Included: An experienced cycling guide with extensive local knowledge of the area 8-day Nakasendo bike tour (6 days of biking) Rental bikes (mainly titanium or carbon gravel road, e-bikes available) Accommodation for 7 nights (best value and available option—mainly traditional Japanese minshuku, ryokans or a modern resort hotel) Luggage transfer Breakfasts and dinners during the tour Not included: Transportation to Japan Domestic transport (train tickets, buses, airplanes) Support & gear on demand (while there is van support, the group is not followed and there is no support with incidentals) Lunches Helmet Travel and medical insurance Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

In order to join this Nakasendo bike tour, you need to be in great physical condition . You will be cycling for a week, anywhere between 50 and 72 km per day (31-45 miles) per day. Daily elevation gains are around can be found in the itinerary, and the biggest elevation gain in a single day will be around 1,200 m (3,940 ft). What else is on the offer in Japan? Check out this biking & hiking Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage or a cycling tour of Hidden Japan on Shikoku Island . Any diet or medical concerns need to be mentioned prior to the tour. Each guest is required to have personal medical and trip insurance.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s what you’ll need: Comfortable riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material Sneakers or sport shoes Breathable outside layer or jacket Sunglasses 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.) Touring in Japan covers mountains, plains, and coastal areas, where rain is not uncommon. Weather in the winter can also get quite cold in the winter. Make sure to bring clothing appropriate for the season. Generally, pack light and use layers. Due to high humidity, a waterproof hardshell is great and effective as any membrane shell. High-quality Merino fabric base layers as well as high-quality bib or riding shorts are strongly recommended. You’ll be able to do laundry in most lodgings so you might not need as much clothing as you think. All attendees should have their own smartphone device with local data provisioning (e-Sim or similar).Each rider is responsible for their own cycling clothes and shoes. If you’re bringing your own bicycle or equipment, you will be 100% responsible for any spare parts, repairs, damages or losses. Your en-route guide is equipped for most mechanical issues, but they do not carry spares for bikes other than their own. Read more about this in the next question.

What about the rental bikes / can I bring my own bike?

Rental bikes High-end conventional bikers or e-bikes typically featuring 1×11 or 2×11 wide range components are included in the price of the tour. You also get a repair kit (pump, tool, patches, etc.), safety lights, and “rinko” bags for the train. Helmet, rental clothing or shoes are not provided. If you bring your own saddle and/or pedals, they will be installed for you. Please do not bring racks, panniers, or other components without consulting first. Rental bikes are suitable for bikepacking type saddle bags, frame bags, or front, and not old-school expedition racks and panniers. Your own bike You can also bring your own bike! However, please keep in mind that land logistics in Japan may be challenging for bike boxes or cases that are larger than 200 cm (LWH). If you have a question regarding your specific box or case, just let us know. Also, if you bring your own bike, you will have to pre-arrange your own liability insurance (if you take your guide’s rental, you will automatically have liability insurance). For taking your bike on the train, you need to use a full coverage bag. They’re called “rinko” bags and they are generally provided with rental bikes on request. By removing wheels, the bike can fit easily into the bag and be placed in the designated area inside the train.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 8 participants with 1 guide. If there’s more than 4 people on tour, the price goes down. Let us know if you have a larger group prior to booking. It’s possible to arrange additional dates if you have at least 4 participants — contact us for details, we’ll help you find a date that suits both you and the guide. In order to secure lodgings, the tour is bookable up to 90 days prior to departure. It may be possible to arrange Nakasendo bike tours for bigger groups, but the sooner you book, the better. Your guides wish to avoid high impact in small villages, and stays in Japanese ryokans are often severely limited. Contact us prior to booking if your group has more than 8 people. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Children as young as 10 are able to go on trips with a legal guardian. That said, if you have a young rider strong enough to handle sustained climbs (either riding or walking their bike) of hundreds of feet, and rough terrain, then they may be able to participate on a case-by-case basis. If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to GS Astuto base, the starting point of your tour, most people fly into Tokyo and one of its two airports, Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND) . From there, you can take a train or a bus, it will take you 1.5-3 hours.

Safety measures in Japan

Medical and travel protection is mandatory . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner ! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

NAKASENDO TRAIL | JAPAN

Cycling Japan’s Historical Nakasendo Trail

5.00 ()

From $4,550 ()

Duration

8 days

Season

Spring and Fall

Book a call

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Accommodation & food
Reviews
Things to know

No time machine, no problem! The 8-day Nakasendo Trail cycling trip will take us back to 17th century Japan, retracing the steps of samurai warriors, merchants, pilgrims, and other travelers moving between Kyoto, the Imperial Japanese capital and Edo (Tokyo), the political capital of the time. We’ll stroll through historical post towns, feel the serenity of bamboo groves, marvel at centuries-old shrines and temples, and spend nights in traditional minshuku and ryokan. This will be an adventure to remember!

