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Cycling Tours & Bike Trips in Japan

Life is about the journey, not the destination and that couldn't be more true than on a cycling tour in Japan. Travel on countless routes lasting from 7 days up to 14 days, and with 11 Japan bike tours listed you're sure to find one for you. Click here to see all cycling holidays .

11 Japan bicycle tours with 24 reviews

Cycle Japan Tour

  • Active Adventure

Cycle Japan

The ride through Noto Peninsula

Stunning Shikoku Bike Tour Of Japan Tour

Stunning Shikoku Bike Tour Of Japan

Japan E-Bike Tour Tour

Japan E-Bike Tour

HERITAGE OF JAPAN BIKING TOUR Tour

HERITAGE OF JAPAN BIKING TOUR

Cycle Japan Tour

  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Cycling in Japan Tour

Cycling in Japan

Japan: Hike, Bike & Kayak Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

Japan: Hike, Bike & Kayak

It was a great adventure. The Kumano hike was very challenging which I personally was unprepared equipment wise.

Japan Bike, Walk & Onsen Tour

Japan Bike, Walk & Onsen

Cycle Kyoto To The Coast - Self-Guided Tour

  • Self-Guided Cycling
  • Christmas & New Year

Cycle Kyoto To The Coast - Self-Guided

Noto Peninsula Coast to Coast Bike Tour Tour

Noto Peninsula Coast to Coast Bike Tour

Off-Beat Eastern Hokkaido Lakes & Coast Bike Tour Tour

Off-Beat Eastern Hokkaido Lakes & Coast Bike Tour

Regions in japan.

  • Southern Japan (10)
  • Central Japan (9)

Travel Styles

  • 10 Best Cycling Tour Companies 2024/2025
  • 10 Amazing Private Bicycle Tours 2024/2025
  • 10 Best Cycling Tours 2024/2025
  • Japan Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • 2 Week (14 Days) Japan Travel Itineraries & Cost 2024/2025
  • 1 Week (7 Day) Japan Travel Itineraries 2024/2025
  • Best 3 Week (21 Days) Japan Travel Itineraries 2024/2025
  • Discover the Best Japan Vacation Packages 2024/2025
  • What is the best time to visit Japan in 2024/2025?
  • Weather in Japan in 2024/2025

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Japan Fahrradreise
  • Français: Japon : Circuits vélo 2024/2025
  • Español: Bicicleta Circuitos en Japón
  • Nederlands: Fiets Rondreizen in Japan

Epic Road Rides

Cycling Japan

Bike Tour Japan logo

“Cycling in Japan is an experience like no other: cycling routes that snake through valleys and up volcanoes, hot springs you can soak in, unforgettable ryokan hotels, historic shrines, warm hospitality, futuristic cities and delicious food.

Experiencing Japan by bike is an experience you won’t forget.”

Japan has been on our “absolutely must-visit” list for many years, but since we haven’t yet been able to experience it ourselves, we’ve enlisted the help of Rob from Bike Tour Japan (who we quote above).

Rob is originally from Syracuse, New York and moved to Japan in 2014. He started Bike Tour Japan in 2017 with the aim of creating cycling tours of Japan that share the best of the country’s riding and off the beaten track places. His passion for all things Japan and cycling, makes him the perfect person to help us with this guide.

Fancy cycling Japan?

If you’ve ever wondered about a cycling holiday in Japan, you’re in for a treat.

Below Rob shares tons of information on everything from the best regions and cycling routes in Japan to information on bike hotels and bike rental in Japan. Enjoy!

Looking for information on the Shimanami Kaido cycle route? Read our article here .

Why should cyclists visit Japan?

Japan is known by most for its bustling city life and dense urban areas, unique culture, and delicious traditional foods.

But for those wanting to cycle around Japan, a different side of the country awaits just beyond the tourist centres of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.

Get two hours away from the city, and you’ll find beautifully paved roads through stunning forests. Cycling through Japan lets riders explore twisting roads that climb up and over volcanoes, chat with locals in traditional villages, and finish off each day at a luxury ryokan hotel with onsen hot spring baths. Plus, there are car free river paths and a full range of routes to suit all levels, from gentle valleys to epic 2,000m+ gains.

In my opinion, Japan is home to all the perfect ingredients for an amazing cycling holiday. Every person who has joined us on a tour has left with unforgettable memories.

Map of Japan

Japan’s cycling routes

Geography of japan, big cities, quiet countryside.

Over 80% of Japan is uninhabitable mountainous terrain, making its cities some of the most densely populated in the world.

On the flipside of this, most of the 80% of Japan that isn’t inhabited is gorgeous wilderness, criss-crossed with excellent roads just ready to be explored.

When you fly into Japan on a clear day, you can see just how huge the mountains are! Most of Japan is formed by volcanoes, many well over 2,000m tall, climbing up from sea level. And, while Mt Fuji receives all of the attention as the tallest peak in Japan, the best roads in Japan are in the centre of the country (and you can get awesome views of Fuji from Kita-Kanto and the Nagano Highlands – more on those below ).

Japan’s highest paved road, for example, is a beautiful one that climbs up a volcano in Nagano Prefecture, topping at just over 2,700m above sea level. If you’re a road cyclist that loves to climb, you’re going to love Japan!

Cities v mountains

Basing yourself in a small city or town outside of Tokyo allows for many opportunities to explore a different side of Japan with direct access to nature.

Just take a direct train north and east of the capital city, and you’ll find a variety of amazing scenery and cultural experiences without the bustling city streets of Tokyo. Our top recommendations for small cities that are easy to reach from Tokyo include: Kiryu, Ashikaga, and Nikko. They’re all in the Kita Kanto region (more on that below ).

What are the roads like in Japan?

Kids cycle in japan.

In general, cycling in Japan is part of the culture; it’s a way of life for many locals in suburban and rural Japan. Outside of the cities, nearly every kid and young adult from 10 years+ rides their bike to school. This means most Japanese people are, or have been, cyclists since childhood. Motorists are very familiar with seeing children on bikes everyday, and their courteous driving reflects this.

Courteous drivers

Japanese drivers are notorious around the world for being cautious rule followers. Road rage and aggressive driving are virtually non-existent in Japan, and drivers tend to drive at the speed limit, which is quite low in the countryside, around 30-50kph.

Road surfaces

Road surfaces in Japan are often an exact indicator of the amount of traffic a road receives. Most people in Japan drive just a handful of main roads in a town, leaving many smaller roads with great road surfaces and no traffic. What’s more, Japan is full of river valleys, many of which have bicycle lanes and beautifully-built relatively flat pedestrian and bike paths lining each side.

Route planning

When most drivers choose a route in Japan, they follow a GPS, so many end up on the same roads. So for cyclists planning cycling routes through Japan, my biggest piece of advice is don’t follow Google Maps driving directions unless you want cars passing you all day.

Instead, look at the main road, and look for parallel smaller roads, or better yet, rivers with river paths. Plan your route around these small roads and river paths, especially when in dense city areas. If you are riding out in the countryside, you can be more lax about being on major roads. Also checking the roads in Google Street View will give you a good sense of the traffic to expect through your route.

Road through the forest on a cycling tour in Japan

What are the best regions of Japan for cyclists

Japan is a land of huge variety in scenery, terrain, and climate. I think you find some of the best cycling in Japan in these three regions. The best one for you will depend on what kind of cycling you’re after and how important the weather and other tourist attractions are to you.

  • Kita Kanto region – Japan’s sunbelt and cycling hub near Tokyo
  • Setouchi Inland Sea – Home to the Shimanami Kaido bikeway, citrus and seafood, and Dogo Onsen, one of the oldest and most famous hot-spring baths in Japan
  • Nagano Highlands region – Home to the highest roads in Japan

Map showing the Kita Kanto region in purple, the Setouchi Sea region in green and Nagano Highlands region in yellow

“The sunbelt and cycling hub close to Tokyo”

Autumn cycling trip in Japan

Kita Kanto, meaning “North Kanto” is a region in the upper northwest corner of the Kanto Plains. Stretching northwest out of Tokyo, the Kanto Plains are considered the main food production zone in Japan. In ancient times, it was said that he who ruled Kanto ruled Japan.

This region is unique thanks to its proximity to Tokyo, just 1-2hrs by train, making for an easy trip from the nation’s capital. Nikko National Park is home to stunning untouched wilderness, alpine lakes, and massive shrines dedicated to the most famous Shogun in Japan, Ieyasu Tokugawa. From Nikko, you can reach the historical silk mills of Kiryu as well as Japan’s first ever school in Ashikaga. In between these regions are an endless string of beautiful valleys, river paths, mountains, and rindo (forest roads) connecting the region, making it perfect for exploring by bicycle.

In the western corner sits two massive stratovolcanoes: Mt Akagi and Mt Haruna. With summits over 1,500m and 1,000m respectively, both volcanoes have beautiful winding roads up to their caldera lakes. Below these towering mountains sits two of Japan’s largest rivers: the Tone River and Watarase River, both with beautiful car-free cycling paths winding through the small towns and cities they connect.

This region is famous for its fresh grown local veggies, Ayu sweetfish, wagyu beef, joshu pork, and shiitake and matsutake mushrooms. If you have never had matsutake mushroom soup, this is a must for anyone visiting the region in the Fall. A simple soup made from just matsutake mushrooms, daikon radish, mitsuba leaf, and a local breed of the green citrus called yuzu, it is a warm hearty broth that captures the essence of Fall in the mountains of central Japan.

Lastly, this region is known for its sun, something we all can appreciate when on a cycling trip. While the rest of Japan averages the same average sunlight as London (and about 4x as much rain!), the Kita Kanto Region is sheltered by mountains on three sides and far from the ocean enough to avoid the humidity of the sea. This means more sunny days, fewer wet days, and a much longer riding season than anywhere else in Japan.

Setouchi Inland Sea

“Home to the Shimanami Kaido, citrus and seafood, and town of Dogo Onsen”

Fresh seafood in Japan

The Setouchi Inland Sea has arguably become the most famous region for bike riding in Japan thanks to the promotion of the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route . But beyond the Kaido, there is much more to explore in the region for those with the curiosity to explore off the beaten path.

I love this region because of the beautiful teal-coloured water, the fresh local seafood, and the accessibility of the cycling routes. The Shimanami Kaido, for example, is very well marked and great for those looking to dip their toes into bike touring for the first time. Beyond the standard 70km course, there is a whole other set of roads and oceanside cafes.

I also recommend time to explore the famous hot spring resort of Dogo Onsen and the castle in Matsuyama City, just past the end of the Kaido’s end point in Imabari.

If you are hoping to catch the cherry blossoms, you can expect the pink flowers in this region to bloom earlier than the rest of Japan. And for Fall colours, we recommend coming here in early December, which ties nicely with the citrus season.

This region is very accessible to all levels of riders, and even non-riders on the Shimanami Kaido bike route.

Those looking for challenging days and good amounts of climbing will find the Kita Kanto and Nagano’s Highroads Regions a better bet.

Nagano Highlands Region

“Known as the Japanese Alps, home to the highest roads in Japan”

Japanese food on a Japan cycling tour

While many will recognise Nagano Prefecture as the host of the Winter Olympics back in 1998, it is also home to some of Japan’s highest roads. The pinnacle of these mountains is Mt Norikura, with a 2,702m summit that towers above the rest with a whopping 2,200m of gain from the city of Matsumoto below.

This climb is made all the sweeter by the fact that the final 13km are on a car free (yes you heard me, no cars allowed!) “Eco Line” with only the hourly bus to worry about.

Having done many of the big passes in Europe, such as the Stelvio, Alp D’Huez, Iseran, Isoard, etc, I have to say this car free climb to the sky is really one of a kind.

But even beyond Mt Norikura, there are also many other amazing summits topping over 2,000m above sea in the area. My personal favorite is the Utsukushigahara Highlands, or the Venus Line. But due to the height of the region and heavier precipitation, much like the high passes in Europe, the season is much shorter, often just mid July to the end of October.

This can make finding the perfect time to cycle in this region a delicate balancing act with Japan’s rainy season (which runs from June through September).

A final note on cycling in Hokkaido

Hokkaido is not in our top 3 best places in Japan for cycling. While Hokkaido can be a great place to visit, the season is quite short and is limited to the peak summer months. While it’s less wet than Honshu, you can still expect roughly 1 out of 3 days to be rainy and cold. This is in contrast with the Kita Kanto Region in spring and fall which averages one day of rain a week.

The scenery in Hokkaido is beautiful! However, between sights most of the scenery can be long straight roads with mostly crop fields to get between areas. So for riders looking to do less than 100km/day it can be quite repetitive. Whereas in Kita Kanto, Setouchi, or Nagano areas you can have vastly different microclimates and scenery within 50km of riding.

There is a reason that Hokkaido is a favorite for bikepacking; the long distances and vast wilderness is more conducive to camping and bikepacking trips than hotel-based day rides and bike tours.

Like Rob to show you around?

Rob from Bike Tour Japan

He would love to help!

Rob’s passion is helping cyclists who want to explore the rural corners and best cycling roads Japan has to offer.

For more information, head to  the Bike Tour Japan website  or reach out to Rob and the team at  [email protected] .

What are the best cycling routes in Japan?

Below I share some of my favourite Japanese cycling routes in the regions identified above.

Kita Kanto region

Hard – akagi.

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Mount Akagi is the centerpiece of the Kita Kanto skyline. A 1,800m tall stratovolcano that looks more like a mountain range than a single mountain, Akagi erupted some 30,000 years ago. This created the jagged top and two caldera lakes you see today.

The best cycling route is to take the small old road up the southeast side where cars seldom drive. Then, into the caldera for a lap around the lake and a visit to the Akagi Jinja Shrine atop the lake. Finally, fly down the pristine two lane wide road for over 1,400m of ripping descent!

It’s not every day you can say you climbed up into a volcano, and Mount Akagi is the best place to do this by bike.

Easy – Kiryu Ashikaga Loop

For those looking for a more relaxing ride in Japan, the Kiryu-Ashikaga loop is a classic that any level of cyclist can enjoy.

Starting from Kiryu City, the loop takes you out of town to the Lake Umeda Recreation Area. Then, over the Nagaishi-Touge (tr Long Rock Pass) for a beautiful view of the valley below.

Then, fly down into Ashikaga City, where you can grab lunch, see Japan’s first school, and stroll through the beautiful central Bannaji Temple in town.

Finally, hop on the car-free Watarase River Cycling Road back to Kiryu to check out the local silk mills. All along the way, there are options for delicious local udon and soba, as well as more international food if you prefer!

Hard – Extended Shimanami Kaido cycling road

For those looking to go beyond the Kaido’s standard route ( below ), our favourite route wiggles around each of the islands to hit the best sights on each one.

While it covers much more distance, exploring the islands by bike is a lot of fun and it is possible to break this into multiple days as well and stay a few nights on the islands.

Things you’ll see on the way include far-reaching views from Muku Bay Observation area, the Kousanji Temple complex, the sandy Hata Okiura Beach and the huge ship building works at Aiesu Shipyard.

If you’re interested, don’t miss our in-depth article on the Shimanami Kaido cycling route .

Easy – Classic Shimanami Kaido

Don’t fix what ain’t broken. For those looking for an easy route in the Setouchi Sea area, the classic 70km Shimanami Kaido Route is a great day trip option.

As Japan’s most famous cycling course, it is well-labelled and designed with plenty of infrastructure to help riders along the way.

You’ll find sea views, small fishing towns, citrus groves, and the longest suspension bridge in Japan. However be aware that it’s not all sandy shores as, due to the typhoon season each year, the shorelines are usually protected with concrete reinforcements.

There’s more on bike hire for the Shimanami Kaido  below .

Also read our article on the Shimanami Kaido cycling route .

Hard – Norikura

There are few places in the world that you can climb for over 50km and gain more than 2,200m.

That is exactly what you’ll find on Mount Norikura, a huge stratovocano surrounded by high peaks.

Beyond that, the final 13 kilometres (and 900m of climbing) are car free!

As the tree line recedes, a landscape of volcanic rocks and sweeping views from the top of Japan’s Alps awaits.

Easier – Utsukushigahara

While not much easier than Norikura (this is the highroads region after all!), my personal favourite climb in the area is the Utsukushigahara.

