Cycling Holidays in Japan

Japan Cycling Tours

Experience the ever-changing landscapes of Japan on an exhilarating bike tour. On our Japan cycling tours, you’ll get a feel for the timeless rhythms and customs of this fascinating country, in both age-old Kyoto and futuristic Toyko. There’s simply nothing like cycling when it comes to exploring Japan.

Cycling in Japan offers a unique and enriching experience that allows you to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. One of the most popular cycling destinations in Japan is Kyoto, famous for its ancient temples, exquisite zen gardens and authentic geisha districts.

Along the rural roads of Shirakawa-go, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed gassho-style houses with their steep thatched roofs and experience rural life in Japan.

Cycling in Tokyo offers a stark contrast to the countryside and coastal trails with its dynamic urban landscape and bustling streets. Exploring the highlights of Japan on two wheels allows you to discover hidden gems, vibrant neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks.

For a more tranquil adventure, head into the foothills of the Japanese Alps, where you’ll enjoy challenging ascents and dramatic mountain scenery. Alternatively, follow the Nagara River on a peaceful journey through rural Japan, with serene waters and lush surroundings providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Japan Cycling Holidays

14 Days from £ 5739

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Cycling

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Top 4 Places for Cycling Tours in Japan

The foothills of the Japanese Alps: Located in central Japan, the foothills of the Japanese Alps provide another excellent cycling destination. This region is known for its pristine wilderness, crystal-clear rivers and traditional mountain villages. Traverse winding mountain roads with a thrilling mix of climbs and descents, with each turn revealing a new panorama of towering peaks and lush forests. Some of the most staggering views can be enjoyed as you ride towards Hida Takayama, also known as Little Kyoto owing to the architecture and tranquility.

The Nagara River: Flowing through the picturesque Gifu Prefecture, the Nagara River is a must-visit destination for cyclists seeking a tranquil and scenic ride. The riverside trail guides you on a peaceful retreat away from city life, with the soothing sound of flowing water and the sight of lush greenery providing a calming backdrop for a more leisurely ride. As you cycle along the riverbank, you’ll pass through charming towns, verdant rice fields and historic landmarks such as the iconic castle. The Nagara River is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.

Kyoto: Japan’s cultural capital, Kyoto, is not only a treasure trove of ancient temples, shrines and traditional tea houses but also a fantastic cycling destination. The city’s flat and well-designed cycle paths make it easy for you to explore its historic sites and cultural neighbourhoods at your own pace. Head into the iconic Arashiyama bamboo forest, visit the majestic Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), or cycle along the scenic Philosopher’s Path, lined with cherry blossoms in the spring. Kyoto’s cycling-friendly infrastructure and rich cultural heritage make it a top choice for cycling enthusiasts looking to delve into Japan’s history and traditions.

Tokyo: Japan’s bustling capital, Tokyo, combines modern urbanism with traditional charm. Despite its reputation as a metropolis of skyscrapers and neon lights, Tokyo boasts a surprisingly extensive network of cycle paths and lanes that allow riders to navigate the city safely. From the bustling streets of Shibuya and Shinjuku to the serene gardens of Rikugien and Shinjuku Gyoen, cycling in Tokyo offers a fresh perspective on the city’s vibrant culture, diverse cuisines and dynamic atmosphere.

The accommodation we stayed in was of a high standard and the different parts we saw of Sri Lanka were very varied and I feel we saw so much of this special country during this trip.

The food was absolutely outstanding on this trip and we went to some amazing off the beaten track restaurants. One of our favorites was the ladies who cooked the vegetable curries, the dinner at a locals house, and another was the buffet at the old colonial hotel, you may burn 2000 calories cycling but you will eat 3000 calories of amazing food if you want too. Suresh has a saying ‘do maximum damage’ at the buffet and that we did! wait till you try the egg hoppers you will be hooked!

A bit of detail about the cycling: my husband and i were the youngest on the trip at 44 and 52 but we decided to go for the e bikes as it was our first cycle holiday. I highly recommend this option, whilst we had a good level of fitness, and I had trained for this trip doing 100km cycles. Even though we had done level 4 graded Exodus hiking trips before,we wanted to make sure we enjoyed the big climb days and did not slow everyone down, not that it is ever an issue with a lovely exodus group! We also didn’t know if everyone would be super amazing club cyclists and we would be the slow ones, but we had a complete mix of lovely people and we didn’t have anything to worry about. We have just booked our next Exodus cycle trip and have gone for normal bikes.

We had the e bikes turned off most of the time and actually felt after a couple of days we should of gone for normal bikes but it did mean we could enjoy the big climbs and not worry at all, but the van is close behind you on those days and very easy to jump into, so if you are worried you are not fit enough for this trip or not a super keen cyclist i highly recommend going for the ebike option as the trip is definitely worth it and an amazing experience, the ebikes were a very good standard and brand new. At the time of the trip I was a modest cyclist and cycled mainly during the summer months at home, I did properly train for the trip and made sure i had done the 100km distance on a few occasions but this was just to give myself confidence and I just wanted to make sue i was well prepared, don’t think you have to do a lot of training for this trip, the pace is good and no one was ever left behind, it is a level 4 so you do need some fitness but with a good level of fitness you could do it, if you are worried definitely go for the e bike option.

