Intrepid Travel - Cycle Japan

  • Cycling allows you to get closer to the real Japan – from bicycles to Pokemon, serene temples to the organised chaos of the big cities, this classic adventure has it all.
  • Intrepid Travel
  • Veranstalter: Intrepid Travel
  • Angebotsnummer: 271500
  • Reisedauer: 11 Tage
  • Reise Land: Japan
  • Termine: 23 Termine im Zeitraum vom
    16.11.2024 - 14.11.2026
  • Teilnehmerzahl: min. 1 max. 16
  • ab € 4.850
  • zur Buchungsanfrage
Why we love it

  • Cycling allows you to get closer to the real Japan – from bicycles to Pokemon, serene temples to the organised chaos of the big cities, this classic adventure has it all.
  • Choose to end rewarding days in the saddle with amazing Japanese feasts of sushi, unagi, tempura or even fugu, all washed down with a traditional sake or Sapporo beer.
  • Ride both bikes and trains for the ultimate change of pace.
  • Cycle through peaceful landscapes that show a land far from the big city lights of Tokyo.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.



From world-class sushi to legendary geisha, enthralling Japan is the perfect destination to discover by bicycle. Our cycling adventure gives you a slowed down, up close look of this fascinating country and allows ample opportunity to meet locals and glimpse the unique culture of the Land of the Rising Sun. From the temples, shrines and geisha of Kyoto to the frenetic but exhilarating chaos of Tokyo, and the beautiful mountain serenity of the Gifu Prefecture countryside in between, this cycling adventure has it all.

Highlights

  • Cycling allows you to get closer to the real Japan – from bicycles to Pokemon, serene temples to the organised chaos of the big cities, this classic adventure has it all.
  • Choose to end rewarding days in the saddle with amazing Japanese feasts of sushi, unagi, tempura or even fugu, all washed down with a traditional sake or Sapporo beer.
  • Ride both bikes and trains for the ultimate change of pace.
  • Cycle through peaceful landscapes that show a land far from the big city lights of Tokyo.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.


Itinerary:

Day 1: Kyoto
Konnichiwa! Welcome to Kyoto. Serving as Japan’s capital and the emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868, Kyoto is the spiritual centre of Zen Buddhism and one of the most historically important cities in Japan. Unlike many of its neighbours Kyoto escaped destruction during World War II and thousands of temples, shrines and other historically invaluable structures survive in the city today. This adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you’ll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers. You can arrive at any time during the day as there are no activities planned until this important meeting. Afterwards, head out on an evening walk before enjoying a welcome dinner. If you arrive early, Kyoto offers a myriad of options to explore. For a taste of Shogun life, head to the World Heritage-listed Nijo Castle, perhaps the best surviving example of castle palace architecture from Japan’s feudal era. See how the Emperor lived at the Sento Imperial Palace within Kyoto Imperial Park, an attractive park in the centre of the city. Or for a quieter moment, you may wish to contemplate silently in one of the serene karesansui (Zen gardens) that dot the city. Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: 1 x Hotel

Included Activities:
  • 9 days guided & vehicle-supported cycling
  • 9 Days Included Bicycle Hire




Optional Activities:
  • Kyoto - Kiyomizu-dera - 500JPY
  • Kyoto - Imperial Palace - Free -
  • Kyoto - Nanzenji Temple - 600JPY
  • Kyoto - Shosei Strolling Garden - 500JPY
  • Kyoto - Nishiki-Koji Market - Free -
  • National Museum - 700JPY




Day 2: Kyoto
After breakfast and a safety talk by your leader, familiarise yourself with your bike and take a short test ride before cycling with the group west from our ryokan to the Katsura River, then north along a dedicated cycling path past traditional houses and community gardens to the ancient imperial resort of Arashiyama. Time allowing stop off for a coffee break in Arashiyama, well-known for its gorgeous bamboo forests. After a caffeine hit and a chance to soak up the peaceful atmosphere, ride on to Tenryuji Temple and Ryoanji Temple, with its famous white Zen rock garden. Pause here to contemplate the sound of one hand clapping and then move on to contemplate some lunch. Afterwards, cycle east across the north end of Kyoto and then onto the Path of Philosophy and the Higashiyama area before returning to our accommodation. The ride today will be gentle, with only slight elevation on the roads as we head into Arashiyama. We start with a 5 kilometre ride on a main road, then follow dedicated bicycle paths and secondary roads for the rest of the day. On arrival back into Kyoto, take an evening orientation tour of Kyoto’s Gion district. Observe Geisha and Maiko (apprentice Geisha) from key spots in the city’s old back streets and be tempted by some of the area’s great local restaurants, perhaps doubling back to visit for dinner after the tour has ended. Kyoto’s streets are laid out in a convenient grid pattern, which is unusual for Japanese cities. In the 8th century, imperial city planners copied the grid layout of Chang’an (now Xian), the capital of the Tang Dynasty China. That’s not the only benefit we reap from the Tang Dynasty today – two well-known Tang engineers, Ma Jun and Zhang Heng, invented the mechanical gear system used by the bikes we ride around this easy-to- navigate city. Arigato Tang Dynasty! Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

