Discover the rich ninja heritage of Japan’s Koka region on this captivating electric bicycle tour from Kyoto. Guests will explore key sites like the Koka Ninja House and Shingu Twin Castles, learning about the legendary art of ninjutsu along the way. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – participants can also enjoy the local culture by trying their hand at traditional Japanese coffee-making. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave visitors eager to uncover more of Koka’s mysterious past.
Key Points
- Explore the ninja heritage of Koka City, located just one hour from Kyoto, on this private 8-hour electric bicycle tour.
- Visit the Koka Ninja House, the only existing real ninja house, and the Ninja Center to learn about authentic ninja weapons and history.
- Discover the Shingu Twin Castles, a national historic site with impressive earthen walls, and enjoy ice cream and farm animal interactions at Narita Ranch.
- Participate in traditional Japanese activities like calligraphy and ninja-style coffee making during the tour.
- Customize your experience with optional activities like visiting the Koka Ninja Village and capturing unique photos at the JR Koka Station.
Tour Overview
This electric bicycle tour through Koka City, just an hour’s train ride from Kyoto, offers an immersive journey into Japan’s rich ninja heritage.
The 8-hour ‘Ninjas Homeland Electric Bicycle Private Tour’ provides an opportunity to explore the region’s historic sites, engage with local culture, and gain insights from a guide descended from ninja lineage.
Priced from €87.08 per person, the tour features visits to the Koka Ninja House, Ninja Center, and Shingu Twin Castles, as well as a stop at Narita Ranch for farm animal interactions and ninja-style coffee making.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and bilingual English-Japanese guides, this private tour promises an unforgettable cultural experience for individuals and families alike.
Itinerary Highlights
From Kyoto: Ninjas Homeland Electric Bicycle Private Tour
Itinerary Highlights
The Koka Ninja House boasts the only existing real Ninja House, featuring remarkable tricks like revolving doors and escape tunnels that transport visitors back in time.
The Ninja Center then displays an array of authentic Ninja weapons and historical documents, shedding light on the region’s rich heritage.
Venturing deeper into the woods, the tour uncovers the Shingu Twin Castles, a national historic site with commanding high earthen walls shrouded in mystique.
After exploring these captivating landmarks, the tour makes a stop at Narita Ranch, where guests can enjoy ice cream while interacting with friendly farm animals.
The experience culminates with a visit to the Guides House, where participants learn the art of Japanese calligraphy and Ninja-style coffee making.
Optional Activities
For those seeking additional adventures, the tour offers two optional activities.
Visitors can explore the Koka Ninja Village, a themed park showcasing a trick house and ninja training facilities, though it remains closed on Mondays.
At the Ninja Village, thrill-seekers can enjoy the world of the legendary shadow warriors, testing their skills and cunning in the interactive experiences.
Alternatively, guests can venture to the JR Koka Station, where they’ll discover captivating 3-D trick art perfect for capturing one-of-a-kind photographs.
Meanwhile, the JR Koka Station provides a unique photo opportunity, allowing travelers to become part of the illusions and capture memories of their journey through Japan’s historic ninja homeland.
What’s Included
The tour package includes a knowledgeable guide who’ll lead the adventure, as well as the rental of electric bicycles that allow for effortless exploration of the scenic landscape.
Travelers will also receive bottled water to stay hydrated and have the opportunity to learn traditional Japanese coffee-making techniques and write their names in the distinctive Katakana script as a memorable souvenir.
The tour fee covers the transportation by train to the historic town of Koka, as well as admission to the renowned Koka Ninja House, where visitors can marvel at the ingenious architectural features that once concealed ninja secrets.
Lunch is also provided, giving participants a chance to sample local cuisine and recharge during the jam-packed day.
Important Information
Participants meet the tour at 9:00 AM in front of the Kyoto Tourist Information Center at JR Kyoto Station, as this is the designated meeting point for the adventure.
To ensure a comfortable ride, the tour is suitable only for those who can comfortably operate a bicycle. Participants under 4’6" (140 cm) in height may find the electric bicycles challenging to manage.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves both cycling and walking.
With an engaging guide who’s a descendant of ninjas, participants can look forward to an immersive experience exploring Koka’s rich ninja heritage and rural landscapes.
Whether visiting the Ninja House or interacting with farm animals, this private tour offers a unique cultural adventure.
Customer Feedback
Overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants highlight the tour’s engaging guide, Taka, who’s a descendant of ninjas, and the unique opportunity to visit a traditional Japanese home as tour highlights.
Families particularly appreciated the tour’s flexibility and the chance for children to learn Japanese writing.
Reviewers raved about the personal interaction with Taka, who shared his deep knowledge of ninja history and culture.
Visitors were captivated by the Koka Ninja House, with its revolving doors and escape tunnels, and the chance to witness traditional Japanese coffee-making techniques.
Meeting Point
Travelers convene at the Kyoto Tourist Information Center located right outside the JR Kyoto Station, where the tour commences at 9:00 AM sharp. Taka, the guide descended from ninja lineage, greets participants and ensures everyone is ready to embark on the day’s adventure in Koka City.
The group gathers, eager to discover the secrets of the ninja homeland. With a friendly smile, Taka checks that all have arrived and distributes necessary equipment, such as electric bicycles.
Soon, the intrepid explorers depart, setting out on their journey to uncover the rich history and hidden wonders that await them in the land of the ninjas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Guide a Native Japanese Speaker?
The tour guide, Taka, is a native Japanese speaker. He is a descendant of ninjas and provides a personal, interactive experience, allowing participants to learn about Japanese culture and language through hands-on activities during the tour.
Can the Electric Bicycles Accommodate Larger Riders?
The electric bicycles can accommodate larger riders, as they are designed with adjustable seats and frames to fit a range of heights and weights. Participants must be at least 4’6" tall, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride for all.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?
There is no minimum number of participants required for this private tour. The tour can accommodate just a single traveler or a small group, providing a personalized experience tailored to the needs and preferences of the individuals involved.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?
The tour has a minimum height requirement of 4’6" (140 cm), so it’s not suitable for children under this size. Participants must be able to ride a bicycle comfortably for the duration of the tour.
Can the Tour Be Booked in Other Languages Besides English and Japanese?
The tour can be booked in other languages besides English and Japanese. According to the tour overview, the languages offered include English and Japanese, suggesting that the tour may be available in additional languages upon request or by special arrangement.
Recap
This electric bicycle tour takes visitors on a captivating journey to Koka City, the historic homeland of ninjas.
Explore iconic sites like the Koka Ninja House, learn traditional Japanese coffee-making, and engage in immersive experiences that bring the ninja legacy to life.
With scenic cycling, interactive activities, and knowledgeable guidance, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Kyoto’s fascinating ninja heritage.
