Introduction to the Keinawa Cycle Road
The Keinawa Cycle Road is an enchanting cycling route that stretches through the picturesque landscapes of the Kansai region, Japan. Spanning approximately 180 kilometres, this smooth cycling route connects the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara, two cities rich in culture and history, with the coastal city, Wakayama. This route offers an incredible journey for cycling enthusiasts keen on exploring Japan’s serene countryside while enjoying the blend of nature and heritage.
It is possible to ride the route from Wakayama to Kyoto but for the purpose of this blog and based on our own experiences cycling the route, we will structure the blog as the route is named. 京 Kei = Kyo(to), 奈 Na = Nara and 和 Wa for Wakayama. For the purpose of this blog, we’ll also presume you’ve already seen the sights of Kyoto prior to starting the ride, but if you are looking for cycling routes in Kyoto and around Kyoto, please check our 1-day Kyoto Cycling routes blog. Speaking of which, it is possible to ride the whole of the Keinawa in 1-day (I did it – here’s the proof) but we feel it is best used as a path to explore the ancient capital at a slower and more relaxed pace.
In the summer of 2021 during a regular ride along the Kizu River, I came across the deteriorated markings of the Keinawa Cycle Road. At the time, I didn’t know much about it and couldn’t find any information in English or a GPX file.
Intrigued, I began exploring the Keinawa with the hope that when borders re-open, it would become a popular ‘go to’ cycle route for those seeking cycling adventures in Japan.
Route (Kyoto to Wakayama)
Route Highlights
Arashiyama to Yawata
The Keinawa cycle path starts near the Togetsu Bridge in Arashiyama, Kyoto famed for it’s bamboo forest and Monkey park, and I guess since the return of tourism-it’s crowds! However, the path starts just to the south east of the crowded area and it’s easy to take in the beautiful backdrop to this part of Kyoto without too many selfie sticks getting in the way. The first 20 kilometres of the Keinawa Cycle Road follows the cycle path along the Katsura river. However, for those staying in accommodation nearer central Kyoto or collecting a bike from RBRJ京都 and are not interested in starting their tour from Arashiyama or visiting the shrine at Matsuo Taisha, it’s easy to take the beautiful Kamo River south until their paths converge.
Once on the path, navigation is fairly straightforward with the path marked and English signs indicating the way. If you’ve skipped breakfast, there a couple of nice cycle friendly cafes just next to the river path, the newly opened Gonjuro Cafe と Morning Glory. However, I generally make my first pit-stop at Sakura-de-ai-kan. A popular rest stop for local cyclists due it location and viewing tower of scenic spot Sewaritei. Refreshments and toilets are available.
Not far away from Sakura-de-ai-kan is Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine (below), a 9th Centry Shinto Complex with a connection to Thomas Edison. More information on accessing Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine on our video, Exploring Yawata.
Yawata to Nara
From Sakura-de-ai kan, you’ll need to turn left onto the Kizu River. The signs for the Keinawa Cycle Road continue on the south side of the Gokobashi Bridge but I like to take the northern path for the first 5km and enjoy the views of the Tea Tree fields before crossing the wooden Kozu bridge.Route (Kyoto to Wakayama)
The path continues along the Kizu River until Kizu City, where you’ll turn right onto Route 163 and then a quick left to make your way down the Yamamatsu River and then Kano River, before passing Narayama Station and into the Nara section of the route. The ride along the Yamamatsu and Kano Rivers is really nice and peaceful with not many vehicles around, although the path is narrow in places.
On the Kano River, you’ll pick up the brown signs which symbolize you are in the Nara section of the route. Most of the Nara signs are written in Japanese, although the blue chevrons are on the floor so you should be able to find your way. After Narayama there is a small climb to take, which then rolls down towards Hishiage Kofun and the picturesque Minakami Pond. The path follows the pond around to the Heijo Palace grounds.
Once you are on the palace grounds I recommend riding around freely and checking out the area. There a few restaurants and cafes located near the south entrance. For those staying or spending more time sightseeing in Nara, the Deer Park, Todaiji and all main sights of Nara are two kilometers east. For those continuing on the Keinawa, you’ll need to exit the Palace grounds from the west just north of the trainline and follow the Keinawa signs to the Akishino River, which has some nice views of the city to the east. There are some junctions that cut across the cycle path along the Akishino River so do take care and obey the stop signs.
The Akishino River leads into the Saho River and then Asuka River before before picking up the long but smooth Katsuragi Cycle Path , which takes you deeper into Nara Prefecture. As you make our way along the Keinawa Cycle Road in Nara Prefecture, you’ll notice the signs for the wonderful Nara-Kuru routes and the Keinawa.
Katsuragi, Gose and Gojo
The Katsuragi Cycle path is smooth and leads south to the attractive towns of Katsuragi, Gose and Gojo. Most of the Keinawa Cycle Route is flat but it is at Gose where the main climb along the route begins. It’s a steady climb of 250 metres before a quick descent down to the Yoshino/Kino River.
