Cycle Japan

Our journey begins today in the old Imperial capital of Kyoto, regarded by many as the country's loveliest city. Lying at the heart of Japanese culture and influence for over 1,000 years, Kyoto was the epicentre of events that shaped Japan. One of the only major cities to survive the extensive bombing of WWII, the city boasts more than 2,000 temples and shrines, many set in manicured landscaped gardens, making it the cradle of all things uniquely Japanese. Our tour leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 7pm for a welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. There are no activities planned today, so you're free to arrive in Kyoto at any time. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Kansai International Airport (KIX) which is approximately two hours away, or Osaka International Airport (ITM) which takes around an hour. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your tour leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, we recommend visiting one of Kyoto's many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji) is perhaps the most spectacular, but you'll have to battle the crowds to get that perfect photo. If you'd prefer a lesser-known spot with fewer fellow tourists, we recommend Toji Temple with its towering pagoda and great gardens. For impressive buildings, Nishi-Honganji Temple is hard to beat, and its convenient location puts it within easy walking distance from our hotel. Slightly further afield, but still an easy train ride away, is the Arashiyama district. Here you can enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, a punt on the river, great food, beautiful gardens and even hike up to see wild monkeys. Trains leave regularly from Kyoto train station. Japanese hotels have strict rules regarding check in and all customers are required to wait until 3 PM for room access. You will be able to store your luggage while waiting but if you require an early check in, then you should request this at the time of booking. We do not guarantee this will be possible and depending on availability an extra fee will be charged.

This incredible city boasts no fewer than 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites including 13 temples, three Shinto shrines and a 17th-century castle. We'll pick up our bikes and set out cycling to the Heian Jingu Shrine, before taking in the scenic Philosopher's Path, Eikando Temple and the 15th-century Ginkaku-ji Temple. After lunch, we'll cycle south along the Kamo River to Tofukuji Temple's rock gardens and the 1,001 statues of Kannon Bodhisattva (the goddess of mercy) located at the Sanjusangendo temple on the eastern edge of the city. This evening is free for you to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Please note that there is no vehicle support for today's ride and we'll be using simple local style bikes. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 17 kilometres/10.6 miles with a total accumulated ascent of 60 metres/197 feet.

This morning, we'll travel by train (a journey of just over two hours) to Kanazawa, a city that once rivalled Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) in cultural importance. Once home to the powerful Maeda Clan, today it serves as the capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture and boasts the stunning setting of the Kenrokuen Gardens, considered to be one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens. This afternoon, we'll pick up our bikes and meet our guide, before heading off to visit the gardens. Started in 1632 by the Maedas, Kenrouken took nearly two centuries to complete. It translates from their original Japanese as the 'Garden of the Six Sublimities' and covers over 11 hectares of land on the outskirts of Kanazawa Castle. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 8 kilometres/5 miles with a total accumulated ascent of 60 metres/197 feet. Again, there is no support vehicle joining us today.

Leaving Kanazawa behind we set off on a journey through Japan's scenic countryside, blending cultural exploration with active adventure. We travel firstly by public bus to the historic village of Shirakawa-go which, along with neighbouring Gokayama, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its beautifully-preserved traditional farmhouses. The Gassho-zukuri farmhouses with their steep thatched roofs, were constructed to resemble the praying hands of Buddhist monks, and some of these houses are over 250 years old. Developed over many generations and designed to withstand the heavy falls of snow that regularly envelop the region in winter, these roofs are constructed without nails and the large attics were traditionally used to cultivate silkworms. After some free time to explore this charming village on foot, we embark on our cycling route towards Tonami, stopping at key cultural and natural highlights along the way. At Gassho Ohashi there is a great observation point with views of the valley below. At the Iwase family house, you have the option to visit a well-preserved residence showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship. After time for lunch in picturesque Gokayama village we have included a hands-on experience at a washi paper workshop, where you'll discover the centuries-old art of Japanese papermaking. Our final stop today is at the Taira Washino Sato Michi-no Eki, before we ride the final stretch on your way to our accommodation in Tonami. Michi-no-Eki are a network of roadside rest stops launched by the government in the 1990s. They vary greatly across the country and each one showcases regional produce. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 57 kilometres/35 miles with a total accumulated ascent of 210 metres/690 feet and descent of 560 metres/1840 feet. Please note that we will be cycling through several tunnels today.

