DIFFICULY
★★☆☆☆
Approximately 6 hours
2 to 6 people
From
¥132,000 and up (tax included)
E-bike, 多摩川, サイクリング, ウェルネス
OVERVIEW
TOKYO Riverside Story Part 1
~ In Search of the “Breeze of Musashino” from the Gateway to the Skies ~
[Prologue: A Prayer to the Heavens]
Our journey begins at Haneda, Japan’s gateway to the skies.
Right next to this modern airport stands the “Old Ichino-no-Otorii,” a torii gate that quietly preserves the memories of a former fishing village.
As jet planes roar overhead, we pray for a safe journey beneath this red torii gate.
This is the boundary connecting the world and Tokyo. Feeling the faint scent of the sea carried by the ocean breeze, we set out on a journey along the 53-kilometer-long Tama River.
[Chapter 1: Showa-Era Romance and Industrial Memories]
Crossing the “Tama River Sky Bridge,” we deliberately choose the route on the Kawasaki side (the right bank).
This is the industrial route that supported Tokyo’s period of rapid economic growth.
Shortly after we begin our ride, we come upon the massive Kawasaki River Port Lock, known as the “Arc de Triomphe of Kawasaki.”
Built in 1928 (Showa 3), its brick structure stands as a remnant of the dreams of those who once sought to build a canal here.
The contrast between this retro industrial heritage and the vast sky.
We stop our bikes here, coffee in hand, and let our thoughts drift to “Showa-era Tokyo.”
[Chapter 2: An Urban Cruise Through the Skyscrapers]
As we ride upstream, the scenery changes dramatically. The towering apartment complexes of Musashi-Kosugi pierce the sky, while the sophisticated streetscape of Futako-Tamagawa spreads out on the opposite bank.
This is a symbol of “modern Tokyo,” where water, greenery, and concrete skyscrapers blend together.
Lunchtime in a lush park, feeling the breeze across the river. Even as we sense the hustle and bustle of the city right beside us, time flows gently as we pedal along.
This pleasant contradiction of “stillness and motion” is the true essence of Tokyo Riverside.
[Epilogue: To the Gateway of Musashino]
Once you pass Futako-Tamagawa, cross the Tama Aqueduct Bridge, and return to the Tokyo side (the left bank), you’ll notice the air quality has changed.
The buildings grow shorter, and the ridgelines of the Okutama mountains come into view.
This is Fuchu—the gateway to “Musashino,” where the provincial capital once stood.
Our destination for the first day is “Fuchu City Local Forest,” where plum blossoms and hydrangeas are in full bloom.
From the story of the city to the story of history and nature.
Bathed in the gentle light of dusk, and with anticipation for the next day’s “Part 2: Journey to the Source” in our hearts, we dismount our bicycles.
This tour is an experience akin to “time travel tracing the chronology of Tokyo, moving from the present back to the past.”
With every turn of the pedals, the scenery shifts like a gradient—from “sea and sky” to “industry and skyscrapers,” and finally to “forest and history”—sure to satisfy your intellectual curiosity.
Pray for a safe journey at the “Torii in the Sky” standing at Haneda, Japan’s gateway, and head out into the vast sky.
This route, which follows the Tama River upstream, is an “Urban Side” journey where you’ll encounter the “Kawasaki Arc de Triomphe,” an industrial heritage site from the Showa era, and the sophisticated scenery of Futako-Tamagawa, where skyscrapers and greenery harmonize.
We invite you to join us on a 30-kilometer cycling adventure full of discoveries, riding along the waterfront where history and the present intersect while enjoying the refreshing breeze, heading toward Fuchu, the gateway to Musashino.
HIGHLIGHTS
The “Torii in the Sky” Guarding Japan's Gateway and a Spectacular View of Airplanes: The journey begins at the “Anamori Inari Shrine's Former First Great Torii,” which stands right next to Haneda Airport. With a history of having been relocated to make way for the airport’s construction, it now stands as a symbol watching over the safety of Japan’s skies and its travelers. The view of aircraft taking off and landing beyond the massive torii gate is a perfect photo spot that heightens the excitement of arriving in Japan, and you can begin your tour with a spiritual ritual to pray for a safe journey.
An industrial heritage site evoking the romance of the Showa era: “Kawasaki’s Arc de Triomphe” As you proceed along the right bank of the Tama River (on the Kawasaki side), the “Kawasaki River Port Lock,” a nationally registered tangible cultural property, suddenly comes into view. Built in 1928 (Showa 3), this lock is also known as the “Kawasaki Arc de Triomphe” due to its majestic ornamentation and design. Originally constructed as part of a canal project, this historic structure is a beautiful legacy that tells the story of Japan’s industrial history during its rapid modernization, and it is a hidden gem along the cycling path.
The contrast between skyscrapers and the waterfront. The highlight of the midpoint of the Futako-Tamagawa Urban Lunch Course is a break in the vicinity of the sophisticated Futako-Tamagawa Park. Here, while gazing at the cluster of high-rise apartment buildings (skyscrapers) in Musashi-Kosugi across the river, you can truly experience this “urban oasis” surrounded by abundant water and greenery. With well-maintained cafes and restaurants dotted throughout, this space—where Tokyo’s modern lifestyle harmonizes with nature—offers an elegant lunch experience.