The road meanders alongside the river for a while before cutting inland across the last of the Nara countryside before picking up the Kino River cycle path that leads all the way to Wakayama and the Nankai Ferry for cyclists heading to Shikoku.
What to Expect
The Keinawa Cycle Road promises an immersive experience in Japan’s natural splendor. Along the route, there are ample opportunities to explore cultural sites, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient shrines, and local museums.
One of the delights of travelling through this region is the opportunity to savour the local cuisine. From Kyoto’s delicate kaiseki dishes to Nara’s traditional mochi sweets and Wakayama’s fresh seafood, cyclists can indulge in a culinary journey as rewarding as the physical one.
まとめ
The Keinawa Cycle Road is more than just a cycling path; it’s an exploration of Japan’s heart and soul. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, this route offers an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Embrace the adventure and let the journey through Kyoto, Nara, and Wakayama inspire your spirit.
Cycle Friendly Accommodation on the Keinawa Cycle Road
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📍Kyoto City
Access: 10 Nakaozomecho, Arashiyama, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto City
Tel : +81-75-205-5323
Bike storage: In a guest room.
Cyclist friendly services:
✔︎ Air pump rental (British, American, French, air gauge)
✔︎ Maintenance tool rental
✔︎ Puncture repair kit
✔︎ Maintenance space provided (maintenance racks available)
✔︎ Bike storage *Limited number of bikes (free)
✔︎ Luggage storage (free)
✔︎ Laundry (paid)
✔︎ Wi-Fi available
Access: 3-396-2 Gojobashi Higashi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City
Tel: +81-525-2299
Bike storage: Indoor place
Cyclist-friendly services :
✔︎ Air pumps are available
✔︎ Bicycle tool rentals
✔︎ Luggage storage before and after check-in
✔︎ Showers available
✔︎ Coin laundry (fee required)
✔︎ Shared kitchen
✔︎ Bicycle shop nearby
✔︎ Public bath nearby
📍Nara City
Access : 1096, Takabatake-cho, Nara City, Nara, Japan
Tel : +81-742-26-3300
Bike storage: Carry it in a bicycle bag and store it in the guest room.
Cyclist-friendly services :
✔︎ Bicycle transport service
✔︎ Provision of maintenance space
✔︎ Luggage storage
Address : 254-1 Hokkeji-cho, Nara-shi, Nara 630-8001 Japan
Tel : +81-742-34-1131
Bike storage: Carry it in a bicycle bag and store it in the guest room.
Cyclist-friendly services :
✔︎ Bicycle transport service
✔︎ Provision of maintenance space
✔︎ Luggage storage
✔︎ Temporary use of the bath
Access : 1122 Takabatake-cho, Nara City, Nara, Japan
Tel : +81-742-23-2012
Bike storage: Bring and store it in the guest room as it is
Cyclist-friendly services :
✔︎ Bicycle transport service
✔︎ Maintenance space provided
✔︎ Air pump rental
✔︎ Temporary luggage storage
✔︎ Maintenance tools available for rental
✔︎ Bicycle racks available
📍WAKAYAMA CITY
Access: 26-1 Nanabancho, Wakayama City
Tel : +81-73-435-0055
Bike storage: Allowed in the guest room
Cyclist-friendly services :
✔︎ Rental of Pump and Tools
✔︎ Temporary luggage storage (before check-in/after check-out)
✔︎ Package receipt and delivery service (including bicycles)
✔︎ Rental of washing machines/spin-dryers, or laundry service (same-day/next-
morning delivery)
Access : 1-2-17 Kuroda, Wakayama City
Tel : +81-73-475-1088
Bike-storage : Allowed in the guest room
Cyclist-friendly services :
✔︎ Rental of Pump and Tools
✔︎ Temporary luggage storage (before check-in/after check-out)
✔︎ Package receipt and delivery service (including bicycles)
✔︎ Rental of washing machines/spin-dryers, or laundry service
CHARLIE’S BED – BIKE HOSTEL SPOT(★★)
Access : 5-46-1, Motoderamachi, Wakayama City
Bike storage: Allowed in the guest room
Cyclist-friendly services :
✔︎ Each room has a unit bath and mini kitchen.
✔︎ Rental of room wear and sandals
✔︎ There is a space where you can self-maintain your bicycle, including air pumps,
maintenance tools, and car wash equipment.
✔︎ There are two coin laundry machines, so you can lighten your load on the go.
Available 24 hours a day. Dryers included.
✔︎ After checking out, you can wash off the sweat you worked up during your ride. Open to non-guests as well.
Access : 5-6 Shindori, Wakayama City
✔︎ Washing bicycles and securing workspace
Tel : +81-50-3529-6550
Bike storage: Can be stored in a locked area with no public access
Cyclist-friendly services :
✔︎ Rental of sports bike pumps and repair tools
✔︎ Temporary luggage storage (before check-in/after check-out)
✔︎ Pick-up and delivery service for home delivery (including bicycles)
✔︎ Rental of washing machines/dryers, or laundry service
✔︎ Information on nearby cycling paths and cycle stations
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