Content Round Up: Tokyo Cycling Routes for Beginners

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tokyoites needed safe ways to exercise and move about the city. Many residents found the answer to this dilemma in cycling, be it for weekday commutes or weekend exercise. If you’ve recently started cycling and are looking for some scenic urban routes for beginners, this content roundup is for you.

The articles below, which I originally authored for Tadaima Japan, have found a new home on Kokoro Media, complete with more vivid images to entice you to get out and ride. To learn more about each article, click on each heading below.

Tokyo Cycling: Riding along the Zenpukuji River

“I’ve often mentioned that Tokyo’s rivers offer some of the best cycling the city has to offer. Major waterways such as the Arakawa and Tama rivers are obvious choices for long, uninterrupted rides. However, Tokyo’s smaller, lesser-known rivers can also be great for a quick, scenic ride—if you know where to find them. The Zenpukuji River is one such hidden gem.”

Tokyo Cycling: Discovering Nature along the Kanda River

“Few bike rides in Tokyo have a better conclusion than this one. Loyalty to the winding Kanda River path rewards you with the splendid scenery of Inokashira Park. Although the park is most famous as a hanami hot spot, you can appreciate its rich history and attractions throughout the entire year.”

Escaping to the Edge of Tokyo on the Tamako Cycling Road

“From here, the stress of urban navigation melts away as you enter a 22-kilometer dedicated bike path that will effortlessly guide you to Sayama Park and all the way around Tama Lake. No longer will you have to inhale exhaust fumes or constantly weave around the precariously parked vehicles of the city streets. Only bikes and people are allowed on this straight-shot road to the foothills on the edge of Tokyo.”

Bonus: Go Beyond Tokyo and Discover Japan’s Cycling Sanctuary

Once you’ve mastered the rides featured above, it’s time to move beyond Tokyo for one of the greatest cycling experiences Japan has to offer. “Seventy kilometers, six scenic islands, six massive bridges, and two prefectures—all woven together by a single blue line. This is the Shimanami Kaido: Japan’s premier long-distance cycling route.” Plan your journey by clicking here.

For even more cycling content, including rides around Tokyo and far beyond, check out Average Tokyo Cyclist.