Cycling and cooking experience in the countryside (e‑bike)

Look forward to a relaxing morning in the countryside, cycling through beautiful landscapes and gaining an authentic glimpse into everyday Japanese life beyond the bustle of the big city.

Make your own way by local train to the peaceful village of Hira, set by Lake Biwa, around half an hour from Kyoto’s lively city centre. Upon arrival at Shiga Station, your guide will be waiting to help you set off on your e‑bike. The route follows the scenic roads along Lake Biwa and continues through small villages to the foothills of the majestic Hira Mountains. Along the way, you can soak up the tranquil surroundings and admire traditional houses nestled among lush rice fields. 

Your guide will share the history of the area and stories of village life, while you stop at small shrines and narrow local lanes where time seems to stand still. The atmosphere is wonderfully authentic, offering a genuine sense of rural Japan far from the crowds of tourists. 

In the village, you’ll be welcomed into a local family’s home, where your hosts invite you to join them in preparing a traditional meal. Guided by the lady of the house, you’ll learn how to cook a homemade dish using fresh, locally grown ingredients from nearby fields. The relaxed atmosphere and the aroma of steaming rice and vegetables make this experience both heart-warming and truly memorable. 

Special dietary requirements are, of course, taken into consideration. 

After enjoying your homemade lunch, you’ll cycle back through the beautiful countryside on your e-bike before catching the local train back to explore Kyoto’s many attractions. 

Duration: Approx. 4.5 hours

Group size: Maximum 8 people

This excursion is open to TourCompass’ own guests only.

We recommend that you book the excursion when booking the tour.