Hi, it's Yuki the tour guide or a fan of French literature: Arsène Lupin. We have been talking about our e bike tour through Arashiyama but I still cannot finish talking about what I would you like to experience. For example, Japanese rice field! Kyoto is often associated with bustling streets lined with ancient temples and iconic landmarks, but there’s another side of this historical city that few visitors get to experience: the tranquil beauty of its countryside. While most of the touring company include temples or shrines, we intentionally exclude those, thinking that you could find and visit those famous landmarks by yourself. Now, on our e-bike tours in Arashiyama, you can take a refreshing detour from the busy tourist areas and find yourself pedaling through serene rice fields, where time seems to slow down.
Discover Hidden Tranquility: Escape the Crowd in Arashiyama
While Arashiyama’s bamboo groves and Togetsu Bridge attract visitors from all over the world, the crowds can sometimes feel overwhelming. That is why we have Arashiyama tour that starts from 6 a.m. With our e-bikes, we guide you to quieter paths that wind through Kyoto’s countryside. The calm atmosphere of the rice fields offers a perfect escape, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the rustle of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds. It’s a chance to breathe deeply and truly connect with nature.
Rice Fields: A Timeless Symbol of Japanese Culture
Rice fields are more than just a picturesque backdrop; they are a cornerstone of Japanese culture and daily life. Their influence extends beyond food, shaping traditional Japanese architecture with storehouses for rice and inspiring iconic dishes like onigiri (rice balls) in the picture and sake, a staple in Japanese culinary culture.
For centuries, rice cultivation has sustained communities, shaped the landscape, and even influenced traditions and festivals. Riding through these fields, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the effort and care that goes into growing this staple food. You might spot local farmers tending their crops or see ancient irrigation systems still in use today, testaments to Japan’s harmonious relationship with nature.
In my elementary school, it was part of my class to plant rice on a rice field. And we got to observe its growth throughout the year.
The Changing Faces of the Rice Fields
As I observed how rice grows, it was one of the most mesmerizing experiences to see how they transform with the seasons. And our e-bike tour would offer you a new kind of beauty every time you visit as well:
Spring: Freshly flooded paddies reflect the blue sky and surrounding hills like mirrors, creating a dreamy and photogenic landscape.
Summer: The fields burst into vibrant green as rice plants grow tall, swaying gently in the breeze. The energy of life is palpable here.
Autumn: As the rice ripens, the fields turn a warm golden hue, contrasting beautifully with the red and orange foliage in the distance. It’s harvest season, and you might even catch a glimpse of farmers gathering their crops. (This is what you see in the first image)
Winter: After the harvest, the fields lie quiet and still, sometimes dusted with snow. The stark beauty of the bare landscape is a reminder of the cycles of nature. (The fifth image)
Each season tells a story, and experiencing these changes up close on an e-bike makes the journey even more special.
Why Join Us for This Unique Ride?
Our e-bike tours are designed to show you a side of Kyoto that might not come up at the top of google research, which I would like to call “hidden gem”, while also contributing to sustainable tourism by promoting eco-friendly travel options. By stepping away from the main attractions and exploring the countryside, you’ll not only enjoy a peaceful and immersive experience but also gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s rural heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, this ride through Kyoto’s rice fields is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Book your tour today and discover the serene charm of Kyoto’s countryside. Let’s ride into the heart of Japan together
In the next post, let’s take a break for a moment exploring Arashiyama, and let us introduce some benefits of e-bike tours!