Cycle Japan

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Our Price From
US$5,079
Save up To $1,790
Twin Share (Per Person)
 Trip Length
11 Days
 Trip Starts
Kyoto
 Trip Finishes
Tokyo
11 Day Cycle Japan Itinerary (Intrepid)
Countries Explored: Japan
Trip Style
Original
Departures
Budget
Affordable
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Moderate
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
CJXC

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 11 Day Cycle Japan. From world-class sushi to legendary geisha, enthralling Japan is the perfect destination to discover by bicycle. Our cycling adventure gives you a slowed down, up close look of this fascinating country and allows ample opportunity to meet locals and glimpse the unique culture of the Land of the Rising Sun. From the temples, shrines and geisha of Kyoto to the frenetic but exhilarating chaos of Tokyo, and the beautiful mountain serenity of the Gifu Prefecture countryside in between, this cycling adventure has it all.

Itinerary

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan. Your adventure begins in Kyoto – serving as Japan's capital and the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868, Kyoto is the spiritual centre of Zen Buddhism and one of the most historically important cities in Japan. Unlike many of its neighbours, Kyoto escaped destruction during WWII and thousands of temples, shrines and other historically invaluable structures survive in the city today. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe start exploring Kyoto – for a taste of Shogun life, head to the World Heritage-listed Nijo Castle, perhaps the best surviving example of castle architecture from feudal Japan. Or, you might like to have a moment of quiet reflection in one of the serene karesansui (Zen gardens) that dot the city. After, head out on an evening walk before sitting down to a welcome dinner with your group. (D)

After breakfast and a safety talk by your leader, familiarise yourself with your bike and take a short test ride before cycling west from your ryokan to the Katsura River, then north along a dedicated cycling path, past traditional houses and community gardens to the Imperial Villa in Arashiyama. If you have time, stop for a coffee break in Arashiyama, well-known for its gorgeous bamboo forests. Then, ride on to Tenryuji Temple and Ryoanji Temple. Pause for a moment of contemplation at Ryoanji’s Zen garden, then cycle east across the north end of Kyoto, onto the Philosopher’s Path and through the Higashiyama district. When you arrive back in Kyoto, take an evening orientation walk around the Gion district. If you’re lucky, you might see geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) in the city's old back streets and around the great local restaurants – maybe return here for dinner after the walk! (B/L)

Today’s cycling route will take you through beautiful Japanese scenery on a dedicated riverside cycling path, starting in the old capital of Kyoto and leading to the even older capital of Nara. Here, you'll see the 15-m-tall bronze Buddha housed in the Todaiji Temple. While you’re here, keep an eye out for the free-roaming deer that Nara is known for. Cycle south along the river for most of the day, stopping briefly at Nagarebashi – a 356-m-long wooden bridge that’s a popular filming location for jidaigeki (samurai dramas). Return to Kyoto by train later today. (B)

Leave Kyoto behind and travel to Otsu, located on the shores of the sprawling Lake Biwa. Today’s ride will be long but relaxing as you cycle around the mostly flat shoreline of Japan's largest freshwater lake. Enjoy a lunch stop in Omi Hachiman, a tiny historic trading town on the ancient Nakasendo trading route, before ending your ride in lakeside Hikone. This small city is home to the feudal Hikone Castle, which has been officially designated as a national treasure. If you have time today, it’s well worth a visit. Otherwise, enjoy a free evening wandering the streets and dining at the local cafes or restaurants. (B/L)

Start the day early and take a train north into the heart of the Gifu Prefecture to the hot spring town of Gero Onsen. After checking into your hotel, step back in time at the Gassho Village – an open-air museum of farmhouses. This recreation of a centuries-old mountain village showcases steep-roofed houses and traditional folk art, giving you insight into a version of Japan far removed from its bustling cities. Take some time to explore, then gather with your fellow cyclists for an included dinner this evening. (B/L/D)