A mouthful for non-Japanese speakers, its name translates into “The Beautiful Highlands”, and it really lives up to the name.

Summiting just over 2,000m above sea, this high grassland plateau sits directly east of the high peaks of Nagano. Once you reach the ridge, the final 7km of road seemingly dangles off massive cliffs that drop to the city of Matsumoto below, giving stunning views of the high alps across the valley.

Do I need a guide to do a cycling tour in Japan?

Cycle touring comes in so many different flavours, and each style is unique and valid. I love a great bike-packing trip just as much as I love a great organised tour – they just fulfil different desires and comforts.

When exploring Japan by bicycle, there are lots of ways to have a great time on a self-organised tour, and I have done many of these myself and with friends over the years, exploring different corners of Japan.

Organised cycling tours of Japan aren’t always necessary

For example, you really don’t need a guide for a route like the Shimanami Kaido as the route is impeccably marked out for you. Couple that with decent rental bike options at both ends, many lodges listed on western booking sites, and you can have a smooth and fun trip.

That said, for those looking to explore beyond these well-marked paths, I think there is a lot of value in booking a guided or self-guided cycling tour of Japan.

Advantages of an organised bike trip to Japan

One of the main things I hear from those that organise their own bike tours in Japan is about the heavy traffic they encountered while on their tour. Funnily enough, the exact opposite is said in our guests’ reviews for our trips. In fact, one guest mentioned how they “couldn’t believe we rode for 4 hours through amazing scenery and saw monkeys, deer, kamoshika, and just two cars!?”

Besides knowing that you are getting top-notch routes that are optimised for maximum enjoyment while on the bike, you are also getting the top picks of the area when it comes to food, hotels, hot springs, and sights to see.

For me, this is where a lot of value comes in booking a high-quality tour, guided or self-guided. Choosing an accredited tour company optimises your enjoyment of the limited time you have in Japan. Why ride in high traffic, shuttle between locations, depend on scouring the internet for the best restaurant option, or waste time doing chores such as laundry and snack shopping, when this can all be taken care of by good trip designers?

When it comes to guided tours, it really is a chance to spend the most time doing what you love and letting the guides take care of “travel chores”. Our team takes care of navigation, carrying luggage and extra layers, doing the laundry so you have a fresh pair of bibs for each day’s ride, cleaning and maintaining the bikes, and setting up scrumptious smorgasbords of Japanese treats and fresh fruit at the top of climbs. For those looking to focus on cycling, a guided tour is really the best way to make the most of it and soak it all in.

Cycling Japan's mountainous regions

Looking for a cycling tour in Japan?

Get in touch with Bike Tour Japan ; they would love to help you plan your trip.

Bike Tour Japan is run by Rob, a longtime resident of Japan and the brains behind this guide you’re reading. He loves to help guests explore Japan’s impressive landscapes on the best cycling roads.

For more information, head to the Bike Tour Japan website or reach out to Rob and the team at [email protected] .

Key road cycling events in Japan

Hill climbs in japan.

Japan is home to a large bustling Hill Climb Race Series. Here, hill climbs are more like mountain and volcano climbs than hills, with most gaining over 1,000m! Better yet, they are all mass start events. That means that 3-5,000 cyclists, at the sound of the horn, will begin racing up a massive volcano. Sounds fun huh?

There are five main races each year, and two of the big ones are right near us in Kita Kanto: Mt Akagi (in September) and Mt Haruna (in May). Along with them, Mt Norikura, the highest road, has one, as does the Subaru Line on Mt Fuji (in June). Take a look at the official websites and you can see how to sign up!

Tour de Noto

On the Tour de Noto, riders cover 400km of roads on the Northern Coast of Japan in just three days. Starting from Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture, cyclists go north to Wajima, around the peninsula to the island of Notojima, before heading south to the finish line.

We recommend that riders spend at least a week in this region to soak in the cultural and culinary experiences to be found in the small towns of Wajima, Anamizu, and Himi. We also suggest spending an extra night or two in both Wajima and Kanazawa, two unique communities that are extremely proud of their long history of traditional sea-inspired foods, crafts, and architecture.

Japan Cup Cycling Race

Besides these amateur races, Japan also hosts the Japan Cup Cycling Race each year at the road race course in Kita Kanto (a small loop in Utsunomia, in the east side of Kita Kanto region –  info here ) as well as in Utsunomiya City. In fact, the Bridgestone Cycling Team is based out of Utsunomiya, and spends much of their time training in the same mountains we ride in the Kita Kanto Region.

Best accommodation for cyclists

Bike hotels that cater specifically to cyclists do exist in Japan, but they tend to be in the more well-known spots for tourists, such as the Setouchi Sea.

For riders who want to explore beyond, we recommend finding accommodation at minshuku (guesthouses) or ryokan (traditional Japanese hotels). Ryokans are our favourite places to stay!

I love the Japanese ryokan experience. If you have never stayed in a ryokan, they are a Japanese traditional hotel most similar to a B&B in the west. Often, you will have breakfast and dinner prepared on site, and the best of these ryokan have world class chefs that go out of their way to share the freshest local flavours and cuisines.

The ryokan experience also comes with artfully-crafted onsen hot spring baths to soak your tired legs after a long day in the saddle. After each day’s ride and soak, don your traditional yukata robe & slippers, and enjoy the zen of a beautiful Japanese room. This is the best way to step away from the busy modern world and immerse yourself into a traditional and truly serene experience each night!

There are lots of types of Ryokan, from small hotels with as little as six rooms, to larger ones that are more similar to traditional hotels, but with Japanese flair.

Ryokan in Japan

Check the rules before you stay

When cycling, most ryokan and hotels are happy to have cyclists stay, but calling ahead and confirming their rules with bikes is important. Many hotels in Japan are not accustomed to holding bikes inside, so many will assume you will leave your bike in the parking area, with the cars. So, if you want to be able to bring your steed in with you, it is best to confirm before booking.

As long as you are willing to wipe down your frame and wheels, most hotels are very understanding. Ask politely, and most staff will permit you to keep your bicycle in your room; if your room is tatami, they will likely put your bicycle inside a locked luggage storage area. (For those not familiar with “tatami”, it means straw mat floor. Here is some info on them.)

As for staying at ryokan, most will have you change out of your shoes at the door and into slippers inside.

There are also two things some guests will want to watch for before booking with ryokans:

Futon bedding: Most traditional ryokans use futon bedding, which is laid on tatami floor. Multiple futons can be stacked to make a softer bed feel if that’s your preference.

Bath: Most traditional ryokan will have two ofuro, or public baths, one for each gender. These are large rooms, often crafted of fine woods or stone with showers along the walls and one or more large baths. Expect to be naked.

In my opinion, these two aspects of ryokan stays are unique opportunities to live like the locals and fully experience Japanese culture! If this is not something you are interested in though, we recommend searching for western-style hotels or checking with the ryokan to see if they have western amenities before booking.

Face masks: Though masks have never been mandated in Japan, mask-wearing is still quite common in public spaces. Recently, the government has encouraged citizens to not wear masks while outdoors, and citizens are slowly beginning to shift their behavior. Cyclists in Japan don’t need to worry about wearing a mask while on the bike. However, some riders still choose to wear a mask indoors in order to blend in. In our personal experience, most shop-owners don’t mind either way and the ones who want you to wear a mask will politely ask you to do so. When travelling in Japan, we recommend carrying a mask or a buff for these situations.

Favourite ryokans for cyclists

In the regions mentioned, my favourite ryokans are

Hoshi no Yado, Kita Kanto region – central to Nikko town. Used to cyclists. English speaking staff with amazing food. Great launch point for amazing rides.

U2, Setouchi Sea – a town centre bike hotel that acts as the hub for visiting cyclists in Onomichi, and a great place to meet other riders. There’s also a bike shop inside the buliding.

Yumoto Ya, Nagano region – traditional Ryokan where the hot spring baths have sweeping views of the Japanese Alps. Great meals too. Located just outside town/castle, quiet but town is just a short bike ride away.

Bike rental in Japan

Japanese cities and towns have lots of great places for bike hire, as does the Shimanami Kaido cycle way.

That said, if you plan to ride outside of the main cities or the Kaido, you are best off hiring while within the city and taking the bike out, as most hires will not deliver beyond the town/cities. This will also ensure you get the quality road bikes you want without having a degree in Japanese!

Be aware that hire bikes will be set up “UK style” Left is rear, right is front for brakes. They will not switch this for you at any shops that I am aware of.

Shimanami Kaido bike rental

Most rentals around the Shimanami Kaido are mid to low-end hybrid or road bikes, so if you are looking to rent a high-end road bike, we recommend renting one from Tokyo or Osaka.

Japan bike shops

Shimano is King. Japan is Shimano-land, and if you have Shimano parts on your bike, they can be easily repaired and replaced at most shops. If you have Sram or Campy, most parts must be ordered.

Almost every town in Japan has a bike shop, but most shops service a mix of simple town bikes, hybrids, and road bikes. So if there is something proprietary about your bike it is best to bring extras just in case.

Inside a bike shop in Japan

Want to find the real Japan?

Get in touch with Rob and the team at   Bike Tour Japan . They would love to help you plan your trip.

Rob is an American cyclist who has lived in Japan for many years. He wrote this guide you’re reading and knows all the best places for cyclists visiting Japan.

Check out his website at Bike Tour Japan or reach out to Rob and the team at [email protected] .

When to visit

Japan has many microclimates and you will need to consider the weather for each unique region you plan to visit. We have run tours where guests can go skiing one day, and the next day, we are in short sleeves cycling in 25’c sunny weather just 100km away.

As regards my favourite regions, generally speaking,

  • Kita Kanto region is best from March to mid-June and September to early December.
  • Setouchi is best early March to May and November to mid-December. 
  • The Mountains of Nagano are the most limited season: September to October.

Beyond this, most of Japan’s summer is hot, humid, and wet from mid-June to the end of July. This is called Tsuyu, or the first rainy season. After this, August is typically drier but extremely hot and still very humid. Then in late August/early September, the typhoon season comes in, bringing big rainstorms weekly from the south.

This is another reason we love cycling the Kita Kanto region, the mountains to its west protect from the Sea of Japan’s rain and snow, and the southern mountains protect it from typhoons. Its distance from the sea also protects it from the Pacific Ocean’s humidity.

Lastly, for Hokkaido in the great north, the best season is when the rest of Japan is hot, in August. Though June to the end of September is generally a good time, much of Hokkaido can still be quite wet over the summer, with rainy and cloudy days not uncommon for half of each week. Note that Hokkaido is a different island that sits north of Honshu, it’s completely separated from the main island of Honshu, which includes Nagano, Gunma, Tochigi. We usually don’t recommend road cycling in Hokkaido, but it is a commonly-asked and searched place.

Riding through Japan in Autumn/Fall

Road rules in Japan

It’s vital to understand the traffic laws, and obey all signals when out riding. You’ll find some pointers below. Some are Japan specific, some are general good practice.

  • Ride on the left side of the road and the left side of the lane. Look out for the infamous ‘drift-right’ that is common for those from countries who usually ride/drive on the right side of the road!
  • When you are at a light you must stop and wait for the signal to change. Japan has no ‘right on red’ (or in their case ‘left on red’) law.
  • Bikes and pedestrians have the right of way, and most drivers are respectful to cyclists on the road. However, if you see that traffic is building up behind you, return drivers’ courtesy, and pull off for a moment to let traffic pass.
  • Familiarise yourself with  Japan’s traffic signs .
  • Wear a helmet.
  • Always ride in the direction of traffic.
  • Do not wear headphones or earphones while riding.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • Communicate with those around you with your hands/arms well in advance, for example “right turn”, “left turn”, “slowing”, “stopping”, “car up”, “car back”.
  • Make eye contact with motorists when possible.
  • Avoid erratic movements on the bike. Keeping a straight line is the best way for drivers to predict what you’re going to do.
  • Always be aware of weather and road conditions, and how this may affect your ability to stop or turn the bike. Give yourself double braking time and distance in wet conditions. 

Tips for planning a Japan cycling trip

When planning a cycling trip to Japan, it is best to consider what you are looking for. There really is so much variety in this country that you can spend a week or two and only scratch the surface of its geography, food, and culture.

Japan is really well set up for cycling in many ways, but it is not always obvious for visitors just how much cycling infrastructure and how many quiet roads there are.

If you are looking for an easy ride, the Shimanami Kaido is great and anyone can figure it out on their own. If you want to hit the big mountains or get lost in the wilds of the countryside, it will take some research, Japanese language skills, or a guide to really get the most out of that side of Japan. And if you want to just connect A to B by bike, I highly recommend planning your route without Google Maps.

How fit you need to be to cycle Japan

Japan is very mountainous and if you want to get a taste of those mountains, it’ll help if you’re fit. We can offer guests electric road bike hire – and of course we can tailor trips to include flat river routes where possible, but a base level of fitness will certainly help you get the most out of a trip.

Best food to buy from convenience stores

If you are cycling around Japan’s main island you are rarely more than 15km from a convenience store (they call Conbini コンビニ), where you can find a myriad of treats, food, and drinks. Even gas stations tend to be well-stocked. This is great for those on a self-guided cycling tour as you can easily stock up on snacks (we recommend tasty onigiri rice balls – the dorayaki pancake sandwiches and canned iced tea are awesome too).

Delicious Japanese food

Do you need to speak (some) Japanese?

While it never hurts to speak the local language, Japanese people are generally very excited to help or work with foreign tourists who come to their shops.

If you are going it alone, Google Translate can help a lot, but most chains will have picture menus or some English. That said, most of the smaller local restaurants will still have handwritten signs and menus, so your mileage may vary when you get off the beaten track. Going with a tour company will allow you to have an ambassador and easier access to understanding the local language and culture.

Surprisingly, despite being very technologically advanced, Japan is a cash-based economy. That means you need to assume you’ll be paying in cash at restaurants, markets and many shops.

7-Eleven convenience stores will accept international debit cards – and so will some department stores, hotel chains and taxi chains. But you can’t assume it will be possible, so carry cash. Theft is rare.

There are ATMs at post offices and convenience stores.

Tipping is not expected (and not really done by the Japanese themselves).

Bargaining/haggling is not done (unless you’re at a flea market).

Japanese culture

Japan is the only country in the world that still has a reigning emperor. Emperors don’t have power but they are looked up to as a symbol of the country’s traditions. The Imperial Palace in Tokyo (the home of the Emperor) is definitely worth a visit.

Japan is known for its distinctive etiquette. Here are some headline things to watch out for – but just do your best and don’t stress, you won’t be expected to know all the rules!

  • Head-bowing instead of hand-shaking.
  • No shoes indoors. Keep your eye out for the show rack at the entrance.
  • Speak quietly at temples and shrines – and don’t worry about coming in in cycling kit (though do zip up your jersey!).
  • Tea is important and regularly offered, but you don’t have to finish your cup; stop drinking when you’ve had enough.
  • If you’re in an onsen or public baths, expect to bathe naked. Shower before entering the bath. Put a small towel on your head, or beside the bath, not in the bath water. Leave your large towel in the changing area. No tattoos are permitted in some onsens.
  • If you’re confused, look at what the locals do and do as they do! 

Busy city in Japan

How to get to Japan

Getting to Japan is largely a function of where you plan to visit on your trip.

In general, most fly into Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda International Airports when riding in the Kita Kanto or Nagano Regions.

For those cycling down in the Setouchi Sea, Hiroshima International Airport is closest, with Osaka not too far away.

This site shows flight connections all over the world; it’s handy for seeing which airports in Japan you can fly to from your home airport (remember to use the city name/airport code in the search box).

Thanks to Japan Rail’s Shinkansen high speed rail, even Tokyo to Hiroshima is just 4hrs by bullet train.

From Tokyo’s Asakusa Station, you can get out to the major Kita Kanto hubs of Kiryu, Ashikaga-Shi, and Nikko train stations directly in 1-2hrs via express trains. To start the Shimanami Kaido, take trains to Onomichi Station from Hiroshima or Osaka.

Transferring your bikes

For those flying in with bikes, airports have great service at the Yamato Shipping Counter (aka Kuro Neko, “Black Cat”). From here, you can ship any luggage for very reasonable rates anywhere within Japan with quick two-day delivery. Bike boxes typically cost around 5,000yen one way.

