Samurai – Hokkaido – The Wild Heart of Japan

Our Hokkaido Epic is a two-week adventure across Japan’s northernmost island — a region unlike anywhere else we ride. Vast, untamed, and breathtakingly beautiful, Hokkaido offers a deep immersion into the nature and grandeur of Japan’s wild frontier.

We’re classing this as a three-cup (☕☕☕) tour — with plenty of extra riding for those looking to go the extra mile. The base level makes it accessible to anyone who meets the three-cup fitness criteria, while still offering plenty of challenge and adventure for the more spirited riders.

Known as the breadbasket of Japan, Hokkaido’s rich farmland and fresh seafood have earned it a culinary reputation to match its landscapes. From vibrant local produce to exquisite regional dishes, every meal is an experience in itself.

The onsens are exceptional, the scenery is off the scale, and our base in Niseko provides the perfect launchpad for exploring the island’s diverse terrain. This tour has been expertly crafted by Eri and Nathan, our Hokkaido-based trip specialists whose local insight and passion shine through every detail.

This is a journey we’ve long dreamed of offering — and we’re thrilled that the Hokkaido Epic is now part of our Samurai Collection.

The guide team for this tour is local to the core. Many of our guides live and ride year-round in Hokkaido, and when they’re not leading tours, you’ll find them exploring its beautiful backroads. This itinerary is truly a labour of love, shaped by genuine local knowledge and passion. Below is an overview of the flow of the tour.

Highlights

• Ride smooth, winding roads through mountains, forests, and vast open plains where the horizon seems endless
• Immerse yourself in volcanic landscapes dotted with caldera lakes, steaming vents, and the towering peaks of Daisetsuzan and Niseko
• Taste the essence of Japan’s breadbasket with farm-to-table cuisine celebrating Hokkaido’s fresh seafood, rich dairy, and vibrant produce
• Soak in natural onsens, surrounded by serene mountain views and the soothing sounds of nature
• Experience the island’s seasonal magic — lavender fields in summer, golden harvests in autumn, and snow-dusted peaks beyond
• Indulge in world-class dishes, from melt-in-your-mouth sushi to hearty bowls of miso ramen and delicately prepared sea urchin
• Encounter red-crowned cranes, playful foxes, and deer roaming freely through Hokkaido’s wild heartlands
• Discover remote, peaceful routes that reveal Japan at its most pure and untouched
• Connect with the island’s cultural soul through Ainu traditions and warm, welcoming local communities
• Rest each night in charming inns and ryokans where heartfelt hospitality and exquisite cuisine complete the experience