Accommodation
We use a mix of Western- and Japanese-style hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns). While ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) are full of local character, rooms do not generally have private bathrooms and bedding is normally thick futon mattresses placed on tatami mats on the floor. Some of the accommodations may have a private onsen, which means you can soak as soon as you arrive, a superb way to recuperate after a day on the bike. In Shirakawa-go, we usually spend one night in a gassho-zukuri farmhouse. In the traditional style, guestrooms come with tatami mat floors, futons, and a low table. Toilets are typically modern but shared. Due to limited availability, the group may stay in different houses near each other, and the accommodation may be dormitory style with up to six people (split according to sex) sharing a room. Staying here is a unique and memorable experience. A single supplement can be booked only for the 10 nightsโ hotel accommodation in Tokyo, Kanazawa, Echizen, Tsuruga, Takayama, Gifu and Kyoto for a supplement payable at the time of booking and subject to availability. Elsewhere a single room may be available locally on payment of a supplement but, as some of the accommodation used can be quite small, this cannot be guaranteed. Please note, the properties listed in the itinerary are the normal accommodations used. However, there may be some departures where groups stay at similar establishments of a similar quality. Onsen (Japanese public bath) For many visitors to Japan, the onsen is unfamiliar territory. An onsen is a Japanese hot spring and the bathing facilities and inns frequently situated around them. The combination of a strict bathing etiquette, that nudity is compulsory, and that the water temperature is often hotter than most hot tubs can cause some reluctance for first timers. However, once the courage is mustered, you may discover that an onsen dip is a trip highlight. Please note, you may be refused entry if you have large, visible tattoos. The leader will explain etiquette, but it is expected that you shower before stepping into the hot spring/bath.
Guide
There will be a local cycling leader and an assistant leader driving the support vehicle. For groups with nine passengers or more, a second sweeper cycling support leader also accompanies groups.
Others
All listed activities Group transfers (for group flights) Local bike hire
Meals
All breakfasts and five dinners are included. Japanese cuisine is usually one of the main highlights of any trip to Japan. It is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes usually prepared with seasonal ingredients. Seafood is very common, and usually grilled or deep fried. Sushi and sashimi aside, other staple dishes include soba or udon noodles, sukiyaki (meat, fish and vegetables cooked in broth) and yakiniku (grilled meat). Some of the included dinners are taken at Japanese style hotels or ryokans (traditional guesthouses), which may serve a kaiseki-style dinner, a multi-course meal including a dozen tiny dishes prepared with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. When food is not included, your leader can recommend the best local eateries and arrange some group meals for a full immersion in the varied and excellent cuisine of Japan. Please note, the availability of certain specialised products for restricted diets, eg gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan, is minimal or non-existent in Japan. The group meals arranged by the tour leader will be in traditional eateries where the choices of vegan dishes may be limited to simple salads or boiled rice; however, there are several vegan restaurants in Kyoto and Tokyo. You may also find it beneficial to bring cycling snacks with you from home if you have high-energy bars or gels you like to use during a ride. For those who wish to contribute, a kitty is normally arranged and will be used to provide snacks and drinks during the rides.
Transport
Transport during the trip is by train, metro, bus and occasionally private minibus. Most rides on this trip are point-to-point so the number of transfers on the trip is limited. When transfers by train or bus are planned, journeys are generally short (two to four hours) and comfortable. Vehicle support The support vehicle will accompany riders most of the time; however, there are only two seats available so you may have to take turns if you wish to skip parts of the rides. Please note, the van will not follow the group during the cycling tour in Kanazawa and Kyoto. 2024 departures From 2024, group flights and transfers will no longer be available on this trip. Japanโs public transport system is excellent, efficient and is the expected mode of transport for both locals and visitors to the country. The public transport systems have become increasingly easier to use, and everywhere you will find signage is provided in English.
Not included:
Insurance
Insurance is not included.
Flights
International flights are not included.
Optional
Other activities and services not included.
Others
โ Travel insurance โ Single accommodation (available on request for 10 nights only in Tokyo, Kanazawa, Echizen, Tsuruga, Takayama, Gifu and Kyoto) โ Visas or vaccinations โ E-bike hire โ Arrival & departure transfers (not available on this tour)
Start planning your experience
Itinerary of your trip Cycling In Japan
- Day 1 Day 1: Start Tokyo
Day 1: Start Tokyo
- Day 2 Day 2: Morning Orientation Walk And Free Afternoon To Explore Tokyo (Breakfast)
Day 2: Morning Orientation Walk And Free Afternoon To Explore Tokyo (Breakfast)
- Day 3 Day 3: Train To Kanazawa; Afternoon Cycle Loop And Sightseeing (Breakfast)
Day 3: Train To Kanazawa; Afternoon Cycle Loop And Sightseeing (Breakfast)
Experience Style
Mixed
There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโre also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.
Accomodation level
Medium
This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.
Experience Type
Small Group
Youโll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.
Physical Rating
Average
There are several physical activities that last from 2 to 6 hours in easy terrains, low altitude flats, or water experiences. Please ask if youโre not sure this applies to you.
Age range
Min: 16 / Max: 99
Age range allowed for this experience.
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