Japan Bike Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+

Women's Adventures Women 18+

Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18)

Families with Teens & 20s Best for ages 16-23 (min. age 14)

Families with Kids & Teens Best for ages 7-17 (min. age 4)

8 days

7 nights

Activity Levels 2-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - Experience the world’s best, from lavish luxury to chic retreats with prestigious alliances.

Deluxe Hotels - Find modern comforts in extraordinary settings, with great ambience and ample amenities.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

Japan Bike Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+

Women's Adventures Women 18+

Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18)

Families with Teens & 20s Best for ages 16-23 (min. age 14)

Families with Kids & Teens Best for ages 7-17 (min. age 4)

8 days

7 nights

Activity Levels 2-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - Experience the world’s best, from lavish luxury to chic retreats with prestigious alliances.

Deluxe Hotels - Find modern comforts in extraordinary settings, with great ambience and ample amenities.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2025: Apr-Jun, Sep-Nov2026: Apr-Jun, Sep-Nov

From $11,699 - $13,049 /person

Nikko National Park to Kyoto

Japan's sublime terrain—perfected over eons and just waiting to be discovered by bike. On scenic rides, explore pristine landscapes from terraced rice fields to shimmering cascades and magnificent stands of Japanese cedar. Exquisite Kyoto's Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines that stand the test of time, all waiting to be explored.

... Read more

Highlights

  • Bike in Nikko National Park, beloved for its striking scenery, with Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples hidden among cedar forests
  • Discover the diverse facets of Japanese culture like traditional tea rituals, kaiseki-style fare, waterfall meditation and modern art
  • Rejuvenate at Japan's top hotels and ryokans, replete with natural hot springs, superb cuisine and panoramic views
  • Explore Kyoto, where each street is filled with hidden gems and geishas come to learn the timeless trade
  • Read More
Japan Biking Tour map

Japan

StartTokyo

EndKyoto

Airports & Travel details*

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

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Itinerary

Colorful trees with a large waterfall in the middle

Days 1-3

Description

Cycle along a section of the famous Suginamiki, or Cedar Avenue, the longest tree-lined road in the world and an important Japanese cultural site • At a local sake brewery, enjoy a tour and tasting • Discover Nikko Toshogu, a spectacular 400-year-old Shinto shrine complex and World Heritage site • Bike to the Nikko Kirifuri Highland, renowned for its wildflowers and mountain views • Descend the acclaimed Irohazaka switchbacks • Marvel at waterfalls and sacred Mount Nantai as we ride next to Lake Chuzenjii • Relax in the healing geothermal waters of our hotel’s sublime onsen, open-air hot tubs.

Accommodations

Nights 1-3

The Ritz-Carlton Nikko
Nikko
Premiere Hotel

Nestled by Lake Chuzenji with stunning views of Mount Nantai, this sophisticated haven blends local elements with Japan's minimalistic beauty, including a unique onsen experience. (spa)

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Bikers riding down a path

Days 4-5

Description

Spin along the fertile plains of the Jinzu and Ida Rivers • Partake in a tea ceremony and learn the steps of this highly stylized ritual • Gorgeous views of Toyama and its namesake bay abound as you pedal among mountain villages and rice terraces • A world of serenity awaits at our classic ryokan accommodations on the edge of the Northern Japanese Alps • Tour our extraordinary hotel and admire its world-class art collection • Don a yukata (robe) and savor a traditional kaiseki-style dinner.

Accommodations

Nights 4-5

River Retreat Garaku
Toyama
Premiere Hotel

Modern luxury and artistry of design abound at this elevated riverside ryokan nestled in the Northern Alps. (spa)

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Pond full of koi fish in Japan

Days 6-8

Description

Bike to Yatsuo, one of the best preserved historical villages in Japan • Explore the quaint streets of ancient Kyoto, known for its traditional wooden buildings and merchant shops • Cycle peaceful paths alongside locals as you follow the Kamo River toward the mountains of Kitayama • Walk under countless torii, or Japanese gates, on a climb up to famed Fushimi Inari-Taisha, a Shinto temple that dates back to AD 711 • From the summit of iconic Inari hill, soak up unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and Kyoto below.

Accommodations

Nights 6-7

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto
Premiere Hotel

Fusuma panels, paper lanterns and lacquerware are among the artisanal elements at this refined property in the well-preserved Higashiyama District. (pool, spa)

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Want to learn more about this trip?

Request a Detailed Itinerary! Complete with descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more, it’s the perfect tool to help you choose. You can easily share it with friends too!