This area, where the foothills of the Japanese Alps meet the Sea of Japan, has been cultivating lush, expansive rice paddies for centuries. We will start the day with an introduction to the Sankyoson (dispersed settlements of the Tonami plain) from an observation deck where you can see today's ride up to the coast. The sight of these paddies stretching across the rolling hills, dotted with towns and villages, is framed by towering mountains. Our ride continues north and after some free time for lunch, we cycle to Zuiryuji Temple in the heart of Takaoka town. The main hall (Hondo) is an elegant space, designed for meditation with its minimalist decor and tranquil ambiance. The surrounding gardens, with their stone paths, ponds, and symbolic rocks, offer the perfect setting for contemplation. Still an active place of worship, the temple has a deep connection to Japan's Zen Buddhist traditions. The last stop of the day will be for a stroll along Kanayamachi Street in Takaoka town, an historic area renowned for its well-preserved latticed houses, which reflect the traditional architectural style of the merchant district. These charming wooden buildings offer a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. Kanayamachi is also the birthplace of Takaoka's copper casting, a craft that has been passed down through generations. We finish the day cycling through the valley before reaching the shores of Toyama Bay, where your accommodation awaits in the coastal town of Imizu. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 37 kilometres/23 miles with a total accumulated ascent of 40 metres/130 feet and descent of 180 metres/590 feet.

We start the day with a visit to Shinminato fishing harbour to visit the vibrant fish market where we can see the catch of the day, local specialties and learn about the region's renowned seafood. Back on the bikes, our ride today follows the Toyama Bay Cycling Route with a fresh sea breeze and stunning views of the bay and its surrounding landscapes. The ride ends at Etchu-Miyazaki Station, where we take a break before boarding the Aino Kaze train for a scenic ride to Itoigawa where we spend the night. The train journey lasts about 30-40 minutes, offering beautiful views of the coastline and mountains along the way. Our accommodation tonight is a hotel with Japanese style twin rooms. Each room is furnished with tatami mats - a traditional floor covering made from rice straw, futons, and paper walls, giving us a very authentic Japanese experience for our overnight stay. The rooms are twin share with private ensuite toilets and there are shared bathing facilities with one communal bath for women and another for men. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 65 kilometres/41 miles with a total accumulated ascent of 85 metres/280 feet and descent of 75 metres/245 feet.

Today's cycle ride follows the coastline from Itoigawa to Naoe. As you ride, you'll have verdant rolling foothills and the mountains on one side and the sea on the other, as we pass between towns and villages. We join the paved Kubiki Bicycle and Walker Road, which is just above National Route 8, following the route of an old railway track and is therefore well graded and passes through several illuminated tunnels. The ride ends upon arrival in the port city of Joetsu, where there will be some free time to explore at your own pace. There is the option to visit Kasugayama Castle Ruins, a historically significant site that once served as the stronghold of Uesugi Kenshin, one of Japan's most famous warlords. Or you could take a walk through Mizunami Park for beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. The local ferry to Sado Island doesn't depart until around 2pm so we will also have time for lunch here and local specialties include Joetsu ramen or fresh seafood dishes. The ferry will take a little more than two and a half hours. Sado Island is a perfect off-the-beaten track place to explore on two wheels. This beautiful island has its own unique blend of culture and religion thanks to its rich history. It's historic location on the ancient Japanese sea trade route and centuries of gold mining brought art and cultural influences from other regions, as well as being a place of exile for many influential figures who opposed the rulers on the mainland. Times moved on in the mid-1800s as Japan opened to the world and Sado became a quiet backwater. Once we reach the ferry terminal it is a short ride to our accommodation for the night in the port town of Ogi. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 44 kilometres/28 miles with a total accumulated ascent and descent of 105 metres/345 feet.

Over the coming days we will follow a good part of the Sado Long Ride 210, a circular course around the island taking our time to explore the spectacular seaside scenery, satoyama nature and enjoy encounters with the local people and culture. The first part of today is to visit some places of local interest in this part of the island. First thing this morning we will take to the waters in unusual local vessels to experience a fascinating local tradition up close, connecting with the island's maritime culture. Volcanic rock masses off the coastline meant that larger ships had difficulty getting into port with the precious cargo, so locals developed a transportation system by cutting huge wooden barrels in half thus creating Taraibune or tub boats, which were also used for fishing the abundance of sea life. Next, we cycle to Ogi Folk Museum, which showcases the island's fascinating history and traditions, providing a deeper understanding of life on Sado. Our next stop is close by in the charming, historic fishing village of Shukunegi. Here, a local guide will take you on a tour of the area, sharing stories about its maritime history and the unique architectural style of the village. Wander through narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses made from old boats and learn about the tight-knit community that has flourished in this coastal setting for generations. We then start riding on the coastal roads making our way around the island to Yahata, near the central plains where we spend the night. The accommodation tonight is a hotel with Japanese style twin rooms, with a futon on tatami mat floors and ensuite toilet and bathing facilities. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 50 kilometres/31 miles with a total accumulated ascent of 350 metres/1150 feet and descent of 370 metres/1215 feet.

