Skip the bullet trains — delve into Japan’s soul on a cycling odyssey. Glide past ancient temples bathed in golden sunlight. Navigate serene bamboo forests, the wind rustling the leaves in a calming symphony. Refuel with steaming bowls of ramen and the sensory feast of Japan’s neon cities at nighttime. Japan by bike is a journey where history and modernity collide on every scenic turn.
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This 70 km (43 mi) route connects six islands in the Seto Inland Sea, offering stunning ocean views and numerous historical sites. It’s an easy ride with well-maintained roads and plenty of places to stop and enjoy the scenery.
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
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.
It was an excellent trip, weather didnt cooperate but still
Experienced the culture and outdoor activities!
Our Bike Group has taken a number of Biking tours, but this was one of the most spectacular in the natural beauty of Shikoku Island. The routing by Hidden Japan was great with tough climbs on mountain roads, and descents through breathtaking gorges. Hidden Japan also provided excellent accommodations steeped in Japanese cultural hospitality and ethnic culinary cuisine. Ride support was perfect with a guide waiving us onto the correct back road, and providing water and snacks at rally points. I cannot more highly recommend any other Shikoku tour.
Japan is an excellent destination for bike touring, with a unique blend of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and diverse rides. Here are our top reasons:
Rich history and culture: You’ll cycle past ancient temples, serene gardens, and charming villages, feeling the weight of centuries as you explore.
Diverse landscapes: You can choose to cruise along scenic coastlines, challenge yourself on mountain climbs, or explore tranquil countrysides, weaving through rice paddies. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a leisurely rider, Japan’s terrain caters to all levels.
Escape the crowds: Bicycle touring in Japan you to ditch the crowded tourist spots and discover hidden gems on two wheels. Explore serene backroads untouched by mass tourism, immersing yourself in the authentic rhythm of local life.
Unique cycling experiences: Cycle alongside cherry blossom trees in spring, or zip along quiet coastal paths with the ocean breeze in your hair. You can even bike ancient pilgrimage routes!
Japan is full of awesome cycling destinations. Here are a few of the top spots to consider:
Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road: The most popular ride on this list, the 70-kilometer route is a popular choice for cyclists of all levels. It links six islands in the Seto Inland Sea with bridges, offering stunning ocean views and charming towns along the way.
Kyoto & Tango Peninsula: You can combine cultural exploration with scenic cycling in Kyoto, and then cycle along the Tango Peninsula, known for its beautiful coastline and fresh seafood.
Hokkaido: This northern island offers a variety of challenging climbs and scenic routes, perfect for experienced cyclists. You can also cycle through vast national parks and enjoy cooler summer temperatures.
Shikoku: Try cycling the Shikoku pilgrimage route, a historic path that winds through mountains and past ancient temples.
Kyushu: Explore the volcanic landscapes of Kyushu, cycle around Mount Aso, or visit hot springs for a relaxing soak after your ride.
Absolutely! Cycling across Japan is an incredible adventure that many cyclists undertake. The distance you cover will depend on the route you choose. Here are itinerary options for cycling across Japan:
Most cyclists take anywhere from 2-4 weeks to complete a cross-country route, averaging around 50-100 kilometers (30-60 miles) per day. Of course, this all depends on your skill & fitness level.
The most famous bike route in Japan is the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road.
The 70-km route links six islands in the Seto Inland Sea with bridges, offering stunning ocean views, charming towns, and small islands along the way. Save for the bridge crossings, the course is relatively flat, making it suitable for beginners & families.
The route is well-marked with dedicated cycling lanes, making it easy to navigate. Additionally, there are plenty of bike rental shops, rest stops, and accommodation options along the way.
Cycling in Japan can be easy or challenging, depending on the route you choose and your fitness level.
Japan is known for its excellent cycling infrastructure, with many cities having dedicated bike lanes and paths. The country is also quite bike-friendly, with drivers generally respectful of cyclists. There are many relatively flat routes perfect for leisurely rides, such as the Shimanami Kaido, which is a popular choice for starter cyclists.
If you want more of a challenge, Japan has you covered too. Japan is a mountainous country, so there are plenty of challenging climbs to be found if you’re looking for a more strenuous workout.
Overall, Japan is a great place to cycle, with something to offer cyclists of all abilities. If you’re not sure where to start, book a guided cycling tour that can take you to some of the most scenic parts of the country.
