FAQs & Rain Policy
Important: Riding in the rain is neither fun nor safe (trust us). Please help us by keeping an eye on email when the skies are grey. We will always do our best to get out on the bikes and we will always refund you in case of cancellation, but please make sure you are contactable.
1. In case of rain, how do you decide whether to run the tour? How can you inform me?
The activity will be cancelled if the previous day’s weather forecast (Japan Meteorological Agency) says the chance of rain is more than 60%. We will inform you by email by 7pm the evening before departure so please be sure to check your mail the night before the tour. If you have any questions, please get in touch!
2. What if it’s raining on the day of the tour?
In the event of surprise rain, please get in touch by email and we discuss case-by-case.
3. Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes. Prior reservation is required. Booking 2 days in advance is highly recommended, especially spring and autumn.
4. What should I bring?
Be sure to wear something comfortable, jeans are not recommended for biking in Kyoto. If you have anything to carry, bring a knapsack or backpack. Bikes are equipped with bottle holders but no baskets. If you are checking out of your accommodation, feel free to leave your luggage with us while you are out.
5. What kind of bicycle do you provide?
Our standard bikes are ‘Trek’ and ‘Giant’ Hybrid bikes. We have a range of sizes catering from 145 cm and up. We also stock kids models and if you let us know advance, can source ladies bikes with seats for young children.
6. Is there an age limit?
There is no set age limit, but all under 18s must be physically capable of riding and be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If your kids are under 145cm or you are travelling with small children, please consider a private family tour as we will be able to tailor more to your needs
7. How fit should I be?
There are a couple of hills in Kyoto and the full course can be over 7 hours of continuous (if light) exercise. If you are really worried about fitness, you could try a shorter course, or send us an email and we can design a private course as easy as you like!
8. How and who should I contact if I need to cancel the tour?
We often have riders on a waiting list, so please send us an e-mail in advance if you need to cancel. A full refund is available to guests who cancel at least 24 hours in advance. This is not available for no shows or those guests who cancel with less than 24 hours notice.
9. What kind of lunch do you provide?
This can change depending on the season and the tastes of that day’s riders, ranging from a Japanese ‘bento’ lunch box with rice, to a sit-down udon meal. If you are vegetarian, vegan, or have religious or personal restrictions, please inform us in advance and we will do our best to accommodate you.
10. Do I need to bring extra money?
Japan is not a tipping country so no worries there! A few thousand yen is probably a good idea though, especially on our shorter courses as food is not included.
11. Do you ride in winter?
We sure do!
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OUR ADDRESS
Cycle Kyoto, 7 Higashikujō Nishisannōchō
Minami Ward, Kyoto City