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What's Included

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Straight Talk

We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

From $11,699 /person

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Hotels

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Nights 1-3

The Ritz-Carlton Nikko
Nikko

Premiere Hotel

Nestled by Lake Chuzenji with stunning views of Mount Nantai, this sophisticated haven blends local elements with Japan's minimalistic beauty, including a unique onsen experience. (spa)

Nights 4-5

River Retreat Garaku
Toyama

Premiere Hotel

Modern luxury and artistry of design abound at this elevated riverside ryokan nestled in the Northern Alps. (spa)

Nights 6-7

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto

Premiere Hotel

Fusuma panels, paper lanterns and lacquerware are among the artisanal elements at this refined property in the well-preserved Higashiyama District. (pool, spa)

From $11,699 /person

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Bikes

Choose Your Perfect Bike

Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.

Backroads Performance Road Bike
Performance Road Bike

Included in your trip price

  • Ideal for avid cyclists
  • Responsive, efficient and comfortable
  • Drop handlebars only
Backroads Touring Bike
Backroads Touring Bike

Included in your trip price

  • Suited for a wide range of cyclists
  • Comfortable ergonomic seat
  • Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
  • Upright handlebars only
Backroads Electric-Assist Bike
Backroads Electric-Assist Bike

Included in your trip price

  • One of the lightest e-bikes available
  • Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
  • Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting
  • Upright handlebars only
  • Limited availability on Unplugged Bike Tours;  learn more

Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+

From $11,699 /person

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Reviewed by 6 customers

Japan was unforgettable!!

Submitted November 2024

By jane

From Rhode Island

The scenery was spectacular. The biking was challenging but not unpleasantly so. The team leaders coupled with the local guide were personable, knowledgeable, fun with excellent people skills. The accommodations were nothing I had ever seen or experienced before- I don't know how they consistently find such special sites. Food was excellent. My husband and I had looked forward to this trip for a long time- it was even more special than we imagined. Don't miss this biking experience!!

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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What a great way to see Japan!

Submitted October 2024

By Malini

From Toronto, Canada

We had a fantastic time cycling around Japan. Seeing a country from this vantage point in so many locations was incredible. The hotels were awesome. The Backroads leaders are wonderful and so accommodating. A fabulous experience that just makes us want to do more Backroads adventures!

User submitted media
Nikko National Park

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Excellence + Adventure + Pure Joy = A Backroads Trip

Submitted June 2024

By Mary

From CA

We commemorated both a milestone birthday and anniversary with our first Backroads trip. What a momentous adventure through Japan. For anyone unfamiliar with Japan, this is a particularly special way to begin to appreciate its culture, cuisine and landscape. Everything - accommodations, meals, riding routes, points of interest, eBikes - was at a level of excellence. Our shared group experience was positive and we valued the warmth and friendship of our fellow group members. No doubt some of those friendships will continue to develop outside of the trip itself. Much gratitude for the trip's leaders and local support staff, who with smiles, humor and professionalism kept the 8-day itinerary seamlessly on track (and we riders, on route). Of special note, was Backroads ability to amend, last minute, the initial part of the itinerary after an unfortunate natural disaster made it impossible to maintain the original plans. They successfully lived up to the challenge and over delivered. We are sold! This will definitely not be our last adventure with Backroads.

User submitted media 1 of 3
Mid-route Thermal-heated Foot Bath Friends
User submitted media 2 of 3
Ikimasyoo - Let's Go!
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Beauty Along the Way

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BEST BACKROADS TRIP EVER

Submitted June 2024

By susan

From montreal, qc

As a country Japan is incredible. As a Backroads trip this was my 8th and by far my favourite. The scenery, the food, the culture is amazing. The leaders and support staff above and beyond professional. The yukatas that you wear at night add a whole different flavour to the trip. On every level this trip is outstanding.

User submitted media
yukatas anyone?

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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Great trip. Absolutely wonderful experience.

Submitted June 2024

By Ken

From Sonoma, CA

This was our fourth Backroads ride. All have been exceptional and this may have been the best. Wish I had discovered Backroads earlier in life. The trips hit all the markers for what makes a great vacation.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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A wonderful exploration of traditional, rural Japan

Submitted May 2023

By LBC

From Santa Monica, CA

This trip and its leaders were absolutely incredible. With a significant language barrier, Japan can be a challenging country to navigate solo but the introduction to the culture and traditions afforded by Backroads portion made it manageable and much more enjoyable. The Shinkansen is impressive, but cycling through the Noto Peninsula has to be the best way to explore the scenery and customs Japan has to offer. If Japan is on your bucket list, I honestly can't imagine a trip here without this experience. By far, it was the highlight of my 3 weeks in this incredible country.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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From $11,699 /person

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Dates & Prices

Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.

Unplugged dates are perfect for guests who want to ride an acoustic bike.
E-bikes are available to travel companions by request only.

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Please Select a Group Size

Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.

Want to learn more about this trip?

Request a Detailed Itinerary! Complete with descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more, it’s the perfect tool to help you choose. You can easily share it with friends too!

Download & Share

Book with Confidence

Backroads provides flexible booking policies so that you can plan your vacation with complete peace of mind.

Learn more

From $11,699 /person

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