Coastal Japan: San-In Explorer

San-in is one of Japan's least populated and least urbanized regions, making it an alluring setting for an off-the-beaten track cycling adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun! On this tour, we'll traverse across San-in's diverse geography of rugged shorelines, dramatic volcanic landscapes, colorful forests, and expansive farmlands. We'll encounter quaint fishing villages, bustling maritime towns, timeless shrines and temples, grand Samurai castles, and breathtaking views. We soothe our muscles in hot springs, sleep in cosy accommodations, and indulge in an outstanding variety of local delicacies.

Meeting in Tottori City we begin with an easy warm up ride to Japan’s largest and most visually striking sand dunes. The following day we cycle inland via lakes, rivers, rice paddy fields and rolling hills to reach a renowned onsen (hot spring) town. We then descend back towards the coastline and ride along the slopes of Mount Daisen, an extinct volcano that towers over the region. On Day 4 we catch a ferry to the Oki Islands where we’ll go island riding and island hopping in a remote part of offshore Japan, exploring each of the volcanic archipelago’s four inhabited islands! Back on the mainland, we then ride g along scenic headlands in pursuit of the historic city of Matsue. Matsue will be our base for two nights and here we'll explore the majestic “Black Castle” and embark on a rural loop to one of Japan’s prettiest zen gardens at the Adachi Museum of Art. The tour concludes with a picturesque ride skirting along a lake and two rivers before arriving at Izumo Taisha, one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines. We spend the final night in the city of Izuomo from where you can easily continue your travels onwards in Japan.

This trip is on paved roads which are mostly in good condition, though broken asphalt, road debris, and potholes do present themselves. San-in is one of Japan's least urbanized regions, so traffic tends to be minimal at all times. However, we still regularly share the road with cars, motorbikes and buses. There are a few unavoidable sections along busier main roads, particularly when entering and exiting cities or near popular attractions. Rainfall is not uncommon in Japan during the spring and fall and, being near the coast means that strong winds and storms can also make an appearance. We generally ride rain or shine, but depending on the guide’s discretion or your comfort level, modifications to the planned route can be made. It’s all part of the adventure!