Adventure highlights

Nakasendo is cultural treasure

Feel the centuries of cultural interchange of goods, ideas, and traditions
Japanese culinary tradition

Gastronomic riches reflect centuries of diverse cultural influences
Edo-period style lodging

Dive back into the 1600s and stay at ryokan and minshuku at post towns

Download itinerary

Itinerary

The Nakasendo Trail is more than just a cycling adventure—it’s a step back in time, a week-long journey to the Japanese Edo period, with well-preserved reminders along the trail. You will visit some of the most important and most beautiful post towns on the route, including Tsumago and Magome among many others. The rest of the cycling tour goes through serene woodlands, cobblestoned paths meandering through the mountains, remote villages, and a myriad of other landscapes. Join this guided journey and prepare for a total immersion into the Japanese Edo period, its culture, traditions, and its food.

The itinerary is just a sample—it is not set in stone, and neither are the daily distances, but this is what your cycling adventure should look like.
This day is all about arriving to the GS Astuto Riders House for orientation and a bike fitting. We’ll have a short warm-up ride and visit some historical sites. Note that there’s an optional dinner at Astuto Riders House (not included).

Accommodation: Astuto Riders House or similar
Cycling from Matsuida to Nagawa.

Accommodation: Hamadaya Ryokan
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 60 km / 37 miles
Elevation gain: 1,204 m / 3,950 ft
Elevation loss: 837 m / 2,746 ft
Cycling from Nagawa to Shirojiri.

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 50 km / 31 miles
Elevation gain: 1,204 m / 3,950 ft
Elevation loss: 937 m / 3,075 ft
Cycling from Shirojiri to Kiso Fukushima.

Accommodation: Kiso Mikawaya
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 44 km / 27 miles
Elevation gain: 1,148 m / 3,766 ft
Elevation loss: 1,162 m / 3,812 ft
Cycling from Kiso Fukushima to Nakatsugawa.

Accommodation: Oyado Onn Nakatsugawa
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 56 km / 35 miles
Elevation gain: 261 m / 856 ft
Elevation loss: 716 m / 2,349 ft
Cycling from Nakatsugawa to Inuyama.

Accommodation: Hotel Myu
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 63 km / 39 miles
Elevation gain: 390 m / 1,280 ft
Elevation loss: 648 m / 1,126 ft
Cycling from Inuyama to Hikone.

Accommodation: Tobaya Ryokan
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 72 km / 45 miles
Elevation gain: 358 m / 1,175 ft
Elevation loss: 320 m / 1,050 ft
Cycling from Hikone to Kyoto. Once we reach Kyoto, our tour ends!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 65 km / 40 miles
Elevation gain: 265 m / 870 ft
Elevation loss: 312 m / 1,024 ft

Cycling Japan’s Historical Nakasendo Trail

Adventure Brochure

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

GS Astuto

GS Astuto was founded by Tim and Naoko Smith, with a couple of other cycle racers. They put an emphasis on challenging the status quo and have no fear of riding the paths unknown. When you ride with GS Astuto, you’re riding with expert experienced cycles who focus on cooperation and innovation. They pride themselves on operating Japan’s largest inbound single tourism tour in 2022 with 600 participants.

Accommodation & food

Accommodation

Lodging along the Nakasendo Trail is a step back in time, offering a unique blend of historical immersion and modern comfort. The towns are strategically positioned along this ancient route and they’ve evolved into havens for travelers seeking an authentic experience. You’ll be taken back to the Edo period with meticulously preserved architecture and interiors that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Staying in these lodgings offers more than just a bed—it’s a chance to become a part of the living history of the Nakasendo. From tatami-matted rooms to soothing communal baths, every detail speaks for the trail’s rich cultural heritage. Exact day-by-day accommodations can be found in the itinerary.

Food

This tour is more than just cycling—it’s also a culinary journey. The gastronomic tapestry of dishes reflects the diversity of landscapes and cultures that the trail has linked for centuries. From traditional tea houses offering matcha and wagashi confections to the charming inns with hearty local dishes, each stop along the way is a taste of the past intertwined with contemporary culinary craftsmanship. Whether savoring mountain vegetables, river fish, or succulent wild game, the culinary experiences on the Nakasendo encapsulate the essence of Japanese “washoku” principles—a harmonious balance of flavors, colors, and textures. All breakfasts and dinners are included.

5.00 (5 reviews)

Reid Carter

We had several guides participating. The main guide (versus the organizing host) was Roberto and he was excellent. Amazing route finder, very knowledgeable and of a warm and friendly character.

Nick Woollacott (source: Google Reviews)

Very highly recommended. Tim has great bikes and excellent local knowledge. I spent one night before a good early breakfast and then headed out for a loop as recommended by Tim which was the best 80kms I’ve ever cycled. Stunning scenery, beautiful ancient shrines, epic climbs on deserted roads and awesome food stops.

P Ryan (source: Google Reviews)

Little gem keeping it real. Great hosts, great location with endless adventures awaiting. Good food and an incredible treasure trove of bicycles and equipment and boundless knowledge and advice to go with it. What’s not to like.

Chris Morfas (source: Google Reviews)

Friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable hosts. You’ll leave with your stomach full, a smile on your face, and with the information you need to enjoy the Nakasendo.

Channing Chen (source: Google Reviews)

If you are tired of city life, GS Astuto is the best place for you to have a countryside bike adventure. It has easy access to forest road, paved road and trails. I have been there many times but still the wonderful experience surprises me every time!

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced cycling guide with extensive local knowledge of the area
  - 8-day Nakasendo bike tour (6 days of biking)
  - Rental bikes (mainly titanium or carbon gravel road, e-bikes available)
  - Accommodation for 7 nights (best value and available option—mainly traditional Japanese minshuku, ryokans or a modern resort hotel)
  - Luggage transfer
  - Breakfasts and dinners during the tour
Not included:
- - Transportation to Japan
  - Domestic transport (train tickets, buses, airplanes)
  - Support & gear on demand (while there is van support, the group is not followed and there is no support with incidentals)
  - Lunches
  - Helmet
  - Travel and medical insurance
  - Guide gratuities — optional
In order to join this Nakasendo bike tour, you need to be in great physical condition. You will be cycling for a week, anywhere between 50 and 72 km per day (31-45 miles) per day. Daily elevation gains are around can be found in the itinerary, and the biggest elevation gain in a single day will be around 1,200 m (3,940 ft).

What else is on the offer in Japan? Check out this biking & hiking Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage or a cycling tour of Hidden Japan on Shikoku Island.

Any diet or medical concerns need to be mentioned prior to the tour. Each guest is required to have personal medical and trip insurance.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- - Comfortable riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material
  - Sneakers or sport shoes
  - Breathable outside layer or jacket
  - Sunglasses
  - 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.)
Touring in Japan covers mountains, plains, and coastal areas, where rain is not uncommon. Weather in the winter can also get quite cold in the winter. Make sure to bring clothing appropriate for the season. Generally, pack light and use layers. Due to high humidity, a waterproof hardshell is great and effective as any membrane shell. High-quality Merino fabric base layers as well as high-quality bib or riding shorts are strongly recommended. You’ll be able to do laundry in most lodgings so you might not need as much clothing as you think.

All attendees should have their own smartphone device with local data provisioning (e-Sim or similar).Each rider is responsible for their own cycling clothes and shoes.

If you’re bringing your own bicycle or equipment, you will be 100% responsible for any spare parts, repairs, damages or losses. Your en-route guide is equipped for most mechanical issues, but they do not carry spares for bikes other than their own. Read more about this in the next question.
Rental bikes
High-end conventional bikers or e-bikes typically featuring 1×11 or 2×11 wide range components are included in the price of the tour. You also get a repair kit (pump, tool, patches, etc.), safety lights, and “rinko” bags for the train. Helmet, rental clothing or shoes are not provided. If you bring your own saddle and/or pedals, they will be installed for you. Please do not bring racks, panniers, or other components without consulting first. Rental bikes are suitable for bikepacking type saddle bags, frame bags, or front, and not old-school expedition racks and panniers.

Your own bike
You can also bring your own bike! However, please keep in mind that land logistics in Japan may be challenging for bike boxes or cases that are larger than 200 cm (LWH). If you have a question regarding your specific box or case, just let us know. Also, if you bring your own bike, you will have to pre-arrange your own liability insurance (if you take your guide’s rental, you will automatically have liability insurance).

For taking your bike on the train, you need to use a full coverage bag. They’re called “rinko” bags and they are generally provided with rental bikes on request. By removing wheels, the bike can fit easily into the bag and be placed in the designated area inside the train.
Group sizes and prices:
- - It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 8 participants with 1 guide.
  - If there’s more than 4 people on tour, the price goes down. Let us know if you have a larger group prior to booking.
  - It’s possible to arrange additional dates if you have at least 4 participants—contact us for details, we’ll help you find a date that suits both you and the guide.
  - In order to secure lodgings, the tour is bookable up to 90 days prior to departure.
It may be possible to arrange Nakasendo bike tours for bigger groups, but the sooner you book, the better. Your guides wish to avoid high impact in small villages, and stays in Japanese ryokans are often severely limited. Contact us prior to booking if your group has more than 8 people.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Children as young as 10 are able to go on trips with a legal guardian. That said, if you have a young rider strong enough to handle sustained climbs (either riding or walking their bike) of hundreds of feet, and rough terrain, then they may be able to participate on a case-by-case basis.
If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to GS Astuto base, the starting point of your tour, most people fly into Tokyo and one of its two airports, Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND). From there, you can take a train or a bus, it will take you 1.5-3 hours.
Medical and travel protection is mandatory. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits

You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Secure your early bird spot with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you will be the first one to know about any new upcoming dates. Pick your preferred dates without the risk of your bucket list adventure selling out!
- 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 anytime in case the dates don’t suit you.
- Once the dates are set, you can confirm your booking by paying another 20% of the total amount.
- The final balance is due 3 months (90 days) prior to departure.
Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 30-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
- For cancellations 30 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
- For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.