As spring graces Kyoto, the city welcomes its visitors with many activities to do that are no longer confined to the indoors. As the temperature begins to climb, it’s the perfect time to hop on a bike or go on a hike to capture the natural sights of the city’s surroundings. Whether you’re looking for a slow-paced stroll or something a little more upbeat, our curated list of activities to explore Kyoto in Spring will be a memorable experience.

Cycling in Kyoto

Cycling in Kyoto is one of the best ways to explore the city and uncover its hidden gems, historical sites, and breathtaking landscapes. Since most of Kyoto’s sights are located in a compact area, cycling enables you to navigate without worrying about traffic jams, and it’s the preferred mode of transportation for locals, making Kyoto renowned as a bike-friendly city. 

Companies like Kyoto City Authorized Bicycle Rental Store have well curated maps for cyclists to explore. With pristine bike paths and a compact layout, navigating between attractions in Kyoto is very convenient and efficient. If you happen to stay near our Miru hotels, consider a ride along the Kamo-gawa river for a picturesque route. Additionally, we provide a series of tour maps, complete with our recommended places and sites to visit as you explore the city. To view the map, visit our website: https://mirucollection.com/mirukyoto/amenities/

Whether cruising through traditional neighbourhoods or pedalling past iconic landmarks, cycling offers a practical and enjoyable way to connect with Kyoto’s culture and scenery.

Hiking Daimonji Mountain

Mt. Daimonji, a popular hiking spot in Kyoto, offers unparalleled city views and is particularly stunning at sunset. It is one of the most accessible trails in Kyoto with a one-hour round trip experience. The trail begins near Ginkakuji temple, leading hikers to the iconic kanji character “Dai” on the mountain’s side, set ablaze during the Obon festival. While many visitors stop at the main viewpoint, an additional 15-minute hike to the peak reveals breathtaking vistas of southern Kyoto and even Osaka. Starting from the entrance of Ginkakuji temple, the trail follows a riverside path before ascending to the viewpoint, making it a manageable and rewarding hike for visitors. It’s a wonderful experience to escape the bustle of the city centre, and discover the serene, yet often overlooked, natural beauty of Kyoto. 

Scenic Kyoto Running Routes

Running in Kyoto isn’t just about exercise; it’s a way to de-stress and boost your spirits. The city boasts several scenic running routes that turn a simple jog into a memorable experience. The National Garden Grounds of the Imperial Palace is a favourite spot, offering kilometres of paths winding past historic sites like the Kyoto Imperial Palace and numerous shrines. Step into Kyoto’s heart on a 4-kilometre walk amidst lush greenery and countless shrines, offering tranquillity and beauty throughout the seasons, check out our map course recommendation here.

Another top choice is the Kamo River Paths, where runners can enjoy miles of picturesque views, especially during cherry blossom season. Follow the eastern route from Nanzenji Temple to Ginkaku-ji Temple, where shrines and temples adorn the landscape amidst the mountain’s foothills, stretching for a total of 9 kilometres.  Check out our map course recommendation from Nanzenji Temple to the Philosopher’s Path, along the Kamo River here.

Enjoy your run feeling inspired by Kyoto’s beauty along these scenic routes.

From scenic hikes to bicycle rides, and invigorating runs, each activity offers a distinctively enriching experience in Kyoto. For more activities to enhance your trip to this historical city, visit us on our social media accounts @mirukyotonishiki and @mirukyotogion.