This is by far the easiest way to travel around the cities before you begin cycling.

A big thank you to Rob for sharing such valuable insights on cycling in Japan.

Don’t know about you, but we are feeling more inspired than ever to visit!

More about Bike Tour Japan

For any cyclists who want to explore a deeper side of Japan in the rural corners of this wild country, please head to their website or reach out to Rob and the team at [email protected] .

You can also check out what Rob is up to on Strava.

They can’t wait to ride with you!

Have you cycled Japan?

Let us know how you found it; share your experiences below!

Also feel free to comment below if you’ve got any questions about planning a trip here.

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Rob Mcmanmon

Rob fell in love with cycling as a way to explore natural landscapes at the perfect pace.

After graduating from the Eastman School of Music in 2014, he spent a year working, cycling, and creating a community in Japan. Since then, Rob has returned each year to delve deeper into the secluded countryside.

Now he lives in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan. It’s a funky mountain town about 1.5 hours by express train from Tokyo. It has a rich history of silk production and Japanese hipster cafes and restaurants.

Rob is driven by the desire to create unforgettable cycling trips for guests from all over the world. He loves surprising travellers with unique and immersive experiences that exist just outside the international hubs of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima.

In addition to creating intimate adventures throughout Japan, Rob also previously worked with Duvine Cycling in Northern California. When he is off the bike, he enjoys playing classical guitar, and chatting with the locals at a nearby cafe or hot-spring Onsen.

Find out more about Bike Tour Japan and check out our Strava. .

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bike trip japan

  • Travel Tips

Guide: How To Go Bicycle Touring / Bikepacking Japan

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Table of Contents

Bicycle touring & bikepacking japan, what bike should you take, hotels, guesthouses, rider houses, trains, buses, ferries, taxis, keeping clean, my recent japan adventure.

Japan is a dream destination for bike travellers. With a unique culture, incredible landscape, an abundance of great food and lots of places to camp – it’s a delight to go both bicycle touring and bikepacking in Japan.

I’ve now cycled around 5000km on the four main islands, and it’s safe to say that Japan is one of my favourite bike touring destinations.

Let me arm you with information so you can get the most out of your time in Japan.

bikepacking japan

It’s easy to enjoy yourself in Japan but be prepared to work hard for your keep.

Japan is located near multiple fault lines, so it’s littered with mountains, volcanoes and steep winding roads. The backroads are almost always more hilly than the main roads, but this makes them all the more scenic.

You can travel around Japan on any bike.

On my first trip to Japan, I cycled on a tandem touring bike with panniers, and more recently I rode a road bike with racing slicks pulling a trailer. I don’t think there is any perfect bike for everyone, but a bike with a couple of panniers will be comfortable, durable and will take you on mixed terrain.

The most important thing about your bike is that it should have a really small climbing gear ratio. I’m a very strong cyclist and found myself in my smallest gear (34x42t) multiple times per day – yep, it’s that hilly.

Click HERE for my low gear ratio resources; I recommend using as close to 20 gear inches as possible.

There are some excellent bike routes available for Japan. I’ve completed many of the routes listed below and can verify they’re all great.

The big advantage of following these routes is that they’ll shuffle you onto the smaller back roads which you normally wouldn’t find. They also provide the easiest way through the big cities, minimising busy roads and making navigation a pleasant experience.

JapanCycling.org has 4552km (2828mi) of routes from the south (Kyushu Island) to the north (Hokkaido Island). I’d recommend downloading the GPX files to use as a guide as they take in so many of Japan’s highlights.

The Japan Odyssey is a yearly, long-distance cycling event which has riders creating their own route around a series of checkpoints and mandatory roads. The course designers aim to include the best roads in Japan, so I’d suggest seeing if any of the following segments can fit into your tour.

Japan Odyssey segment details: 2017 Odyssey Tour 2016 Odyssey Tour

Rob from HokkaidoWilds.org has been busy establishing some really nice cycling options on Hokkaido. There are 1 through to 10-day cycling routes zig-zagging all over the island. You can easily connect up multiple routes for a month-long tour (or longer).

Given the heavy snowfall in winter, Hokkaido often has road closures. Bookmark this road information website  because you may need to plan around them.

If you’d like to go exactly where I went on my 2017 tour: 1. The Tokyo to Hokkaido Commute 2. My Loop Around Hokkaido

You’ll come across multiple tunnels per day in Japan.

Tunnels are extremely noisy to ride in; the smallest cars sound like the biggest trucks. While initially quite scary, you will gain confidence after tackling a few. The Japanese drivers will reduce their speed well below 50kph/30mph in tunnels and only pass you when it’s clear. The longer tunnels have a footpath to the side that you can cycle on. Make sure you turn on your front and rear lights before entering.

Supermarkets are located in most towns. They all have a large range of fresh local produce, tofu, noodles, bread, pasta and sauces. I normally prepare my own breakfast and dinner from supermarket produce because I can piece together large, healthy meals at a really low cost. Shop after 6 pm for 20-50% off the HUGE range of pre-prepared food.

Small restaurants provide affordable meals in most towns. Expect to pay between 500-1500 yen (US $5-15) for a lovely traditional meal which is typically only available in the local area. You’ll notice vast differences in the type of food available, region to region. Everywhere has its own speciality.

I travelled to Japan as a vegan  (all of my trips are fuelled by plants). It was really easy to find everything I needed in both convenience stores and supermarkets, but a little more difficult in restaurants. I used the ‘Happy Cow’ app to great effect to find vegetarian and vegan places to eat.

But here’s the good news: you can almost camp anywhere in Japan if you’re happy to wait until sunset and pack up early. I’ve camped in parks, temples and even museums. In towns with a river, there will usually be a grassy park running alongside it. The Japanese people are very accommodating and will almost never ask you to leave.

I regularly used this map of free campsites and onsens . I imported the data as a ‘KML layer’ into my smartphone mapping apps ( Maps.me and MapOut ) so that I could see when I was approaching a potential sleeping or cleaning location.

Note: the paid campsites in Japan very rarely have showers. More on that below.

On the island of Hokkaido, there is an ultra-budget accommodation called a ‘Rider House’ available to motorbike and bicycle travellers only. These bare-bones establishments are typically located away from towns and are only open in the warmer months. THIS  is a map of all of the Rider House locations on the island.

You can take your bike on trains provided it’s either in a bike box or packed in a ‘rinko’ bag. The latter involves removing the two wheels from your bike, putting them either side of your frame, and packing it all into a lightweight cloth bag. The bag doesn’t have to be fully closed, but it should be enough to not get grease or dirt on anybody.

You can get Rinko bags from all bike shops for between 3,000-6,000 yen (US $30-60), but some people buy bike covers and a bit of tape from a ‘100 Yen Store’ and make do for a one-way or temporary solution. Buses will require you to pack your bike into a Rinko bag too.

You can roll your bike directly onto most ferries. Every ferry I’ve taken has had a place for bikes, and sometimes they’ll strap your bike down to a railing. Ferries are a great way to connect up the hundreds of small islands off the coast of Japan.

When catching taxis, ferries, trains and buses, you’ll need to make sure you have cash. Most don’t accept credit cards, and if they do, they probably won’t accept international cards.

The onsen (communal bath) is a cultural institution in Japan.

Every town has one, simply ask around for its location. You’ll fold your clothes into a basket, get naked, wash yourself down and then be able to sit in any of the hot pools for as long as you like. Occasionally the natural onsens are free, but cheaper onsens start at about 200 yen (US $2) while expensive hotel onsens are about 800 yen (totally worth it!).

It’s unusual to find campsites that have showers, so if you’d like to have a good wash, make sure to find an onsen in the nearest town first.

Japan is a really long country. This results in vastly different climates between north and south. The island of Kyushu (south) is almost tropical, while the island of Hokkaido (north) is freezing in winter and hot/dry in summer.

Monsoons tend to affect everywhere but Hokkaido, so expect heavy rain between July-September anywhere south of Tokyo.

Cycling in the North: June-August Cycling in the South: March-May and September-December

You can find free internet at convenience stores (7Eleven, Family Mart and more recently Lawson) as well as tourist information centres.

But if you want to be a bit more mobile, you can hire an ‘egg’ from the airport which creates a wifi signal that multiple phones can connect to. These aren’t cheap but can be great for a short trip. SIM cards can be purchased from BIC Camera stores if you feel the need to have the internet everywhere you go.

With the abundance of convenience stores (seriously, it’s every corner) you can probably travel without mobile data.

Have A Question? Drop A Comment Below, Or Try THIS Facebook Group of Local Cyclists.

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27 comments

What is your experience riding a tandem bicycle in Japan. Is it still illegal in most of the country?

It is technically illegal – but as far as I know, it isn’t enforced to travellers. I didn’t have any issues for the two months I cycled there.

I can’t wait to read your opinion re trailer vs panniers… I am thinking about getting this one http://www.extrawheel.com

hi, how do you transport your bicycle into Japan? i was thinking of using my bike box, but i can’t seem to find any place to store it for 2 weeks while i’m out cycling.

You throw away the cardboard box and find a new one when you leave. Or you strap it with wrap directly at the airport, as well as strap your panniers together.

Hi Alee, Thanks for this! I just got back from a one-month bicycle tour through Norway – my first big(ish) bicycle tour – and I can’t wait to do it again. Japan is very high on my list, so this is very useful. Do you have any recommendations on books about Japan and it’s culture/ landscape? And what was your experience with communicating with locals (language-wise)? Thanks again.

I just finished my second trailer tour yesterday. Should be some resources coming soon!

You might be able to find a hotel/hostel/host to hold it for you. If not, all bike shops get cardboard boxes when bikes are delivered. Just allocate half a day before you leave to finding one (we found two within 30 mins of searching).

I haven’t done a lot of reading about Japan, most of what I know is anecdotal or from my own experience. Communication with locals isn’t particularly common because the Japanese either don’t get to practice the English learned in school, or are too shy to use it. You can use various online translators to have a conversation if you need. We were lucky enough to stay with a few English-speaking locals via Couch Surfing and Warm Showers.

Hi Alee, great post, thanks. Any hints about stoves and fuel for Japan? What worked best for you? Thanks, Daniel

We used a canister stove. We found one canisters at Snowpeak outdoors shop and another at a tools/car accessories/fishing type general store. Two canisters lasted five weeks!

Thanks Alee, good to know. Which kind of canister stove do you use btw? MSR Whisperlite?

It was a 360 Degrees Furno Stove.

Hi Alee Since Japan is a short flight for me it’s on my list of places to visit. So how common is English there? Are there any Japanese words or phrases you’d recommend learning?

Thanks. Phil North Pole, Alaska.

I go to Japan every few years. Most young people speak broken basic English but they are not going to use it generally, so it is hit and miss. Generally I have found that people who work in stores that sell outdoor supplies for hiking tend to speak more English. Bikes shops are better sometimes too.

Thanks a lot Alee for this great information. I’m currently planning to cross Japan in August 2018 with my road bike. Starting in the far north (near Wakkanai) and finishing near to Kagoshima in the south. Normally I’ve stages of 150-200km a day. Can you recommend such a tour, also the far north and south part? If yes, should I take on the main island the north route along the see or your route from Tokyo to Hokkaido. Would be very thankful for any recommendations!

Hi Kurt. You’ll want to link up as much of the back road stuff as possible. They’re certainly the best roads for cyclists, however they tend to be steep and a little bit indirect. I’d use the JapanCycling.org routes as a general guide and make some modifications to suit how long you have and what you’d like to see. Alee

Thanks a lot Alee for your advice. Will now start the planning and would be happy to come back with some more questions!

Hello Alee, Love the Post! My friend and I will be traveling to Japan for the first time from early April-late May this year (2018)and we would love to do it on bikes (for the adventure and to save train ticket money)! Do you know of any great and reliable places to rent bikes at a good price for those weeks? Do you have any tips for us first time Japan bike travelers? We’re thinking of going to these following places, any help and advice is greatly appreciated!! Thank you! Tokyo, Kanto to Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Chubu to Kyoto, Kansai to Osaka, Kansai to Nara, Kansai to Hida Takayama, Chubu and back to Tokyo, Kanto.

Between this article and my book “Bicycle Touring In One Hour”, you should have enough information to tour Japan confidently! Check out JapanCycling.org for routes, or if you’re mapping your own, a good way to do that is through Komoot.com to stay off busy roads. Sorry, not too sure where you can rent bikes.

when touring trough japan do you need a new real expensive tour bike, or could you just use your own fixed up bike and if it were to brake down buy a new one there ??

You can use any bike. I’d suggest packing light and avoiding any rough dirt roads to prevent part failures.

Great info – many thanks.

We’re looking to do Seoul -> Tokyo via the Busan – Shimonoseki ferry. Very helpful input. Thanks again.

A question about your gear.

What’s the bag you have on your back?

It’s an old Rapha Bonk Bag (musette). They don’t make them anymore, but you can find similar things if you search ‘cycling musette’ in eBay etc.

should i bring a bike with me or could i find a good deal in kyoto? like $350 with panniers….

Comments are closed.

Bicycle Tours Japan

Bike Hidden Japan

Discover authentic Japan in your most soul-stirring cycling holiday ever.

OUR MISSION

Empower local people, Boost local economy and Sustain beautiful rural life in Japanese countryside through providing life-changing cycling experiences.

We are local. We are responsible for the sustainability of local economy and natural environment in our region of Japan. We live here, we know every detail of this place, and we have a lot of local partners. So, we can continuously provide carefully planned unique cycling tours in this region and through it, we can empower local people, boost local economy and sustain beautiful rural life in this region.

FEATURED TOURS

Gravel & Craft Bike Tour NASU – MASHIKO

Gravel & Craft Bike Tour NASU – MASHIKO

[6 days 5 nights] Ready to immerse yourself in Japanese culture? You will visit "Craft Masters” of Japanese Traditional Handicrafts during Gravel Biking through breathtaking countryside landscapes between Nasu and Mashiko. Learn and experience Bamboo grass weaving, Japanese Paper (Washi), Indigo dyeing, Pottery and Organic Japanese Sake directly from their enthusiastic “Craft Masters”.

TRANS-TOHOKU Bike Tour

TRANS-TOHOKU Bike Tour

[12 days 11 nights] Our Signature tour with many praises from our guests and recommendation from Japanese Ministry of the Environment. The Tohoku region, the northernmost part of Japan’s main island, is known for its gorgeous natural environment, rich local history, and delicious agricultural produce. Experience a more traditional side of Japan and follow in the footsteps of famous Japanese "Haiku" poet Matsuo Basho and his journey along “The Narrow Road to the Deep North”.

Foodie’s Bike Tour NASU – NIKKO

Foodie’s Bike Tour NASU – NIKKO

[6 days 5 nights] In this foodie's bike tour, you will go on an eating spree and experience a wide variety of great food that Japan has to offer. You will visit historic towns and stay at long-established hotels and ryokans (inns), which have been welcoming VIPs from inside and outside Japan for a long time, and also at accommodations that are committed to serving high quality meals.

KUMANO KODO Pilgrimage Bike & Hike

KUMANO KODO Pilgrimage Bike & Hike

[7 days 6 nights] In this tour, you will be biking and hiking on Japan's oldest ancient pilgrimage roads called "Kumano Kodo", in the south of Wakayama. Visit the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano, and will find yourself completely immersed in the beautiful nature of spectacular mountain ranges, massive and strange rocks, clear streams of water, and magnificent waterfalls.

Hidden NIKKO E-Bike Tour

Hidden NIKKO E-Bike Tour

[5 days 4 nights] Four days riding over backroads in the Nikko area, Tochigi by E-Bikes (Electric Bikes) and Discover a "hidden side" of Nikko! – An amazing adventure exploring nature, culture and friendship through cycling! Cycle around the vast Nikko area and enjoy the various beautiful sceneries of mountains, lakes, rivers, forests and gravel roads with unique cultural visits.

Mt. NASU Self-guided Bike Adventure

Mt. NASU Self-guided Bike Adventure

[1 day - 3 days or more] Nasu is easily accessible from Tokyo by Shinkansen (70 minutes) and is the best biking area close to Tokyo. Nasu’s natural environment offers us the ability to plan a wide range of inviting bike routes to match your preferences and stamina and to make the most of the seasons. Our plans include scenic hill climb rides, biking through vast rural areas, traveling in a ranch landscape along gentle hills, and gravel riding through forests that look unexplored.

NEWS & REPORT

Cycling off the beaten path, enjoying temples and gourmet food! A private 5 days cultural bike tour in Kyoto – Nara

Cycling off the beaten path, enjoying temples and gourmet food! A private 5 days cultural bike tour in Kyoto – Nara

A private 5 days cultural bike tour in Kyoto – Nara has finished. Cycle through off the beaten paths around Kyoto – Nara, visit mountainside temples and taste local specialties!!

Learn ceramic art, gravel hillclimb and beautiful sake tasting as finale!  “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko” has finished! stage 4

Learn ceramic art, gravel hillclimb and beautiful sake tasting as finale! “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko” has finished! stage 4

Learn about ceramic art at a famous pottery in Mashiko, challenge gravel hills, visit a beautiful thatched roof temple and finish cycling at a local Sake brewery followed by really fancy Sake tasting experience!! The final, stage 4 of “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko”, our latest cultural cycling tour!

Visit a traditional craft town and experience washi paper making and indigo dyeing! “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko”  stage 3

Visit a traditional craft town and experience washi paper making and indigo dyeing! “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko” stage 3

Ride through Tochigi’s Satoyama countryside, enjoy riverside gravels, and experience Washi (Japanese Paper) making in Karasuyama and really traditional Indigo Dyeing in Mashiko!! The stage 3 of “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko”, our latest cultural cycling tour!

Ride along quiet, winding forest roads and learn about sake making at a 100-year-old organic sake brewery! “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko” stage 2

Ride along quiet, winding forest roads and learn about sake making at a 100-year-old organic sake brewery! “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko” stage 2

Endless windings in a long quiet forest road, a gorgeous picnic lunch in front of a solemn Zen temple in the deep mountainside, and Sake production learning at a 100 years old Organic Sake Brewery followed by wide variety Sake tasting!! The stage 2 of “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko”, our latest Cultural Cycling Tour!

Cycling on the gravel road and experiencing Nasu’s traditional crafts using local bamboo!“Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko” stage 1

Cycling on the gravel road and experiencing Nasu’s traditional crafts using local bamboo!“Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko” stage 1

Exciting gravel ride in Nasu and local “Shinodake Bamboo Craft” experience followed by beautiful onsen ryokan!! What a great combination!! The stage 1 of “Gravel & Craft Nasu -Mashiko”, our latest cultural cycling tour!

Cycle into ancient pilgrimage road by 400 years old giant cedar trees and visit historic Nikko!“Foodie’s Bike Tour Nasu-Nikko Autumn version” stage 4

Cycle into ancient pilgrimage road by 400 years old giant cedar trees and visit historic Nikko!“Foodie’s Bike Tour Nasu-Nikko Autumn version” stage 4

After beautiful rice fields in countryside, cycle into an ancient pilgrimage road for SAMURAI surrounded by 400 years old giant cedar trees and arrive Nikko, a spiritual town with long history. Of course enjoy local gourmet including super fresh river fish, bagels and cakes!! The final stage of the Autumn version of Foodie’s Bike Tour Nasu-Nikko!

Join our cycling tours that offer dynamic road trips, biking from one town to another, for 5+ days. Each tour is planned under an interesting theme. You will be biking less traveled areas and roads in various parts of Japan. You are sure to rediscover the heart of Japan in an epic ride experience. Of course, all tours are guided and under full support.

Epic Tours

Relaxed Tours

They are guided and fully supported tours designed to enjoy biking in areas around hotels and ryokan (inns) while indulging yourself with relaxing stays at luxurious resort hotels or onsen ryokans (Japanese style hot-spring inns). Suitable for family trips and people who love to enjoy cultural experiences more. Slower riding speed with shorter (30 – 60km) daily distance.

Relaxed Tours

Self-Guided Tours

In these easy-to-get-going tours, you will rent a bike and a GPS navigation device with preinstalled recommended routes and enjoy riding while following the navigation. There will be no guide or support. You will be free from the hassle of riding in an unknown area while constantly checking a map in one hand. You can now bike like a local while savoring the air and landscape of the area. These tours are recommended for those who want to enjoy biking the Japanese countryside at their own pace or those who can handle bike trouble. Solo riders are welcome. The tour route or length can be adjusted to the season, time, or your requests and biking skills.

Self-Guided Tours

One Day Tours

These are half-day to one-day guided cycling activities in Nasu that anyone can join. If it’s your first time to ride a sports bike, don’t worry. Our guide will teach you how to maneuver it. On the calendar select a date when a tour is on and sign up for it at least two days in advance.

One Day Tours

Custom Tours

We will prepare a special, chartered bike tour for your group by arranging the theme, area, schedule, route, and riding distance to your preferences.

bike trip japan

Reviews from Our Guests

Evizel Seymour

Evizel Seymour

Wow - a super professional company with great friendly English speaking staff. If you’re looking for a cycling adventure, then look no further. They will adapt the tour to what you would like to do. A great mix of cycling, cultural events with extremely comfortable accommodation. oh, don’t worry about going hungry, the food is exceptional...

Richard Breedon

Richard Breedon

The cycle routes and site visits were well chosen. The hotels were excellent and all had onsen baths, which provided welcome respite at the end of each day of cycling. The visits to the various craft centers were fascinating and enjoyable. It was a unique experience to guided by the master craftspeople themselves. We learned about weaving with bamboo grass, indigo dyeing, and made our own postcards with traditional Japanese paper (washi)...

John and Mary Griffioen

John and Mary Griffioen

Firstly, the cycling experience was great. Scenery is varied from rural agriculture (plenty or rice fields), small towns, tropical forests, mountain passes, and ocean views. The guides were very capable, friendly, conscientious and very safety conscious. Secondly what we did not appreciate coming into the tour, which was just as meaningful as the cycling was the cultural experience. Stops along the way included “Shrines”, “Temples”, a Saki brewery, bake shops, orchards, hot springs, museums…….. Accommodations were always at first rate traditional inns/onsens or modern hotels/onsens. Meals were a feast to the eyes and stomach. There is no way that I could have seen or discovered this aspect of Japan on my own; especially with the language barrier. This was completely different from my earlier more urban visit to Japan; vastly more meaningful...

Anne Condon

Anne Condon

Our guided Trans-Tohoku tour with Tetsuya and Yoshi was truly epic! Each day was filled with opportunities to learn about the history, culture, and food in ways that would not have been possible by ourselves...

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Japan By Bike

Japan's superb infrastructure, postcard-perfect scenery and renowned courtesy make it a paradise for cycle touring. In fact you could argue that Japan is the ultimate bike tour destination! Explore modern cities, marvel at cherry blossoms in spring or the amber hues of Autumn, and cruise by rural scenery from tea plantations to evergreen forests and Shinto temples. The best way to genuinely immerse yourself in the country’s distinctive culture and unique beauty is to discover it by bicycle. And after a fantastic day of cycling, rejuvenate with a soak in one of the many onsen hot springs. Explore some specially crafted active adventures in Japan below.

Cycle the intriguing island of Shikoku which features gorgeous natural scenery and great cycling on well-made roads.

Japanese food is so fresh, healthy, and delicious it’s perfect to fuel your cycling!

The Land of the Rising Sun is culturally unlike any other- check it out for yourself!

Japan is an extremely cycling-friendly country, with great infrastructure and routes for bike riders.

Pick Your Japan Trip

Destinations

Tour Styles

Riding Levels

All Tours Guaranteed to Depart

Japan Bike, Walk & Onsen

Bike, hike, and kayak your way from Fukuoka to Nagasaki, exploring the scenic wonders of Japan. From Fukuoka’s vibrant streets to Yufuin’s hot springs, embark on a journey that takes you through mountains, rivers, and historic towns.

Multi-Active Tours

8 days | 7 nights

| KM | 4590 USD

Stunning Shikoku Bike Tour of Japan

Cycle through Japan: a land of ancient castles, Shinto Shrines, Buddhist monasteries and statues, where traditional cultures and etiquette overlap with futuristic modern wonders - The ultimate bike tour of Japan

Classic Tours

| KM | 4625 USD

Japan E-bike Tour

Cycle tour Japan's beautiful Shikoku Island on a pedal-assisted e-bike tour, taking in diverse & scenic landscapes on quiet, bike-friendly Japanese roads

E-Bike Tours

7 days | 6 nights

| KM | 4550 USD

Cycle Kyoto to the Coast - Self-guided

A thrilling, independent adventure exploring highlights of Japan on a self-guided bike tour. Trace through the roots of Japan's cultural heartland from ancient temples to forested roads, with many hidden gems to discover in between.

Self-Guided Tours

| KM | 2995 USD

Customized Tour

  • Flexibility
  • Professional Advice
  • Local Knowledge

We make it easy and affordable to arrange private departures that fit your needs. Use our trip designer to start crafting your perfect tour.

Why Grasshopper Adventures?

Create lifelong memories through inspired travel

Escape the monotony and distractions of daily life

Explore the world and learn from what you see and experience

Connect with nature, people and reinvigorate your senses

GO PRIVATE?

Let us help you craft the cycling tour of your dreams with our Custom Tour Builder Tool.

The Rewards of Cycling in Japan

Bike discoveries.

Japan is made for cycling! Its well-maintained roads, accommodating traffic, and a large variety of lanes, paths, and tracks are perfect for two wheels. Challenge yourself with steady uphill climbs, then be rewarded with a mountaintop view, or pedal peacefully down scenic coastal roads. With incredible scenery, precise infrastructure, and plenty of hot springs to relieve sore muscles, Japan will provide an extremely satisfying cycling experience.

Japan is renowned for its unique cuisine, and you’ll have the chance to see why on your cycling journey. Eat at our favorite local hotspots, try traditional sweets, and feast upon the flavors of Japan! Enjoy Japanese noodles and tempura, or branch out and try local specialties. Eating is often a cultural experience in Japan, and you’ll see this for yourself with a dinner served in traditional style at a Ryokan, or a monk’s breakfast in a Shukubo accommodation suited for traveling monks.

Past Meets Future

One of the rewards of visiting Japan is seeing the mix of traditions and ancient structures with modern wonders and efficient cities. Pedal to Buddhist centers on mystical mountaintops, or switch gears and check out the modern art scene in the former capital city of Kyoto! You’ll have the chance to stay in traditional Japanese accommodations such as Shukubo and Ryokan, where you sit on tatami matting and must not wear shoes and where onsen (hot springs) are available. Indulge your creativity with traditional washi papermaking before hopping on an extremely efficient train. This living dichotomy of Japan will leave a lasting impression long after your cycling trip is completed.

Our Expertise

You take care of the cycling and we handle the rest! We’ve found the best quiet back roads, eating spots, and interesting accommodations to supplement your in-depth discovery of Japan. Our cycling routes are challenging but doable and will leave you with lasting memories and lessons! Enjoy the company of a Grasshopper guide who has the knowledge and experience to provide you with the ultimate touring experience. As always, they are looking out for your safety and comfort at all times.

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT…

If you like windy and fresh ocean rides, with lots of kilometers of water and rocks and waves and stunning views; if you're fond of speedy road bike rides on excellent road surfaces; If you enjoy the look of aquamarine mountain rivers and brooks; if you love the challenges of climbing the exhausting hills which later fill you with pride of yourself that you just have made another achievement; if you find the small fishermen villages enchanting, if you find those temples and ashrams fascinating; if you feel like riding huge endless magnificent bridges and finally, in case you are a big fan of Japanese cuisine and simply can not have enough - that would be a great trip for you to make! I just did and I loved it!

Bike Touring Japan with Grasshopper Adventures

From the road.

Marvel at real footage of cycling tours in Japan and gain inspiration for your own active adventure by checking out our Youtube channel.

Why Us? The Grasshopper Adventures Experience

Kent's adventure in asia, bike taiwan, cruise & cycle the iconic mekong river, the grasshopper experience, meet our team, japan experts.

Team Japan started with Takuro San - a former pro cycling athlete and a one man army at the time of Grasshopper's humble beginnings in Japan. Since then, Takuro has been joined by Yoji, Reiko and Norman - forming a team like no other.

NEWSLETTER SIGNUP

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Guided tours. Click here to see our scheduled tours.

Custom tours . You want something different ? Bike adventures can be tailored to your request, so please contact us for all your special wishes.

Take a look at the itineraries  for a sample of our bike adventures.

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Phone: +81 80 3226 1830 Fax: +81 367457714 22-43, Fumoto, Izumi, Kagoshima, Japan 〒899-0204 鹿児島県出水市麓町22-43 〒899-0204

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Japan Bike Tour

The majestic worlds of Kyoto, Mt. Yoshino, and the Nara region

  • (66) Reviews

Tour Duration

Signature, Classic Guided

Rider Level

Hotel Level

Trek Domane SL 5 Trek Electric-Assist FX+ 2 Stagger Trek Electric-Assist FX+ 2

Starting from

$ 8,599.00 per person

Have a question?

Delve into the hidden world of Buddhist pilgrims, ancient temples, and the cultural Nara region on this awe-inspiring bike tour.

There are few cultures, countries, and people as unique and magical as Japan's. Here, stark contrasts come together and create a majestic, disciplined and beautiful destination that's truly best seen from a bicycle. Your mind's eye most likely goes to the bustling electricity of Tokyo or the solemn quiet of the rice paddies, but that's barely scratching the surface. We'll show you a completely different side of Japan, steeped in traditional arts, nature, and history, where the first Japanese Emperors established their capitals and where many of the country's oldest shrines, temples, tombs, stone monuments, and archaeological excavations can be found. In between, you'll enjoy the country's numerous natural hot springs for a truly traditional Japanese unwinding, and of course visit local markets for a deep dive into the undiscovered riches of Japanese cuisine. Sushi is only the beginning, as you'll taste matcha tea, sake, and fish prepared so fresh, you'll never want it any other way. Discover this world of contrast where modern sophistication meets ancient cultures and natural beauty.

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Bike through tea fields, visit magnificent temples and UNESCO World Heritage sites

Spend a night in a temple on the holiest mountain in Japan and experience a ritual morning meditation with Buddhist monks

Discover Nara, one of the oldest regions in Japan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese accommodation in an authentic Ryokan and rejuvenate in the soothing waters of an Onsen hot spring

Experience "Sado" or "the way of tea" in a private ceremony with a master of this classic Japanese art form

Koyasan temple

Temple in Koyasan

Visit this enchanting and marvelous place to escape for a moment from a hectic modern life. An overnight Japanese temple stay offers peace and tranquility, and the unique opportunity to experience life as the monks do — at a slower, contemplative pace.

What Guests are Saying

Group shot of guests with bike at a Japanese Temple

This trip far exceeded our expectations! Japan is the most incredible country that I have ever been to and there is no better way than to see it on a bike. The food was incredible and the accommodations were beyond what we imagined! If you have the opportunity to go, just do it!

Devin, Trek Travel Guest

Traditional Japanese food

Japan is like no other destination. The food is incredible, every meal is like a piece of art. You'll never forget the zen ambiance of traditional ryokans, the magical atmosphere of the temples and smiling Japanese people who have an exceptional appreciation for their culture, food, and life itself. This journey will introduce you to a unique way of life and if you enjoy it as much as I did, you'll want to come back.

Ilona, Trek Travel Trip Designer

Group having an ice cream and smiling

The experience on the Trek Travel tour was the best and the guides truly make this an amazing holiday. The history and culture of this country and these people is incredible.

Bob, Trek Travel Guest

Riders in the town

From a cycling perspective, I thought the itinerary in its entirety was well considered and “built up” beautifully to the last day’s fabulous descent. Clever! Nice mix of challenging hills and descents. Great guidance by the three guides. Diego, Vincent and Zack were rock stars

Jonathan, Trek Travel Guest

A couple of cyclists in colorful jerseys in front of terraced tea farms

Uji to Nara

Cycle through the remote countryside with its rolling hills and lush tea plantations that produce the famous matcha green tea.

Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

Join Waitlist

Limited Availability

April 14-20, 2024 join waitlist.

Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:

Noborioji Hotel

Chikurin-in gunpoen, dhawa yura kyoto.

Available bikes:

  • Domane SL 5
  • Electric Assist Hybrid Bike

$ 8899.00 per person

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy from: + 2,499.00

April 21-27, 2024 Join Waitlist

May 12-18, 2024 limited availability.

  • Domane SL Road Bike

September 29-October 5, 2024 Private Reserved

$ 8699.00 per person, october 6-12, 2024 limited availability, october 20-26, 2024, $ 8799.00 per person, october 27-november 2, 2024, april 13-19, 2025, $ 8599.00 per person, april 20-26, 2025, april 27-may 3, 2025, may 4-10, 2025, may 11-17, 2025, september 28-october 4, 2025, october 5-11, 2025, october 12-18, 2025, october 19-25, 2025, october 26-november 1, 2025, looking for a private tour with us.

Private bike tours can range in cost based on your group size. See below for specific pricing based on your group size.

Looking for a date that you don't see?

Look no further. Simply tell us your preferred travel dates and we’ll work together to deliver the same great trip on your custom schedule. Want to make a few changes to your itinerary, no problem. We will work with you to make sure your custom vacation is the ultimate vacation of a lifetime for your group.

You have another booking already in progress

Booking a new trip will cancel all of your previous booking progress. Continue your previous booking or proceed with your new booking.

Arrival / Departure

Where to Arrive

bike trip japan

Kansai International Airport (KIX)

bike trip japan

Pick-up location :

Hotel Granvia Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

bike trip japan

Pick-up time :

Where to Depart

Drop-off location :

Hotel Dhawa Yura Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Drop-off time :

Additional Arrival Information

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays.

We recommend you fly into Kansai International Airport. There are various ways to get from Kansai Airport Station to Kyoto Station, but the easiest and fastest option is taking "terminal-to-terminal" Haruka Express Train, operated by JR West and takes approximately 80 minutes. There are frequent trains between Kansai Airport and Kyoto. You can use the JR West Timetable and Fare Finder on www.westjr.co.jp/global/ to find a train time that suits your schedule.

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at 8:45 AM at Hotel Granvia. We'll board a one hour shuttle to Uji, one of the oldest cities in Japan, located on the banks of the Uji-gawa River and famous for matcha green tea production. Here, we'll prepare for our first ride of the trip. Your guides will familiarize you with your Trek bike, including an informal fit session along with safety talks and expectations for the week.

If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Noborioji Hotel Nara (+81 0742 25 2591) and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. A taxi from Kyoto to the first hotel will take about 40 minutes and costs around $150.

Additional Departure Information

You will say farewell to your guides at the final dinner in Kyoto. The next day, you will depart from the hotel at your leisure. Check-out is at 10:00 AM. To get to the airport from the hotel, you can take a train from Kyoto Station to Kansai International Airport (~80 min) or hire a cab directly to the airport (~90 min). You can use the JR West Timetable and Fare Finder on www.westjr.co.jp/global/ to find a train time that suits your schedule.

For extra assistance with transportation reservations, the hotel concierge is available during your stay.

Day 1 Explore winding roads through tea fields of Uji

Explore winding roads through tea fields of Uji

Welcome to Japan! Your trip starts in Kyoto, where you'll meet your guides at 8:45 AM at Hotel Granvia. We'll board a one-hour shuttle to Uji, one of the oldest cities in the country, located on the banks of the Uji-gawa River and famous for matcha green tea production. Then we'll prepare for our first ride of the trip. Your guides will familiarize you with your Trek bike, including an informal fit session along with safety talks and expectations for the week. We'll... Welcome to Japan! Your trip starts in Kyoto, where you'll meet your guides at 8:45 AM at Hotel Granvia. We'll board a one-hour shuttle to Uji, one of the oldest cities in the country, located on the banks of the Uji-gawa River and famous for matcha green tea production. Then we'll prepare for our first ride of the trip. Your guides will familiarize you with your Trek bike, including an informal fit session along with safety talks and expectations for the week. We'll enjoy lunch together and finish with a matcha ice cream before we roll out. This first ride winds its way on beautiful roads through lush forest and rolling hills polka-dotted with tea terraces. Here you'll stop for a sip of a tea in Wazuka, a small town in the countryside famous for tea fields and many tea farms. Our destination is Nara, which will also be your home for next two nights. Don’t be surprised if you see deer roaming through the town, as they are practically domesticated and a common sight in Nara deer park. This evening we'll gather for a social hour and conclude with a Japanese traditional dinner at a local restaurant. Read More

hotel

Noborioji Hotel Nara

meal

Meals included

Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Uji

Highlight of the Day

Enjoy lunch in a beautiful town of Uji with its fascinating shrines and temples.

Ride Options

ride

Ride Option 1

TODAY'S RIDE:

Uji to Nara
- Approximately 24 mi | 39 km and 2,300 ft | 701 m

Day 2 Explore Nara and experience a traditional tea ceremony

Explore Nara and experience a traditional tea ceremony

Good morning in Nara! This vibrant city was once the first permanent capital of Japan and to this day remains an important historical and cultural center for the country, with eight temples and a former palace of the empire. Today it's recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is truly one-of-a-kind. After a traditional Japanese breakfast of miso soup, rice, and grilled fish, we'll warm up our legs with the first climb of the day. We'll then descend on quiet, p... Good morning in Nara! This vibrant city was once the first permanent capital of Japan and to this day remains an important historical and cultural center for the country, with eight temples and a former palace of the empire. Today it's recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is truly one-of-a-kind. After a traditional Japanese breakfast of miso soup, rice, and grilled fish, we'll warm up our legs with the first climb of the day. We'll then descend on quiet, pleasant backroads through the countryside. On the way back we'll spot a few temples nestled throughout the rolling farmland. We'll return to our hotel with plenty of time to explore the historical center of Nara before we experience the tranquility of a private Japanese tea ceremony. Afterwards, we will head to a local restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Tea ceremony

Tea ceremony

Experience the tranquility of a private Japanese tea ceremony.

Nara Loop - Approximately 27 mi | 43 km and 2,800 ft | 853 m

Ride Option 2

 AVID OPTION:

Nara Loop with Climb -
Approximately 30 mi | 48 km and 3,306 ft | 1,000 m

Private tea ceremony

Day 3 Ride to Japan's oldest temple and climb up Mt. Yoshino

Ride to Japan's oldest temple and climb up Mt. Yoshino

This morning, you'll say goodbye to the town of Nara and its green tea backdrop to continue south on small roads surrounded by local farms, rice fields and tumulus. We will first make our way to Sakurai and Asuka, where we'll visit the oldest official temple in Japan with the oldest statue of Buddha as its signature symbol. We'll have a light lunch and treat ourselves to a favorite ice cream shop. Our ride then continues, and the hills start to increase until we arr... This morning, you'll say goodbye to the town of Nara and its green tea backdrop to continue south on small roads surrounded by local farms, rice fields and tumulus. We will first make our way to Sakurai and Asuka, where we'll visit the oldest official temple in Japan with the oldest statue of Buddha as its signature symbol. We'll have a light lunch and treat ourselves to a favorite ice cream shop. Our ride then continues, and the hills start to increase until we arrive at the foot of Mt. Yoshino–our home for the next two nights. Mt. Yoshino is truly majestic, set high on a ridge with a collection of temples as its crown. We'll stay in a ryokan well-known for its beautiful 300-year old traditional Japanese garden, where you can relax or walk on trails against the backdrop of Kinpusenji Temple, the main temple of Mt. Yoshino. Tonight we'll dine together and enjoy a traditional multi-course meal featuring local fresh ingredients such as Yoshino arrowroots from the mountains and Japanese trout from the Yoshino river. Read More

Featured Meal | Chikurin-in Gunpoen

Featured Meal | Chikurin-in Gunpoen

Immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese ryokan experience, surrounded by Yoshino cherry trees and a historic Buddhist temple. Dressed in ... Immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese ryokan experience, surrounded by Yoshino cherry trees and a historic Buddhist temple. Dressed in a yukata, you follow umami and green tea scents to a dining room adorned with gilded forest paintings. Here, a bento-style feast of Japanese specialties, including a hot pot with Wagyu beef, awaits you. A 60-year-old Japanese hostess, embodying tradition and warmth, enhances this culinary journey through a thousand years of Japanese culture and cuisine. Read More

Nara to Yoshino -
 Approximately 36 mi | 58 km and 3,300 ft | 1,005 m

Day 4 Bike through Mitarai Valley and explore the local market

Bike through Mitarai Valley and explore the local market

Good morning! Enjoy a Japanese breakfast in your cotton yukata against a mountain backdrop. Today we discover more of this gorgeous landscape, starting with a descent from Yoshino toward Mitarai Valley. We'll stop at a market on the way for a friendly visit with the locals and a sample of delicacies, including fried Shiitake mushroom or freshly made mochi. We head back to Yoshino on winding forest roads for a little rest and relaxation. Visit to the Niukawakami S... Good morning! Enjoy a Japanese breakfast in your cotton yukata against a mountain backdrop. Today we discover more of this gorgeous landscape, starting with a descent from Yoshino toward Mitarai Valley. We'll stop at a market on the way for a friendly visit with the locals and a sample of delicacies, including fried Shiitake mushroom or freshly made mochi. We head back to Yoshino on winding forest roads for a little rest and relaxation. Visit to the Niukawakami Shinto Shrine where a white or black horse was offered to stop or bring rain depending on the needs of the village. Take an exhilarating walk across a suspension bridge across a deep valley. Yoshino, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the sacred center of Shugando, a religion predating Buddhism, Shintoism, and Taoism. It’s also the name of a pilgrimage to Japan's most famous spring cherry blossom bloom. We'll regroup for our dinner together at our ryokan. Read More

Local food market

Local food market

If you're looking to experience the unique taste and flavors of Japanese street food, then visiting a local market is a must! Japan is known... If you're looking to experience the unique taste and flavors of Japanese street food, then visiting a local market is a must! Japan is known for its vibrant and bustling street food scene, where vendors sell everything from savory dishes to sweet treats. Read More

Yoshino to Shimoichi Loop -
 Approximately 30 mi | 48 km and 3,500 ft | 1,066 m

Day 5 Ride along the Yoshino river, stay in a temple, and discover the Buddhist way of life

Ride along the Yoshino river, stay in a temple, and discover the Buddhist way of life

After another leisurely, delicious Japanese breakfast, it's time to hop on the bike and head down the mountain. The first section of our ride is flat, along the Yoshino river leading into the town of Hashimoto. Here is a good opportunity to grab a snack and coffee at one of their ubiquitous convenience stores or at local café at Red Iron Bridge. After fueling up, we'll start the climb to Koyasan on a picturesque road through the forest. You can re-charge on a small... After another leisurely, delicious Japanese breakfast, it's time to hop on the bike and head down the mountain. The first section of our ride is flat, along the Yoshino river leading into the town of Hashimoto. Here is a good opportunity to grab a snack and coffee at one of their ubiquitous convenience stores or at local café at Red Iron Bridge. After fueling up, we'll start the climb to Koyasan on a picturesque road through the forest. You can re-charge on a small downhill before climbing to the top of this sacred mountain where the views will be well worth the effort. Mt. Koya is the holiest mountain in Japan and it's where you can spend the night in a shukubo, or temple pilgrim lodging. This is our chance to discover the Buddhist way of life at its most authentic. We'll be hosted by monks and served a traditional vegetarian dinner, or  shōjin ryōri . Read More

Featured Meal | Shōjin ryōri

Featured Meal | Shōjin ryōri

Let the monks host you and join them for meditation and shōjin ryōri (vegetarian dinner) at the temple.

Yoshino to Koyasan -
Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 4,600 ft | 1,402 m

Day 6 Relax this morning at the temple and enjoy a luxury dinner in Kyoto

Relax this morning at the temple and enjoy a luxury dinner in Kyoto

Rise early today for a stroll through this picture-perfect town just as it's waking, or join choral chanting monks for their morning ceremony. After breakfast, take the time to visit the bright orange 150-foot tall Konpon Daito Pagoda and surrounding memorial grounds, or relax in the temple’s Onsen before it's time hop back on our bikes. We descend on a beautiful and secluded, albeit rough, narrow and winding road. At the bottom, we'll board a scenic shuttle back ... Rise early today for a stroll through this picture-perfect town just as it's waking, or join choral chanting monks for their morning ceremony. After breakfast, take the time to visit the bright orange 150-foot tall Konpon Daito Pagoda and surrounding memorial grounds, or relax in the temple’s Onsen before it's time hop back on our bikes. We descend on a beautiful and secluded, albeit rough, narrow and winding road. At the bottom, we'll board a scenic shuttle back to Kyoto, where our luxurious, western-style hotel nestled at the edge of a bamboo forest awaits. Tonight at social hour, we'll toast to a week of new experiences, discovering a new culture, and meeting new friends. We will say our goodbyes over a final dinner together. Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Descend from the high mountains

Descend from the high mountains

Enjoy a nice descent through the peaceful pine tree forests of Koyasan back down to bustling Hashimoto. The curvy roads and impeccable views... Enjoy a nice descent through the peaceful pine tree forests of Koyasan back down to bustling Hashimoto. The curvy roads and impeccable views to the valleys below are bound to put a smile on your face. Read More

Koyasan to Hashimoto
- Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 1,800 ft | 548 m

Day 7 Enjoy a relaxed morning with a cup of Japanese tea

Enjoy a relaxed morning with a cup of Japanese tea

Enjoy a slow breakfast and relaxing morning. Departure is at your leisure before check-out at 10:00 AM. If you are enjoying extra time in Kyoto, the hotel is very close to the town center and walkable to a wide array of famous sights in the area. Your guides will be happy to give you recommendations.

Print full itinerary

View full itinerary to print.

Rider Information

Rider Level: 3

Terrain: Hilly

The terrain is varied with rolling hills, mountainous areas, and challenging climbs. Some days the hills are short and rolling while others include sustained climbing. Distance can be adjusted but difficulty of the rides is due to the elevation. The riding in Japan is technical since there are lot of small roads, steep winding descents, urban riding at the beginning and end of the ride and riding on the left side of the road. Japan is best suited for our Type 3 and 4 Riders. For those eager to experience every mile but mindful of their physical limits, our electric bike option offers a comfortable and enjoyable solution (please note that riders choosing the electric bike need to have general road cycling experience and good bike handling skills). Tandem bikes are not allowed in Nara and Wakayama prefecture therefore we can not accommodate tandem bikes on our trip.

bike trip japan

Daily Average

30 miles | 48 kilometers

187 miles | 300 kilometers

bike trip japan

3,200 feet | 975 meters

18,900 feet | 5,760 meters

This destination is best suited to guests who want to cycle every day. Regulations in Japan prohibit the presence of any passengers in a support van. As a result, non-riders won't be able to join other guests on their cycling excursions and would instead have to spend their days on their own at the hotel or exploring the nearby towns, as well as arranging their own transfers between the trip hotels. Due to this, we strongly discourage non-riders from this destination. As an alternative, call a Trek Travel Trip Consultant at 866-464-8735 for trip suggestions where more non-rider activities are available, such as:

  • Amsterdam to Bruges
  • Loire Valley Wine Country

non rider

We've got you covered on and off the bike! Our team of guides will always have one in the support vehicle and one on the bike, ready to fill up your water bottles, fix a flat tire, or give you a lift up the hill. They'll also give you the inside scoop on the best local spots. And when you're not riding, your guides are happy to help with anything you need - from massage appointments to finding that special local treat you've been craving.

  • Fully guided and supported with two guides and one van minimum
  • Three daily route options
  • Additional guides and vehicles added dependent upon guest count and trip logistics

A group of people getting fit for bikes in Glacier National Park

Located at the gateway to Nara park, Noborioji has an exclusive air about it, having only twelve rooms spread out on two floors and a gourmet on-site restaurant. It’s a truly unique experience, with a western feel and Japanese attention to detail. The comfortable, modern rooms have large beds and the restaurant offers both Japanese and western-style meals.

