Free Bike Ride and Free Bikes

One of the most used types of transportation in Japan is the bicycle. The Japan Bicycle Promotion Institute is a non profit organization that promotes the Japanese Bicycle industry. They have setup a 3K course by the Imperial Palace where you can borrow bikes and ride the course.


The course is a great way to see the castle from many different viewpoints as well as take in some great scenery. It goes from the Iwaida Bridge to the Hirakawa Gate round trip of 3K. The Japan Bicycle Promotion institute chose a course that is not only surrounded by the castles, moats, and pine trees, but also a quiet place for families to enjoy some fitness and relaxation. They encourage the ideas of preserving nature around the Imperial Palace and protecting it as an invaluable asset.

You are only allowed to use the borrowed bicycles within the Palace Cycling Course. They have only 250 bikes ready for borrowing. There are city bicycles, mountain bikes, tandem bikes, children's bikes and infant's bicycles. If you are not sure what kind of bike would suit you best, The Japan Bicycle Promotion Institute has volunteers to help you choose a bike that fits your needs.

To borrow a bike, all you have to do is fill out and submit an application form that you get at the bicycle reception desk. The desk is is located next to the Kokyo-mae Police box off the Nijubashi Station on the Chiyoda Line Subway. They are open 10:00 am till 3:00 pm every Sunday, but are closed on rainy days and special event days. Be sure to get there early since its a first come first serve basis.

Cost: Free

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TG