Authenticity

When considering how best to experience Kyoto, many travelers seek a blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and culinary delights. This tour hits all those marks, with the added bonus of being eco-friendly and interactive.

Riding an electric scooter allows you to move comfortably through Kyoto’s less crowded areas, especially away from the popular Arashiyama bamboo grove. Instead, you’ll wind through a quieter bamboo trail that offers plenty of photo-worthy moments without the throngs of travelers. The scooters’ quiet hum makes for a peaceful ride, letting you soak in the surroundings fully—something that’s often missed when using larger vehicles or walking.

The Ride & Scenic Landscapes

The tour begins at a rental shop marked by a playful dinosaur face on its roof—a quirky detail that’s easy to spot. Once equipped with your scooter, guide, and safety gear, the journey begins. We loved the way the guides seamlessly led us through Kyoto’s hidden pockets—places most visitors never see. The less crowded bamboo forest is a highlight, offering a calming, almost meditative atmosphere.

Expect to enjoy scenic views of Kyoto’s countryside and traditional architecture, with the added thrill of feeling the wind as you ride. Several travelers have commented on the serenity of the experience, noting the absence of noisy traffic and the chance to enjoy nature more intimately.

The Farm Harvest Experience

A key highlight is the visit to BNR Farm, where you get to pick seasonal vegetables. This isn’t just a quick photo stop—guests have emphasized the hands-on aspect, with some describing it as a surprisingly authentic rural activity. The farm is a beautifully maintained space, and the activity is suitable for all levels of experience.

The harvest experience can vary depending on the season. In May and June, when crops aren’t in season, the activity is replaced with other farm work, ensuring the experience remains engaging. Guests have written that the farm staff are friendly and eager to teach, making it a fun, educational stop.

Savoring Kyoto-Style Lunch

After the farm, you’ll head to BUHEI for a traditional Kyoto-style lunch. Here, the vegetables you’ve picked are incorporated into the meal, providing a tangible connection between your activity and what’s on your plate. The meal features hight-quality ingredients, and the Hiraku-yaki (a traditional Japanese dish grilled on a heated clay plate) is a standout. Many reviewers have found this dining experience remarkable, especially since such dishes are usually reserved for high-end ryokans and luxury hotels.

Guests have highlighted that the local, fresh flavors of the vegetables elevate the meal beyond ordinary lunch fare, turning it into a cultural culinary adventure. The restaurant’s setting provides a cozy, authentic atmosphere, making the meal feel like a special occasion.

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Visiting Historic Temples

The tour also includes visits to two notable temples: Shoji-ji and Matsuo Taisha.

Shoji-ji Temple is renowned for its cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn, but its quiet beauty remains captivating year-round. It’s known as the “Temple of Flowers,” and many visitors appreciate the serenity and natural beauty it offers, especially during the less crowded seasons.

Matsuo Taisha, Kyoto’s oldest shrine with over 1,300 years of history, is dedicated to deities of sake brewing, agriculture, and water. It’s particularly meaningful for those interested in traditional Japanese craftsmanship and local spirituality. The shrine’s architecture and grounds are well-preserved, and visitors often find it a peaceful spot to absorb local spiritual practices.

Practical Details & Considerations

Rental & Licensing: A major point to keep in mind is the need for an international driver’s license. Japan doesn’t issue IDPs, so travelers should get one before arriving if they want to rent the scooter. For those with licenses from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, or Taiwan, a Japanese translation is necessary.

Group Size & Timing: The tour caters to small groups—up to 6 participants—which ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace. It’s a full-day experience, and the entire schedule is carefully curated to maximize scenic riding and cultural visits.

Weather & Cancellations: As with any outdoor activity, weather plays a crucial role. If rain probability exceeds 60%, the tour may be canceled. It’s wise to check the forecast and plan accordingly.

Booking & Flexibility: Reservations must be made at least 2 days in advance, and you can keep your plans flexible with the “pay later” option. Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Many Kyoto experiences focus on temples, tea ceremonies, or shopping. This tour takes a different approach—combining scenic, eco-friendly transportation with interactive farm work and authentic local cuisine.

The use of EV scooters ensures a quiet, environmentally conscious ride while offering a fun way to cover multiple sites efficiently. Guests consistently appreciate the chance to explore less touristy paths and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Kyoto’s natural landscapes.

The harvesting activity adds an educational, hands-on element that is rare in typical tours. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those eager to participate and learn about traditional farming practices.

The lunch at BUHEI is a culinary highlight, especially for foodies. The fact that you get to enjoy a carefully prepared Kyoto-style meal with vegetables you’ve cultivated yourself makes the experience more meaningful than a usual restaurant visit.

Finally, the inclusion of historic temples ensures you get a dose of Kyoto’s spiritual and cultural heritage without the crowds often found at more tourist-heavy sites.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable riding scooters. It’s ideal for those interested in local cuisine, farming, and cultural sites.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who like interactive, small-group experiences, this tour offers a relaxed, personalized vibe. It’s also a good fit for eco-conscious visitors, given the electric transportation.

However, it’s not suitable for those without an international driver’s license or travelers who prefer a more traditional, walking-based sightseeing itinerary. Also, if you’re visiting during rain-prone months, you might want to have a backup plan.

The Sum Up

This Kyoto scooter tour provides a well-rounded experience that combines scenic riding, cultural exploration, and authentic local flavors. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to see a quieter side of Kyoto while actively participating in farm life and savoring delicious, locally sourced dishes.

The small group size and flexible booking options make it a manageable and enjoyable adventure, while the focus on eco-friendly transportation aligns with modern travelers’ values. For anyone eager to move beyond the typical sightseeing routes and truly connect with Kyoto’s natural and culinary heritage, this tour is an excellent choice.

Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or culture seeker, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Kyoto’s peaceful countryside and timeless traditions.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, an international driver’s license is required to rent the EV scooter. Make sure to obtain an IDP before your trip, as they are not issued in Japan.

Can I participate if I don’t have farm experience?
Absolutely. The farm harvesting activity is designed to be accessible for all, and guides will provide instructions. It’s more about participation and fun than skill.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If the rain probability is 60% or higher, the tour may be canceled to ensure safety and comfort. Always check the weather forecast before booking.

How long is the tour?
While not explicitly stated, the tour appears to be a full-day experience, covering riding, farm activities, meals, and temple visits.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Given the need for long sleeves, long pants, and closed shoes, it’s better suited for older children or teenagers who can comfortably ride scooters and participate in farm activities.

Are there food or drink expenses not included?
Yes, other than the provided lunch, additional food, beverages, or souvenirs are not included in the price.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is the experience available in languages other than Japanese?
Guides speak both English and Japanese, making it accessible for international travelers.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

In sum, this Fun Kyoto Ride offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and cuisine—perfect for those wanting to experience Kyoto authentically and actively. It’s a memorable way to see parts of the city many travelers overlook, and the inclusion of farm harvesting and local dining makes it stand out among typical sightseeing tours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby