Discover and explore what we ultimately strive for in a cycling vacation–which is to simply “Pedal Happy”. While the language and cultural barriers may feel extreme at times, Japan is generally regarded as a clean, safe place to travel with the people described as hard-working, friendly, and polite. Our tour starts about 150 miles northwest of Tokyo with four days of cycling in the highlands of Nagano prefecture, host of the 1998 Winter Olympics and home to the highest mountain ranges in the country. Cycle through dramatic natural beauty in Joshin’etsu Kogen and Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Parks, relaxing in hot springs and sampling local culture in ancient villages along the way. On the sixth day of the tour, we transfer to the historic city of Kanazawa – a UNESCO “City of Crafts and Folk Art” – on the west coast for a taste of life by the sea. Similar to Kyoto, but less crowded, culture enthusiasts flock to this region renowned for its geisha and samurai districts, stroll gardens, traditional architecture, contemporary art, and seafood cuisine. Spend two days cycling the coastline running from the beaches along the Sea of Japan to the rugged Noto Peninsula. 2024 EARTHQUAKE UPDATE: Days 7 and 8 of this tour have been revised with new lodging and routes due to the earthquake in the region in January 2024.
Arrive in Tokyo and check-in at our pre-tour hotel (lodging is included).
D1
Take a bullet train to Iiyama. Ride to a historical shrine and enjoy a traditional hot springs hotel.
D2
Enjoy a gondola ride (with your bike) into the Uenotaira Highlands and cycle Joshin’etsu Kogen National Park.
D2
Ride a quiet road over a pass and down to the Sea of Japan, enjoying an historic castle on the way.
D2
Pedal through rural beauty in Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park and learn about a traditional indigo dyeing method.
Transfer to Kanazawa and explore this UNESCO cultural city famous for samurais, geishas, Kenrouken Garden and seafood.
D1
Visit the historic village of Gokayama and cycle on to the beach for views of the Japanese Alps across the water.
D2
Cycle on quiet roads through quaint seaside fishing villages with views across the Sea of Japan - the perfect "last ride!"
Transfer back to Tokyo to explore the city and enjoy a final night of Japanese luxury, comfort, and style!
Have breakfast at the hotel before heading to the airport for your flight home.
Hotel