Cycling in Japan: A Route for Every Kind of Adventure

By Newsdesk Jul 28, 2023 11:31am

There are few better ways to see Japan than by bike, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization: The well-kept roads, variety of scenery and low environmental impact provide perfect courses for travelers of all kinds. From expert cycling itineraries to local biking routes to easy roads for family fun, riders of all levels can find their personalized, no-carbon-footprint route throughout Japan.

For the Experienced Cyclist

The Pacific Cycling Road is one of Japan’s National Cycling Routes, totaling more than 924 miles across six prefectures: Chiba, Kanagawa, Shizuoka, Aichi, Mie and Wakayama. Multiple hills make for a high-endurance, cross-country ride, while the route provides an in-depth look at the country, passing through both major cities and small fishing villages with a special panoramic view of Mt. Fuji.

For the Historian

Aizu, part of Fukushima Prefecture, has strong ties to the ancient samurai culture. Take either the beginner 33.5-mile ride or the 122-mile “King of Aizu” course to see historical sites such as Tsurugajo Castle—one of the last strongholds of the samurai—and Ouchi-juku post-town, which features traditional thatched buildings that are more than 300 years old.

For the “Local Experience”

A popular weekend escape for residents of western Kansai, the Izanagi Course loops around part of Awaji Island, starting and ending at Iwaya Port. Along the way, visit Izanagi Shrine, the oldest of its kind in Japan and the final resting place of the ancient deity Izanagi.

For the Family

Typically known for winter sports, Niseko has warmed up to summer activities with a circuit around Mt. Yotei. The 34-mile course is perfect for families, filled with rural landscapes, day trips to local onsens and stops at parks such as Fukidashi, where visitors can drink spring water straight from the stream.

For the Scenic Route

Another National Cycling Route, the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road allows travelers to cross from island to island along connecting bridges on the Seto Inland Sea. Along the 44-mile trip, try out some kaizoku musubi, or pirate rice balls, modeled after the diet of the Murakami Pirates—Robin Hood-esque sailors who guarded the seas in the 15th through 17th centuries.

For more information, visit www.japan.travel/en/us.