After breakfast we start the next section of our ride around Sado's coast and our first stop is at Sado Gold Rush Mountain, where you'll learn about the island's significant role in Japan's gold production since the early 1600s during the Edo period. The ascent to the mountain is a challenging climb with steep inclines reaching 8-10% in some sections. The road winds uphill through forested areas and open slopes, offering stunning views as you gain elevation. The climb requires steady effort, but the well-paved road and occasional flatter stretches provide brief moments of relief. Upon reaching the gold mine site, step back in time as you explore the remnants of Japan's most important historic gold mine. Walk through underground tunnels once used by Edo-period miners, where dimly lit passageways and rocky walls reveal the harsh conditions of early gold extraction. Learn about traditional mining techniques, from manual excavation with chisels to the advanced systems introduced in later years. Interactive exhibits and preserved mining equipment showcase the evolution of gold processing, giving you a deeper understanding of the centuries-old industry that shaped Sado Island's economy. Above ground, you'll wander through the old refinery ruins, where gold was once purified and refined. Next we cycle through the Aikawa area, once the centre of Sado Island's gold mining operations. This area is steeped in history and offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's industrial past. As you ride, you'll pass through traditional houses, old mining sites and rustic landscapes that tell the story of the once-thriving gold rush. The quiet, scenic roads are perfect for reflecting on the rich heritage of the island, while enjoying the stunning views of the mountains and forests that surround you. Our cycle route continues to Futatsugame where we spend the night in a traditional Ryokan. As with the other traditional accommodation we will follow local etiquette starting with taking our shoes off before entering. The twin share rooms are simple in nature with a futon and all facilities are shared. There are a total of four shared toilets, two for men and two for women, and two shared baths, each with four shower stalls to wash before relaxing in the hot spring waters, perfect for soothing your legs are consecutive days of cycling. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 56 kilometres/35 miles with a total accumulated ascent of 445 metres/1460 feet and descent of 470 metres/1540 feet. There are steep sections on today's ride.

Located on the northern coast of Sado Island, Futatsugame is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and pristine sandy beach. The name Futatsugame (meaning 'two turtles') comes from the two large rock formations that resemble turtles resting in the sea. Today you'll continue your cycling journey from the turtles to Sado City through the coastal landscapes of Sado Island. The ride offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the island while moving through areas less travelled by tourists. Along the way we plan to stop at Kunizo Gama pottery studio. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 59 kilometres/37 miles with a total accumulated ascent and descent of 355 metres/1165 feet.

The Crested Ibis (Toki in Japanese) is a symbol of Niigata Prefecture and until recently had been made locally extinct through overhunting and loss of habitat. A successful programme with China's help has reintroduced the bird on Sado Island and nowadays there are several hundred living in the wild. We will make a stop on today's shorter ride in the morning to learn more about this project and hopefully to spot the birds. Our cycling adventure ends at Ryotsu Port, where we board the two hour ferry ride to Niigata City (departing around midday), enjoying scenic views along the way. Upon arrival at Niigata Port, we head to the train station. It's from here that we'll take the iconic Shinkansen (bullet train) to Japan's capital city, Tokyo. The journey will take a speedy two hours and we'll most likely arrive to our hotel in the late afternoon or early evening. Tokyo is the most populous metropolitan area in the world, home to more than 26 million people including the Japanese imperial family. The city holds a lot of history as well as modern shopping centres and the neon illuminated signs it's famous for. Half of the city was rebuilt after being destroyed in the war but there are still many historic temples and gardens that remain and await exploration. Our total cycling distance today is approximately 25 kilometres/16 miles with a total accumulated ascent of 240 metres/790 feet and descent of 250 metres/820 feet.

Today is left free for you to explore, wander and shop at leisure or take an optional guided tour of Tokyo. Your tour leader will be on hand to assist and give guidance today. A typical itinerary would be to visit the Asakusa Sensoji temple followed by a river cruise to the Hama-rikyu Gardens, Meiji Shrine and finally the Shinjuku Government Building for great views over Tokyo. It's also possible to rent a bike locally and explore - your tour leader will be able to provide details. Optional cycling today.

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Tokyo. There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita Airport (NRT). The city centre is around an hour away from Haneda Airport and an hour and a half from Narita. The journey will be unescorted and, depending on your airport and flight time, you'll either be on a shared shuttle bus or train.