Accommodation: 1 x Hotel

Included Activities:
  • Kyoto - Gion District walk
  • Kyoto - Arashiyama Bamboo Forest




Optional Activities:
  • Kyoto - Gion Corner cultural centre - 5500JPY
  • Kyoto - Ryoanji Zen Garden - 600JPY
  • Kyoto - Tenryuji Temple - 600JPY




Day 3: Nara & Kyoto
The cycling route takes you through beautiful Japanese scenery on a dedicated riverside cycling path from the old capital of Kyoto to the even older capital of Nara. Here, you’ll see the Giant Buddha housed in the largest wooden structure on the planet. This city is well known for its Todaiji Temple and its cute, free-roaming wild deer. Head south along the river for most of the day, stopping briefly at Nagarebashi Bridge, a 356-metre wooden bridge that is a popular film location for samurai dramas. Return by train to Kyoto. Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: 1 x Ryokan

Optional Activities:
  • Nara - Kasuga Grand Shrine - Free -




Day 4: Lake Biwa & Hikone
Leave Kyoto behind and transport to nearby Otsu, located on the shores of the sprawling Lake Biwa. Today is a long but relaxed ride as you cycle around the mostly flat shoreline of Japan’s largest freshwater lake. Enjoy a lunch stop Omi Hachiman, a tiny historic trading town on the ancient Nakasendo trading route, with its well preserved old buildings and central canal before ending your ride in lakeside Hikone. While small, Hikone is home to the feudal Hikone Castle, one of only five castles in Japan designated as a national treasure. If you have time it is well worth the visit. Otherwise enjoy a free evening wandering the streets are dining at one of the local cafes and restaurants. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

Accommodation: 1 x Hotel

Optional Activities:
  • Kyoto - Hikone Castle - 800JPY




Day 5: Gero Onsen
Start the day early and take the train approximately 4 hours north into the heart of the Gifu Prefecture to the hot spring town of Gero Onsen. After checking in to your hotel its time to step back in time and check out the the Gassho Village, an open air museum of farmhouses. These centuries-old traditional steep roofed houses and traditional folk art give you an insight into a Japan far removed form its bustling cities. Take some time to explore then enjoy gather with your fellow cyclists for an included dinner in the evening. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation: 1 x Hotel/Japanese Inn

Optional Activities:
  • 3 visit Onsen (spa) pass - 1300JPY




Day 6: Takayama
Today its back on your bike, following the Hida River as it winds it’s way between the rolling green hills north to Takayama. Today’s journey takes you through some beautiful scenery as you ride the quiet roads up the valley, flanked by wooded green hills and mountains on both sides. Arriving into Takayama (also known as Hida-Takayama) in the early afternoon you will have ample time to explore this fascinating small city. Be sure to visit the beautifully preserved old town, dating from the Edo era. The area is home to traditional sake breweries, handicraft shops, and local food stores, offering a unique insight into Japanese culture and lifestyle, and is a great place to unwind after a good day cycling. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

Accommodation: 1 x Hotel

Optional Activities:
  • Hida Folk Village - 700JPY
  • Takayama Jinya historic building complex - 440JPY
  • Matsuri no Mori festival museum - 1000JPY




Day 7: Gujo Hachiman
Rise early and head out to the famous Takayama morning market, one of the biggest morning markets in Japan. Cruise the many shop and stalls selling everything from fruits and spices to craft wares then it’s time to saddle up for the ride to Gujo Hachiman. At 70 kms/44 miles this is the longest ride of the trip, but all of the climbing is done first, giving you 40kms of mostly downhill cruising on the quiet roads that meander through the mountainous landscape of the island’s winter skiing region. On arrival you will have ample time to wander the quiet streets and canals of this small traditional town and perhaps take in it’s historical centrepiece, the 16th century Hachiman Castle. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation: 1 x Hotel

Optional Activities:
  • Hachiman Castle - 300JPY




Day 8: Gifu
Today is your last rural ride as you cycle the undulating but mostly downhill from Gujohachiman to the riverside city of Gifu. While now a modern city Gifu has had a significant impact on Japanese history since the 15th century. Discover a bit of history yourself and stretch your walking legs on a visit to Gifu Castle on nearby Mount Kinkazan - the views are spectacular! The rest of the day is free for you to perhaps visit the museum dedicated to the epic Battle of Sekigahara, further explore or simply relax after a long but rewarding ride. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