ITINERARY
A Journey Down the Lower Tama River: Exploring the Sky, River Ports, and Modern Heritage (Haneda to Fuchu)
On the first day, we’ll start under the wide-open skies of Haneda Airport, pass through the industrial heritage sites on the Kawasaki side and the elegant parks of Futako-Tamagawa, and head toward Fuchu Forest.
To avoid unpaved roads, we’ll mainly stay on the Kawasaki side (right bank).
Schedule (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
• 09:00
[Meeting Point & Sightseeing] Tenkubashi Station & Anamori Inari Shrine
◦ Spots: Former First Great Torii Gate & Anamori Inari Shrine
◦ Experience: Before we start, we’ll pray for a safe journey.
This is an iconic spot that has witnessed the history of Haneda Airport.
◦ Route: Cross the Tama River Sky Bridge and Daishi Bridge to enter the “right bank (Kawasaki side).”
• 10:00
[Sightseeing & Break] Kawasaki River Port Lock & Coffee Break (Approx. 5 km point)
◦ Spot: Kawasaki River Port Lock (Commonly known as the “Kawasaki Arc de Triomphe”)
◦ Experience: We’ll visit this National Registered Tangible Cultural Property, built in 1928.
The retro and majestic lock is a perfect photo spot.
◦ Break: Take an early coffee break while gazing at the Tama River at a nearby bike café like “TREX KAWASAKI RIVER CAFE.”
• 11:30
[Lunch & Stroll] Futako-Tamagawa Area (approx. 16 km point)
◦ Location: Futako-Tamagawa Park & Hyogo Island Park
◦ Lunch (90 min): There are many restaurants along the river at Hyogo Island Park and around Futako-Tamagawa Rise.
Get off your bike and enjoy lunch while taking a leisurely stroll through the sophisticated streetscape and riverside parks.
◦ Tip: By riding along the right bank (Kawasaki side) up to this point, you can avoid gravel roads and enjoy a comfortable ride.
• 1:30 PM
[Resume] On to the Middle Tama River Basin
◦ Route: Cross the Tama Waterworks Bridge (near the 33 km marker) and return to the “left bank (Tokyo side)” from here.
From here, rows of cherry trees begin to appear, and the scenery gradually becomes more serene.
• 3:00 PM
[Finish & Sightseeing] Area around the Fuchu City Local History Museum (approx. 24–28 km mark)
◦ Spot: Fuchu City Local History Park / Museum
◦ Experience: This is the finish line. The vast grounds feature relocated historic buildings, and you can enjoy seasonal flowers such as plum blossoms and hydrangeas. End Day 1 here, then either store your bike or head to a nearby hotel.
DETAILS
[Haneda-Tama River Cycling Tour: Important Notes, Clothing, and What to Bring]
1. Clothing
Regardless of the season, layering is essential to help you adjust to changes in body temperature caused by the wind while riding.
Summer (June to September): Please wear clothing made of moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials. Since you will sweat profusely while cycling, we strongly recommend bringing a change of clothes for after the tour.
Winter (December to March): As you will be exposed to cold winds, adequate cold-weather gear such as a windproof jacket, fleece, and gloves is essential.
Footwear: Please wear athletic shoes suitable for cycling. If there are spots along the way where you will dismount and walk, shoes that are comfortable for walking are recommended.
2. Packing List
Backpack (one that leaves both hands free while riding), drinks (approximately 500ml to 1000ml; please bring more during the summer), rain gear (separate-piece rainwear), cash (needed for souvenirs and additional food and drinks), and other items (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, power bank).
3. Costs
Included in the tour price:
Guide fees, bicycle rental, helmet rental, and insurance are included.
Not included in the tour price:
Costs for souvenirs purchased along the way, as well as personal expenses for additional drinks and snacks, are the responsibility of the participant.
Since many shops in some areas accept cash only, please be sure to bring cash.
4. Safety and Riding Guidelines
Strict Pedestrian Priority: This route is maintained as a “walking path” where pedestrians have priority, not cyclists. As there are many pedestrians, excessive speed and riding for training purposes are strictly prohibited.
Special Rules for the Fuchu City Section:
Please note that on the approximately 10-kilometer section passing through Fuchu City (Fuchu Tamagawa Kaze no Michi), there is a special two-way traffic rule where cyclists ride in the center of the road and pedestrians walk on the far right.
Rules Around Haneda Airport:
Cycling is prohibited on the road leading from the torii gate of Anamori Inari Shrine to Haneda Airport.
You must dismount and walk your bicycle on this section.
Road Surface and Course Conditions: The route includes sections with narrow roads, as well as stretches on public roads and gravel paths. Please check the route in advance and follow the guide’s instructions while riding.
5. Meeting Place & Access
Main Meeting Place: 9:00 a.m. at Tenkubashi Station (Keikyu Line/Tokyo Monorail) (near the downstream terminus)
Organizer & Inquiries:
Tokyo Yamagawa DMC Co., Ltd.
(Email: info@fwness.com)
Get in touch with our team for quotes and advice,
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