Journey & Search places on a world assortment of epically themed biking excursions, from the Caesar (London to Rome), the Iron Curtain (Berlin to Budapest), and the Hannibal (Barcelona to Rome), to extra unique and pure escapes just like the Appalachian (Maine to North Carolina) and Maori (Auckland to Queenstown).

Now, they’ve acquired Cycle Japan and added the Samurai Tour, a two-parter that may be mixed into one mega-epic. It’s supplied in Could and October and contains Honsho and Shikoku Islands routes, with a bonus Mt. Fuji stage.

The Honshu stage (15 days) rides north to south throughout the mainland by means of the Japanese Alps and Noto Peninsula, visiting landmarks just like the Black Crow Fortress in Matsumoto, Japan’s oldest unique fortress. The panorama hasn’t modified a lot in 400 years, providing a glimpse into the previous whereas driving calmly trafficked but trendy roads.

After a relaxation day in Kyoto, the Shikoku tour (11 days) picks up by driving throughout lots of small islands nestled between Shikoku and the mainland. You’ll experience throughout the Shimanami Kaido suspension bridges, by means of gorges, and climb Western Japan’s highest peak, Mt. Ishizuchi whereas passing historic mountainside villages. All through, you’ll comply with elements of the pilgrimage of Buddhist priest Kuka’s (aka Kobo-Daishi) 88 temples.

The bonus stage allows you to cycle round Mt. Fuji for unbelievable views of the long-lasting Japanese mountain from the Fuji 5 Lakes, with the choice of driving up the volcano. Discover the Izu Peninsula, cross by means of fishing villages, and experience previous the location the place the well-known American Black Ships landed, a catalyst for ending feudalism and beginning Japan’s speedy modernization throughout the samurai period.

Accomodations embody a mixture of conventional Ryokan and western-style lodges. These and all meals (Ramen!!! Sashimi!!!) are included within the tour, specializing in conventional regional and native meals and preparation, plus pure sizzling springs baths at lots of the stops. Sake and beer are on you, although, so convey some money.


Phrase is the October excursions promote out rapidly, and Could spots transfer a bit of extra slowly but additionally replenish. Group sizes are restricted to make sure good rider to information ratios. Extra particulars and pricing on their web site.