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

Tucked away in the heart of Japan’s Koka region lies a captivating journey that seamlessly blends centuries-old ninja legacy with modern exploration. Travelers can enjoy this rich cultural tapestry, uncovering the artistry and discipline of the ninja way through a captivating 7-hour tour from Kyoto. From e-biking through the countryside to training in the ninja arts and hiking the sacred Mt. Iwao, this immersive experience promises to transport visitors into a world where the mystique of Japan’s past intertwines with the allure of its present. But the true wonder lies in the unexpected discoveries that await those who venture forth.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In Kyoto.

Key Points

• Explore the birthplace of ninjas in Koka City, located an hour’s journey from Kyoto, through guided e-biking and ninja training activities.
• Hike up the sacred ninja training mountain, Mt. Iwao, and discover centuries-old meditation spots and shrines with insights from a ninja descendant.
• Experience the art of traditional Japanese coffee-making and savor the rich, aromatic flavors at the guide’s home.
• Visit the Koka Ninja House, the only existing real ninja house featuring hidden compartments and passageways, and try throwing authentic shuriken (throwing stars).
• Bring home a unique souvenir – a traditional ninja scroll with your name written in Japanese Katakana characters, crafted by the guide’s wife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The 7-hour tour from Kyoto to Koka City, the renowned hometown of Ninjas, provides participants the opportunity to explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region through the unique experience of e-biking and guided ninja training.

Traversing the scenic landscapes, visitors will be led by a local Samurai descendant, who’ll share their expertise and insights into the art of ninjutsu.

Along the way, guests will visit the Koka Ninja House, the only existing real ninja house with hidden features, and the Twin Castles, historic sites tucked away in the woods.

The tour also includes a stop at the Ninja Center, where visitors can discover the fascinating world of ninja weapons, clothing, and documents.

Key Highlights

During the tour, visitors can explore the Koka Ninja House, the only existing real ninja house featuring hidden compartments and passageways.

The Twin Castles, nestled deep in the surrounding woods, are listed as National Historic Sites and offer a glimpse into the region’s storied past.

The Ninja Center showcases an extensive collection of authentic ninja weapons, garments, and historical documents, giving participants an immersive understanding of this enigmatic profession.

Key highlights of the tour include:

• Throwing shuriken (throwing stars) at the Koka Ninja House
• Hiking to the top of the Ninjas’ sacred training mountain, Mt. Iwao
• Experiencing the traditional Japanese coffee-making method at the guide’s house

Throwing Shuriken

At the Koka Ninja House, visitors can’t wait to get their hands on authentic shuriken, the iconic throwing stars of the ninja.

Under the guidance of the expert ninja descendant, they’ll learn proper throwing techniques and have a chance to unleash their inner ninja, sending the sharp-edged weapons slicing through the air towards their targets.

Participants will be amazed as they watch the shuriken spin and dart, embedding themselves into the wooden targets with satisfying thuds.

The adrenaline rush of wielding these ancient ninja tools is palpable, and visitors leave with a newfound appreciation for the skill and precision required to master the art of shuriken throwing.

Hiking Mt. Iwao

After throwing shuriken at the Koka Ninja House, the tour moves on to the highlight of the day – hiking up the Ninjas’ sacred training mountain, Mt. Iwao.

Participants eagerly follow their ninja guide up the winding trails, their electric bikes left behind as they conquer the verdant slopes on foot. The climb challenges both their physical and mental stamina, as they push through the steeper sections while learning about the mountain’s rich history and significance to the ninja tradition.

Along the way, they discover:

• Centuries-old ninja meditation spots offering breathtaking views
• Hidden training grounds where ninjas honed their stealth and agility
• Shrines and markers honoring the ninja ancestors who walked these paths

The exhilaration of summiting Mt. Iwao leaves the group with a newfound appreciation for the ninjas’ dedication and discipline.

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Traditional Coffee-Making

As the hiking portion of the tour concludes, the guide invites the participants to his home to experience the traditional Japanese coffee-making method.

