Luxury Japan Cycle 8D7N (From the Izu Peninsula to Kyoto), Fully Guided

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 23km (14 miles), 2-4 hours biking, Elevation gain: 610m (2000 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 26km (16 miles), 2-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 762m (2500 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 34km (21 miles), 2-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 792m (2600 ft)

Welcome to Japan! On day one, we'll meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency Tokyo, where your Trip Leaders will greet you. Please have your luggage prepared, along with a daypack containing your cycling attire, rainwear, and any personal items for today’s journey.

After our rendezvous in Tokyo, we’ll take a scenic shuttle to the Izu Peninsula, known for its stunning coastline, soothing onsen, and volcanic landscapes. In the seaside town of Ito, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local café before a personalized bike fitting and orientation. Then, embark on a ride along the breathtaking Jogasaki Coast, featuring dramatic cliffs and sapphire ocean views. You’ll also walk across the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge, soaring 150 feet above sparkling water and jagged rocks. Continuing the ride, you’ll pass Mount Omuro’s volcanic cone and descend to the lush Izu-Kogen plateau.

Our destination is the tranquil ABBA Resorts Izu, where you’ll stay for the next three nights. Relax in traditional onsen, explore serene gardens, or visit the samurai sword gallery. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome reception and a French-inspired Japanese dinner. Embrace tradition by wearing a yukata, a lovely way to immerse yourself in this unforgettable experience.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 3, Approx. 37km (23miles), 2-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 730m (2400 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 45km (28 miles), 2-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1035m (3400 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 64km (40 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1310m (4300 ft)

After breakfast, we head south to Yumigahama, a peaceful crescent-shaped beach tucked into a picturesque cove on the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula. From here, hop on your bike and enjoy a scenic ride with views of the rocky islands and dramatic cliffs of Cape Aiai. The route follows rolling roads through charming fishing villages and along the coast, offering stunning glimpses of Mount Fuji and the Pacific Ocean on clear days. We’ll pause midday for a delicious lunch featuring local specialties.

Later, take a shuttle back to our ryokan, where you can unwind in the onsen or enjoy some quiet time in your room. In the evening, we’ll dine at a beloved local tonkatsu restaurant, just a short drive from the hotel.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 23km (14 miles), 2-4 hours biking, Elevation gain: 2300m (2300 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 48km (30 miles), 2-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1100m (3600 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 58km (36 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1300m (4300 ft)

Today, we head inland to uncover the stunning, hilly landscapes of central Izu. This ride takes us through charming rural villages, cascading waterfalls, wasabi terraces, and—if the weather is kind—a view of majestic Fuji-san. Known as the birthplace of wasabi, this region is dotted with traditional water-cultivated farms, their lush green terraces inviting a closer look.

Our journey continues to the historic town of Shuzenji, renowned for its vibrant autumn foliage. Explore its highlights, including the serene Shuzenji Temple, a picturesque bamboo forest path, and the historic Tokkono-Yu onsen. After the day's adventures, unwind back at the hotel with a soak in the hot springs, feed the koi fish, or take a peaceful stroll through the gardens.

As evening falls, get cozy in a yukata and enjoy a delightful Japanese dinner at the ryokan's restaurant, savoring the flavours of the region. It's the perfect way to end a day of discovery.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 27km (17 miles), 2-4 hours biking, Elevation gain: 457m (1500 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 47km (29 miles), 2-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 610m (2000 ft)

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before we bid farewell to our coastal retreat and head toward a serene riverside escape on the edge of the Northern Japanese Alps. Embrace the quintessential Japanese experience by boarding a high-speed Shinkansen bullet train, racing westward at up to 200 miles per hour. Mid-morning, we'll arrive and take a short shuttle to lunch.

Afterward, hop on your bike and enjoy a scenic ride along the mountain edges, weaving through small valleys and hidden villages. On clear days, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains, farmland, towns, and the city of Toyama. Along the way, we'll visit Nissekiji Temple, renowned for its Magaibutsu Buddha stone carving and the magnificent Fudo Myoo statue, considered one of Japan's most beautiful. Nearby, the Roppondaki Waterfall offers the unique opportunity to witness or even experience Takigyo, an ancient waterfall meditation practice.

Continue cycling along peaceful roads at the base of the mountains, following the Jinzū River to our next destination, the River Retreat Garaku. This luxurious ryokan combines modern elegance with tranquil surroundings, offering the perfect setting to relax. Settle into your spacious room, then take a tour of the property—a masterpiece in its own right, featuring world-class sculptures and artwork. If time permits, unwind with a soak in one of the open-air hot springs or indulge in a massage (at additional cost).

