Included: Experienced local cycling guide(s) with extensive knowledge of the area Accommodation for 5 nights in quality hotels or ryokans (traditional inns), double occupancy Meals as indicated in the itinerary (5 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners) Snacks, fruit, and water during ride Support vehicle and mechanical support Luggage transfers Transportation during the adventure Entrance tickets for attractions along the way Accident insurance Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout): Single occupancy room Road bike or hybrid e-bike rental Not included: Transportation to the starting point of the tour Beverages during dinners (except for the first drink for a toast) Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

For this guided bike tour from Nasu to Nikko in the Tochigi Prefecture, you need to have a great level of fitness . Participants need to be able to cover 18-43 miles (30-70 km) of cycling per day, sometimes featuring strenuous ascents, for 4 consecutive days. To prepare, we suggest engaging in cardiovascular and strength training in weeks prior to the tour. It is also important to cycle regularly, at least during the weekend. Keep in mind that you will take breaks during each day and that your guide will set the pace that takes into account your fitness level. They will also monitor your technique and make the necessary route adjustments if there ever occurs a need for one. However, in general, the average speed will be 15km/h—and while this pace could feel slow to some, keep in mind that this is also a foodies’ bike tour, and the pace may be adjusted slightly depending on the group’s skill level. You will also have a support vehicle riding between hotels, which means that you are always covered in the event that riding becomes too difficult. If you think mileage and the climbs will pose too big of a challenge for you, consider renting an e-bike! Both regular road bikes and e-bikes can be rented at the same rate during the booking process.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s what you’ll need for your daily outings: Bike or e-bike — can be rented Helmet Comfortable riding clothing (made from moisture-wicking materials) Waterproof cycling shoes Breathable outside layer or jacket Sunglasses Water bottle or hydration bladder Daypack that can fit all the items you might need in a day Biking gloves are optional but recommended Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, cosmetics, personal hygiene products etc.) Bring comfortable clothes appropriate for the season . Late May and early June in Tochigi, Japan, typically experience mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It marks the transition from spring to early summer, with occasional rain showers. Late October and early November bring cooler temperatures to Tochigi, ranging from 5°C to 18°C (41°F to 64°F). It’s the autumn season, characterized by colorful foliage, and generally drier conditions compared to late spring. Make sure to also bring some leisure clothes for evenings and free time. A more comprehensive packing list will be provided to you upon booking.

What will the food be like?

Your guided cycling trip from Nasu to Nikko is as much of a culinary journey as it is a bike tour. Savor a kaiseki dinner (traditional multi-course Japanese dinner) at a historic ryokan, relish local specialties in each town, and delight in diverse Japanese dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Feast on wagyu beef, fresh river fish, Nikko rainbow trout, highland vegetables, cheese, and ice cream from ranches-owned shops. Enjoy local sake, craft beer in Nasu Highland, and Tochigi wine. Your biking adventure also offers glimpses into the production of these local delights. Don’t miss the chance to experience ramen, soba, tempura, and a full-course lunch at a local farmer’s house, along with delightful conversations with the family. You’re in for a bike tour that satisfies not only your wanderlust but also your discerning palate—sensational food that defines Japanese gastronomy at its finest.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: It takes a minimum of 4 persons for the tour to run. The maximum group size for this group tour is 9. Solo travelers are welcome to join, but securing a single occupancy room for themselves is mandatory —you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout. Bike tour from Nasu to Nikko can be arranged for private groups. Contact us prior to booking. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors (as young as 10) are also able to go on trips with a legal guardian, but this is usually possible only on private tours. 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—just note that there is a limited number of bikes for children that can be rented. If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Is a single occupancy room available?

The price for this tour is based on twin-share rooms , but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee . You can add it to your booking at checkout. Solo travelers are welcome to join, but securing a single occupancy room for themselves is mandatory —you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout.

