Valleys & Volcanoes Cycling Tour

Today, we will begin our journey into the heart of the Japanese countryside. Begin by riding deeper into the mountains on tranquil roads up to Mt Akayuisan Pass. Then dive into secluded forests to the Nagusaitsukushima, a beautiful and secluded shrine in the deep rich pine forests. After exploring the shrine, we will head to a lunch of fresh regional food before we make our way back to the ryokan for another amazing evening.

Today we take on one of the biggest climbs of the trip, Kanahara Pass. Follow the valley east to a secluded back road that rewards us with a hidden road and fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. Then, meander down to the serene Sano Valley for a step back in time at Ichinokan, a well preserved ryokan out of the past.

Climb over the hill to Ashikaga, a quaint and historical town at the base of Japan’s North Alps. We’ll take a stop to visit the Gakko, the first school built in Japan. History, gardens, gates, and more, as we explore the hills through the afternoon before heading off to an afternoon in the award winning Ashikaga Flower Park to see the seasonal blooms (spring) or illuminations (late fall/winter).

Plan A, MT AKAGI: Our final ride along the Watarase River Path, today is a journey to the hot-spring source as we head up to Mt Akagi. A quick stop to take in the peaceful Hotokuji Shrine and lunch before we embark on a long gradual uphill with scenic views of the massive volcano. Our ryokan tonight is situated on the lower steps of Mt Akagi with incredible views of the Tone Valley below.

Plan B, MT HARUNA: We recommend hopping in the shuttle this morning to cut out some kilometers so that you can spend more time exploring the incredible views of the Tone River Path. Point your bike towards the scraggly Mt Haruna in the distance - a historical hot spring town awaits you at the end of your journey!

Plan A, MT AKAGI: Our last full ride day offers several options: choose a simple short climb to the amazing hidden Miyazawa Shrine, or extend it for a loop around the base of Mt Akagi. For those who want more miles and a challenge, the full climb to the summit Mt Akagi awaits. Finally, you can choose to enjoy a restful day off or stroll to the Senbonzakura park just up the road. Later that evening, we will all reconvene for one last dinner together: a beautiful Japanese feast.

Plan B: MT HARUNA: There are endless things to do in this tiny town of Ikaho, which sits at the base of the volcano, Haruna. Stroll the iron water steps, go on a short hike through the woods, or choose to summit the mountain for an epic day on the bike!

Plan A, KIRYU: On our final day, we head out one last time for a flat/downhill ride through the country back along the Watarase River towards Kiryu. We will roll down the valley to Takatsudo Park for a final exploration, and views of all that we have accomplished. Enjoy lunch and coffee in Kiryu before we say farewell, til the next time!

Plan B, TAKASAKI: Wake up to your final kaiseki breakfast of the tour and enjoy one more soak in the mineral-rich waters of the volcano. Then, we will make our way towards Takasaki, where we have lunch (many Japanese and international options available) before heading to the station for your bullet train back to central Tokyo. Til next time - mata ne!