June 27, 2024 Traces the Kanda River from Sasazuka to Kichijoji By Camille Miller , Jessie Carbutt and Mike Smith We asked Tokyo cycling experts Chad Feyen and Brad Bennett for their favorite cycling routes across Tokyo, from leisurely park runs for easygoing newbies to thigh-burning, X-Game-level slaloms for adrenaline junkies. Follow Bennett’s “Riverside Ride” route below, either via Google Maps on your phone as you ride or on our site before you head out. Packed with shrines, parks and hanami (cherry blossom viewing) gems, this route traces the Kanda River from Sasazuka all the way to the western suburb of Kichijoji.
Route length 12.5km From Sasazuka To Kichijoji Start off your journey at Freewheeling. This grassroots business owned by Brad Bennett offers private bike tours through neighborhoods in Tokyo.
Cyclists get to experience the quiet backstreets, beautiful parks and unique culture of Tokyo not found on tourist maps and Bennett is the most incredible, friendly guide. Anyone new to Tokyo or new to cycling should pop by for a chat and advice. Next up is Izumi-Kumano-jinja Shrine.
Founded in 1267, this Shinto shrine was rebuilt in 1863 and restored in 1871. On the grounds is a sacred kuromatsu (black pine) tree, said to have been planted by the Tokugawa dynasty’s third military leader, Iemitsu Tokugawa. In the spring, cherry blossoms loom over the entrance of Ryukoji, a Buddhist shrine located a short distance from Eifukucho Station.
Ryukoji’s main hall was b.