Accommodation: 1 x Hotel

Optional Activities:
  • Gifu Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Museum - 500JPY




Day 9: Tokyo
No trip to Japan is complete without experiencing the country’s legendary train system. Swap your bike for a train and watch the scenic landscape fly by on a  journey (approx. 5 hours) to Tokyo. Hit the streets on arrival for a night-time orientation walk. Explore the contemporary centre of town as well as the old streets, and feel the hum of modern life in this famous city. Riding distance: None Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: 1 x Hotel

Day 10: Tokyo
Hold on to your helmets because there’s a real treat today – two rides in one day! Get a better feel for the different areas of the city this morning as you cycle along the same local paths Tokyoites use to cut through the city. There are surprises, both old and modern, waiting at every turn along the way and architecture aficionados will be in heaven. Along the way we visit many of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks; the first ride passing along the cherry tree lined paths of Ueno Park, home of Tokyo’s most popular museums and temples, Akihabara gadget town, the ‘Japan Bridge’ district of Nihonbashi, and upmarket the district of Ginza with its dazzling array of high-end shops, galleries and cafes. We break between rides to enjoy lunch at the famous Tsukiji Outer Fish Market before commencing our second ride to see such luminaries as the Edo-era Imperial Palace, the 333m-high Eiffel Tower lookalike Tokyo Tower, the elegant Hachimangu Shrine, Tsukishima (Moon Island), the manmade island in Tokyo Bay, and of course the Skytree Asakusa, at 634m the tallest building in all of Japan Later enjoy an included farewell dinner then take the rest of the evening to spend as you see fit - enjoy a quiet night, let loose at karaoke, or walk and drink your way across the city with your local leader. Meals: Breakfast,Dinner

Accommodation: 1 x Hotel

Optional Activities:
  • Tokyo - Shinjuku-gyoen - 500JPY
  • Tokyo - Edo-Tokyo Museum - 600JPY
  • Tokyo - Samurai Museum - 3300JPY
  • Tokyo - Meiji Jingu Shrine - Free -
  • Tokyo - Karaoke - 2000JPY
  • Tokyo - Imperial Palace - Free -
  • Nippon Professional Baseball League game - 2000JPY
  • Soba noodle class - 4000JPY
  • Tokyo - Japanese & Calligraphy lesson - 2000JPY




Day 11: Tokyo
Sadly it’s time to say farewell to this great Japanese adventure. There are no activities planned for the day and you’re able to depart the hotel at any time. Check-out time is 11 am but if you’re departing later, you can arrange luggage storage at the hotel. If you have time why not check out the amazing Urban Adventures on offer in this eclectic city. Read more at: www.urbanadventures.com/en/tokyo Meals: Breakfast

Included Activities

  • 9 days guided & vehicle-supported cycling
  • 9 Days Included Bicycle Hire
  • Kyoto - Gion District walk
  • Kyoto - Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
  • Nara - Todaiji Temple
  • Omi Hachiman historic village visit
  • Gassho Village open air museum
  • Takayama morning market visit
  • Gifu Castle visit
  • Tokyo - Sensoji Temple
  • Tokyo - Tsukiji Fish Market
Physical preparation

PHYSICAL PREPARATION There are regular rest breaks each day, however it is important to note that you will be riding over multiple and consecutive days in a climate and terrain that may be unfamiliar. While it can be tempting to start out riding as hard and fast as you can (we get it!) we recommend taking it easy on the first few days while your body gets used to the rides and the climate. As a general rule, the more preparation you can do for this type of trip, the more you will enjoy it. Prepare for the trip by doing aerobic type exercises before travelling - jogging or swimming are some options, though cycling is best. If possible take some extended day rides before travelling, or spend time on exercise bikes in the gym. The more your muscles (and bottom) are prepared for the riding on this trip the more you will be able to enjoy the wonderful countryside and people you meet while riding. Note that an enthusiasm for bike riding and adventure is essential! It is also important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle, both solo and in a group environment. CYCLING DISTANCES: The information listed in the itinerary is a guide to the approximate distances and terrain cycled each day. However, this may vary depending on the physical capabilities of the group, and changes to local conditions. For safety reasons we only cycle during daylight hours, so there may be some early morning starts. We take regular rest breaks throughout cycling days. Please note that the Gifu region in central Honshu is naturally are hilly and we have frequent climbs and descents on this trip. Most climbs are not overly long as but usually require slow, steady riding to get to the top. We are confident anyone with a reasonable level of fitness can complete these sections (the views really are amazing!) but also have a support vehicle with us at all times in case anyone wants to rest or skip the harder sections.

