Bicycle Tours in Tokyo

Dec 1, 2023 ยท 3 min read

Tokyo Bicycle Tour Itineraries from Kanda

Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Tokyo by bike, starting from the historically rich Kanda area. Here are a few suggested itineraries, categorized by ride length:

Short Ride: Culture & Pop Ramble (Approx. 2-3 hours / 10-15 km)

This route explores the areas immediately surrounding Kanda, blending traditional culture with modern pop culture.

  • Start: Kanda Station Area: Begin near the station or your accommodation in Kanda.
  • Akihabara Electric Town: Cycle south into the heart of anime, manga, and electronics. Cruise the main street (Chuo Dori, pedestrianized on Sunday afternoons) and backstreets.
  • Yushima Seido: Head north towards a quiet Confucian temple near the Kanda River, offering a peaceful contrast.
  • Kanda Myojin Shrine: Visit one of Tokyo’s most important and colorful Shinto shrines, known for blessing tech gadgets.
  • Ueno Park (Optional Extension): Cycle a bit further north to explore Tokyo’s largest park, home to museums, Ueno Zoo, and Shinobazu Pond.
  • Return: Loop back towards Kanda.

Medium Ride: Imperial Palace & Waterfront Charm (Approx. 4-5 hours / 20-30 km)

A classic route encompassing the Imperial Palace grounds, upscale shopping districts, and the historic waterfront.

  • Start: Kanda: Head south towards the Imperial Palace.
  • Imperial Palace East Garden (Kokyo Higashi Gyoen): Cycle around the palace moats and visit the public East Garden (site of the former Edo Castle). Note: Cycling inside the garden might be restricted, park your bike and walk.
  • Marunouchi & Tokyo Station: Admire the architecture of the renovated Tokyo Station and the surrounding business district.
  • Ginza: Cruise through Tokyo’s most famous upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment district.
  • Tsukiji Outer Market: Cycle towards the vibrant outer market (the inner wholesale market has moved). A great spot for a seafood snack break.
  • Sumida River Terrace: Enjoy a pleasant ride along the river path, offering views of the city skyline and bridges.
  • Ryogoku (Optional): Detour slightly to see the Kokugikan Sumo Stadium.
  • Return: Cycle back towards Kanda, perhaps via Nihonbashi.

Long Ride: Grand Tokyo Loop (Approx. 6-8 hours / 40-50+ km)

An ambitious ride covering major central Tokyo landmarks, crossing the bay (or enjoying views), and returning via the Sumida River. Requires good fitness.

  • Start: Kanda: Follow the Medium Route path towards the Imperial Palace and Ginza.
  • Tsukiji Outer Market: Pass through or stop for refreshments.
  • Hamarikyu Gardens: Cycle past this beautiful landscape garden (consider parking and walking inside).
  • Rainbow Bridge Viewpoint / Odaiba: Head towards the waterfront. While cycling over the Rainbow Bridge isn’t straightforward (requires walking the bike on a specific path), you can cycle to Shibaura Pier for views or cycle across other bridges towards the Odaiba area. Explore Odaiba Seaside Park for iconic views of the bridge and skyline.
  • Cross Back: Cycle back towards central Tokyo via a different bridge like the Tokyo Gate Bridge (if routes allow) or head north through Koto Ward.
  • Sumida River: Cycle north along the river, possibly passing Kiyosumi Garden or the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo area.
  • Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple: Visit Tokyo’s oldest temple and the Nakamise-dori market street.
  • Ueno Park: Cycle through or around the park.
  • Return to Kanda: Complete the loop back to the starting area.

Note: These are suggested routes. Always check local traffic rules, cycling path availability, and be mindful of pedestrians. Consider using navigation apps designed for cycling. Distances and times are approximate and can vary based on pace, stops, and specific routing.