In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner at the hotel's French-fusion restaurant. Feel free to wear your yukata for a truly authentic experience.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 45km (28 miles), 2-4 hours biking, Elevation gain: 670m (2200 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 52km (32 miles), 2-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 915m (3000 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 74km (46 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1035m (3400 ft)

Awaken your senses with a ride that weaves through the very heart of Toyama’s natural splendor. After a leisurely breakfast, mount your bicycle and glide across the sun-dappled plains of the Jinzū and Ida Rivers. Feel the crisp air as you ascend into the emerald foothills, where ancient mountain villages and terraced rice paddies offer breathtaking vistas of the shimmering Toyama Bay. Despite the proximity to the city, you will find yourself enveloped in a serene wilderness that feels worlds away from the modern hum.

The afternoon beckons with an invitation to the Yamafuji family winery, a fourth-generation sanctuary and the first of its kind in the region. Here, among the rolling vines, you will indulge in a refined lunch that celebrates the heritage of the land. Afterward, choose your own path: continue your rhythmic journey through the undulating countryside or retreat to the sanctuary of the River Retreat Garaku. Surrender to the healing waters of an outdoor hot spring, find stillness in the hot stone room, or simply repose in the quiet elegance of your suite.

Before the stars emerge, we invite you to experience the transcendent beauty of a private tea ceremony. This evocative ritual, born in the eighth century, was once the sacred practice of monks seeking enlightenment. In a simplified yet profound demonstration, you will encounter the timeless principles of harmony, respect, and tranquility. The day concludes with a grand Japanese feast, an artisanal tapestry of seasonal flavours served in an atmosphere of quiet opulence, where the soft embrace of your yukata completes this journey into the soul of Japan.

Level 2, Approx. 27km (17 miles), 2-4 hours biking, Elevation gain: 457m (1500 ft)

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a short morning bike ride to Yatsuo, a beautifully preserved historical village in Japan. Ride through charming streets lined with traditional architecture. Prefer a slower morning? Take it easy and enjoy the spa facilities instead. Cyclists will have time to freshen up before we regroup for our afternoon journey.

In the afternoon, we say goodbye to the Northern Alps as we head south to Kyoto, where we’ll settle into the luxurious Four Seasons Kyoto for the next two nights, located in the historic Higashiyama district. This serene retreat is surrounded by lush gardens and features a tranquil 800-year-old pond. Allow yourself to unwind in the restorative embrace of their world-class spa.

This evening, you can either explore Kyoto's vibrant dining scene at your own pace or unwind with a relaxing dinner at the hotel, enjoying a journey through Michelin-starred cuisine.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Level 2, Approx. 18km (11 miles), 2-4 hours biking, Elevation gain: 700m (2300 ft)
Level 3, Level 3, Approx. 27km (17 miles), 2-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 760m (2500 ft)
Level 3, Level 3, Approx. 31km (19 miles), 2-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1030m (3400 ft)

Start your day with a bike ride that highlights the blend of modern and traditional Kyoto. This morning, set off from the hotel and follow the Kamo River north, cycling along peaceful pedestrian paths towards Kitayama, Kyoto's northern mountains. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of daily life as you pass locals cycling, walking, playing racket sports, engaging in gateball, fishing, commuting, and relaxing by the river. Next, ascend out of Kyoto's valley into forested hills, where you'll enjoy stunning views of the city's outskirts. Midway, pause for a delicious lunch together before heading back to the city. Return through Kyoto's quiet cycling routes, passing through the heart of town on your way back to the Four Seasons.

This evening, we’ll gather at the hotel’s restaurant to toast (kampai!) to our incredible journey through Japan, followed by a farewell dinner featuring exquisite regional dishes.

Level 1, Approx. 5km (3 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 152m (500 ft)

As the morning sun casts a golden glow over Kyoto, a private shuttle will take you to the Fushimi Inari-Taisha shrine. This sacred site, nestled at the base of Inari hill since AD 711, offers a unique glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage. We'll begin our ascent through a secluded side gate, climbing the stone steps into a tranquil forest.

Your path will lead you under thousands of vermillion torii gates, which create a vibrant tunnel through the trees. These gates, donated by individuals and businesses seeking good fortune, mark the transition from the everyday world to a sacred space. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Kyoto and the surrounding hills.

On our descent, you’ll notice the many small prayer mounds scattered across the hillside, each representing a personal wish or prayer. Our walk concludes at the historic Tofukuji Temple, known for its serene, moss-covered grounds. Afterwards, we will return to the Four Seasons to freshen up before heading to Kyoto station, where your journey through Japan concludes.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.