Cycling in Japan

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enquire now 14 Days From NZD $8,799 pp twinshare
 Small group
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Discover the best of rural and modern Japan on two wheels

There is no better way of experiencing the ever-changing landscapes of Japan than on two wheels, as we pedal from the rugged seascapes and wild beaches of the Noto Peninsula to picturesque farmlands and remote mountainous regions of Takayama and UNESCO Shirakawa-go, where we are able to get a close feel for the timeless rhythms and customs of the Japanese countryside. From temples, shrines and market visits, to hot springs and overnights in ryokans – traditional Japanese guesthouses – this trip offers excellent rural cycling without compromising on the cultural elements. No trip to Japan would be complete without a visit to Kyoto, Japan’s age-old capital, with its peaceful Zen gardens and geisha districts and futuristic Tokyo: sprawling, inimitably busy and extraordinary.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Cycle rural roads through peaceful Japanese countryside
  • Discover temples, zen gardens and geisha districts in Kyoto
  • Ride along the picturesque shores of the Noto Peninsula
  • Stay in authentic guesthouses and bathe in hot springs
  • Visit the UNESCO historic village of Shirakawa-go

Itinerary 

Cycling in Japan

Day 1

Start Tokyo

Day 2

Morning orientation walk and free afternoon to explore Tokyo

Day 3

Train to Kanazawa, the gateway to the Noto Peninsula; afternoon cycle loop and sightseeing

Day 4

Cycle from Kanazawa to Togi, along rugged coastline and past fishing villages

Day 5

Rewarding coastal ride to Wajima; enjoy scenic ocean views and rock formations en route

Day 6

Early morning optional market visit; cycle to Suzu; enjoy coastal views and verdant rice paddies of Senmaida

Day 7

Final ride along the Noto Peninsula to the popular hot spring resort of Wakura Onsen

Day 8

Travel to UNESCO Shirakawa-go village by train and bus; overnight in a traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouse

Day 9

Challenging ride to Hida Takayama, at the foothills of the Japanese Alps

Day 10

Cycle to the castle town of Gujo Hachiman, past little villages, local shrines and paddy fields

Day 11

Cycle along the Nagara River to the town of Gifu

Day 12

Travel to Kyoto by train; free time for sightseeing

Day 13

Final circular ride in Kyoto exploring the pleasant district of Arashiyama and two seasonal temples

Day 14

End Kyoto

KEY INFORMATION

  • 13 nights hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese guesthouses), some with shared facilities
  • 9 days cycling with partial vehicle support (limited seats)
  • 90% tarmac roads, 10% country lanes or gravel paths
  • Mainly undulating with a few steady climbs
  • Special cherry blossoms and autumn colours departures
  • Local bike hire included (e-bikes can be requested but are very limited and subject to availability)
  • E-bike hire available on request, supplement from £425, USD $595 or CAD $706
  • Countries visited: Japan

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All breakfasts and 5 dinners
  • All accommodation
  • All transport and listed activities
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
  • Group transfers (for group flights)
  • Local bike hire

Images courtesy of Exodus Travel 

EXT – MOJ

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