Getting there and meeting location

Your Nasu-Nikko cycling adventure starts at Nasushiobara Station in the morning of Day 1. To get there, most people fly into Haneda or Narita International Airports (both serving Tokyo). From there, you should take a shuttle to the Tokyo Station (main railway station) in Chiyoda. The shuttle will take you either between 20 minutes and 1 hour (if getting there from the airport). Once there, take the Tohoku Shinkansen (high-speed train) to Nasushiobara Station (the shuttle will take you 70 minutes). We suggest arriving in Japan at least one day before and arranging accommodation in Tokyo (preferably close to the airport or the railway station), to give yourself a chance to combat jet lag.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors 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.

Check out Early bird options for best sellers here

Nasu to Nikko Guided Cycling and Culinary Adventure in Japan.

TOCHIGI PREFECTURE | JAPAN

Nasu to Nikko: Bike Tour & Culinary Delights in Japan

6 days | Moderate | 5.00

From $4,006 ()

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Japan is so much more than Tokyo and Kyoto—come explore its authentic side on two wheels! Kicking off in the highland town of Nasu, we’ll traverse terraced rice fields, delve into the mountainside, ride between towering cedars, and eventually reach Nikko, a sacred town that has attracted samurais for centuries. Now, no trip to Japan would be complete without tasting its rich cuisine! Ramen, soba, tempura, grilled river fish, wagyu beef…you name it, we’re tasting it. We’ll stay in established hotels and traditional inns featuring onsens—soothing hot springs that are just what you need after a day of cycling. So, gear up for a bike tour between Nasu and Nikko—where every pedal stroke takes you deeper into Japan’s nature, history, and, of course, its gastronomy.

Adventure Highlights

Scenic roads: Pedal between terraced rice fields, navigate forested hills, cross suspension bridges, and glide through charming Japanese villages
Lost in Nikko: Explore this city founded in the 8th century, featuring incredible shrines and temples, like the UNESCO-protected Nikko Toshogu
Authentic experience: Stay in traditional hotels and inns, relax in onsens, and savor the best of Japan’s cuisine at every opportunity

Duration

6 days

Season

May through November

Group size

Up to 9 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Explore the authentic side of Japan on a 6-day bike tour from Nasu to Nikko in the Tochigi Prefecture. Traverse picturesque landscapes, visit historical sites, and savor rich Japanese cuisine. Stay in quality hotels and ryokans, enjoying onsens each night. Lead by local guides, discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nikko Toshogu and ride through scenic routes like the Nikko Cedar Avenue. This all-inclusive tour offers gourmet meals, snacks, a support vehicle, and more. Immerse yourself in Japan's nature, history, and gastronomy on this unforgettable adventure.

Day 1: Start of the Adventure

Our cycling escapade commences at Nasushiobara Station, a swift 70-minute journey from Tokyo aboard the Tohoku Shinkansen. At the Ride Experience tour desk, we’ll fine-tune your rental bikes for an optimal riding experience and go through a gear check. We will then get a shuttle to an enchanting onsen ryokan (Japanese inn with hot springs) in Nasu, where a traditional Japanese “Kaiseki” dinner awaits. This culinary masterpiece features an array of dishes, each meticulously crafted with seasonal vegetables, locally sourced fish, and an infusion of regional flavors.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Riding around the Town of Nasu

Cyclists riding on a road passing through the Japanese countryside in Tochigi.

Awaken to a hearty breakfast, setting the tone for a day of exploration in Nasu, a haven for both gourmands and cycling enthusiasts. With its royal resort history, Nasu unfolds as we cycle through highlands and countryside, framed by majestic mountain vistas. Navigate the rich tapestry of Nasu’s cultural gems, including shrines, castle ruins, and serene bamboo forests. A culinary highlight awaits at a local farmer’s house—a full-course lunch where each bite celebrates the bounty of fresh, local ingredients. As the day unfolds, we’ll traverse the highland forest, followed by indulging in a delicious cheesecake and rice flour ice cream.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Distance: 43.5 miles (70 km)

Day 3: Nasu Town to Shiobara Town

A cyclist looking at a waterfall surrounded by trees in fall colors, in Japan, between Nasu and Nikko.

