Japan’s Cultural Heartland

Overview

This guided cycling tour begins in Kyoto on streets that carry centuries of history. Just beyond the city, the countryside reveals a slower side of Japan, leading you through peaceful farm towns, forest roads, and lakeside villages where tradition is still part of daily life. The route passes Shinto shrines hidden in the trees and homes where tea leaves dry in the sun. It follows the shores of Lake Biwa, Japan’s biggest freshwater lake, continues through the Edo-era canals of Omihachiman, and climbs into Wazuka, known for its terraced tea fields. Nara is a highlight. It’s compact, walkable, and full of history. Two nights here give you time to see more than just the famous temples and to join a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. The tour ends back in Kyoto, with a stop in Arashiyama and its iconic bamboo grove. All along the route, you’ll soak in onsens, sample local cuisine, and ride some of the best cycling routes in Japan. The tour is designed for riders with reasonable fitness, covering 274 kilometers over several days on mostly paved surfaces, including secondary roads and dedicated bicycle paths. Some cycling days in Kyoto and Nara are primarily flat, while countryside routes may include hilly terrain with some steep sections. A support vehicle is available at all times except during city cycling and on bicycle paths. Basic mechanical support is available from your guide, but you should carry a spare tube and a basic repair kit. Guides are first-aid certified and trained in emergency procedures. Water, fruit, and soft drinks are provided while riding. Beverages during meals, including beer, are not included. Meals are primarily Japanese, with an emphasis on seafood. Breakfasts may include rice, miso soup, and grilled fish. Granola and muesli are available for those who prefer a lighter option. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.

Daily Ride Schedule

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation

Hotel

What's Included