Japan Heritage

This 7-day cycling tour of the Kansai region offers authentic and historic Japan, from Kyoto's must-see heritage sites to a breathtaking circuit encompassing natural vistas, traditional villages, onsens (hot springs), majestic temples, peaceful shrines and manicured tea plantations. These are some of the best roads for cycling in all of Japan, perfect for first-time visitors and frequent travellers alike.

The adventure begins in historic Kyoto, pedalling back in time to explore some of Japan's most valuable cultural heritage. The following days follow a lovely route through an undulating landscape of forests and rice fields dissected by mountain streams and dotted with traditional villages, farms, Shinto shrines and legendary temples, skirting the shores of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake, before a series of scenic roads lead to Nara, lovingly referred to as "mini Kyoto".

Along the way, riders explore the Edo-era canals of Omihachiman and pass through the Wazuka region, a stunning rural area of tea fields carved into the hillsides over centuries. Two nights are spent in Nara, discovering its proud heritage sites and taking part in a traditional tea ceremony. The last day rides back to Kyoto with a visit to the photogenic Arashiyama bamboo grove, for quintessential Japan done right.

Highlights:

• Explore Kyoto's Heian Shrine, Zen temples and the historic Gion District
• Soak in onsen hot springs at Ogoto after a hilly ride through the northeastern hills
• Skirt the shores of Lake Biwa and explore the Edo-era canals of Omihachiman
• Ride winding backroads through the manicured tea fields of Wazuka
• Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Nara
• Finish with a visit to the Zen temple of Tenryu-ji and the Arashiyama bamboo grove

Surface and terrain:
Entirely on smooth tarmac, a mix of secondary roads and dedicated bicycle paths. Terrain varies day to day: flat riding in Kyoto and Nara city sections, with hillier countryside stretches (notably Days 2 and 4) and some rougher, steeper minor roads in the mountain areas. Average climbing is 405m/day.

Weather:
Four distinct seasons. Spring runs April–June; rainy season mid-June to mid-July; July–September can be hot and humid (up to 35°C in cities). Autumn (September–October) and spring (April–May) are the most comfortable riding windows.

Suitable for:
Rated "Moderate" difficulty. Suited to riders with reasonable fitness; manageable distances and terrain designed to be accessible to anyone. Support vehicle available except on Kyoto city days and dedicated bike paths. Group size 4–14, minimum age 18.