Following breakfast, we’ll begin our day with an exhilarating ride across a suspension bridge and weave your way through paths alongside terraced rice fields. We’ll traverse tranquil mountain villages, relishing a local lunch of fresh soba and tempura. A short hike leads to a breathtaking waterfall, complemented by visits to an ancient and sacred cedar tree and a renowned Japanese confectionery store. The day concludes in a hidden onsen village in Shiobara, where a cozy ryokan offers a Kaiseki dinner spotlighting seasonal mountain vegetables and succulent wagyu beef.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Distance: 31 miles (50 km)

Day 4: Shiobara Town to the City of Nikko

Cyclists riding along the Nikko Cedar Avenue.

Following another delightful morning meal, Day 4 unfolds with a journey from Shiobara to Nikko. We’ll traverse a suspension bridge, meander through captivating countryside roads, and explore historical sites. The crown jewel is the Nikko Cedar Avenue, an ancient Samurai Road enveloped by towering 400-year-old cedar trees. We’ll then arrive at the classic Nikko Kanaya Hotel, the oldest resort hotel in Japan, where the evening beckons for a delightful dinner in Nikko at your chosen restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Distance: 43.5 miles (70 km)

Day 5: Nikko to Lake Chuzenji

After breakfast, it’s time to immerse yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nikko Toshogu and its surroundings. There, we can opt for the unique Gomadaki fire prayer at Rinnoji Temple. In the afternoon, pedal from Nikko Kanaya Hotel to Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel via the picturesque Iroha-zaka slope, Lake Chuzenji, and a captivating waterfall resembling a dragon’s head. our day culminates at a lakeside resort hotel, where an onsen promises rejuvenation for the last time during this tour.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Distance: 18 miles (30 km)

Day 6: End of the Adventure

As you savor a final breakfast and bid farewell to the hotel, your journey concludes. Board the hotel’s private shuttle to Tobu Nikko Station, where you part ways with your guide, fellow cyclists, and the enchanting landscapes of Japan. Reflect on your unforgettable adventure or extend your exploration.

Meals: Breakfast

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Lodging & food

Japanese quality and indulgence

Experience the epitome of Japanese hospitality during your Nasu to Nikko cycling tour in Tochigi, Japan. Each night, you’ll stay in a historic hotel or traditional ryokan, cherished for its enduring legacy and esteemed presence in each town. Immerse yourself in top-tier service and the refined art of Japanese hospitality.

With the exception of Day 4, every accommodation features its own exceptional onsen, inviting you to unwind in soothing thermal waters after a day of exhilarating rides. Single supplement is available during the booking process, but it does not guarantee a single room during all 5 nights due to limited availability.

Authentic dishes

From an elegant multi-course kaiseki dinner at a historic ryokan to casual bites of freshly grilled river fish, every meal on this tour celebrates the remarkable flavors of Tochigi Prefecture. Highlights include shabu-shabu and sukiyaki of prized Nasu wagyu beef, sautéed Nikko rainbow trout, crispy tempura soba, jidori chicken, and artisan cheese and ice cream from highland ranches—all made with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Along the way, you’ll cycle past the very farms and rivers where much of this food is produced. The tour includes 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners.

Drinks are equally impressive: Tochigi’s proud sake tradition, rooted in its status as a leading rice-producing region, is complemented by Nasu Highland craft beer and local Tochigi wine—a wonderful trio for anyone who loves to pair great food with a great glass.

Adventure, packed to go

Nasu to Nikko: Bike Tour & Culinary Delights in Japan

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Tetsuya

Tetsuya, a Tokyo native, embarked on a global journey to over 40 countries while working in foreign-affiliated IT and import businesses. Captivated by the bicycle tourism experiences worldwide, he settled in Nasu, Tochigi, where he founded Ride Experience Inc. alongside passionate local friends. With over two decades of cycling under his belt, Tetsuya's expertise in exploring attractive routes, from narrow mountain roads to gravel paths, is unparalleled in the region. Beyond cycling, he finds joy in music, cooking, and savoring craft beer and local sake.

5.00

Yoshi

Hailing from the Kansai region, Yoshi's cycling journey began with his university cycling club, leading him to explore Japan on two wheels. His passion extends to road races, and he actively participates a few times a year. With a solid foundation as a mechanic at a bike shop, Yoshi holds qualifications as a Bicycle Maintenance Engineer, Bicycle Technician, and Sports Bike Mechanic. As a reliable tour guide and mechanic, he swiftly addresses mechanical issues during tours, all while showcasing his super-friendly demeanor.

5.00

Kazu

Despite being a Tokyo native, Kazu has spent considerable time living abroad, honing his expertise in cross-cultural communication. His passion for bike tours, cultivated during his university cycling club days, remains alive as he occasionally embarks on adventures with friends. With prior experience as a bike tour guide in the Tokyo Metropolitan area, Kazu brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Known as the go-to guy, his extensive experience ensures a seamless and enjoyable biking experience for all.

5.00

Eddy

Eddy, a native of Aomori, discovered his passion for mountain biking during his university years, and it has been an exhilarating 15-year journey ever since. Intrigued by the charm of his hometown, he sought ways to showcase it, ultimately transitioning from managing bike races to becoming a professional bike tour guide. Drawing on the patience and meticulousness characteristic of Tohoku natives, Eddy offers finely-tuned support, ensuring a memorable and seamless experience for fellow biking enthusiasts.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)

R Y.

|June 2025

Bike tours are one of the best ways to truly experience a country. They take you beyond the big cities and into the heart of small villages and the countryside. This particular tour stood out for its exceptional food and accommodations. The traditional Ryokan hotels were a highlight. They were comfortable, authentic, and serving incredible meals. One unforgettable cultural experience was our visit to a Japanese farmhouse, where our host prepared a delicious meal for the group. Scenic pit stops at shrines, temples, cozy coffee shops, and even cheesecake and chocolate shops provided the perfect breaks along the way. The natural beauty was breathtaking, with stunning waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and peaceful river views at every turn. And of course, what truly made the trip unforgettable was the company of like minded travelers to share the journey.

Evizel Seymour

|December 2023

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.
Just go ahead and book – NOW

Evy Pham

|June 2023

Knowledgeable guide took us to hidden local gems, including beautiful ryokans and charming restaurants. High-quality bikes, well-designed routes, and breathtaking scenery. Excellent attention to detail and top-notch customer service. Highly recommend for an authentic and memorable experience.

Show all reviews

R Y.

|June 2025

Evizel Seymour

|December 2023

Evy Pham

|June 2023

Things to know

Included:
- - Experienced local cycling guide(s) with extensive knowledge of the area
  - Accommodation for 5 nights in quality hotels or ryokans (traditional inns), double occupancy
  - Meals as indicated in the itinerary (5 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners)
  - Snacks, fruit, and water during ride
  - Support vehicle and mechanical support
  - Luggage transfers
  - Transportation during the adventure
  - Entrance tickets for attractions along the way
  - Accident insurance
Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout):
- - Single occupancy room
  - Road bike or hybrid e-bike rental
Not included:
- - Transportation to the starting point of the tour
  - Beverages during dinners (except for the first drink for a toast)
  - Guide gratuities — optional
For this guided bike tour from Nasu to Nikko in the Tochigi Prefecture, you need to have a great level of fitness. Participants need to be able to cover 18-43 miles (30-70 km) of cycling per day, sometimes featuring strenuous ascents, for 4 consecutive days. To prepare, we suggest engaging in cardiovascular and strength training in weeks prior to the tour. It is also important to cycle regularly, at least during the weekend.

Keep in mind that you will take breaks during each day and that your guide will set the pace that takes into account your fitness level. They will also monitor your technique and make the necessary route adjustments if there ever occurs a need for one. However, in general, the average speed will be 15km/h—and while this pace could feel slow to some, keep in mind that this is also a foodies’ bike tour, and the pace may be adjusted slightly depending on the group’s skill level.

You will also have a support vehicle riding between hotels, which means that you are always covered in the event that riding becomes too difficult.

If you think mileage and the climbs will pose too big of a challenge for you, consider renting an e-bike! Both regular road bikes and e-bikes can be rented at the same rate during the booking process.
Here’s what you’ll need for your daily outings:
- - Bike or e-bike — can be rented
  - Helmet
  - Comfortable riding clothing (made from moisture-wicking materials)
  - Waterproof cycling shoes
  - Breathable outside layer or jacket
  - Sunglasses
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder
  - Daypack that can fit all the items you might need in a day
  - Biking gloves are optional but recommended
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, cosmetics, personal hygiene products etc.)
Bring comfortable clothes appropriate for the season. Late May and early June in Tochigi, Japan, typically experience mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It marks the transition from spring to early summer, with occasional rain showers. Late October and early November bring cooler temperatures to Tochigi, ranging from 5°C to 18°C (41°F to 64°F). It’s the autumn season, characterized by colorful foliage, and generally drier conditions compared to late spring.

Make sure to also bring some leisure clothes for evenings and free time. A more comprehensive packing list will be provided to you upon booking.

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Your guided cycling trip from Nasu to Nikko is as much of a culinary journey as it is a bike tour. Savor a kaiseki dinner (traditional multi-course Japanese dinner) at a historic ryokan, relish local specialties in each town, and delight in diverse Japanese dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Feast on wagyu beef, fresh river fish, Nikko rainbow trout, highland vegetables, cheese, and ice cream from ranches-owned shops. Enjoy local sake, craft beer in Nasu Highland, and Tochigi wine. Your biking adventure also offers glimpses into the production of these local delights. Don’t miss the chance to experience ramen, soba, tempura, and a full-course lunch at a local farmer’s house, along with delightful conversations with the family. You’re in for a bike tour that satisfies not only your wanderlust but also your discerning palate—sensational food that defines Japanese gastronomy at its finest.
Group sizes and prices:
- - It takes a minimum of 4 persons for the tour to run. The maximum group size for this group tour is 9.
  - Solo travelers are welcome to join, but securing a single occupancy room for themselves is mandatory—you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout.
Bike tour from Nasu to Nikko can be arranged for private groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors (as young as 10) are also able to go on trips with a legal guardian, but this is usually possible only on private tours. 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—just note that there is a limited number of bikes for children that can be rented.
If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this tour is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

Solo travelers are welcome to join, but securing a single occupancy room for themselves is mandatory—you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout.
Your Nasu-Nikko cycling adventure starts at Nasushiobara Station in the morning of Day 1. To get there, most people fly into Haneda or Narita International Airports (both serving Tokyo). From there, you should take a shuttle to the Tokyo Station (main railway station) in Chiyoda. The shuttle will take you either between 20 minutes and 1 hour (if getting there from the airport). Once there, take the Tohoku Shinkansen (high-speed train) to Nasushiobara Station (the shuttle will take you 70 minutes).

We suggest arriving in Japan at least one day before and arranging accommodation in Tokyo (preferably close to the airport or the railway station), to give yourself a chance to combat jet lag.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors 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.
Deposits

Secure your spot either by paying in full or with a 50% deposit! The remaining 50% of the trip price must be paid 120 days prior to departure, at the latest. If booking within 120 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations
- - If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If cancelled 120 or more days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 119 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
  - Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period.

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