From Kyoto: E-Biking & Ninjas Training Mt. Hiking in Koka

Discover the hidden gems of Koka through an exhilarating adventure that blends the thrill of e-biking with the mystique of ninja training. This immersive 7-hour tour whisks you from Kyoto to scenic landscapes, where you’ll hike up the sacred Mt. Iwao, explore the Twin Castles, and uncover the secrets of the historic Koka Ninja House. Guided by knowledgeable professionals, you’ll embark on a journey that promises to captivate your senses and leave you yearning for more. With convenient transportation and a customizable itinerary, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Koka’s rich cultural heritage.

Key Points

This 7-hour excursion combines e-biking, ninja training, and hiking Mt. Iwao in the historic town of Koka, with pricing starting at $95.08 per person.
The tour departs from JR Konan Station in Koka City, approximately 1 hour by train from JR Kyoto Station, with a meeting time of 9:35 AM.
Highlights include exploring Koka’s ninja heritage at the Ninja House, visiting Twin Castles, and experiencing traditional ninja coffee brewing methods.
The tour package includes a professional guide, electric bike rental, bottled water, and entrance fees, with lunch available at an additional cost.
The itinerary can be customized for rainy days or Ninja House closures, with alternatives like indoor ninja activities and shorter hikes for guests with limited mobility.

Tour Overview and Pricing

This excursion blending e-biking and ninja training in Koka spans 7 hours and costs from $95.08 per person.

Adventurers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also reserve their spot now and pay later, with no upfront payment required.

The activity includes e-biking, hiking Mt. Iwao, visiting the Koka Ninja House, and exploring the Twin Castles. Participants will gain insight into ninja history and culture while seeing the natural beauty of the region.

With a convenient meeting point at JR Konan Station and easy access from Kyoto, this tour offers an unforgettable blend of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery.

Ready to pedal more of Kyoto? More cycling tours we recommend

Location and Meeting Point

The tour departs from JR Konan Station in Koka City, which is approximately a 1-hour train ride from JR Kyoto Station. Participants meet their guide at the JR Konan station gate at 9:35 AM, after taking the 8:21 AM train from Kyoto that transfers at JR Kusatsu.

Station	Departure Time	Travel Duration
JR Kyoto	8:21 AM	–
JR Kusatsu	–	15 min
JR Konan	9:35 AM	1 hour

This convenient meeting location and transportation plan ensures a seamless start to the adventurous day exploring Koka’s ninja heritage and natural wonders.

Highlights and Activities

Visitors enjoy Koka’s rich ninja heritage, exploring the only existing Ninja House with its revolving door and escape tunnel.

They’ll tour the Ninja Center, which displays an array of weapons and clothing once used by these legendary warriors.

The experience continues with a visit to the Twin Castles, hidden in the woods and listed as National Historic Sites that date back over 450 years.

After exploring these historical gems, hikers ascend Mt. Iwao, a sacred training mountain adorned with rock Buddha statues and beautiful lakes.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy coffee brewed using a ninja’s traditional methods and receive a personalized Japanese name tag as a souvenir.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour package includes a professional guide fee, electric bike rental, a coffee brewing demonstration using traditional ninja methods, a personalized Japanese name tag souvenir, bottled water, and entrance fees to the Koka Ninja House.

Lunch, priced between 600-1000 yen, is also provided, while any personal expenses are excluded from the cost.

Guests will enjoy exploring the historic Twin Castles, discovering ninja weapons and clothing at the Ninja Center, and hiking to the sacred Mt. Iwao.

With a range of activities and cultural experiences, this tour offers a well-rounded adventure for visitors seeking an immersive glimpse into Koka’s rich ninja heritage.

Important Information

This tour isn’t suitable for everyone – individuals under 4 ft 6 in (140 cm) or children under 12 won’t be able to participate. Riders must be able to comfortably operate bicycles, and long sleeves and pants are recommended for the hiking portion.

However, the itinerary can be customized for rainy days or if the Ninja House is closed, ensuring guests still enjoy an immersive cultural experience in Koka.

The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about sharing Koka’s rich history and traditions. They’ll tailor the experience to accommodate any special needs or preferences, so guests can make the most of their adventure.

With e-bikes and guided hiking, even those with limited mobility can explore the beautiful natural landscapes and historic sites that make this tour so unique.

Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Kyoto

Customizable Itinerary

Flexible tour plans ensure guests can tailor the experience to their needs, whether adapting to inclement weather or accommodating special interests.

The tour operator offers alternative itineraries to ensure the day remains an unforgettable adventure, even in less than ideal conditions:

Rainy day plans may include exploring the Ninja Center, touring the Twin Castles, and experiencing ninja-themed activities indoors.
If the Ninja House is closed, the itinerary can focus more on the scenic Mt. Iwao hike and immersive cultural experiences at the guide’s home.
Guests with limited mobility can opt for a shorter hike or enjoy the sights from the electric bikes.
Adventurous travelers may request to extend the hike or add Ninja training sessions.
The knowledgeable guides work closely with each group to customize the day according to their interests and abilities.

Train and Travel Details

To reach the tour’s starting point, guests catch the 8:21 AM train from JR Kyoto Station, changing at JR Kusatsu for the final leg to JR Konan Station in Koka City. The guide’ll meet the group at the station gate at 9:35 AM, kicking off the day’s adventure.

Train	Departure	Arrival
JR Kyoto	8:21 AM	–
JR Kusatsu	–	8:57 AM
JR Konan	–	9:25 AM

The roughly 1-hour journey from Kyoto offers a scenic glimpse of the countryside before arriving in Koka, where the e-biking, ninja training, and hiking experience begins. With the transportation logistics taken care of, guests can look forward to an immersive day exploring the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for people with mobility issues as it requires the ability to ride bicycles and hike on a mountain. Individuals under 4’6" and children under 12 are also not recommended to participate.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a light lunch is included in the price, so bringing your own may not be necessary. The tour guide can provide recommendations on where to purchase additional snacks or beverages during the day.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Guests can inquire about customizing the itinerary and extending the tour when booking to accommodate their preferences and schedule. The tour operator offers flexibility to personalize the experience.

Can We Customize the Tour to Our Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to specific interests. The itinerary is flexible, and alternative plans are available if certain attractions are closed or on rainy days to accommodate guests’ preferences.

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

The tour can accommodate a minimum group size of 1 person. The operator offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on the group’s interests and requirements. Solo travelers are welcome to join this adventure.