Shinjuku to the Imperial Palace: Contrasts, Comfort, and Freedom on an E-Bike

Shinju to the Imperial Palace!
Shinju to the Imperial Palace!

What comes to mind when you think of Tokyo? Busy? Bustling? Ultra-modern? That’s only part of the picture. So, what’s the real Tokyo like?

One way to uncover its authenticity is by traveling west to east—experiencing its dramatic contrasts along the way. But how can you best take in this transformation?

There’s no better way than by cycling from Shinjuku to the Imperial Palace. Here are four reasons why a private e-bike tour along this route is a must for you.

  1. See Tokyo’s dynamic contrasts.
  2. Get the best city overview.
  3. Ride effortlessly with e-bikes.
  4. Enjoy the freedom of a private tour.

Let’s see them in detail.

See the Dynamic Change of Tokyo’s Landscape on a Bike

At a shrine in Tokyo.
At a shrine in Tokyo.

Shinjuku, with its towering skyscrapers and neon lights, is the heart of modern Tokyo, buzzing with shopping, entertainment, and business hubs.

In contrast, the Imperial Palace, surrounded by greenery and historic moats, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past.

You’ll experience both areas in a single ride!

And everything in between. As you pedal through different districts, you’ll witness Tokyo’s transformation—from high-energy urban streets to quieter, tree-lined avenues. This journey showcases Tokyo’s incredible diversity.

For First-Time Visitors: Get a Great Overview of Tokyo

A peaceful park in the busy city of Tokyo.
A peaceful park in the busy city of Tokyo.

If this is your first time in Tokyo, this bike tour is the perfect way to grasp the city’s layout. Starting in the west at Shinjuku and traveling toward the Imperial Palace in central Tokyo, you’ll gain a clear sense of how the city’s neighborhoods connect.

This ride helps you get oriented—whether you want to explore hidden gems later or navigate Tokyo with confidence. Understanding the city’s geography will make planning the rest of your trip much easier.

A Long Journey, But E-Bikes Make It Effortless

In front of the Akasaka Palace.
In front of the Akasaka Palace.

The biggest problem of this ride is the distance of 20km for the round trip. A long-distance bike ride in a foreign city might sound exhausting. No one wants to wear themselves out while traveling. But with an e-bike? No problem!

Tokyo’s terrain isn’t entirely flat—there are slopes, especially around Akasaka. But with an electric-assist bike, you’ll glide up hills effortlessly and enjoy the journey without panting. 

Even on flat roads, the e-bike’s pedal assist keeps you moving smoothly, making a long-distance ride feel comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a casual rider, the e-bike ensures you can focus on sightseeing rather than struggling with exhaustion.

Even a 20km ride feels effortless with an e-bike. Yes, you can do it with an e-bike!

This private e-bike experience is the ultimate customizable tour in Tokyo.

Your pace is our pace. Stop at the five rings.
Your pace is our pace. Stop at the five rings.

A private bike tour means “Tokyo, your way. No fixed schedules—just a flexible, personalized adventure.” Unlike group tours with rigid schedules, this private e-bike tour lets you set the pace and choose where to stop. Your pace is our pace.

Want to take a coffee break at a local café? Curious about a back street that catches your eye? You’re free to explore as you like. Whether you prefer an sporty ride or a relaxed sightseeing experience, the tour adapts to your style.

Example Itinerary: Shinjuku to the Imperial Palace by E-Bike

Here’s a sample on a winter day of what your private Tokyo e-bike tour could look like:

Start at Shinjuku: A Lively Urban Hub

After a quick introduction to Tokyo’s road rules, we begin our adventure. Shinjuku can be crowded, but we take less-crowded routes to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

National Stadium: A Refreshing Ride

We shared the news about the covid-19 at the National Stadium.
We shared the news about the covid-19 at the National Stadium.

Cycling past the National Stadium is the first stop. The roads, improved for the Tokyo Olympics, offer a smooth and scenic ride. With the winter sky above and the breeze on our faces, it’s an energizing start.

Also, this renovation is totally related to the Tokyo Olympics 2020, which was not held in 2020. We shared the Covid-19 situation at that time. Such a story adds a local spice to the private bike tour.

The Beauty of the Imperial Palace

At the historical gate.
At the historical gate.

After several traffic light stops (perfect for chatting!), we arrive at the wide-open views of the Palace moats. The ride along the waterside is peaceful and refreshing.

Feel the breeze!
Feel the breeze!

Winter cycling? Absolutely! Some say winter isn’t ideal for biking, but with the right gear, it’s comfortable—and the clear winter sky makes for spectacular views.

A Relaxing Coffee Break at Hibiya Park

We talked a lot over a cup of coffee, which was a nice break.
We talked a lot over a cup of coffee, which was a nice break.

Today’s ride is an adventure of 20km, so we take a well-deserved coffee break. Flexibility is a key benefit of private tours—you decide when and where to stop.

Cycling past the Japanese Parliament

Capturing a memorable photo!
Capturing a memorable photo!

We pause for a fun group challenge: capturing a memorable photo in front of the Japanese Parliament. We work together to get the perfect shot!

Cherry Blossoms in January—Can You Believe It?

Can you believe it? A cherry blossom in January.
Can you believe it? A cherry blossom in January.

As a grand finale, we cycle through Yoyogi Park—a rare natural oasis in the heart of the city. Parkgoers stroll with their dogs, relax, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Even in January, cherry blossoms can be found in hidden spots. As your guide, I’ll take you to the best locations for a surprising touch of spring. It’s a heartwarming moment, especially for flower lovers.

What’s Common in Tokyo Can Be Uncommon for Visitors

A train passes, which is surprising.
A train passes, which is surprising.

We cross a railway crossing, watching Tokyo’s everyday trains pass by—a simple yet rare sight for visitors from abroad.

Private tours ensure that every rider finds something special.

Guest Feedback: What People Love About This Tour

Thanks to their smiles, the tour was so fun!
Thanks to their smiles, the tour was so fun!

After the ride, our guests shared their excitement about the experience. Here’s what one guest had to say:

We had a very exciting and beautiful bike trip around Tokyo with the always smiling and informative guide Kazuma. Got a lot of nice photos from every stop and good suggestions for what to do later.

Their words reflect what makes this tour special: a fun, personalized, and memorable way to explore Tokyo.

Summary: Your Ultimate Private E-Bike Tour in Tokyo

  1. See Tokyo’s dynamic contrasts.
  2. Get the best city overview.
  3. Ride effortlessly with e-bikes.
  4. Enjoy the freedom of a private tour.
We will never forget their great smiles!
We will never forget their great smiles!

From the busy streets of Shinjuku to the historic beauty of the Imperial Palace, this private e-bike tour offers an unbeatable way to experience Tokyo’s contrasts. With the help of e-bikes, even a long journey becomes enjoyable, and the flexibility of a private tour ensures a personalized adventure.

Now it’s your turn to explore Tokyo like never before. Join our private e-bike tour and experience the city in a whole new way!

Next is your turn to maximize your experience in Tokyo by our private e-bike tour!
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.