Meticulously, he gathers the necessary equipment – a small ceramic pot, a cloth filter, and freshly roasted coffee beans – while explaining the intricate process passed down through generations.

He carefully measures the grounds, pours the hot water in a circular motion, and allows the coffee to slowly drip through the filter.

The rich, aromatic liquid fills the room, and the group watches in fascination as the guide pours the coffee into delicate cups.

Taking a sip, they savor the smooth, nuanced flavors, a true testament to the artistry of traditional Japanese coffee preparation.

Souvenirs

As the group sips the aromatic coffee, the guide’s wife steps in and introduces another highlight of the tour – the opportunity to have their names written in Japanese Katakana characters on a traditional Ninja scroll. The participants are thrilled at the prospect of taking home a unique souvenir that captures the essence of their Ninja adventure.

The guide’s wife explains the process:

• She’ll carefully craft each participant’s name using the flowing Katakana script, ensuring it’s both visually striking and authentically Japanese.
• The names will be written on a genuine Ninja scroll, complete with intricate designs and symbols that evoke the rich history of the Ninja tradition.
• Participants can choose to have their scrolls framed, creating a stunning piece of art to display and remember their unforgettable Ninja experience in Koka.

Logistics

The tour starts at the JR Konan Station, which is about an hour’s journey from Kyoto Station, allowing participants to easily access the adventure from the popular tourist destination. Suitable for individuals over 4 feet 6 inches (140 cm) in height, the tour package includes the guide fee, electric bike rental, a traditional Japanese coffee experience, and entrance to the renowned Koka Ninja House, though lunch and personal expenses are not covered.

Tour Start	Duration	Inclusions
JR Konan Station	7 hours	Guide fee, electric bike, coffee, Ninja House entrance
1 hour from Kyoto	Suitable for 140+ cm	Lunch and personal expenses not included

Departure Point

For this adventure, the journey commences at the JR Konan Station, a convenient starting point just an hour’s travel from the bustling Kyoto Station.

Participants can easily access this adventure from the popular tourist hub of Kyoto, setting off on their electric bike-powered exploration of the historic Koka region.

The departure point offers several advantages:

• Easy accessibility from Kyoto, a major transportation hub
• Proximity to the tour’s key highlights, minimizing travel time
• Ample parking and amenities for a smooth start to the day’s activities

With the convenience of the JR Konan Station as the launch pad, travelers can look forward to an immersive experience delving into the rich ninja heritage of Koka, just a short ride away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour is suitable for participants over 4 ft 6 in (140 cm) in height, but there’s no specific age restriction. Younger participants are welcome as long as they meet the minimum height requirement and can comfortably ride an electric bike.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Ninja Weapons?

Participants are not allowed to bring their own ninja weapons on the tour. The tour provider supplies shuriken (throwing stars) for participants to try throwing at the Koka Ninja House. Bringing personal weapons is prohibited for safety reasons.

Is It Possible to Visit the Ninja Center Separately?

Yes, visitors can visit the Ninja Center separately from the tour. The Ninja Center displays a variety of Ninja weapons, clothing, and historical documents, providing an immersive experience into the world of Ninjas when explored independently.

What Is the Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour company offers a flexible refund policy. Guests can receive a full refund if they cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time. Partial refunds may be available for last-minute cancellations due to extenuating circumstances.

Can the Guide Provide Translation Services During the Tour?

Yes, the knowledgeable guide can provide translation services throughout the tour. They’ll ensure participants have a seamless, immersive experience by interpreting between Japanese and English during the activities, interactions, and explanations at each site.

Recap

Enjoy Koka’s centuries-old ninja legacy through this captivating 7-hour tour from Kyoto.

Discover the region’s rich history and culture as you e-bike, train with a samurai descendant, and hike the Ninjas’ sacred mountain.

Witness the artistry of traditional Japanese coffee preparation and bring home a personalized ninja scroll – an unforgettable memento of your journey into Japan’s intriguing ninja past.

You can check availability for your dates here: