Unseen Central Japan: From the Coast to the Japanese Alps

This tour is 9 days long, with 7 riding days.

You'll ride a total of 418 km over 7 cycling days. The tour begins in Kanazawa, easily reachable by high-speed rail from major airports, as well as through its own smaller airport. All the rides are from hotel to hotel except a transfer from the coast to the Japanese Alps by high-speed rail on Day 6. The trip begins with several days of riding on or near the coast, with stops to explore the region’s long sea-faring heritage amid striking scenery. These rides have moderate, rolling climbs. On Day 6, after the train transfer, you'll have a short city ride in Takaoka, giving your legs a respite. Days 7 and 8 feature the most climbing (more than 1000 m of elevation gain), including some longer sustained climbs with pretty mountain vistas. While there is plenty of cycling on the trip, you'll add depth by visiting a variety of local sites for a true feel of the region. Day 9 is your departure day from Takayama.

The trip is fully supported, and your guide’s expert knowledge of the area and terrain means that you always know what is coming up in terms of distance and difficulty. This makes a tremendous difference, as does the constant supply of water and refreshments along the way.

Suitability: This is an active level tour and riders can expect to be challenged by the route and terrain in a variety of ways. There is the possibility of high winds along the coast, and several days feature significant climbing. Though a support vehicle with water, refreshments and empty seats is always nearby, good cycling fitness and solid climbing experience is recommended for full enjoyment of this trip. Cyclists should also be prepared to cycle in some tighter roads with traffic.

Biking Conditions: Most of the routes are on smooth pavement, with some sections on hard-packed gravel trails. Bicycle-friendly routes have been chosen, though you will share paths and roads with other cyclists, pedestrians, and motor vehicles of various sizes. It is important to have bike-handling skills to negotiate crowded sections of road that you may pass through. You'll generally ride rain or shine, but based on the guide’s discretion or your level of comfort, modifications to the planned route can be made. It’s all part of the adventure!

You are not required to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. The tour operator will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender. If you cannot be matched, they will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share, a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room.

Japan has a diverse climate. There are four seasons: from April to June is spring. The rainy season is from middle of June to the middle of July. July through end of September can be hot and humid temperatures in the big cities can go as high as 35 degrees Celsius.

Meals are included as per the itinerary where B = breakfast, L = lunch, Most meals will be Japanese seafood; a typical breakfast would include rice, a piece of grilled fish, miso soup. There will always be granola and muesli for those in need. Dinners will include lots of different seafood - some cooked, some raw. Any special dietary requirements can also be catered for as well. Please let us know at the time of booking.

Drink
Keeping you completely hydrated is a job we take very seriously. Cold water, some energy-restoring local fruit and soft drinks are included in the tour price while riding. Soft drinks and other beverages during meals are not included. Beer is freely available everywhere in Japan, but is NOT included in the price.

Yes, if you're hiring a bike from the operator, a complimentary helmet is provided, although you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.