Chikurin-in Gunpoen Hotel in Japan

Traditional beauty is mixed with Japanese spirit in this magical hotel and garden. The old and new come together to welcome you onto its specially-made Yoshino cedar wood floor. The guest rooms of the main building feature traditional beauty while the new annex has modern facilities. The cultivated garden, together with a spacious Onsen, is a perfect place to relax after your day on the bike.

Sekisho-in front entrance in Japan

The Sekishoin is a Buddhist temple at the Koya Mountain and is located conveniently near the main street. Natural beauty offers a unique escape and total serenity, while morning meditation, Buddhist vegetarian cuisine and sutra reading promise to calm your nerves and bring you back to your center.

Dhawa Yura Kyoto hotel entrance in Japan

This five-star boutique hotel is inspired by the destination that is enriched through arts, history, and cultural experiences. In Dhawa Yura Kyoto, East meets West and it’s a perfect blend of old and new. Its location is close to all the main city attractions — temples, shrines, shopping, restaurants, and museums.

Bikes & Gear

Trek Domane SL 5

Trek Domane SL 5

Trek’s latest innovation has led to the best bike on the road—a light weight, stable and technologically advanced machine to make even the hardest roads seem easy. Ride confidently, comfortably and longer in the most beautiful destinations around the world.

Trek FX+2 Stagger

Trek Electric-Assist FX+ 2 Stagger

The FX+ 2 Stagger is a lightweight electric bike that’s perfect for making your Trek Travel trip even more enjoyable. It has an intuitive and natural-feeling pedal assist system that will glide you down those scenic roads, so you can just focus on the fun. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through all that amazing terrain, and with just that little bit of extra power, you can roll up those hills with ease. The stagger frame style is available in small only.

Trek FX+ 2

Trek Electric-Assist FX+ 2

The FX+ 2 is a lightweight electric bike that’s perfect for making your Trek Travel trip even more enjoyable. It has an intuitive and natural-feeling pedal assist system that will glide you down those scenic roads, so you can just focus on the fun. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through all that amazing terrain, and with just that little bit of extra power, you can roll up those hills with ease. This standard frame style is available in medium and large sizes only.

Two cyclist and one rider

Trek Travel Guides

The World’s Best

From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.

Additional Gear

  • Trek Travel Santini cycling jersey to keep
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Cinch sack day bag to keep
  • Bontrager saddle
  • Bontrager helmet
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer
  • Shimano SPD-SL road style pedals, Shimano SPD mountain style pedals, caged, or flat pedals
  • A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator
  • For the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and our guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

A collage of cycling gear guests will use on a Trek Travel Classic Bike Tour.

Trip Inclusions

  • Six nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
  • Two experienced guides to provide local knowledge, support, and camaraderie
  • Daily route support with both guides and our support van
  • Daily breakfast, six lunches, and six dinners
  • Two social hour of drinks and hors d'oeuvres
  • Up to three daily route options on riding days
  • Snacks and drinks for each day's ride
  • All gratuities for drivers, local experts and hospitality staff
  • All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip
  • A digital photo album of your trip
  • Entrance fees for all activities, private tours, and events

A group boat ride in Costa Brava, Spain.

  • Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Personal items purchased during the trip
  • Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
  • On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

bike trip japan

Guide Gratuities

Guide gratuities are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this trip, we suggest a tip for your guides between $280-$350 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience. While local currency is preferred, there are other options to make tipping easier. Most guides accept gratuity via PayPal or Venmo or our staff can help before or after the trip. Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

Additional Details

Know Before You Go!

We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.

Your Trip Need to Knows:

  • Lodging in Japan : A traditional Japanese inn includes tatami (woven-straw) matted floors, paper walls, and futon beds (a mattress laid directly on tatami and during the day folded in the closet). Inside of the buildings shoes are not allowed. Japanese inns are very tranquil and simple–rooms have everything you need, but nothing more. Even five-star western style hotels in Japan prioritize simplicity with fewer amenities and decoration. All hotels have Onsens which are natural hot spring baths. Most of the hotel rooms do not have a private bathroom and guests use communal hot springs. It might sound strange at first, but in Japan it’s a beloved part of traditional culture. There’s really nothing more relaxing or therapeutic than lying back in a hot bath after a long day. Once you’ve done it, you’ll never look back!
  • Dining in Japan : Japanese cuisine is world famous. Dining here is not just about the actual food to eat, but also its presentation, design, sharing, and appreciation. Here you’ll be invited to try a typical Kaiseki cuisine—served in small dishes, beautifully presented and featuring seasonal favorites like sushi, sashimi, buckwheat paste, tofu, and fish. Rice is a part of each meal, and typical Japanese breakfasts contain miso soup, fish, beans, and eggs. We will also try Japanese rice-wine sake and matcha green tea. At most of our properties you’ll also have your choice of western-style meals. We will be able to accommodate most common dietary restrictions, with the exception of our vegetarian-only Buddhist meal at our night at the temple, but please check with your trip consultant before you book the trip.
  • Biking in Japan : We want to make sure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience on this trip, so it’s important to note that riding on this trip is technical since we will be riding on small, quiet roads with some steep winding descents. We will also ride in an urban area at the beginning and end of the ride with some traffic.
  • Look right and keep left ! In Japan, you cycle on the left side of the road along with traffic. Extra attention and caution are required as you ride, cross intersections, and enter traffic circles if this is the opposite side of the road than you are accustomed to.
  • Please note that the bikes you will ride on this trip are aluminium frames with mechanical shifting, which differs from our standard fleet. See the Bikes & Guides section for more information.

Before and After Your Trip

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is famous for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines and traditional wooden houses. It remains the cultural center of Japan and is also known for formal traditions such as kaiseki dining which consists of multiple courses of precise dishes, and geisha, female entertainers that are often found in the Gion district. You'll also see the iconic golden temple of Kinkakuji, encircled by a reflecting pool and beautifully manicured gardens. Despite its well-preserved heritage, Kyoto effortlessly embraces the future, with modern buildings, a high concentration of universities and a thriving technology industry. It’s Japan's cultural treasure house.

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Where to Stay

Hotel Granvia

Hotel Granvia Kyoto is located in the renowned international train station in the heart of Kyoto and is within walking distance to many popular sites and facilities and a short bus, train or taxi ride to many others. www.granviakyoto.com

Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto pays tribute to the city's rich cultural heritage, while maintaining a level of luxury and service befitting a 5-star hotel. The downtown resort’s design concept is based on five key words and feelings: Utage (Festive), Seido (serenity and movement), Miyabi (elegance), Hana (splendid) and Nagomi (harmony). www.ritzcarlton.com

Solaria Nishitetsu

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier is located in the city of Kyoto, along the Kamogawa river. The hotel features a fantastic view of Kamogawa river and a beautiful Japanese garden directed by Mr. Kazuyuki Ishihara who is a worldwide garden designer. Guests can enjoy Japanese cuisine with a touch of French-style cuisine at on-site restaurant. www.solaria-kyoto.nishitetsu-hotels.com

Average monthly temperature and precipitation

Packing and Weather

Spring and autumn have mild temperatures and little rainfall, hence it is the best time for bike trips in Japan. However, it can be a sunny and bright one day and occasionally cold and wet the next, so please make sure to bring layers and rain gear to ensure a comfortable riding experience. Temperatures can vary between 60s (16º-20ºC) in the morning and 80s (27º-31ºC) in the afternoon. View our Packing List

Ready to book?

To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.

*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.

**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.

What happens once I book?

When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.

Guaranteed to run

With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*

In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:

Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.

Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.

Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.

The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.

*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.

Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.

What if I have to cancel my trip?

We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your bike tour. We want to make it as easy as possible to do so and below you’ll find our timeline.

Have a question? Just give us a call, 866-464-8735. Read our Cancellation Policy

Travel Protection

Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection

Travel Services

We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services

Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments

Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Signature trip, we recommend between $280-$350 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.

Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:

Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.

Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

You cannot put a price on a wow . But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.

General FAQs

Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See FAQs

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Guaranteed trips.

Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip.  Click here to view our full guarantee policy .

Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.

Sold Out/Waitlist

This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.

If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.

Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more .

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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Join Bicycle Touring Japan for an Unforgettable Experience!

We believe Japan is the place to experience the fun and adventure of bike touring. 

Lotus Cycle was created to help guide you on the best cycle touring Japan has to offer.

Join us now, explore Japan and expand your horizons!

Guided Tours

Kanazawa to Kyoto

6 Reasons to travel with LOTUS CYCLE

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Your Adventure

It’s your own adventure. Our specialists will help you choose the itinerary that suits you the best. We have a holiday for you!

bike trip japan

Awesome Local Guides

We are a locally Japanese owned and operated company. Not only are guides knowledgeable and expert, we are also friendly, helpful and flexible travel companions who cheerfully invite you behind the scenes to experience the real Japanese culture like you never have before.

bike trip japan

Small Group

Cycling tours are a great way to explore a destination under your own steam. You'll be accompanied by a small group of like-minded travellers who will provide a warm and social atmosphere for your trip. 

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Amazing Cycling Routes

We have spent decades on the bike and traveled all over Japan since we were kids. Our enjoyment of Cycle Touring in mind guarantees that you will explore the hidden gems of Japan and secret spots and make unforgettable memories.

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Great Bikes

We offer a variety of bicycle options to suit different riding styles.

Your expert guide will make sure your bike is properly set to your body dimensions before the start of your tour.

Image by Lucas Calloch

Best Accommodations

Accommodations are more than just a place to sleep and reenergize. They can be marvelous escapes to rejuvenate your soul with a peaceful mountain or coastal view.

They can be outposts for the delicious cuisine unique to each region.

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My experience on this tour was among the best!

" I have bicycled in many countries(Canada, USA, Netherlands, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Vietnam, Croatia, Thailand, Cuba) both guided and self-guided. My experience on this tour was among the best! I would highly recommend the Kanazawa to Kyoto tour to anyone who has a thirst for nature and unique cultural experiences. "

—  Will, Canada

Our mission

Our work will contribute to creating a better future.

Connect with people through shared our passoin for cycling and the spirit of adventure.

Make Japan accessible to visitors without a car, in order to reduce the carbon footprint of travelers in our destination. We are committed to run our business sustainably and engaged with the Travelife certification program.

bike trip japan

Blog & Galleries

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Our Services

We have 3 services.

Please check details from the below.

bike trip japan

FULL GUIDED TOUR

We have some great

full supported tours for cyclists.

bike trip japan

SELF GUIDED TOUR

You can flexibly arrange tours

in Japan by yourself!

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RENTAL BIKES

We do offer rental bicycles

for adventure seeker.

Previous Tour Gallery

The Four Seasons of Cycling in Japan

Table Of Contents

Japan is a truly magical land with beautiful but severe seasons. A mountainous nation of islands stretching over a large range of latitudes, Japan is home to hundreds of micro-climates from the tropics of Okinawa, to the snowy mountains of the Alps and Hokkaido and everything in between.

In this article I will focus on the main island of Honshu and present a brief overlook of the seasons. If you want to cycle in Japan during its optimal seasons, just join one of our guided group tours. We have specifically scheduled all of our group guided tours to capture the best of each region.

The Four Seasons 四季

Japan has four distinct seasons broken into Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter (in Japanese, Haru 春, Natsu 夏, Aki 秋, and Fuyu 冬).

Interestingly, the Japanese believe the year begins with the spring. Therefore, all calendar years for business or school begin on April 1st.

Though temperature patterns mimmic much of the northern hemisphere in the west, with the warmest time of year in the summer and the coldest in the winter, the precipitation is almost the opposite.

Most of Europe and North America experiences the wettest and cloudiest time of year in the winter. But in Japan the wettest cloudiest time of year is actually the peak of summer, in the months of mid June through mid September.

This is not to say there is any lack of snow in Japan in the winter, but this tends to be in the Alps, where there are plenty of ski resorts. In fact, much of Japan has a largely cold, dry, and sunny winter season.

Spring in Japan 春 | Warm Air, Cherry Blossoms, and Flower Parks

Mid-march through mid-june.

Spring is a wonderful time in Japan. It is the only season where you can ski an alpine mountain in the morning and go for a bike ride in short sleeves in the afternoon.

It is also when everything begins to bloom, and the whole of the countryside lights up with cherry blossoms, azaleas, wisteria, and a rainbow of wildflowers.

In the Kita-Kanto Region the days can range from cool to hot, and precipitation is usually around 2-3x per week in brief drizzly rain showers. Meanwhile, the high mountains to the west can get significantly more clouds and fresh snow to spring rain.

Snow still sits on the mountain peaks, but typically by mid April in Kita-Kanto all of the high roads are accessible and warm enough to ride.

Summer in Japan 夏 – “Everything is Green” Season

Mid-june through mid-september.

Summertime in Japan is a rollercoaster. A sandwich of two rainy seasons with a heatwave in between. Japanese summers can be a tricky beast to navigate, but still contain some amazing riding.

Summer is typically broken into three parts, the “rainy season” Tsuyu 梅雨, August, and Typhoon Season .

They each last around a month. Within just three months, about 70% of the yearly rainfall occurs, making for a wet and wild couple of months.

Average daily highs on the main island of Honshu can easily hit 30-35°C (86-95°F) in July and August and lows around 20-25°C (68-77°F) are the norm. Unless you are at altitude or in Hokkaido, and most of Japan is not, expect the sun to rise as early as 4:30am. Couple this with humidity reaching 90-100% regularly and you have what I like to call the “Rainforest Season” of Japan.

EVERYTHING WILL BE GREEN. Or blue, if you are Japanese.

PART 1: TSUYU, OR PLUM RAIN 梅雨

In Tsuyu (mid-June to mid-July), expect moist dense air and lots of low clouds, mist, and fog with frequent bands of rain washing over the mountains.

Roads less traveled frequently turn green this time of year with moss. Be very cautious! Wet moss on rubber can become extremely slick. There is an average of 17 days of precipitation for most of Japan in this time.

Even on days that are not raining, don’t expect too much sun. Though not impossible, a big blue sky, or clear visibility this time of year is very very rare.

Also worth note is that this is peak heat + humidity time so hydration and care not to over exert oneself is crucial.

But with all of that this is the only time of year you will see the flooded rice paddies, something that can be truly mesmerizing to ride through.

Part 2: August, AKA The Heat Wave

Once Tsuyu is over, the second wave of summer begins, typically around the end of July or beginning of August. I like to call this the “Heatwave” period. This can be as short as a week or two, or as long as a month long.

Though rain is no longer wafting through the air on in dense low clouds, instead expect pleasant but hot semi-humid mornings that build to big afternoon showers or thunderstorms most days.

This time of year, while still hot and humid, can often be a great time to get out early as the sun rises at around 4am and you can get a great ride in the forest canopied roads before it gets too hot.

If you are in the high mountains, this is a great time for rides as the heat is far less intense up there. Midday rain showers are still present even up high.

We like to head up to the high mountains of Gunma , Tochigi , and Nagano Prefectures at this time of year. Our top recommendations for places to ride include: Hakuba Valley, Mount Akagi , Mount Haruna, and Kusatsu Onsen Town.

Part 3: Typhoon Season 台風

In the Americas they call this Hurricane Season, and that’s exactly what a typhoon is, a tropical storm. Typically beginning mid August and running into mid or late September this season is still decently hot, but less so than August.

Though it may rain some quarter of the days this time of year, the rain falls quickly and swiftly. As the storms move in expect a day of strong wind followed by a day of torrential downpours. But! The day after will often be the best day of the year.

You heard me right, the day after a typhoon is just heaven. The storms come in, suck up all the moisture, dump it, and leaves. And with that you get crystal clear days, low humidity, and beautiful weather.

This is a pretty great time of year to ride as you usually only miss one day out of a week to a big storm, and the other days tend to have pleasant to amazing weather.

It can still be hot, but usually it’s only humid when it rains, and there is moderately dry air when it’s sunny.

Cycling Japan in Typhoon Season 台風

Fall in Japan 秋 – Crisp, Cool, Colors and Clear Skies

Fall in Japan is my favorite season for riding. The second sunniest season (only to winter) fall delivers consistent strings of warm sunny days. Highs of 15°C even into December are common for the Kita-Kanto Region . Lows can hit freezing, but on most days, by 9am, the sun is high and the air is dry – perfect weather for cycling.

Skies are clear most days, leaving room for a big warm sun that instantly makes it feel 5°C warmer than the current temperature. The air is also cool, so breezes are refreshing and welcome.

It’s a layers time of year for sure, but a safe rule of thumb is if you are in the sun, it’s short sleeves and sunglasses. And, if you are in the shade you will probably want an extra layer or jacket.

Late September, October, November, and even through mid-late December can be a real treat to ride in. Especially because of the ever moving fall foliage down the mountains into the valleys.

Winter in Japan 冬 – Sun, Snow, and Wind

Winters in Japan are very depended on where you are. The east side of Japan ( Kanto & Kita-Kanto ) has its sunniest season, while the westside of Honshu is getting pummeled with snow and is starved for sunlight.

In general, you can expect eastern Japan to have cold to frigid evenings with cool to even warm days. Big warm sunny skies and a decent cold wind blowing are the key features. You’ll want a few layers to block the wind and you will often find yourself unzipping on the way up and zipping back up for the descents.

On the west side of Japan and in the high mountains, expect buckets of clouds and snow, perfect for skiing. But even there the occasional bluebird days can be had if you are lucky!

Riding this time of year is really quite nice and just requires some layers. Full length pants, jackets, and gloves are a must, but you will still want to dress in layers as it is still warm in the sun.

This is also one of the best times of year for visibility, a great time to get to the top of the mountain and soak in the views.

Why Ride in the Kita-Kanto Region?

In the Kita-Kanto Region , where most of our tours take place, we love the fact that we live in one of the sunniest area in Japan. It is also THE DRIEST area in all of Japan, meaning we get less rain, humidity, and clouds than anywhere else!

What does this mean for you as a rider? This means the best weather for cycling!

Spring in this region brings warmer weather faster, meaning that we can easily be in short sleeves by early March. Summer is less rainy, meaning less wet rides compared to other areas. Our Fall is drier and sunnier meaning longer fall colors and more clear skies to see them in. And our winters are the least wet, and even as warm as southern Japan, meaning you can get lots of warm sun all day.

Now that all sounds pretty great, so what’s the catch? Remember that “Heatwave” in August I mentioned? Well Kita-Kanto has the hottest August in Japan. As in it can hit 40°C+ and not get below 30°C in August.

It’s certainly not every day, and many days will be very enjoyable to ride in the mornings in August. But, that’s the price we pay for an otherwise incredible 11 month long riding season.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the best of this region!

More Rides & Reads

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  • Bicycle Logistics in Japan (5)
  • Bike Rental (3)
  • Bikepacking Japan Routes (4)
  • Cycling River Paths of Japan (5)
  • Day Trips Rides from Tokyo (17)
  • Famous Bike Routes in Japan (7)
  • Gifu Prefecture (1)
  • Gunma Prefecture (20)
  • Hakuba, Nagano (2)
  • Ibaraki Prefecture (1)
  • Ikaho Onsen Town (4)
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  • Japanese (2)
  • Japanese Culture (8)
  • Kagoshima Prefecture (1)
  • Kanagawa Prefecture (1)
  • Kanazawa City (2)
  • Kansai Region (1)
  • Kanto Area Rides (16)
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  • Noto Peninsula (2)
  • Onsen Hot Springs (2)
  • Ryokan Hotels (7)
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  • Self Guided Cycling Routes in Japan (5)
  • Seto Naikai (Inland Sea) Region (3)
  • Shibukawa, Gunma (1)
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  • Toyama City (2)
  • Toyama Prefecture (2)
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Latin america, exploring japan by bicycle.

One of the world’s most recognizable cultures is still one of the most mysterious. From futuristic cities pulsating with frenetic activity and neon lights, to contemplative ceremonies of tea. Sense the intersection of the ancient and the modern. The careful cultivation of nature. Remark at the attention to the tiniest detail. A visit to Japan is a truly otherworldly travel experience.

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Cycling Experience

A traveler-favorite for decades, the Japanese archipeligo is also a superb cycling destination. With vast networks of pristinely maintained roads, there’s almost no place you can’t get to on a bike. Cycle three of Japan’s largest islands, and get a sense of the country’s beauty and diversity.

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Onsen Rituals

What could be better than ending a day’s ride with a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring? Perhaps Japan’s greatest gift to the touring cyclist, is the abundant “onsens,” or natural hot spring baths. No visit to Japan is complete without a dip in one of these beautiful open air baths. Each of our itineraries provide opportunities to savor this authentically Japanese ritual.

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Japan is like no other destination. Between the scenery, incredible food, safe drivers for cyclists, and unique way of life.

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Shimanami-Kaido-Hiroshima

ITINERARIES Cycling the Shimanami Kaido Onomichi

Cycle from honshu to shikoku on this scenic 70 km-long bike route., how to get there, from tokyo: 4 hours 30 minutes.

From Tokyo Station, take the JR Tokaido Sanyo Shinkansen to Fukuyama Station (3 hours 30 minutes). Change to the JR Sanyo Line bound for Mihara or Itozaki to Onomichi Station (20 minutes).

From Hiroshima: Around 1 hour

From Hiroshima Station, take the JR Tokaido Sanyo Shinkansen to Fukuyama Station (30 minutes). Change to the JR Sanyo Line bound for Mihara or Itozaki to Onomichi Station (20 minutes).

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The most important temple is Senkoji, built in 806. It is perched high above the town and is accessible by a small ropeway. On the temple's grounds, you can find the Tama no Iwa, a large rock said to contain a legendary gem with the power to light up the night.

The temple's Senkoji Park has an observatory which offers stunning views of the town, sea, and the Shimanami Kaido.

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After Onomichi, cyclists will cross Mukojima, and then pass on to Innoshima. This island is known for Suigun Castle. Built in 1983, this structure houses a museum on the Murakami Suigun, an armed naval clan active in the area from the mid-14th to the 16th centuries. As they demanded tolls from passing merchants, they are often referred to as pirates. Here you can see weapons, armor, and artifacts that once belonged to the clan.

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Ikuchijima is a great place for cycling for families and couples.

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Beyond Ikuchijima is Omishima, the largest island along the Shimanami Kaido. The island's Oyamazumi-jinja is one of the most popular tourist spots on the route. As the shrine is dedicated to the gods of sailors and soldiers, many military leaders have left their swords and armor here as offerings over the centuries. Thus the shrine now has the largest museum of samurai-era military equipment in the country.

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Next on the route is Hakatajima, known for Kitaura Hachiman Okami-jinja Shrine. Originally built in 673, it is said to be the oldest shrine on the island.

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If you have some time to spare before crossing over to Imabari, you may want to visit the Yoshiumi Rose Park on Oshima Island. The park contains 3,500 roses from 400 different species. Stop by between mid-May and December to see them in bloom.

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The local favorite in Imabari is a dish of fried pork and eggs over rice. Other specialties include ramen made from the especially tasty local sea bream.

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Cycling Tour of Hidden Japan on Shikoku Island

March through November

Fukuyama, Japan is half an hour away

Intermediate to advanced

Things to know

Head to Shikoku and experience hidden parts of Japan on two wheels! Over 6 days and 250 miles, you’ll cycle your way through mountain roads taking you to ancient Shinto temples and coastal paths overlooked by traditional Japanese castles. Traverse a world-renowned expressway connecting 5 islands and switch it up with roads cutting across terraced rice fields, until you end up in meticulous Japanese gardens. Stop pedaling to admire gorges and untamed rivers before unwinding with a glass of sake in hot springs. Join your guide and discover authentic and remote parts of Japan in an active way.

Tour an authentic and lesser-known part of Japan

Traverse the world-renowned cycling destination—Shimanami Kaido

Combine active travel with cultural and culinary insights about Japan

bike trip japan

bike trip japan

Spend 6 days cycling in search of authentic Japan in Shikoku, the country's smallest major island. Start off by traversing the scenic expressway of Shimanami Kaido and cross tens of miles each day witnessing the clash of nature, tradition, and modernity in Japanese cities, villages, sacred places, and unspoiled wilderness. Join a tour laced with traditional cuisine, quality lodging, and, of course, great cycling under the supervision of your expert local guide.

Meet your guide at Onomichi Station in the morning. Your guided adventure starts with cycling over the world-famous Shimanami Kaido—a 37-mile expressway open for bikes connecting the biggest Japanese island of Honshu to the smallest of the main four islands—Shikoku. You’ll cover 5 islands and bridges, relish the scenic landscapes, and experience the culture of the Seto Inland Sea. Lodging on Day 1 is a Japanese hotel in a stunning location nestled by the shoreline.

Meals: Lunch and dinner Cycling: 70 km / 43 miles Elevation: 600 m / 1,970 ft

Shimanami Bridge, part of Shimanami Kaido, crossed during the Shikoku cycling trip.

Finish the Shimanami Kaido route by cycling over the last two bridges. Your group will then head down the coast to the historic city of Matsuyama, the capital of the prefecture of Ehime. Cycle through the city, you’ll be able to view an impressive 17th-century Japanese castle. Continue cycling towards your hotel in the Dogo area. Wander about the Dogo Onsen area famous for its traditional hot springs. Try a local rice dish tai meshi for dinner and finish the meal with a glass of local sake. After dinner, you’ll have ample time to explore some of the city on your own. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Cycling: 63 km / 39 miles Elevation: 590 m / 1,935 ft

Dogo, part of the city of Matsayuma seen at night during the Shikoku cycling trip.

Your cycling on Day 3 starts along the streets of Matsuyama, before heading out of the city and climbing up the mountains following stunning roads surrounded by unspoiled nature. Follow your guide and cycle along a meandering river before you reach a remote gorge—inside of which is a hot spring hotel where you will stay for the night! Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Cycling: 66 km / 41 miles Elevation: 810 m / 2,660 ft

Cycling on the road through a beautiful forest-like park where trees make a green ceiling above them

Start your day with an optional morning walk inside the spectacular Nakatsu Gorge. Later, your group will cycle out of the mountains following one of Japan’s most celebrated rivers. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can go for impromptu wild swimming to cool off! Reach the city of Kochi and visit a famous street food market offering fresh seafood before heading to your accommodation. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Cycling: 56 km / 35 miles Elevation: 210 m / 690 ft

People dresses in traditional kimono posing for a photo before tea ceremony

Leave the city and make your way into the forested Iya Valley. You will first have to face a challenging climb and later get rewarded with views of beautiful landscapes with gorges, crystal-clear rivers, and traditional thatch-roofed houses. Cycling down the valley, you’ll be surrounded by terraced rice fields. Stop pedaling and walk across the famous vine bridges before heading. Continue cycling through the valley and reach your accommodation—a traditional Japanese inn with a funicular railway connecting it with a riverside hot spring. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Cycling: 84 km / 52 miles Elevation: 1,515 m / 4,970 ft

Beautiful landscapes of the Iya Valley seen during the cycling trip on Shikoku, Japan.

Day 6 begins with cycling out of the Iya Valley following the beautiful Yoshino River. After a final climb, you will arrive at the celebrated Konpira Shrine. After exploring the shrine, celebrate your achievements with your guide and fellow travelers. You will later board a train to your airport and say goodbye to Japan or continue touring on your own. Meals: Breakfast and lunch Cycling: 58 km / 36 miles Elevation: 715 m / 2,345 ft

A statue in the Konpira shrine, visited during the cycling trip on the Japanese island of Shikoku.

Meet your guide

Hidden Japan Travel

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The guides on this holiday were absolutely fantastic! This 6 day cycle trip was absolutely amazing! Such a well organized tour. We were kept informed throughout and we’re always well taken care of by Miho and Seiji. Nothing was too much trouble and they really went out of their way to make it the best experience ever. The carefully selected hotels and restaurants were all outstanding. We opted for electric bikes for the trip which came in handy for tackling the many hills. With Seiji as our guide we always felt safe and Miho was always close by if we needed extra support. Many thanks to Miho and Seiji for an unforgettable holiday.

What you get on this adventure:

  • An experienced English-speaking cycling guide with extensive local knowledge of the area
  • 6 days of fully-supported cycling
  • Support van and luggage transfers
  • Accommodations
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Helmet and bike rental
  • Bike maintenance if needed
  • Transportation during the adventure

What’s not included:

  • Air transfers
  • Transportation to the meeting point
  • Transportation from the final point to your airport
  • Accommodation before and after the tour
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary

For this multi-day guided tour, you need to have a very good level of fitness. You can expect 50-85 km (30-50 miles) of cycling per day, often in steep terrain, for 6 consecutive days. Keep in mind that you will take numerous breaks during each day and that your guide will monitor your technique and make the necessary adjustments if there ever occurs a need for one.

Regarding climbing and elevation gains, there are days with no climbing at all and days when it is mostly flat. There are a few climbs with the steepest gradient being 13%. The average gradient of the climbs is 5-7%.

For this tour, you need to have a solid cycling experience, which means that it isn’t beginner friendly. This doesn’t mean that you need to be a pro, but previous experience with full-day cycling and cycling in moderately steep terrain is necessary.

Here’s what you’ll need for your daily outings:

  • Comfortable riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material
  • Sneakers or sport shoes
  • Breathable outside layer or jacket
  • Plenty of water, water bottle or hydration bladder
  • Daypack with snacks
  • Biking gloves are optional but recommended
  • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)

Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season—layers are best. Make sure to also bring some comfy clothes for evenings and free time.

The cost of this tour covers the cost of rental bikes and helmets—your guide uses Giant, Specialized, and Marin bikes.

If you’d prefer to rent an e-bike, you can add it to your booking at an additional cost. Keep in mind that these options are subject to availability. You can choose between aluminum frame bikes and tier 2 carbon frame bikes.

In case you have your own bike, let us know the make, model and year of the bike and we will connect you with your guide to discuss your options. Keep in mind that you will have to transport the bike and assemble it in time before the tour begins.

Your first night will be spent in a typical Japanese hotel by the shoreline and all subsequent nights in a combination of more traditional hot springs hotels and inns and modern business hotels in Kochi and Matsayuma. You will stay in double rooms, but the single-room option (subject to availability) is available for an additional fee.

Group sizes and prices:

  • The group for this tour consists of up to 6 people and one guide.
  • It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate.
  • The cost is per person and does not decrease as the group grows.

Cycling in Shikoku can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:

  • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.

If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Onomichi, the starting point of the tour, is 30 minutes from Fukuyama, 90 minutes from Hiroshima, and 70 minutes from Okayama. To get to Onomichi, most people fly into Tokyo International Airport. From there, you can either take a shuttle or a train to Onomichi, or take a flight to the Hiroshima Airport. From there you can hop on a bus in the direction of Fukuyama and transfer to the “Flower Liner” bus at the Takasaka bus stop to reach Onomichi Station.

You will meet with your guide at Onomichi Station on Day 1.

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures on the island of Shikoku, please visit Japan Travel . 

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

Secure your spot for 2025 with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you’ll be the first one to know. Pick the month that suits you best and we’ll let you know once the dates are live—don’t risk missing out on your bucket list adventure!

  • Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure in case the dates don’t suit you by the end of the year.
  • Once the set dates for the following season are live, you can confirm your booking by the end of this year by paying another 20% of the total amount.
  • The final balance is due 3 months (90 days) prior to departure.

For set dates, a non-refundable 30% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking . Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancelation policy stated below applies. The remaining 70% of the amount is paid once you receive an email with the confirmation and a Travel Contract with Hidden Japan Travel.

In case you need to cancel the trip, the following cancellation costs would be incurred:

  • If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to twenty-one (21) days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a seventy percent (70%) refund.
  • For cancellations taking place twenty-one (21) to one (1) day in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking.
  • After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.

It is highly recommended to have appropriate travel insurance for this tour. You must, as a minimum, have insurance to cover for medical expenses (including medical repatriation).

Other things to do in Japan

Guided Nakasendo bike tour

Cycling Japan’s Historical Nakasendo Trail

Nasu to Nikko Guided Cycling and Culinary Adventure in Japan.

Nasu to Nikko: Bike Tour & Culinary Delights in Japan

Guided hike and bike tour along Kumano Kodo in Japan

Bike and Hike Japan’s Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage

View all (14) adventures in Japan

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The Telegraph

Ten of the best cycling holidays for 2024

2024 is set to be one of those cycling mega-years. On top of the usual three professional Grand Tours – in France, Spain, and Italy – and the World Championships in Switzerland, a summer Olympics (also in France) will be thrown in, for an extra sprinkle of fairy dust. 

The Tour of Britain’s future still hangs in the balance, but across Europe and around the world, professional and amateur cyclists are gearing up for another 12 months of hairpin corners and steep ascents. 

If the cycling bug hasn’t already bitten you, then 2024 might be the year it finally latches on. From Wales to the Arctic, we’ve selected ten of the best cycling holidays to whet your ravenous appetite, including serious cycles for the Mamils and Mawils, and gentle pootles for the easy riders, too. 

Cycle the Cotswolds 

New for 2024, this Oxford to Bath guided bike tour starts in the city of dreaming spires and ends with curved rows of honeystone Georgian buildings. 

On the way you’ll take in villages such as Bibury, described by William Morris as the most beautiful in England, and Bampton, where scenes from Downton Abbey were filmed. Famed for its rolling hills and centuries-old pubs, the route also weaves through Bourton-on-the-Water, the Venice of the Cotswolds. 

Exodus Adventure Travels ’ (020 8772 3743) new six-day tour starts at £2,099 per person, including bed and breakfast accommodation and a trip leader throughout. 

Brecon Beacons and beyond 

If you like the idea of carrying all your own gear and travelling under your own steam, then Roam Bikepacking offers something slightly different. It will equip you with a bike, saddlebags, a tent and sleeping bag, allowing you to get fully off road and into the wild.

Its new tour for 2024 will see guests take on Gospel Pass, Wales’s highest road, and Devil’s Staircase – one of Britain’s toughest climbs, reaching a maximum gradient of 20 per cent. They’ll also tell you about the best places to wild camp and swim. 

Roam Bikepacking (07967 870654) can organise this four-day tour for £425 per person (camping) or £550 (B&B).

One for the road in France

2024 is set to be a vintage year for cycling in France. Not only will it host the annual Tour but also the summer Olympics. But while the pros will be powered by sports drinks and protein shakes, how about a leisurely amble around Champagne and Burgundy – two of Europe’s great wine-growing regions.

Highlights of this new tour include a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral in Reims, and a tasting at the Côte des Blancs wine estate. The laid-back route also takes in historic Dijon, the charming capital of Burgundy. 

Exodus Adventure Travels (020 8772 3743) offers a seven-day tour from £4,399 per person, including flights, half-board accommodation, bike hire and a trip leader. Departures on June 23, July 14 and Sept 15 2024. 

Midnight sun in Norway’s Lofoten Islands

This new self-guided cycling holiday explores one of northern Europe’s most spectacular and isolated regions, the Lofoten Archipelago. The route takes in deserted beaches and tiny fishing villages. If you’re really lucky, you might spot a white-tailed eagle.

Head north between the end of May and mid-July and the sun won’t set at all. Your bright nights will be spent in seaside lodges and red fishermen’s cabins. As for fuel: booze certainly won’t be cheap, but there will be plenty of local cheese and stockfish dumplings. 

Headwater (01606 720199) is offering this new self-guided trip between June and August from £3,419 per person, including flights, accommodation, bike hire, and meals.

Discover the rural patchwork of Poland

Poland, you say? It’s not a country that many would associate with a cycling holiday, but then again, few operators share the vision of The Slow Cyclist, renowned for its off-the-beaten-track adventures. 

This new tour kicks off in May and takes in Poland’s Lower Silesia region, bordering Germany and northern Czechia. By day, you’ll pass castles, forests and extinct volcanoes, but at night there’s plenty of time for Polish wine – the country is home to 400 vineyards – and nutritious hearty local food. Silesia is best known for its poppyseed cakes. 

The Slow Cyclist (01865 410356) is offering a new four-night trip from £2,290 per person, based on travelling as a group of 12, including airport transfers, a support vehicle, and English-speaking guides. 

Train like a pro in the French Alps 

Aimed at serious cyclists, this week-long training camp based out of Morzine – host of the Tour de France on more than 20 occasions – is probably as close to riding professionally as you can get. 

This “holiday” includes a private chef, daily massages, and a support vehicle. You’ll also receive a pre-camp training plan and an all-inclusive drinks package for the evenings. But don’t overdo it – the cycling will be tough. You’ll climb over 40,000 feet in a week. One of the climbs, the Col de la Pierre Carrée, is considered among the toughest in the world. 

Sa Calobra Cycling Club (0033 688 699 160) is running this seven-night holiday between June 28 and July 5 2024 and costs from £2,208 per person. 

A long weekend in Italy’s Dolomites 

This is a convenient cycling holiday for people who don’t fancy spending a whole week in the saddle. Rather than moving each night, you’ll be based in a four-star lakeside hotel, in the village of Alleghe. 

Each day ride comes in three options, offering mighty climbs for experienced col baggers, or more relaxed jaunts for the beginners. Epic scenery is, however, guaranteed for all. Day four tackles Marmolada, the highest mountain in the Dolomites. 

Marmot Tours (01373 830409) offers four-night tours for £1,350 per person this July and August. Airport transfers and half-board accommodation are included, so too is wine with dinner. 

Explore Ireland’s south coast 

Cycle from Kerry to Cork on this new self-guided eight-day tour, which explores the green and hilly backroads of Ireland’s glorious south. Highlights include the forests and coasts around Clonakilty, and the Drombeg Stone Circle: 17 standing stones that date back 2,000 years. 

An evening spent in the coastal town of Kinsale gives riders the option to visit James’s Fort, the ruins of a 17th-century fortress. The final day’s riding passes the Royal Cork Yacht Club, purportedly the world’s oldest. 

Saddle Skedaddle (0191 265 1110) will run this new tour between April and October and it costs from £1,445 per person, including bed and breakfast accommodation, luggage transfers and digital route notes.

An e-bike tour of southern Japan

Explore the mountainous splendour of Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s main islands, on a Yamaha e-bike tour, which covers 240 miles in a week. Following sections of the car-free Shimanami Kaido cycling trail, you’ll hop between the smaller islands of the Seto Inland Sea via five suspension bridges. 

After touring the Shikoku temple pilgrimage route – comprising 88 sacred sites – your evenings will include sake tastings and soaks in onsens (hot springs). Add-on excursions to Hiroshima and Kyoto can be arranged at the start and end of the tour. 

Freedom Treks (01273 977968) offers this holiday in March, April and May. Prices start from £3,757 and include accommodation, meals and a local guide. 

Ride across America 

The Big Daddy of cycling holidays, this 67-night expedition will cross one of the planet’s greatest nations, and takes in the Rocky Mountains, Yellowstone National Park and the Great Plains. 

On this 4,000-mile journey between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans you’ll average 67 miles a day, with a rest day every 10. The comfort, company, and security of a group will make it extra special. 2024 is a US Presidential Election year, so expect plenty to talk about. 

Bike Adventures (01273 413489) is running a TransAm tour between July 14 and Sept 18, including a tour leader, support vehicle and accommodation, costing £10,395 per person. 

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Ganbatte! This Japan bucket list is your next travel challenge

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Ganbatte! This Japan bucket list is your next travel challenge

PEACE. Matsumoto Castle.

Joshua Berida/Rappler

Japan is often atop the list of many Filipino travelers. It comes as no surprise because the Land of the Rising Sun has plenty to offer history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies. The country also has an extensive rail and bus network that makes it easier to explore by land. I’ve been to Japan multiple times, and I just can’t help but keep coming back for more even if I revisit the same places.

Here’s a Japan travel bucket list you might want to follow (or add to).

Architecture, Building, Temple

  • Mt. Fuji – This mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Japan. You can go hiking during the summer or simply view it from Lake Kawaguchiko. On clear days, you can see it from various viewpoints in Tokyo.

City, Metropolis, Urban

  • Shibuya Scramble Crossing – Who would’ve thought that watching people or partaking in crossing the street would be quite an experience? This crosswalk in Tokyo is one of the wildest and most famous. Go during peak hours and either watch from above or partake in the chaos.
  • Hachiko Statue – This extremely loyal dog is commemorated with a statue near Shibuya Station. Have a few snaps to have a nice memory of your trip to Tokyo.
  • Meiji Shrine – This shrine is dedicated to the former Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Construction concluded in the 1920s but was later rebuilt because of the damage World War II caused. This shrine is surrounded by trees and has a calming ambiance which contrasts with the everyday hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
  • Shinjuku Gyoen – Tokyo is a sprawling concrete jungle with towers and skyscrapers dotting its cityscape. Amid all of this are green spaces like Shinjuku Gyoen. Take a break from the metropolis and soak in a piece of nature in the city. This park is also a great place to see the cherry blossoms.
  • Sensō-ji Temple – Asakusa, Tokyo is a throwback to the city’s ancient times. One of its main landmarks is the Senso-ji Temple. The shrine dates to 645AD and has retained its original look over the centuries. It’s also lined with multiple shops that sell food and all sorts of items and souvenirs.
  • Check out Harajuku – If you’re into fashion and the latest trends, walk around Harajuku. Here you’ll find various shops and maybe get inspiration for your next OOTD.

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  • Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine – This renowned shrine is several centuries old and is characterized by its many torii gates. Toyotomi Hideyoshi donated the striking Romon Gate you’ll see at the entrance in 1589. You can follow the hiking trail up to the viewpoint.

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  • Himeji Castle – Also known as White Heron Castle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must when you visit Japan. It’s a well-preserved and maintained castle that’s both striking and historically significant. It is one of Japan’s 12 original castles that was not destroyed by natural disasters and wars. 
  • Lake Kawaguchiko – This destination is an easy day trip from Tokyo because of its accessibility by train and bus. It’s a resort town with plenty of scenic views of Mt. Fuji. You can go biking or simply walk around the trails to get picture perfect views of Mt. Fuji. One of the best viewing spots is in Chureito Pagoda. 
  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – This centuries old temple is one of Kyoto’s most popular destinations. It used to be a shogun’s retirement villa before it became a Zen Buddhist temple. It serves as a beautiful foreground to its surroundings.
  • Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) – This Zen temple is patterned after Kinkaku-ji. It was a center of contemporary culture during its time. Like many temples in Kyoto, this complex is surrounded by nature which creates a tranquil ambiance. 
  • Higashiyama District – Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s history by exploring Higashiyama. The district has well-preserved traditional shops and that makes you feel like you’re stepping into a time warp. You’ll most likely see locals and tourists alike wearing kimonos as they walk around.
  • Explore Gion – History lovers will enjoy exploring Gion district in Kyoto. The area is lined with traditional architecture, restaurants, and teahouses. Drop by Chion-in Temple while exploring.
  • Arashiyama – This destination might seem touristy, but it’s a noteworthy addition to your Kyoto itinerary. The Bamboo Grove is one of the most photographed spots while the Tenryu-ji Temple is a notable historic and cultural attraction.
  • Matsumoto Castle – This is another complete and fetching original Japanese castle. One of its unique features is that it has both a turret and secondary donjon connected to its main keep. The castle area is a popular cherry blossoms viewing spot. Make sure to check out the castle at night as well. 
  • Kiyomizudera – This temple is one of the most renowned in the country (it’s also in Kyoto). It dates to the 8th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best time to visit the temple is during spring and autumn. You’ll see cherry blossoms in spring while autumn showcases a variety of colors.
  • Dotonbori – Osaka is a foodie’s destination with plenty of authentic and scrumptious Japanese food to choose from. You’ll have plenty of options from sit-down restaurants to food stalls while exploring the area. One of the reasons people visit this area is because of the neon-lit Glico Man. Make sure to take photos!
  • Osaka Castle – This castle dates to 1583 and was the largest castle at the time of its completion. Toyotomi Hideyoshi had this castle built. The castle has undergone many renovations and reconstruction over the centuries. Like many other Japanese castles, this one is also a popular cherry blossoms viewing spot.
  • Kamikochi – This park provides nature lovers with hiking trails and scenic views. The Japanese Alps loom over Kamikochi and makes for a spectacular background for photos. Climb one of the peaks or simply go on a leisurely walk leading to ponds and a marsh.

Nature, Outdoors, Countryside

  • Shirakawa-go – If you’re looking to see the countryside, don’t forget to include Shirakawa-go in your itinerary. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Gifu’s quaint and beautiful farmhouses. The latter was designed and built to withstand the freezing and snowy winter months.
  • Nara Park – This park is home to numerous deer and historic buildings. You can feed the deer but once you do, a few will start following you.

Architecture, Building, Temple

  • Todaiji Temple – This temple complex dates to the 8th century. The temple’s main hall is home to one of the largest Buddha bronze statues in the country. 
  • Kamakura – This city is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo. Its most visited attraction is the huge bronze statue of Buddha. It dates to the 13 th century and has survived multiple natural disasters. Kamakura draws visitors because of its beaches, Enoshima, and ancient buildings and structures.
  • Universal Studios Japan – If you like theme parks, this one in Osaka is the place to be. Universal Studios Japan provides you with several rides to enjoy and revive your inner child. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of USJ’s most famous attractions. 
  • Tokyo Disneyland – Disneyland is a dream destination for both kids and the kids at heart. This huge theme park has plenty of rides (and long lines) to fill your day. Don’t forget to watch the fireworks at night.
  • Nagasaki – This city is one of the places where the Americans dropped the atom bomb. The devastation the bombing caused lasted for years. However, fast forward to today, Nagasaki is a bustling industrial city. You’ll find monuments and museums about the city’s most harrowing event. Nagasaki also has a long history that goes beyond the atom bomb. It’s one of the places that was open to foreign trade centuries ago. Check out the Peace Park, Oura Church, Glover Garden, and Mount Inasa (for the night views).

Architecture, Building, Landmark

  • Hiroshima – This is another city that experienced the devastation of the atom bomb. Like Nagasaki, Hiroshima has overcome its harrowing experience and is now a popular tourist destination. Some of the museums and monuments in the city display the long-lasting effects of radiation and the initial chaos the bomb inflicted. They also showcase the hope and aspiration to eliminate weapons of mass destruction. Some of the highlights of your trip include the Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, and Peace Park just to name a few.

Boat, Transportation, Vehicle

  • Miyajima – This island is a popular day trip from Hiroshima. You can follow the scenic walking trails to different parts of the island. Two of the island’s most famous attractions are the historic Itsukushima Shrine and the torii gate that looks like its floating on the sea.
  • Sapporo – This city is famous for its winter Snow Festival. You’ll find a variety of snow statues and sculptures during your visit. 

Person, Adult, Female

  • Yokohama – This city is a possible day trip from Tokyo. One of the reasons visitors and locals make their way here is to see a giant Gundam move.

Japan has several other places you can add to your itinerary. These are just some of the bucket list-worthy destinations you might want to consider for your upcoming trip. Regardless of the season you visit, Japan is a country you’ll love. – Rappler.com

Joshua Berida is a writer that loves to travel. He blogs at  www.thewanderingjuan.net .

#ShareAsia highlights the best and most sought-after experiences in the Asia-Pacific region. It’s a content and resource hub for tourists and locals alike seeking new, exciting experiences in the region.

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Japan to introduce 'blue ticket' fine system for cyclists

Police stations in Tokyo's Minato Ward hold a cycling safety event in Tokyo in August.

The government Tuesday adopted a bill to introduce a "blue ticket" system to allow bicycle riders to pay fines for minor traffic violations to escape criminal punishment.

The government will submit the bill to revise the road traffic law at the current parliamentary session. If enacted, it will enter into force within two years of its promulgation.

The blue ticket system will be applied to about 115 types of minor traffic violations by cyclists, such as ignoring traffic signals and stop signs.

Some 20 types of malicious violations, such as drunken driving and obstructive driving, will continue to be subject to criminal punishment.

The bill includes a provision to be enforced within six months of the promulgation that will impose a prison term of up to three years or a fine of up to ¥500,000 for riding a bicycle under the influence of alcohol, for which Japan has no legal penalty.

The penalty for driving while using a mobile phone under the revised law will be a prison term of up to six months or a fine of up to ¥100,000.

While drunk driving by cyclists will be subject to criminal penalties, the blue ticket system will be applicable to driving while using a mobile phone, with the fine likely to be set at ¥12,000.

Police stations in Tokyo's Minato Ward hold a cycling safety event in Tokyo in August. | Jiji

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