Discover Japan by bike in 2027
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Rides of a Lifetime as we explore the cultural heart of Japan. Join us for an adventure that blends scenic cycling with rich heritage.
Cycle through Japan's ancient heart.
Our 2027 Japan tour invites you to cycle from the ancient capital of Kyoto to the stunning Pacific coast at Wakayama. You'll follow serene rivers, charming backroads, and historic pilgrimage routes that weave through the Kii Peninsula’s cultural core. This journey takes you beyond the usual tourist trails, offering an intimate glimpse into Japan's soul.
Experience unique cultural immersion.
Beyond the bustling crowds of Kyoto and Nara, you'll explore the tranquil tea fields of Uji and Wazuka. Journey through the sacred mountain landscapes of Yoshino and the spiritual haven of Mount Koya. We'll often dip in and out of the Keinawa Cycle Route, a natural spine linking Kyoto with Wakayama, ensuring a seamless and breathtaking ride.
Savour Japanese flavours and comfort.
Relax each evening in carefully selected accommodation, including a memorable stay at a mountain temple on Mount Koya. Indulge in exquisite Japanese cuisine, from the ceremonial matcha tea in Uji to the freshest seafood in Wakayama. This tour offers Japan at a leisurely pace, allowing ample time for cultural exploration, stunning landscapes, and a genuine connection with the open road.
Who is this tour for?
This Japan tour is perfect for anyone keen to explore this beautiful part of Japan by bike. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or new to touring, as long as you love being active, you'll thrive with just a little pre-tour preparation. It’s truly for anyone seeking adventure in a wonderful setting with like-minded people.
Highlights you won't want to miss.
Experience an unforgettable night in a temple lodging on Mount Koya, immersing yourself in ancient traditions. Cycle from Kyoto’s historic temple districts through picturesque river valleys and verdant tea-growing hills. Enjoy a scenic boat journey on the Hozugawa River and partake in a traditional tea ceremony in Uji. These are just a few of the incredible moments awaiting you.
Overview.
Embark on a cycling adventure from Japan's historic capital, Kyoto, to the stunning Pacific coast at Wakayama. This journey takes you along serene rivers, charming backroads, and ancient pilgrimage routes, all set within the cultural heart of the Kii Peninsula.
Escape the bustling crowds of Kyoto and Nara as you explore the lush tea fields of Uji and Wazuka. Experience the sacred mountain landscapes of Yoshino and Mount Koya, all while weaving in and out of the Keinawa Cycle Route, which seamlessly connects Kyoto to Wakayama and serves as the backbone of your journey.
Unwind in thoughtfully selected accommodations, including a unique stay at a mountain temple on Mount Koya. Delight in the flavors of Japanese cuisine, from the rich matcha tea of Uji to the fresh seafood of Wakayama. Experience Japan at a leisurely pace, allowing ample time to immerse yourself in its culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the joy of cycling.
Highlights.
Embark on a cycling adventure through Kyoto's enchanting temple districts, winding along picturesque river valleys and lush tea-growing hills. Experience a serene boat journey on the Hozu River, followed by a traditional tea ceremony in the charming town of Uji.
Pedal along ancient pilgrimage routes that lead into Japan's spiritual heartland, where you'll explore Nara's historic temples and ascend through majestic cedar forests to the sacred peaks of Mount Yoshino and Mount Koya.
Relish unforgettable accommodations and culinary delights throughout your journey, including a night spent in a temple lodging on Mount Koya, culminating in a celebratory finish along the stunning Pacific coast in Wakayama.
Tour Inclusions.
Enjoy 9 nights in premium hotels, ryokans, and traditional inns.
Indulge in 9 breakfasts, 8 dinners, and a special lunch at KanouShoujuan.
Benefit from support vehicles and comprehensive mechanical assistance.
Experience the expertise of 4 New Zealand guides alongside 3 local guides.
Access daily route GPX files for seamless navigation.
Immerse yourself in cultural experiences, including a tea ceremony in Uji, a traditional riverboat journey on the Hozugawa River, and a temple stay on Mount Koya.
Enjoy a selection of tasty and nutritious drinks, snacks, and treats to keep you energized throughout the ride.
Tour Costs
Tour Date: September 27th - October 6th 2027.
Tour Costs: $9300 NZD Per person for twin share/double.
Single supplement: + $1200 NZD.
Trip duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Grade: Level 2.5 / 5 -Moderate
Accommodation: 9 nights in premium Japanese and Western style accommodation
What's Not Included.
Airfares.
Arrival and departure airport transfers, including any bike transfers to the hotel.
Most lunches (budget $15 per day)
Cycle and helmet hire.
Travel insurance– Please arrange your own
Grading: Level 2-3/5 Moderate.
Experience a leisurely journey that allows you to savor the cultural sights and breathtaking landscapes along the route. Each day features rides of 40–65 km, incorporating more challenging climbs than our Level 2 tours, with several extended ascents through mountainous regions. This tour is ideal for recreational riders with moderate fitness levels. For a more comfortable ascent, we recommend using an e-bike.
Hire Bikes.
Discover our selection of premium rental bikes, available in various sizes and styles, including e-bikes, carbon road bikes, and hybrid/cross bikes. Each bike is meticulously serviced before every tour, and your rental includes a complimentary helmet.
Hybrid/Cross Bike: $400 NZD
Carbon Road Bike: $800 NZD
E-Bike: $800 NZD
Important notes:
Solo Travelers: If you're traveling alone, we will strive to pair you with another traveler of the same gender. Should a compatible rooming partner not be available 90 days prior to departure, a single supplement fee will be applied.
Traveling To and From: The tour kicks off in Arashiyama, Kyoto, which is easily accessible by train from central Kyoto and via Shinkansen connections from major cities such as Tokyo, Nagoya, and Hiroshima. The tour concludes in Wakayama City, with convenient train options available for onward travel to Osaka, Kansai International Airport (KIX), and other destinations across Japan.
Detailed Itinerary.
Day 1 – Welcome to Kyoto (Arashiyama)
Cycle Distance: Optional short riverside ride,Meet your guides and fellow travellers in the beautiful district of Arashiyama, located on the western edge of Kyoto and renowned for its peaceful riverside setting, bamboo forests, and traditional charm. After settling in, we’ll provide a comprehensive tour briefing and ensure everyone is comfortably fitted to their bikes before the adventure begins.
The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax, explore the local area, or join us for an optional gentle riverside ride to loosen the legs after your travels.
In the evening, we come together for our first group dinner — a relaxed and welcoming introduction to both Japanese hospitality and the incredible cuisine that awaits throughout the journey.
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2 – Arashiyama to Nagarebashi (Keinawa Cycle Route)
Cycle Distance: Up to 50 km
Our first full day of riding takes us along the scenic Keinawa Cycle Route, following peaceful riverside paths through the Kyoto countryside toward the iconic Nagarebashi Bridge. With much of today’s ride being flat, traffic-free, and incredibly picturesque, it provides the perfect introduction to cycling in Japan.
Along the way, enjoy a relaxed pace as we pass local communities, open landscapes, and tranquil river scenery that offer a glimpse into everyday Japanese life beyond the busy cities.
Guests can choose to complete the full return ride back to Arashiyama or opt to return by support vehicle from Nagarebashi, allowing flexibility to ride at your own comfort level.
The afternoon is free to relax or further explore the beautiful surroundings of Arashiyama, including its famous bamboo groves, temples, cafés, and traditional streets.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3 – Arashiyama to Kameoka, Hozugawa River Boat Ride & Transfer to Uji.
Cycle Distance: Up to 40 km | Approx. 700 m elevation
Today’s ride takes us into the peaceful mountain valleys surrounding Mizuo, a beautiful rural area famous for its yuzu orchards, quiet roads, and traditional countryside charm. As we cycle through the hills, we’ll stop at natural spring water points and take time to enjoy the tranquil scenery and slower pace of rural Japan.
We’ll pause for lunch at a local soba café, enjoying regional flavours before continuing to Kameoka where today’s adventure takes a unique turn.
From here, we board traditional riverboats for a memorable two-hour journey down the Hozugawa River — a historic waterway once used to transport timber and supplies into Kyoto. Surrounded by forested cliffs and stunning natural scenery, this is one of the true highlights of the region.
In the late afternoon, we transfer to the historic city of Uji, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and world-famous green tea, where we settle in for the next stage of our journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 – Uji Tea Country Loop Ride & Traditional Tea Experience
Cycle Distance: Up to 45 km | Approx. 400 m elevation
Today we explore the beautiful tea-growing countryside surrounding Uji, a region internationally renowned for producing some of Japan’s finest green tea. Our loop ride takes us through rolling hills, quiet rural roads, and lush tea plantations, with climbs rewarded by sweeping panoramic views across the surrounding valleys.
Along the route, we pass the impressive Amagase Dam before descending toward Kanou Shoujuan, where we enjoy lunch and experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony — a wonderful introduction to the artistry, history, and culture behind Uji’s celebrated tea-making heritage.
There will also be time to visit local cafés, bakeries, and artisan pottery studios, adding another layer to today’s immersive cultural experience.
Guests may choose to complete the full cycling loop back to Uji or return by support vehicle after lunch, leaving the afternoon free to further explore Uji at a relaxed pace. Wander the riverside pathways, browse the famous tea shops, or visit the stunning Byōdō-in Temple, one of Japan’s most iconic historical landmarks.
Dinner this evening is at leisure, giving you the opportunity to discover one of Uji’s many excellent local restaurants and cafés.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 – Uji to Nara via Wazuka
Cycle Distance: Up to 50 km | Approx. 400 m elevation
Leaving Uji behind, we once again join sections of the scenic Keinawa Cycle Route, following peaceful riverside paths south before heading inland toward the stunning tea-growing region of Wazuka.
Today’s ride showcases some of Japan’s most beautiful rural landscapes, with quiet roads winding through rolling hills, terraced tea plantations, and traditional farming villages that feel untouched by time. This lesser-known region offers a wonderful glimpse into the slower pace and natural beauty of the Japanese countryside.
We’ll stop for lunch in Wazuka before continuing our journey along historic backroads toward Nara — Japan’s first permanent capital and a city rich in history, culture, and heritage.
Arriving in Nara, there will be time to relax and settle into our accommodation before enjoying dinner together in this fascinating ancient city.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6 – Rest Day in Nara | Optional Ride or Sightseeing
Cycle Distance: Optional 40 km
Today is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace as we take a well-earned break in the historic city of Nara before the more mountainous stages ahead. Guests may choose to simply unwind and explore the city or join an optional loop ride beginning through Nara Park before following quiet countryside roads along sections of an ancient pilgrimage route.
For those preferring a slower day, Nara offers plenty to discover, from magnificent temples and traditional gardens to the city’s famous free-roaming deer and charming historic streets. An optional guided walk through the cultural heart of Nara is also available.
In the evening, we come together once again to enjoy a special group dinner at one of Nara’s renowned local restaurants.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7 – Nara to Mount Yoshino
Cycle Distance: Up to 62 km | Approx. 600 m elevation
Today we leave Nara behind and continue south along sections of the scenic Keinawa Cycle Route, following peaceful rivers and quiet countryside roads through the heart of rural Japan.
As the landscape begins to change, we gradually climb into the sacred mountain region of Mount Yoshino — a place deeply connected to Japanese history, spirituality, and mountain pilgrimage traditions. Famous throughout Japan for its spectacular cherry blossoms, Yoshino is also renowned for its temples, forested slopes, and timeless atmosphere.
After arriving, there will be time to explore the historic village streets, visit local temples and shrines, or simply take in the incredible mountain views before we gather for dinner together this evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8 – Mount Yoshino to Mount Koya | Traditional Temple Stay.
Cycle Distance: Up to 65 km | Approx. 1,400 m elevation
Today delivers one of the most memorable and rewarding rides of the tour as we journey deep into the sacred Kii Mountain region, following ancient pilgrimage routes that have connected Japan’s spiritual centres for centuries.
Our ride takes us through remote mountain valleys, towering cedar forests, and quiet winding roads that showcase the raw natural beauty of rural Japan. Along the way, we trace paths once travelled by pilgrims making their way between sacred mountain temples and spiritual sites.
After lunch in the peaceful mountain village of Tenkawa, we begin the final climb toward the legendary Mount Koya — one of Japan’s most important Buddhist centres and a place of remarkable tranquillity and history.
Tonight, we experience a traditional temple stay, offering a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the atmosphere and traditions of this sacred mountain town. There will be time to explore the lantern-lit streets, temples, and peaceful surroundings before dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 – Mount Koya to Wakayama.
Cycle Distance: Up to 55 km
The day begins with the opportunity to experience the peaceful atmosphere of morning prayers at our temple lodging, followed by a traditional Japanese breakfast before we farewell Mount Koya.
From here, we enjoy a spectacular descent through forested mountains and quiet valleys as we make our way back toward the coast. Rejoining sections of the scenic Keinawa Cycle Route, today’s ride offers a rewarding mix of beautiful countryside, riverside riding, and relaxed rolling terrain as we gradually approach Wakayama.
Arriving in Wakayama marks the final stage of our cycling journey, with time to reflect on the incredible experiences, landscapes, and friendships shared throughout the tour.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner