Jison-In Buddhist temple. Learn about Japanese history and customs.

Two cyclists lift large glasses of draft beer in a busy bar in Japan. Wearing O cycle Japan jerseys.

Riding into the sunset on the way to Osaka city.

Cyclists push their bike up a ramp in an underground pedestrian tunnel.

4 Days in Kansai (City)

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Difficulty Level

This Cities of Kansai tour is designed for ease, comfort, and cultural immersion, with all the logistics handled so you can focus on the experience. Enjoy guided cycling through iconic cities, luggage transfers between accommodations, and thoughtfully chosen stays ranging from ryokan to a Buddhist temple. Daily rides are supported by providing a pre-mapped route, with bikes fitted on day one and routes planned to balance scenery, culture, and enjoyment. Traditional meals, market visits, and temple experiences are woven throughout, creating a seamless journey through Japan’s cultural heart.

Duration: 5 Days

Season: Spring & Fall

Group Size: Up to 8 people

Accommodations: Comfort: Western-style hotels, Japanese Ryokans, Buddhist temple

Difficulty: Moderate, Great Fitness Required, 40-70 kms (20-43 mi) / day

What’s Included: Pre-mapped routing, Lodging, Luggage transfers, Bike and helmet rentals, Four breakfasts, One dinners

Day 1: Arrival in Osaka

Arrive in Osaka and check in to the hotel. After settling in, explore the area including Osaka Castle. In the evening, we enjoy dinner in the lively Temma district, known for its local food culture.

Day 2: Osaka to Kyoto

Cycle north toward Kyoto, following rivers and quiet paths out of the city. Along the way, visit the Panasonic Museum and stop at the Sakura-deai Visitor Center before continuing on to a sake museum. Arriving in Kyoto, explore gardens and temples before spending the evening near Nishiki Market, wandering its narrow lanes, food stalls, and small museums.

Distance: 60 km (37 mi)
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Western-style hotel

Day 3: Kyoto to Otsu

A shorter day filled with iconic sights, cycle through temple grounds and discover Ginkaku-ji and its beautifully designed Silver Pavilion gardens. Follow the Philosopher’s Path and continue on to Nanzen-ji, exploring its gardens, aqueducts, and temple complex before riding to the shores of Lake Biwa. Stay at a Buddhist temple on a hillside above Otsu, visit the Otsu-e Art Museum, and enjoy a special vegan temple meal in the evening.

Distance:40 km (25 mi)
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Buddhist temple

Day 4: Otsu to Nara

Ride south toward Nara, passing through the green tea town of Uji and visiting Byodo-in Temple and its famous Phoenix Hall. Wide cycling paths lead past tea fields and through peaceful countryside before arriving in Nara, where we spend time with the city’s free-roaming deer. Finish the day at our ryokan, enjoying a traditional evening atmosphere.

Distance: 55 km (34 mi)
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Western-style hotel or Japanese Ryokan

Day 5: Departure

After breakfast, check out and explore the town of Nara or venture to your next location. With Nara station nearby, departures are smooth, and there’s time to reflect on a journey that blended cycling, culture, food, and landscapes across one of Japan’s most fascinating regions.

Meals: Breakfast

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Pre-mapped Routing
Lodging
Luggage Transportation
Bike and Helmet Rental
Four Breakfasts
One Dinners

Spring 2026

Sumo wrestling practice in Wakayama city.

Fall 2026

Large city Buddha statue with gold designed background.