Important information

  • IMPORTANT UPDATE ABOUT JAPAN: it’s essential that you read ’Passports, visas and entry requirements’ section in Essential Trip Information first before booking your trip so that you fully understand the current requirements in place for travelling to Japan. If you book the trip within 30 days before departure, please ensure that 1) you request a copy of the Agreement Form with your booking agent and return a signed copy within 2 business days 2) check with your local consulate and ensure that you’ll have enough time to get the tourist visa for your trip. Normal booking conditions apply for any bookings within 30 days before departure. It may take 7 business days to confirm a booking and issue ERFS certificate when the trip is on request. 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement does not apply on Day 5 and Day 7 Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. While we always aim to ride to our next accommodation, outside of the main cities a support vehicle will also be with you at all times. Please note that the maximum number of cyclists we can fit in the support vehicle is 4. 3. An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available, and they are an ’on request’ basis only. 4. Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. Please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home. Helmets can be purchased locally if needed. 5. On this trip we have a single leader that rides with the group, and another that drives the support vehicle (acting as a back-marker where needed). Where the vehicle cannot travel directly with the cyclists (e.g. a cyclists-only path) your leader will assign a person from the group to act as a back-marker. 6. It is essential you pack light and compact for rail travel in Japan. From May 2020 there will be size restrictions for luggage on Shinkansen trains. Luggage over 160-250cm may require an additional 1000 JPY fee per train journey. Luggage over 251cm will not be permitted on the Shinkansen trains at all. Please notify your tour leader at your Welcome Meeting if your luggage is over 160-250cm so they can make the necessary arrangements! Failure to notify your tour leader of luggage over 160-250cm will require the passenger to pay the oversize luggage fee. 7. Please note that there are generally less double rooms in Japanese hotels, even those in Western style. While every effort will be made to accommodate double room requests, this may not always be possible.


Bitte wählen Sie einen Termin aus:
  • Termine Code: 2579868
    Cycle Japan
    16.11.2024 - 26.11.2024
    ab € 5.060,00
  • Termine Code: 2636493
    Cycle Japan
    12.04.2025 - 22.04.2025
    ab € 5.240,00
  • Termine Code: 2636494
    Cycle Japan
    10.05.2025 - 20.05.2025
    ab € 5.045,00
  • Termine Code: 2636495
    Cycle Japan
    31.05.2025 - 10.06.2025
    ab € 5.045,00
  • Termine Code: 2636496
    Cycle Japan
    21.06.2025 - 01.07.2025
    ab € 4.850,00
  • Termine Code: 2636497
    Cycle Japan
    26.07.2025 - 05.08.2025
    ab € 4.850,00
  • Termine Code: 2636498
    Cycle Japan
    16.08.2025 - 26.08.2025
    ab € 5.045,00
  • Termine Code: 2636499
    Cycle Japan
    06.09.2025 - 16.09.2025
    ab € 5.240,00
  • Termine Code: 2636500
    Cycle Japan
    20.09.2025 - 30.09.2025
    ab € 5.460,00
  • Termine Code: 2636501
    Cycle Japan
    11.10.2025 - 21.10.2025
    ab € 5.460,00
  • Termine Code: 2636502
    Cycle Japan
    25.10.2025 - 04.11.2025
    ab € 5.255,00
  • Termine Code: 2636503
    Cycle Japan
    15.11.2025 - 25.11.2025
    ab € 5.055,00
  • Termine Code: 2664057
    Cycle Japan
    11.04.2026 - 21.04.2026
    ab € 5.500,00
  • Termine Code: 2664058
    Cycle Japan
    09.05.2026 - 19.05.2026
    ab € 5.295,00
  • Termine Code: 2664059
    Cycle Japan
    30.05.2026 - 09.06.2026
    ab € 5.295,00
  • Termine Code: 2664060
    Cycle Japan
    20.06.2026 - 30.06.2026
    ab € 5.090,00
  • Termine Code: 2664061
    Cycle Japan
    25.07.2026 - 04.08.2026
    ab € 5.090,00
  • Termine Code: 2664062
    Cycle Japan
    15.08.2026 - 25.08.2026
    ab € 5.295,00
  • Termine Code: 2664063
    Cycle Japan
    05.09.2026 - 15.09.2026
    ab € 5.500,00
  • Termine Code: 2664064
    Cycle Japan
    19.09.2026 - 29.09.2026
    ab € 5.735,00
  • Termine Code: 2664065
    Cycle Japan
    10.10.2026 - 20.10.2026
    ab € 5.735,00
  • Termine Code: 2664066
    Cycle Japan
    24.10.2026 - 03.11.2026
    ab € 5.515,00
  • Termine Code: 2664067
    Cycle Japan
    14.11.2026 - 24.11.2026
    ab € 5.305,00
Andere Reisen im Land Japan
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