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Japan Bike Tour

The majestic worlds of Kyoto, Mt. Yoshino, and the Nara region

Tour Duration

7D / 6N

Trip Style

Signature, Classic Guided

Rider Level

3

Hotel Level

Explorer

Bikes

Trek Domane SL 5
Trek Electric-Assist FX+ 2 Stagger
Trek Electric-Assist FX+ 2

View details

Starting from

$8,599.00 per person

See dates

Delve into the hidden world of Buddhist pilgrims, ancient temples, and the cultural Nara region on this awe-inspiring bike tour.

There are few cultures, countries, and people as unique and magical as Japan's. Here, stark contrasts come together and create a majestic, disciplined and beautiful destination that's truly best seen from a bicycle. Your mind's eye most likely goes to the bustling electricity of Tokyo or the solemn quiet of the rice paddies, but that's barely scratching the surface. We'll show you a completely different side of Japan, steeped in traditional arts, nature, and history, where the first Japanese Emperors established their capitals and where many of the country's oldest shrines, temples, tombs, stone monuments, and archaeological excavations can be found. In between, you'll enjoy the country's numerous natural hot springs for a truly traditional Japanese unwinding, and of course visit local markets for a deep dive into the undiscovered riches of Japanese cuisine. Sushi is only the beginning, as you'll taste matcha tea, sake, and fish prepared so fresh, you'll never want it any other way. Discover this world of contrast where modern sophistication meets ancient cultures and natural beauty.

Trip Wows
  • Bike through tea fields, visit magnificent temples and UNESCO World Heritage sites

  • Spend a night in a temple on the holiest mountain in Japan and experience a ritual morning meditation with Buddhist monks

  • Discover Nara, one of the oldest regions in Japan

  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese accommodation in an authentic Ryokan and rejuvenate in the soothing waters of an Onsen hot spring

  • Experience "Sado" or "the way of tea" in a private ceremony with a master of this classic Japanese art form

Koyasan temple

Temple in Koyasan

Koyasan

Visit this enchanting and marvelous place to escape for a moment from a hectic modern life. An overnight Japanese temple stay offers peace and tranquility, and the unique opportunity to experience life as the monks do — at a slower, contemplative pace.


What Guests are Saying
Group shot of guests with bike at a Japanese Temple

This trip far exceeded our expectations! Japan is the most incredible country that I have ever been to and there is no better way than to see it on a bike. The food was incredible and the accommodations were beyond what we imagined! If you have the opportunity to go, just do it!

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Devin, Trek Travel Guest

Traditional Japanese food

Japan is like no other destination. The food is incredible, every meal is like a piece of art. You'll never forget the zen ambiance of traditional ryokans, the magical atmosphere of the temples and smiling Japanese people who have an exceptional appreciation for their culture, food, and life itself. This journey will introduce you to a unique way of life and if you enjoy it as much as I did, you'll want to come back.

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Ilona, Trek Travel Trip Designer

Group having an ice cream and smiling

The experience on the Trek Travel tour was the best and the guides truly make this an amazing holiday. The history and culture of this country and these people is incredible.

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Bob, Trek Travel Guest

Riders in the town

From a cycling perspective, I thought the itinerary in its entirety was well considered and “built up” beautifully to the last day’s fabulous descent. Clever! Nice mix of challenging hills and descents. Great guidance by the three guides. Diego, Vincent and Zack were rock stars

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Jonathan, Trek Travel Guest


A couple of cyclists in colorful jerseys in front of terraced tea farms

Great Ride

Uji to Nara

Cycle through the remote countryside with its rolling hills and lush tea plantations that produce the famous matcha green tea.


Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

  • Guaranteed

  • Join Waitlist

  • Private

  • Limited Availability


Itinerary
Rider Information

Hotels
Hotel room at the Noborioji hotel
fine dining table setting at the Noborioji hotel
Far away view of the top of Noborioji hotel with trees blocking most of the building
close up of a plated meal at the Noborioji Hotel
outdoor seating at the Noborioji hotel
Nara, Japan
Noborioji Hotel
Explorer

Located at the gateway to Nara park, Noborioji has an exclusive air about it, having only twelve rooms spread out on two floors and a gourmet on-site restaurant. It’s a truly unique experience, with a western feel and Japanese attention to detail. The comfortable, modern rooms have large beds and the restaurant offers both Japanese and western-style meals.

...

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Chikurin-in Gunpoen Hotel in Japan
Chikurin-in Gunpoen hotel food in Japan
Chikurin in Gunpoen Hotel spa in Japan
Chikurin in Gunpoen hotel in Japan
Chikurin in Gunpoen hotel exterior in Japan
Yoshino, Japan
Chikurin-in Gunpoen
Explorer

Traditional beauty is mixed with Japanese spirit in this magical hotel and garden. The old and new come together to welcome you onto its specially-made Yoshino cedar wood floor. The guest rooms of the main building feature traditional beauty while the new annex has modern facilities. The cultivated garden, together with a spacious Onsen, is a perfect place to relax after your day on the bike.

...

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Sekisho-in front entrance in Japan
room interior at the Sekisho in Japan
balcony at the Sekisho in hotel Japan
food served at the Sekisho in Hotel Japan
Lobby of the Sekisho in hote Japan
Koyasan, Japan
Sekishoin
Explorer

The Sekishoin is a Buddhist temple at the Koya Mountain and is located conveniently near the main street. Natural beauty offers a unique escape and total serenity, while morning meditation, Buddhist vegetarian cuisine and sutra reading promise to calm your nerves and bring you back to your center.

...

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Dhawa Yura Kyoto hotel entrance in Japan
Dhawa Yura Kyoto hotel room in Japan
Dhawa Yura Kyoto hotel bar in Japan
Dhawa Yura Kyoto hotel room in Japan
Dhawa Yura Kyoto hotel bar in Japan
Kyoto, Japan
Dhawa Yura Kyoto
Explorer

This five-star boutique hotel is inspired by the destination that is enriched through arts, history, and cultural experiences. In Dhawa Yura Kyoto, East meets West and it’s a perfect blend of old and new. Its location is close to all the main city attractions — temples, shrines, shopping, restaurants, and museums.

...

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Bikes & Gear
Ride the Best Bikes in the Industry
Trek Domane SL 5 Road
Trek Domane SL 5

Trek’s latest innovation has led to the best bike on the road—a light weight, stable and technologically advanced machine to make even the hardest roads seem easy. Ride confidently, comfortably and longer in the most beautiful destinations around the world.

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Trek FX+2 Stagger E-Bike
Trek Electric-Assist FX+ 2 Stagger

The FX+ 2 Stagger is a lightweight electric bike that’s perfect for making your Trek Travel trip even more enjoyable. It has an intuitive and natural-feeling pedal assist system that will glide you down those scenic roads, so you can just focus on the fun. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through all that amazing terrain, and with just that little bit of extra power, you can roll up those hills with ease. The stagger frame style is available in small only.

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Trek FX+ 2 E-Bike
Trek Electric-Assist FX+ 2

The FX+ 2 is a lightweight electric bike that’s perfect for making your Trek Travel trip even more enjoyable. It has an intuitive and natural-feeling pedal assist system that will glide you down those scenic roads, so you can just focus on the fun. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through all that amazing terrain, and with just that little bit of extra power, you can roll up those hills with ease. This standard frame style is available in medium and large sizes only.

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Two cyclist and one rider

Trek Travel Guides

The World’s Best

From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.

Certified Guides

Additional Gear
  • Trek Travel Santini cycling jersey to keep
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Cinch sack day bag to keep
  • Bontrager saddle
  • Bontrager helmet
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer with pre-loaded routes
  • Shimano SPD-SL road style pedals, Shimano SPD mountain style pedals, caged, or flat pedals
  • A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator
  • For the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and our guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.
A collage of cycling gear guests will use on a Trek Travel Classic Bike Tour.

Trip Inclusions

Additional Details

Know Before You Go!

We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.

Your Trip Need to Knows:

  • Lodging in Japan: A traditional Japanese inn includes tatami (woven-straw) matted floors, paper walls, and futon beds (a mattress laid directly on tatami and during the day folded in the closet). Inside of the buildings shoes are not allowed. Japanese inns are very tranquil and simple–rooms have everything you need, but nothing more. Even five-star western style hotels in Japan prioritize simplicity with fewer amenities and decoration. All hotels have Onsens which are natural hot spring baths. Most of the hotel rooms do not have a private bathroom and guests use communal hot springs. It might sound strange at first, but in Japan it’s a beloved part of traditional culture. There’s really nothing more relaxing or therapeutic than lying back in a hot bath after a long day. Once you’ve done it, you’ll never look back!
  • Dining in Japan: Japanese cuisine is world famous. Dining here is not just about the actual food to eat, but also its presentation, design, sharing, and appreciation. Here you’ll be invited to try a typical Kaiseki cuisine—served in small dishes, beautifully presented and featuring seasonal favorites like sushi, sashimi, buckwheat paste, tofu, and fish. Rice is a part of each meal, and typical Japanese breakfasts contain miso soup, fish, beans, and eggs. We will also try Japanese rice-wine sake and matcha green tea. At most of our properties you’ll also have your choice of western-style meals. We will be able to accommodate most common dietary restrictions, with the exception of our vegetarian-only Buddhist meal at our night at the temple, but please check with your trip consultant before you book the trip.
  • Biking in Japan: We want to make sure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience on this trip, so it’s important to note that riding on this trip is technical since we will be riding on small, quiet roads with some steep winding descents. We will also ride in an urban area at the beginning and end of the ride with some traffic.
  • Look right and keep left! In Japan, you cycle on the left side of the road along with traffic. Extra attention and caution are required as you ride, cross intersections, and enter traffic circles if this is the opposite side of the road than you are accustomed to.
  • Please note that the bikes you will ride on this trip are aluminium frames with mechanical shifting, which differs from our standard fleet. See the Bikes & Guides section for more information.

Before and After Your Trip

Weather

Average monthly temperature and precipitation

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
High (°F) 43.0° 45.0° 39.0° 52.0° 63.0° 70.0° 76.0° 79.0° 72.0° 61.0° 49.0° 37.0°
High (°C) 6.1° 7.2° 3.9° 11.1° 17.2° 21.1° 24.4° 26.1° 22.2° 16.1° 9.4° 2.8°
Low (°F) 31.0° 31.0° 29.0° 38.0° 48.0° 56.0° 64.0° 67.0° 59.0° 46.0° 36.0° 28.0°
Low (°C) -0.6° -0.6° -1.7° 3.3° 8.9° 13.3° 17.8° 19.4° 15.0° 7.8° 2.2° -2.2°
Rain (in) 9.38° 6.89° 1.7° 1.1° 1.32° 0.95° 1.67° 1.74° 1.96° 1.76° 3.18° 3.68°
FAQs

Spring and autumn have mild temperatures and little rainfall, hence it is the best time for bike trips in Japan. However, it can be a sunny and bright one day and occasionally cold and wet the next, so please make sure to bring layers and rain gear to ensure a comfortable riding experience. Temperatures can vary between 60s (16º-20ºC) in the morning and 80s (27º-31ºC) in the afternoon. View our Packing List

To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.

*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.

**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.

When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.

With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*

In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:

Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.

or

Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.

Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.

The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.

*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.

Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.

We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your bike tour. We want to make it as easy as possible to do so and below you’ll find our timeline.

Have a question? Just give us a call, 866-464-8735.
Read our Cancellation Policy

Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection

We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services

Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments

Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Signature trip, we recommend between $280-$350 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.

Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:

Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.

Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

You cannot put a price on a wow. But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.

Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See FAQs


Guaranteed Trips

Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip. Click here to view our full guarantee policy.

Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.

Sold Out/Waitlist

This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.

Limited Availability

If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.

Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more.

What are your trip styles?

Classic - Reserve:

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Ride Camp:

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

Pro Race:

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Private

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate Luxury:

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Luxury:

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

Explorer

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

Combined

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Level 1:

Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Level 2:

Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Level 3:

Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Level 4:

Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - Reserve:

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Ride Camp:

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

Pro Race:

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself