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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

Itinerary

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.

  • 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

    Bikes in Japan.
  • 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)

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

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

    Cyclists riding along the Nikko Cedar Avenue.
  • 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)

    A temple in the Japanese city of Nikko.
  • 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

    Japanese cuisine in Tochigi.
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Meet your guides

Tetsuya
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.
Yoshi
5.00
Yoshi
Bicycle Maintenance Engineer, Bicycle Technician, and Sports Bike Mechanic
Bicycle Maintenance Engineer, Bicycle Technician, and Sports Bike Mechanic
Yoshi was born and raised in the Kansai region, and ever since he first joined a university cycling club, he has biked all over Japan. Yoshi also enjoys road races and participates in them a few times a year. Apart from being super friendly, Yoshi is a fantastic, reliable tour guide and a mechanic who can overcome any obstacles during the tour!
Kazu
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.
Eddy
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.
Bicycle Tours JP
5.00
Bicycle Tours JP
Local company in Nasu
Bicycle Tours JP know every corner of the places they tour and can arrange unique experiences. Bicycle Tours JP take the omotenashi approach with their guests, meaning that they care for them wholeheartedly in the Japanese spirit of hospitality. They’ll make sure you visit the best restaurants and accommodation wherever you go. They strive to give their guests the best possible experience, and an expert, English-speaking guide is here to help make that happen.

Accommodation

5.00 (2 reviews)
Evizel Seymour (December 2023, source: Guide’s web )

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, source: Guide’s web )

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.

Things to know

  • What you get on this adventure:

      • Experienced local cycling guide(s) with extensive knowledge of the area
      • Accommodation in quality hotels or ryokans (traditional inns) based on twin occupancy (5 nights)
      • 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

    Bike or e-bike rentals are available for an added fee of $140. Single rooms can be arranged for an added fee of $275.

    What’s 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 very good 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. Additionally, you will 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.

  • 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:

      • The maximum group size for this group tour is 9.
      • It takes a minimum of 4 persons for the tour to run.
      • If you’re joining by yourself, adding a single supplement upon checkout is mandatory.

    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.

  • 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.

  • While accident insurance is included in the price of this tour, we highly recommend that you arrange travel insurance as well. Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.

    We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. For more information on travel recommendations and restrictions in Japan, please refer to Japan’s foreign travel advice.

    If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

  • Deposits 

    When booking a trip, you can either pay for it in full or reserve your spot with a 50% deposit. The remaining 50% of the trip price is to be paid 120 days prior to departure, at the latest.

    Cancellations

    • Booking fees are non-refundable. 
    • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
    • For cancellations 120 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
    • For cancellations 0-119 days before the trip, there is no refund.
  • 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.
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