Common questions and answers regarding cycle touring in Japan.
What kind of lodging is available on your tours?
One of the highlights of traveling in Japan is staying in traditional Japanese inns. These are typically classed as either Ryokans, Minshuku, Minpaku or Hotels. Japanese Inns are generally booked for multiple occupancy, whereas Hotels may be easier to book single occupancy. Japanese Inns typically have futons on tatami for sleeping and hotels may have either western style beds or futons. Single occupancy generally requires an upcharge since it is occupying a room that would typically be used for multiple guests.
How are meals arranged? and what about diet restrictions?
It's no secret that Japan offers some of the best food options in the world. Most Japanese Inns proudly present their local specialties and lodging typically includes breakfast and dinner. Japanese food relies mainly on fresh vegetables, fresh meat (fish is primary) and many savory sides. Since fish is such a dominant item, those who are vegan / vegetarian should especially inquire if optional dishes are available. As for other dietary concerns, again, please make sure to inquire so that your diet can be adhered to. In cases where lodging meals cannot meet specific diet requirements, then it is sometimes possible to arrange special delivered meals.
what kind of clothing should i bring?
Touring in Japan covers alot of variety of mountains, plains and coastal areas. Rain is not uncommon. And weather in the winter can be quite cold. So depending on the season of your travel, you can select the best options of clothing. We generally say to pack light and use smart layers as a guide. Due the high humidity, a waterproof hardshell is great and effective as any membrane shell. That and we strongly recommend high quality Merino fabric base layers as well as high quality bib or riding shorts. Since most lodging has laundry, you will not need as many clothes as you think.
What about insurance?
Customers on our bikes are covered under our liability insurance. However this does not include medical or accident related injuries. We request that all customers (riders) do arrange and carry their own travel medical insurance. This is commonly and easily available through the customer's travel booking, credit card or other travel insurance carriers before you fly to Japan.
can i bring my own bike?
Yes! However do be aware that land logistics in Japan may be challenging for bike boxes or cases that are larger than 200cm (LWH). If you have a question regarding your specific box or case, just let us know. Also, any self-ride situations the riders will need to pre-arrange their own liability insurance. All participants on a group tour will be required to have liability insurance. (Either our coverage or theirs).
is there anything special about riding on roads in Japan?
In general, Japan follows very uniform traffic laws that are typical anywhere. Japan does use the the 'left lane' for forward driving (same as UK), so it may take a little practice to get used to that for 'right lane' riders. Groups are asked to ride single file and in no more than 6 riders per group. Right turns at controlled intersections must follow a 'square turn' procedure. Lights or reflectors are required on all bikes.
How do i take my bike on the train?
Taking a bike on the train requires using a full coverage bag. We call them 'rinko' bags and generally provide with the rental bikes on request. By removing the wheel(s), the bike can fit easily into the bag and be placed in the designated area inside the train car.
Do you provide self-guided packages?
In general we prefer to offer guided tours, however for shorter tours (3 days or less) please contact us to see how we can assist.
Tour Options
Our tours are packaged to provide the best cycling experience over the routes listed. Most are based on double occupancy Japanese Inns with included meals provided by the Inns or nearby restaurants. Cyclists will generally be carrying everything they need for the trip duration with some pre-arranged luggage transfers. In case of mechanical issue, the group guide is equipped with spares and tools to handle almost any situation. Also the individual rider's bikes have spare tube and puncture repair kits. For those wishing a more heavily supported experience we do offer extended support options as follows:
- SAG (Support and Gear) Van. Dedicated van and driver to follow / lead group and provide any instant support outside of normally available with the guide or riders. Can also transport daily luggage and in some cases provide bail out assistance if a rider cannot continue the segment or has a medical or mechanical issue. Support fee is based on tour location / distance and expected tolls and gas. In general the group should plan on roughly 50,000 yen - 80,000 yen/day depending on conditions and vehicle required.
- Single Occupancy. Most Japanese Inns are booked based on double occupancy (or even triple) due the typical nature of ryokans. For those wishing to have a single occupancy room, it generally means an upcharge of equal to the additional 'lost booking' for the inn keeper. depending the inn, this may be anywhere from $80 - $200 (or higher if premium ryokan are booked). Single occupancy cannot be guaranteed in many locations, If a customer requests this - we will advise the upcharge after consulting with the inns.
- Airport Transfers. We can arrange airport-to-airport transfer. This is based on the size of the group, airports involved, distance, etc. Generally it is a 3rd party private limousine or bus service.
- Special Meals. Visitors that request special meals outside of the normally provided meals may be accommodated by special request. There will be an upcharge accordingly and we need plenty of time to advance prepare. Generally speaking it means using special chef providers to prepare meals then have them delivered if suitable meals cannot be provided at the stopping locations.
- Massage. We can arrange for sports /physio massage sessions by qualified practitioners.
- Other cultural or entertainment sessions. Such as tea ceremony, museum visits, shopping assistance, etc. Please ask if you are interested and we can quote accordingly.
If there's something you would like , but don't see on the list, please let us know! We are always happy to do our best to make your Japan experience the best ever.