Shogun - Fukuoka to Mount Fuji.

Shōgun. The supreme commander of all Japan. The reins of power rested firmly in their hands for over 700 years. They traversed the country warring, ruling and dominating this spectacular landscape and culture.

Kaidō...these were the roads established in the Edo period under the Shōgun's reign. Our Odyssey takes in parts of the Nakasendō and Kōshū Kaidō which connect Edo (Ancient Tokyo) and Kyoto as well as the ancient trails of the Kumano Kaidō south of Nara and Osaka.

The samurai, whom the Shōgun ruled, are often depicted as stoic warriors whose legacy rarely extended beyond the battlefield. Yet their period of feudal history is remarkably recent and therefore intimately linked to all things modern and Japanese. Only 150 years ago, Japan was in a state of transition as foreigners were first let into the country and the feudal system dominated by the Shōgun collapsed (comparatively feudal Europe ended roughly 500 years ago). How did it all start?

In the 12th century, a transformative era dawned on the islands of Japan as warriors, loyal to their respective clans as they clashed... forever altering the course of Japanese history. The Shōgun emerged, at the summit of a feudal system, stacked with samurai elite reigning over the peasants and merchants. These elite warriors with a profound sense of honor and duty, as well as an unwavering commitment to their lords, established themselves as protectors and administrators in a society deeply rooted in feudalism. Their guiding principles were the codes of Bushido, that emphasized loyalty, courage, and ethical conduct.

As we embark on a journey traversing the land of the rising sun, we'll follow ancient kaidos (historic routes) across the land - walked and ridden - for centuries. They will guide us to explore the historic landscapes where these warriors ruled, conquered and honed their skills. From ancient castles to sacred shrines, our exploration will unveil the multifaceted legacy, showcasing their contributions to art, philosophy, governance and, of course, the way of Bushido.

Mixing traditional Ryokan Inns and their inimitable authentic experience with Onsen hot springs and luxury unique accommodation, this Odyssey has accommodation covered like no other. Post-ride there is nothing better than luxuriating in the hotsprings - Japan does this well!

We begin in Fukuoka, with a culinary bang! But soon to be exploring this lovely rural island of Kyushu, where smoldering volcanoes, cascading waterfalls and steaming onsen baths await! Nature rules supreme here but there is a spectacular underlying history of Shōgun and strongholds! From Oita to Beppu, Fukuoka to Mt Aso, this beautiful start in rural Japan is at its finest. This is an amazing little lesser-known corner of Japan.

From the Kii Peninsula - rolling matcha tea fields merge into remote, rugged and mountainous ancient pathways - which has long been considered sacred ground - and the Kumano Kaido, we will venture into the mystical realm of Buddhist pilgrims, exploring time-honoured temples, unravelling the secrets of the ancient Nara region. This is where the first Japanese Emperors established their capital, leaving behind a tapestry of ancient shrines, temples, tombs and monuments dotted across green rolling hills.

Looping into Ehime's hinterland for picture-perfect Japan, captured all in one prefecture - sacred mountains, Mount Ishizuchi, castle towns, Ozu, villages frozen in time, Uchiko - all spotted with Onsen baths, temples, shrines and hyper modern hotels too! From there to our island hopping adventure on the Shimanami Kaido - this bike path from Honshu to Shikoku stretches across the islands of the Setouchi Sea and is genuinely considered one of the highlights of any cycling in Japan. Then we enter our half way mark by speeding across on Shinkasen - a must-do experience in Japan!

Then for our neon city stage break we arrive in ancient Kyoto, filled with temples, shrines, Geisha and history. From there our route takes us briefly along the Sea of Japan for a coastal rest, before rolling through UNESCO site, Shirakawa. Breath-taking, serene, and charming, this is immense riding country.

And where better to end this Odyssey than along Kaidos through ancient forested roads and villages trapped in time, in Kiso and the Japanese Alps and ending at Fujisan! (Mount Fuji) The symbol of purity, perseverance and eternity, sacred throughout Japanese history. Its steep slopes and snowy peak inspire respect and contemplation, something we will imbue as we reflect on our month-long Shōgun Odyssey.