Overview
A self-guided adventure through Japan’s most iconic destinations — Kyoto, Nara, Yoshino, and Mount Koya — all at your own pace. Pedal past lush rice paddies, through bamboo forests, winding country lanes, and villages so charming they belong on a screen saver. Wander into towns where samurais once strutted, visit ancient temples tucked into rolling hills, and meet the cutest four-legged locals (Nara's deer) as you soak in centuries of tradition.
This tour is the perfect blend of freedom, culture, and a little bit of pedal-powered mischief. Sleep in if you want (the rooster won’t snitch), then grab your bike and ride off when the mood strikes. No rigid program, no rush — just you, your bike, and the excitement of a new day’s adventure.
With your luggage transfers sorted, cozy inns reserved, and navigational tools at your fingertips, the hardest decision you'll have to make is whether to taste-test another plate of fresh-made sushi — tough call! Our mobile app has got you covered with audio commentary, precise route maps, and must-try food spots.
Oh, and talking about food, our Grasshopper app will hook you up with the best local bites. Craving tonkatsu in a backstreet alley? Or a steaming bowl of soba noodles after a long ride? You got it. From matcha-flavored everything to tangy okonomiyaki, the choice is all yours.
When it's time to rest your helmet hair, s-t-r-e-t-c-h out those limbs as you kick back in steaming hot springs, then curl up in comfy beds. With our guide in your pocket, you'll be cycling, snacking, and shrine-hopping your way through Japan. Your adventure, your terms.
What's the riding like?
This tour is Riding Level 4, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 40 mi (64 km) per day — and usually no more than 55 mi (88 km) — with occasional breaks to recharge. Expect some longer stretches and uphill climbs (up to 5,000 ft (1,524 m) a day), meaning you’ll need a good level of fitness if you’re on a standard bike.
In Japan, you're in for a smooth ride as almost all the roads are paved. You’ll cycle on sealed roads, mostly along rural lanes, backroads, and dedicated cycleways, covering roughly 159 mi (260 km) in total.
For an extra boost, upgrade to our pedal-assist e-bikes for $200 or a Cannondale Synapse Carbon Ultegra SE for $270. Just give our Customer Service team a call to book one for this tour.
And if your backside needs a break — or you just fancy a breather — Japan’s legendary public transport has your back! Hop on a train and skip the tougher bits with zero guilt.
Single Room Option: +$1,150 USD
Traveling with companions but prefer your own space? Choose this option to have a private room while sharing the tour with fellow travelers.
Solo Rider Option: +$2,150 USD
Traveling alone? This option ensures you have a private room to yourself and covers all the extra costs of solo travel.
Important Note: Due to the festivities of Golden Week (April 29 to May 5), we can’t take bookings for late April and early May due to the increase in traffic and changes to road layouts. We want to ensure you have the best trip possible and the crowds will undoubtable make your experience less enjoyable.
Highlights
- Pedal through Kyoto’s world-renowned UNESCO gems
- Kick back in Ryokan inns and soak in piping-hot Onsens
- Meet the friendly deer of Nara as you pedal, sip, and snack your way to the zen heights of Yoshino
- Ride to Mount Koya, home to Shingon Buddhism, and sleep like a monk in their ancient quarters
- Get lost (on purpose) in the dreamy Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Inclusions
- 6 nights in traditional inns and hotels, mostly with Onsen-style baths
- 6 breakfasts and 2 dinners
- Quality bikes and our Rest & Ride Vehicle
- Passionate Tour Leader and support crew
- Healthy/local snacks and water
- All activities, transfers and site entry fees
WHAT MAKES US STAND OUT
GRASSHOPPER STYLE
The beauty of a self-guided tour is that, though the exploration is on your own, we’ve taken care of all the details for you. This means that the route is planned out and programmed into a GPS system and app and your luggage will be waiting for you at one of our chosen accommodations. This bike exploration of Japan combines all the fun of an independent adventure with our expertise and knowledge of the area, the must-see sights and best places to eat in order to make your experience more directed and enjoyable.