Are you ready to break free from the typical tourist trails? On our private e-bike tour, you’ll uncover Tokyo’s shitamachi, the city’s cultural heartland.
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Tokyo, our private e-bike tours offer a perfect blend of local culture, hidden gems, and scenic routes! Cycle beyond Asakusa, through vibrant fish markets and charming shopping streets in Kitasenju. Feel the breeze as you ride along the scenic Arakawa River and learn more about the city’s authentic local life!
Get the Highlights: 3 Merits
Looking for a unique way to explore Tokyo? This tour is perfect for you! Here’s what makes this tour special:
Let’s see more in detail below.
See the Authentic Local Life
Where do Tokyo locals live, and how? With a population of about 14 million, Tokyo is a dense city full of regional contrasts. On this tour, you’ll explore shitamachi — the cultural heartland of the city.
Shitamachi literally means “downtown” in Japanese, but it doesn’t refer to the bustling urban center you might imagine. Instead, it’s a place where nostalgic tradition and community sustain among modernity. Narrow backstreets, old wooden houses, and family-run shops create a nostalgic atmosphere that makes a huge contrast to the skyscrapers of Shinjuku or Shibuya.
When you cycle alone, this region might be just a monotonous backstreets. But, with a guide who was born and raised here, the same route would be all the more vibrant and fruitful, which makes the experience truly unforgettable.
Meet friendly locals and chat with them
Want to connect with Tokyo’s locals? Shitamachi residents are known for their warmth and friendliness, often greeting visitors with genuine smiles and heartfelt hospitality.
Small business owners take pride in their business, welcoming you into their shops with open arms. Whether it’s sharing a laugh with a local or chatting with them, these moments create a meaningful cultural connection. These interactions are what make shitamachi an unforgettable part of your journey — a place where Tokyo’s charm truly comes to life.
Enjoy Cycling Along the River with a Breeze
Cycling along Tokyo’s rivers is a refreshing and delightful experience. The Arakawa and Sumidagawa Riverside boasts wide, well-maintained paths with stunning views of the water in a city. — a perfect escape from Tokyo’s bustling streets, ideal for a leisurely ride.
E-Bikes for Effortless Exploration
Our e-bikes are designed for all ages and skill levels, with adjustable features to ensure a perfect fit. Thanks to their electric assistance, even non-avid cyclists can enjoy this 20km journey with ease — no sweat, no worries!
These e-bikes turn exploring Tokyo’s neighborhoods into an effortless adventure, letting you focus on the stunning scenery and unique experiences. Say goodbye to tired legs and hello to effortless exploration!
A Sample Itinerary on a Beautiful Day
If you’re staying at a hotel in Asakusa or Ueno, you can easily enjoy this private e-bike tour! Or, let’s meet at Asakusa to start a great adventure. Here’s what a typical tour on a nice and beautiful day in September might look like:
Let’s see the details below.
Let’s Get Started.
Let’s get started! After a quick briefing on road regulations and adjusting your bike for the perfect fit, it’s time for our first mission: capturing a great photo in front of the iconic Kaminarimon Gate. How is this pic?
Matsuchiyama Shoten
No journey into shitamachi is complete without a visit to a temple! Staying true to the tour’s theme of connecting with local culture, we stopped by Matsuchiyama Shoten and shared its rich history and unique background.
Imado Shrine
By the way, do you know the difference between shrines and temples?
Imado Shrine is a must-visit destination for its charming feline theme. From porcelain cats to artistic creations — and even a real cat deity — this shrine is a treasure trove for cat lovers. Whether you’re a fan of felines or just curious about local traditions, Imado Shrine is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Kitasenju: shitamachi, Tokyo’s Heartland
After winding through countless backstreets, we arrived at Kitasenju, a vibrant hub that perfectly embodies the spirit of shitamachi.
The narrow main street was lined with mom-and-pop shops, each brimming with character and charm. The tantalizing aromas from food stalls and the colorful displays in shop windows were irresistible. We couldn’t help but stop to sample some local delights: yakitori, barbecued skewered chicken.
Every corner of Kitasenju invited us to linger a little longer, making it a highlight of our journey.
At the Riverbank of the Arakawa River
Can you imagine how relaxing it feels to enjoy Japanese sweets while sitting by the riverbank? After a friendly chat at a local shop, we cycled to the peaceful Arakawa River and took a short break. The gentle breeze, the soothing sound of flowing water, and the delightful taste of traditional sweets made this moment unforgettable.
Along Arakawa River
Who would have thought you could cycle through such a vast open space in urban Tokyo? It’s like a highway for cyclists only, offering uninterrupted views and a sense of freedom rarely found in the city.
Sumida River, a Bittersweet Moment
As we returned to the urban side, the golden hour cast its magic. The warm hues of the sunset reflected on the tranquil waters of the Sumida River, creating a breathtaking view. It became a nice closure but it was really sad to end the tour for 3 hours.
Epilogue (Review from the guests)
A few days later, we received a review from the guests. It reminds us of such a lovely moment. Here is a quote.
Much recommended! Our guide Kazuma was very kind, funny and showed us some amazing local Tokyo spots you’d never find as a tourist. He also adapted the bike tour to our personal interests — yay for lots of local food tasting stops! Would definitely recommend this tour if you want to discover the city in a different, active & non-touristy way. Thanks Kazuma!
Lastly
Here is a recap. You will expect:
Ready to head for non-touristy areas in Tokyo and see the authentic life here?
For anyone wanting a truly authentic experience, our e-bike tours are the perfect local tour in Tokyo, designed to show you the city’s soul beyond the usual tourist spots.
Next is your turn to maximize your experience in Tokyo by our private e-bike tour!
We’d love to help you discover the city in a whole new way. Click here today and ask our availability.
