20 Years of Local Knowledge
DISCOVER The Real Kyoto
Where adventure meets authenticity, guided by a local's passion for Kyoto's hidden treasures
MORE THAN A TOUR GUIDE
Your gateway to the hidden Kyoto that locals cherish and tourists rarely discover
Beyond the crowded temples and tourist-packed streets lies the real Kyoto - a world of secret Zen gardens tucked behind bamboo gates, intimate tea houses, and shrines where Shinto priests still practice ancient rituals.
The north-end of Kyoto holds the city's most precious secrets: hidden temples known only to locals, artisan shops unchanged for centuries, and contemplative gardens that reward those who seek them.
NORU's founder, Ross McLean, is a Canadian who fell in love with Kyoto's hidden corners. So much so that he made Kyoto his home over 20 years ago. What started as fascination became his passion - to share North Kyoto's best-kept secrets with fellow adventurers seeking authentic experiences.
"We don't just show you Kyoto. We invite you to experience it as locals do, through quiet backstreets and intimate moments that most tourists never discover."
Ross McLean
Founder, NORU Kyoto Bike Tours
The northern part of Kyoto has so much to offer visitors who wish to escape the crowds
WHY TRAVELERS CHOOSE NORU
Hidden Gems Only
Forget tourist traps. We take you to tranquil Zen gardens, intimate temple settings, and cozy backstreets that even longtime Kyoto residents rarely discover.
Small Groups, Big Impact
Maximum 8 travelers per tour means personal attention, flexibility to explore your interests, and the intimate experience you deserve.
Effortless Adventure
Our premium e-bikes make every hill a breeze. Designed for all fitness levels and ages 13+, so you can focus on the wonder, not the workout.
Join over 5,000 travelers who have discovered the best-kept secrets of Kyoto with us
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY
Real experiences from adventurers who discovered Kyoto's hidden side with us
"Ross is very knowledgeable not only on the best routes and temples outside of the usual tourist itinerary but also on the different culture and practices in Kyoto. Our Noru experiences were definitely the highlight of our Kyoto stay!"
NORU Feedback
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"A comfortable pace, seeing beauty we wouldn't have found on our own. Quality bikes, quiet, colorful side streets, the magic of the Golden Temple and the serenity of the gardens made for the perfect outing."
NORU Feedback
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"Cycling around to the hidden spots that most tours and tourists easily bypass. It is by far the best Kyoto cycling company and I have tried them all!"
TripAdvisor
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"We saw beautiful parts of Kyoto that we would otherwise have never seen. The tour was very scenic and we felt very safe at all times."
Viator
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Happy Travelers
Average Rating
Would Recommend
OUR PROMISE TO YOU
Authentic Cultural Immersion
Experience Japan's unique traditions, history, design, and craft through carefully curated stops at UNESCO World Heritage sites and hidden local treasures.
Safety & Comfort First
Premium bikes, safety equipment, and expert local guides ensure your adventure is both thrilling and secure from start to finish.
Personalized Experience
We ride at a pace comfortable for all guests and welcome your questions, requests, and curiosity throughout the journey.
Licensed & Professional
As a licensed tour operator with decades of local expertise, we deliver experiences that exceed expectations every time.
DISCOVER HIDDEN KYOTO
Kamogawa River in spring
The heart of Kyoto