Hop back on your bike today, following the Hida River as it winds its way through the rolling green hills north to Takayama. Today's journey takes you through beautiful scenery as you ride the quiet roads up the valley, flanked by wooded green hills and mountains. Arriving at Takayama in the early afternoon, you’ll have ample time to explore this fascinating, small city. Be sure to visit the beautifully preserved old town, dating back to the Edo period. The area is home to traditional sake breweries, handicraft shops and local food stores, offering a unique insight into Japanese culture and lifestyle. It’s a great spot to unwind after a good day of cycling. (B/L)

Rise early and head out to the famous Takayama morning market, one of the biggest morning markets in Japan. Cruise the many stalls selling everything from fruits and spices to handicrafts, then it's time to saddle up for the ride to Gujo Hachiman. This is the longest ride of the trip, but all the climbing is done first, followed by mostly downhill cruising on the quiet roads that meander through the mountainous landscape of this winter ski region. When you arrive, you’ll have ample time to wander the quiet streets and canals of this small town and take in its historical centrepiece – the 16th-century Hachiman Castle. (B/L/D)

Today is your last rural ride as you cycle, mostly downhill, from Gujo Hachiman to the riverside city of Gifu. Gifu has had a significant impact on Japanese history since the 15th century. Discover a bit of its history yourself as you stretch your legs on a visit to Gifu Castle on nearby Mt Kinka – the views from here are spectacular. The rest of the day is free for you to continue your exploration at your own pace – maybe visit the museum dedicated to the epic Battle of Sekigahara or simply relax after a long but rewarding ride. (B/L)

No trip to Japan is complete without experiencing the country's legendary train system! Swap your bike for a train this morning and watch the scenic landscape fly by as you travel to Tokyo. When you arrive, hit the streets for an evening orientation walk. Explore the town’s contemporary centre as well as its older streets, feeling the hum of modern life around you. (B)

Hold on to your helmets and strap in for two rides in one day! Get a better feel for the different areas of Tokyo this morning as you cycle along the same local paths Tokyoites use to cut through the city. Keep your eyes peeled for architectural surprises – both old and new – at every turn. Along the way, you’ll visit many of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks – ride along the cherry tree-lined paths of Ueno Park (home of Tokyo’s most popular museums), Akihabara gadget town, the ‘Japan Bridge’ district of Nihonbashi and the upmarket district of Ginza with its dazzling array of high-end shops, galleries and cafes. Stop for a break to have lunch at the famous Tsukiji Outer Market before starting your second ride to see the Edo-era Imperial Palace, the 333-m-tall Tokyo Tower, the elegant Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine, the man-made island of Tsukishima (Moon Island) and the Tokyo Skytree – the tallest building in Japan. Tonight, enjoy an included farewell dinner, then the rest of the evening is free for you to spend as you see fit. Maybe let loose at karaoke or walk and drink your way across the city with your local leader. (B/D)

With no further activities planned, it’s time to say sayonara to your Japanese adventure. If you’d like to extend your stay in Japan, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Get up close to the real Japan by bike – you’ll wind your way through the organised chaos of Tokyo, visit the off-the-beaten-track riverside town of Gujo Hachiman and see the historic temples of Kyoto.
  • Top off rewarding days in the saddle with Japanese feasts of sushi, unagi, tempura and maybe even delicacies like fugu (pufferfish), all washed down with a traditional sake or Sapporo beer.
  • Ride Japan’s famous train system for the ultimate change of pace from your cycling adventures.
  • Cycle through peaceful landscapes that show a land far from the big city lights of Tokyo. Seek out panoramic views from Gifu Castle and ride to the beautifully preserved Edo-period town of Takayama and the district of Arashiyama – known for its bamboo forests that stretch far into the sky.

  • Hotel (8 nights)
  • Ryokan (2 nights)

  • 10 Breakfasts included
  • 6 Lunches included
  • 4 Dinners included

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
  • Intrepid regularly update their itineraries throughout the year based on feedback and local conditions. Therefore the itinerary you see now may differ from when you booked. Global Journeys will provide you with detailed trip notes at the time of quoting, along with a finalised itinerary and trip notes before your trip departs.
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Flexible Deposit

Cancel up to 56 days before departure and your deposit becomes a credit for future travel.

Definite Departures

Your Intrepid trip is guaranteed to depart as soon as one full paying traveler is booked!
Sunday 12 Apr 2026 12 Apr 26 Kyoto
Wednesday 22 Apr 2026 22 Apr 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,990
US$6,200
Save $1,790
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 09 May 2026 09 May 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 19 May 2026 19 May 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,545
US$5,079
Save $1,466
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 20 Jun 2026 20 Jun 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 30 Jun 2026 30 Jun 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,080
US$5,494
Save $1,586
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 05 Sep 2026 05 Sep 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 15 Sep 2026 15 Sep 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,640
US$5,153
Save $1,487
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 26 Sep 2026 26 Sep 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 06 Oct 2026 06 Oct 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,085
US$5,498
Save $1,587
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 10 Oct 2026 10 Oct 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 20 Oct 2026 20 Oct 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,920
US$5,370
Save $1,550
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 24 Oct 2026 24 Oct 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 03 Nov 2026 03 Nov 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,660
US$5,168
Save $1,492
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 14 Nov 2026 14 Nov 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 24 Nov 2026 24 Nov 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,085
US$5,498
Save $1,587
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 11 Apr 2027 11 Apr 27 Kyoto
Wednesday 21 Apr 2027 21 Apr 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,790
US$6,586
Save $204
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 29 May 2027 29 May 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 08 Jun 2027 08 Jun 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,790
US$6,586
Save $204
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 24 Jul 2027 24 Jul 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 03 Aug 2027 03 Aug 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $6,790
US$6,586
Save $204
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 04 Sep 2027 04 Sep 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 14 Sep 2027 14 Sep 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,085
US$6,872
Save $213
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 09 Oct 2027 09 Oct 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 19 Oct 2027 19 Oct 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,085
US$6,872
Save $213
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 23 Oct 2027 23 Oct 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 02 Nov 2027 02 Nov 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,085
US$6,872
Save $213
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 13 Nov 2027 13 Nov 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 23 Nov 2027 23 Nov 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,085
US$6,872
Save $213
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 12 Apr 2026 12 Apr 26 Kyoto
Wednesday 22 Apr 2026 22 Apr 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $8,475
US$6,685
Save $1,790
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 09 May 2026 09 May 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 19 May 2026 19 May 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,030
US$5,564
Save $1,466
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 20 Jun 2026 20 Jun 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 30 Jun 2026 30 Jun 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,565
US$5,979
Save $1,586
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 05 Sep 2026 05 Sep 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 15 Sep 2026 15 Sep 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,125
US$5,638
Save $1,487
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 26 Sep 2026 26 Sep 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 06 Oct 2026 06 Oct 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,570
US$5,983
Save $1,587
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 10 Oct 2026 10 Oct 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 20 Oct 2026 20 Oct 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,405
US$5,855
Save $1,550
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 24 Oct 2026 24 Oct 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 03 Nov 2026 03 Nov 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,145
US$5,653
Save $1,492
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 14 Nov 2026 14 Nov 26 Kyoto
Tuesday 24 Nov 2026 24 Nov 26 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,570
US$5,983
Save $1,587
Solo (Own Room)
Sunday 11 Apr 2027 11 Apr 27 Kyoto
Wednesday 21 Apr 2027 21 Apr 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,275
US$7,071
Save $204
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 29 May 2027 29 May 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 08 Jun 2027 08 Jun 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,275
US$7,071
Save $204
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 24 Jul 2027 24 Jul 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 03 Aug 2027 03 Aug 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,275
US$7,071
Save $204
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 04 Sep 2027 04 Sep 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 14 Sep 2027 14 Sep 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,570
US$7,357
Save $213
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 09 Oct 2027 09 Oct 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 19 Oct 2027 19 Oct 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,570
US$7,357
Save $213
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 23 Oct 2027 23 Oct 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 02 Nov 2027 02 Nov 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,570
US$7,357
Save $213
Solo (Own Room)
Saturday 13 Nov 2027 13 Nov 27 Kyoto
Tuesday 23 Nov 2027 23 Nov 27 Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $7,570
US$7,357
Save $213
Solo (Own Room)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Intrepid. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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