I would agree with some of the other comments that it wasn’t aways back roads and sometimes the traffic was crazy but we always felt safe with Suresh at the front another guide at the back and the bike mechanics were often following us, i really cant thank the whole crew enough just an amazing team who were brilliant and everything was seamless.

It can be hot and I recommend bringing some electrolytes with you, the crew carry more water and food than you could ever need so nothing to worry about there. Have cold gear for the mountains in the evening as it does get cold.

I felt there was also a good amount of things organised outside of the cycling and it felt we always had plenty of things organised in and out of the saddle, the tea plantation visits were amazing also the jewelry factory, the visit to the gardens in Kandy also really great mix of things to see and do outside of the saddle. Finishing the trip at the beach was fabulous as well, there are so many different sides to Sri Lanka I felt we saw them all.

We had a totally amazing group of people in the group who shared this adventure with us, and we all got on so well it was wonderful to get to know them all, we have always had great groups with Exodus. but this was the best group yet, so thank you also to all of them who made the trip so memorable.

Sara Mitchell Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

We added this trip as an extension to the Discover Sri Lanka trip which was fabulous and we highly recommend. Unfortunately
this trip for us fell far short of the standard we have come to expect from Exodus. I write this as a qualified ride leader with over 40 years of experience in bike maintenance.

Our bikes had multiple problems including excessive play in the rear wheel, unreliable gears, poorly adjusted headsets and badly set up brakes all which affected bike handling and created unnecessary risk. Having discussed this with Exodus they have assured us that changes will be made to the servicing of the bikes and that the ride leader will test ride every bike before handing it to a client.

Generally it is easy cycling on flat roads with a few minor hills on the last day. A lot of the roads are fairly busy, the Indian drivers like to toot so you know they are there, so it is also very noisy. The backwater roads are lovely but views of the sea can be limited because of the coastal defences. There is also a lot of litter and some unwelcome smells due to the lack of sanitation. The locals are generally very welcoming and friendly, plenty of smiles particularly from the children.

Linda Hamilton Cycle the Coast of Kerala

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What is the best time of year to visit Japan?

Cycling is a great way to explore the diverse landscapes, rich culture and historical sites of this beautiful country. The best time for cycling trips in Japan depends on various factors such as weather, scenery and local events. To fully immerse yourself in the experience, you should consider these factors when planning your trip to Japan. Spring and fall are ideal seasons for cycling in Japan, with mild temperatures, blooming cherry blossoms and colourful autumn foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter may bring snowfall in certain regions, making it challenging to cycle.

What are the best cycling routes in Japan?

Japan boasts some of the best cycling routes in the world, catering to all levels of riders. Kyoto is a vibrant city brimming with rich culture, historic temples, peaceful gardens and charming old streets. If you prefer a more challenging ride, the foothills of the Japanese Alps provide adrenaline-fuelled climbs and imposing mountain vistas. Whether you’re a leisurely rider or a seasoned cyclist, Japan’s diverse trails have something for riders of all abilities.

FAQs on Japan Cycling Tours

Is it safe to cycle in Japan?

Japan is known for its excellent infrastructure, including well-maintained roads, dedicated cycling paths and courteous drivers. Cycling in Japan is generally safe, and cyclists can enjoy their journey without worrying about traffic or road conditions. However, it is essential to follow traffic rules, wear proper safety gear and be mindful of local customs and etiquette while cycling in Japan.

How physically challenging are Japan cycling tours?

The level of physical challenge on cycling trips in Japan can vary depending on the route, terrain and distance covered. While some routes are relatively flat and suitable for beginners, others may involve challenging climbs and descents that require endurance and stamina. On each of our tours’ page, you’ll find an activity level grading which gives you a good idea of the difficulty and level of fitness required. For more information, visit our Activity Level Guideline Page.

What should I pack for a cycling holiday in Japan?

When packing for a cycling holiday in Japan, start by bringing appropriate clothing such as breathable tops, padded cycling shorts and waterproof gear for unpredictable weather. Sunscreen and riding glasses will protect you from the sun during long rides. Other essential items to pack are a water bottle, energy bars, a basic repair kit with spare tubes and tools and a map or GPS device for navigation. On Exodus cycling trips, you’re provided with detailed trip notes that also highlight places of interest.

Are there guided cycling tours available in Japan?

Yes, at Exodus we offer guided Japan cycling tours. Our guided tours provide expert guides, support vehicles, accommodation, some meals and cultural experiences, making it easier for you to immerse yourself in the local culture and sights. Our professional guides are extremely knowledgeable and will steer you to lesser-known sights off the beaten path as well as the most iconic sites. They will also teach you about the history and culture of each region, providing you with fascinating insights that you might not discover otherwise.

What are the traditional foods of Japan?

Traditional Japanese cuisine is a culinary experience rooted in culture and history. The vibrant blend of flavours, textures and aesthetics aim to nourish both the body and the soul. Staple ingredients like rice, fish, seaweed, soy sauce and miso are prepared with care and attention to detail. Dishes such as sushi, sashimi, tempura and ramen showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of Japanese cuisine. Traditional Japanese food reflects the country’s respect for nature and seasons, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Indulging in traditional Japanese food is not just about satisfying hunger but also a celebration of tradition, skill and mindfulness.

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