San-in is one of Japan's least populated and least urbanized regions, making it an alluring setting for an off-the-beaten track cycling adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun! On this tour, we'll traverse across San-in's diverse geography of rugged shorelines, dramatic volcanic landscapes, colorful forests, and expansive farmlands. We'll encounter quaint fishing villages, bustling maritime towns, timeless shrines and temples, grand Samurai castles, and breathtaking views. We soothe our muscles in hot springs, sleep in cosy accommodations, and indulge in an outstanding variety of local delicacies.
Meeting in Tottori City we begin with an easy warm up ride to Japan’s largest and most visually striking sand dunes. The following day we cycle inland via lakes, rivers, rice paddy fields and rolling hills to reach a renowned onsen (hot spring) town. We then descend back towards the coastline and ride along the slopes of Mount Daisen, an extinct volcano that towers over the region. Once we reach Sakaiminato City we'll ride to a stunning inland sea before catching a ferry to the Oki Islands. We’ll spend two days island riding and island hopping in a remote part of offshore Japan, exploring three of the volcanic archipelago’s four inhabited islands! Back on the mainland, we then ride to visit the intricate Miho Shrine before continuing along scenic headlands in pursuit of the historic city of Matsue. Matsue will be our base for two nights and here we'll explore the majestic “Black Castle” and embark on a rural loop to one of Japan’s prettiest zen gardens at the Adachi Museum of Art. The tour concludes with a picturesque ride skirting along a lake and two rivers before arriving at Izumo Taisha, another of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines. We spend the final night in the city of Izuomo from where you can easily continue your travels onwards in Japan.
Join us in exploring the remarkable San-in region and see a different part of Japan, differently!
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
While Honshu holds Japan’s most famous landmarks and cities, the island also offers rugged beauty along its western coastline and the nearby mountains. Tucked into these peaceful landscapes are historic towns, hot springs, hushed temples, and artisans’ workshops that allow us to explore Japanese culture and history while escaping from modernity. This tour is a rich, refined cycling experience within a delicate balance of nature and artistry, revealing Honshu’s treasures in a striking blend of coastline and mountains!
We first meet for dinner in Kanazawa, an atmospheric medieval town that once rivalled Kyoto as the jewel of mainland Japan. On Day 2, we cycle along the Sea of Japan, a wonderful introductory ride that immerses us in local life on the coast. The next morning, we pass numerous rock formations and waterfalls and visit a maritime museum before turning inland to Echizen. Learn about the making of traditional knives on Day 4, then cycle on a converted historic rail line, gliding back to the coast through serene countryside. On Day 5, explore the five lakes of Mikata and Wakasa Bay in a natural park with glorious views. Day 6 offers a change of pace: we trade our bicycles for seats on the sleek high speed rail to Takakoa. On arrival, we do a little city cycling to impressive sacred sites and enjoy a delicious local dinner. Day 7’s ride brings us into the Japanese Alps, an idyllic region that also features nice riverside riding, with onsens available to unwind at the end of the day. Our final day of cycling provides the biggest challenge, with a long gradual climb for the first part of the ride, taking in the views of lakes and forests. We are rewarded with great descents to cap off our journey, arriving in Hida Takayama with its quaint, atmospheric architecture for a final night celebration! On Day 9, we say goodbye and depart for onward travels.
Join us on this 9-day journey and discover a beautiful, hidden side of Honshu!
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers