In mid-March, as spring slowly began to arrive, we hosted a Discover Ride event starting and ending at Tsudoru in Machiya, Arakawa, Tokyo.

With a limit of just five participants, riders joined us not only from Tokyo but even from Nagano. Including Kenta and myself, a group of seven set off on a relaxed half-day ride.

The Theme: Understanding Tokyo by Riding

This time’s theme was something a little unique — “Yamanote.”
Even for people living in Tokyo, it’s a term we only vaguely understand.

So we set out to answer a simple question:
What does it actually mean?

And the best way to find out? Ride through it.

Exploring Tokyo’s Backstreets with Brompton

Instead of road bikes, we chose Brompton folding bikes for this ride.
Their compact size and agility make them perfect for navigating the city.

Downtown Tokyo is full of narrow alleys, everyday life scenes, and unexpected local charm.
With a Brompton, you can easily enter places that road bikes would simply pass by.

Riding Through Tokyo, the City of Railways

One thing you quickly notice while riding in Tokyo is the density of railways.We rode alongside the Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line) — one of the few remaining streetcars —
and even looked down on the Yamanote Line and Shinkansen from elevated points.

A Fun Quiz Along the Way

No Discover Ride is complete without our signature true-or-false quiz.

We challenged everyone with questions about Tokyo’s geography and history,
with small snacks as prizes for correct answers.

It’s a fun balance — learning while enjoying the ride.

A Break in Yanaka

Midway through, we stopped at a café near Yanaka Cemetery.

With the sun out and terrace seating available, it was the perfect place to relax.
Over sweets and coffee, conversations naturally flowed — about bikes, the route, and more.

Moments like these make you think,
“This is why I want to ride again.”

We simply folded our Bromptons and placed them outside —
another advantage of a compact bike.

The Energy of Asakusa and the Calm of Downtown

The area was bustling with tourists — it felt like more than half were international visitors.
Honestly, it’s a place I had avoided recently due to crowds.

But visiting again, I found myself inspired by the energy of the people working there.

Just one street away from Senso-ji Temple,
the atmosphere changes completely — quiet residential streets,
a true “downtown Tokyo” feel.

That contrast is part of what makes Tokyo so fascinating.

Along the way, we even stopped for a photo with the local icon, “Ashita no Joe.”
These little detours are what make Discover Ride special.

Finish at Tsudoru — and a Toast

We wrapped up the ride along the Sumida River,returning to Tsudoru.

Nothing beats a drink after a ride.
We toasted with Iyoshi Cola, available at Tsudoru,
and looked back on the day.

Understanding Through Riding

The theme, “Yamanote,” became much clearer through the ride.

You can actually feel the elevation changes,
see differences in architecture,
and experience the atmosphere of each area firsthand.

Participants nodded in agreement:
“Now I get it.”

This is more than just cycling.
It’s about understanding through riding — and that’s the true value of this experience.

Join Us Next Time

This isn’t about speed.

It’s about discovering new perspectives,
finding unexpected scenery,
and expanding your world just a little.

Sometimes, it’s nice to leave your road bike behind
and explore Tokyo differently.

Even if you don’t usually ride much,
this is something anyone can enjoy.

That’s what Discover Ride is all about.

Our downtown rides will continue regularly,
so check our social media for upcoming events.

We hope to see you on the next ride.

 

Photo credits: Kenta / Isocchi