FAQ
1. Overview of Cycling Tours
With over 10 years of experience, Lotus Cycle Japan offers immersive bike tours guided by knowledgeable local experts. Our carefully curated itineraries take you beyond typical tourist spots, leading you through scenic backroads and hidden gems that aren’t found in guidebooks. From breathtaking natural landscapes to rich cultural experiences and warm local hospitality, our tours provide an authentic and unforgettable way to explore Japan. Whether you're joining a multi-day cycling adventure or a shorter guided ride, we ensure a seamless and enriching experience tailored to your journey.
We offer high-quality, well-maintained bicycles suited for various riding styles. Our fleet includes drop-handlebar road bikes, hybrid bikes, and E-bikes, ensuring comfort and performance on any terrain. Each bike comes equipped with front and rear lights, multiple gear options, and a convenient bag for small essentials like jackets or snacks.
We offer high-quality, well-maintained bicycles suited for various riding styles. Our fleet includes drop-handlebar road bikes, hybrid bikes, and E-bikes, ensuring comfort and performance on any terrain. Each bike comes equipped with front and rear lights, multiple gear options, and a convenient bag for small essentials like jackets or snacks.
Absolutely! Our bikes come equipped with standard flat pedals and saddles, but you’re welcome to bring your own for a more customized fit. This is a great option for riders who prefer their personal gear for added comfort during the tour.
For a safe and enjoyable Japan cycling tour, please bring the following gear:
Cycling shoes or firm-soled sneakers
Padded cycling shorts
Cycling gloves
Bright-colored jersey or moisture-wicking t-shirt
Reflective or high-visibility vest/jacket
Thermal base layer (Merino wool recommended)
Quick-dry cycling socks
Sunglasses
Your own helmet (rentals are available)
Waterproof jacket and bottoms
Cycling water bottle (help reduce plastic waste)
2. Reservations and Planning
You can book a tour through our website’s reservation form or by emailing us directly. A 50,000 JPY deposit is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 60 days before the tour starts. For full details, visit our official website: Lotus Cycle Japan.
We accept the following payment methods:
WISE (wise.com) – International wire transfers (processed in Japanese Yen; exchange and transfer fees apply).
Flywire – Credit card payments (subject to a 1.5% processing fee) and domestic bank transfers in your local currency.
Bank transfers – Available upon request.
To confirm your booking, we will provide a payment link for Wise or Flywire, allowing you to send funds directly without creating an account. If paying via Wise, transactions are processed only in Japanese Yen, and any applicable fees are the customer’s responsibility. Most payments arrive fast, but sometimes it can take 3–5 business days.
Yes! We offer fully customizable private tours tailored to your preferred destinations and schedule. Whether you’re looking for a personalized cycling adventure or a leisurely ride through scenic backroads, we’ll design a tour that fits your needs.
Absolutely! Solo travelers are more than welcome on our bike tours in Japan. We provide all the support and resources you need to ensure a smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable ride.
Cancellations or rescheduling requests must be made in writing. The following cancellation fees apply:
61 days or more before the tour start date – No charge
31–60 days before the tour – 50% of the tour cost
30 days or less before the tour – 100% of the tour cost
For rescheduling, availability is subject to the tour schedule, and additional fees may apply. Please contact us as early as possible if you need to make changes.
Our tours are designed for cycling enthusiasts with some riding experience. If you're comfortable cycling regularly, you’ll be able to enjoy the ride.
Each day, we cover 60–80 km, but the routes are carefully planned to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. While there are some gentle inclines, we avoid steep hill climbs, so you don’t need to worry about intense elevation challenges.
Our cycling tours typically run from 9:00 AM to around 4:00 PM, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable ride. We follow a well-paced schedule that allows for scenic stops, local experiences, and proper rest breaks.
We always aim to arrive at our accommodations before dark, so you can unwind and enjoy the evening without feeling rushed. Our itineraries are designed to provide a balanced mix of cycling and exploration, making for a smooth and comfortable experience.
Absolutely! Sightseeing and cultural experiences are an integral part of our tours. Along the way, we make stops at historic landmarks, local villages, and scenic spots, giving you the opportunity to explore Japan beyond the usual tourist routes.
It depends on the tour you choose!
Self-Guided Tours – You’ll navigate the route on your own, following our carefully planned itinerary. These tours offer maximum flexibility and independence.
Fully Guided Tours – An experienced English-speaking local Japanese guide will accompany you throughout the journey, providing support, insights, and local knowledge to enhance your experience.
Whether you prefer to explore independently or with expert guidance, we have the perfect option for you!
As long as you can ride a bike comfortably and have basic fitness, you’ll be fine! Our tours are designed for enthusiastic riders, but you don’t need to be a professional cyclist.
Most of our participants are in their 50s and 60s, and no one has ever had to drop out due to fitness issues. The routes are well-paced, and we ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride without extreme physical demands.
3. Weather and Safety Management
All tours include guides trained in first aid, and a support vehicle is always on standby. Should any hazardous conditions arise, we will cancel or adjust activities to keep you safe during your bike tour in Japan.
Safety is our top priority. If it rains, we assess the conditions and adjust the route if necessary. Light rain usually won’t stop the ride, but in case of severe weather, we may modify the itinerary or arrange alternative activities.
Rest assured, our guides will make the best decisions to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the tour.
Yes, travel insurance is required for all multi-day tours. This ensures your safety and peace of mind throughout the journey, covering potential medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected incidents.
We strongly recommend choosing a policy that includes medical coverage, trip interruption, and personal liability to fully protect yourself during your cycling adventure in Japan.
4. Meals and Refreshments
Yes, we can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly meals. Please inform us of your dietary preferences or restrictions in advance, and we’ll make arrangements so you can enjoy delicious meals during your Japan cycling tour.
5. Accommodations and Pricing
You can book a tour through our website’s reservation form or by emailing us directly. A 50,000 JPY deposit is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 60 days before the tour starts. For full details, visit our official website: Lotus Cycle Japan.
We accept the following payment methods:
WISE (wise.com) – International wire transfers (processed in Japanese Yen; exchange and transfer fees apply).
Flywire – Credit card payments (subject to a 1.5% processing fee) and domestic bank transfers in your local currency.
Bank transfers – Available upon request.
To confirm your booking, we will provide a payment link for Wise or Flywire, allowing you to send funds directly without creating an account. If paying via Wise, transactions are processed only in Japanese Yen, and any applicable fees are the customer’s responsibility. Most payments arrive fast, but sometimes it can take 3–5 business days.
Yes! We offer fully customizable private tours tailored to your preferred destinations and schedule. Whether you’re looking for a personalized cycling adventure or a leisurely ride through scenic backroads, we’ll design a tour that fits your needs.
Absolutely! Solo travelers are more than welcome on our bike tours in Japan. We provide all the support and resources you need to ensure a smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable ride.
Cancellations or rescheduling requests must be made in writing. The following cancellation fees apply:
61 days or more before the tour start date – No charge
31–60 days before the tour – 50% of the tour cost
30 days or less before the tour – 100% of the tour cost
For rescheduling, availability is subject to the tour schedule, and additional fees may apply. Please contact us as early as possible if you need to make changes.
Our tours are designed for cycling enthusiasts with some riding experience. If you're comfortable cycling regularly, you’ll be able to enjoy the ride.
Each day, we cover 60–80 km, but the routes are carefully planned to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. While there are some gentle inclines, we avoid steep hill climbs, so you don’t need to worry about intense elevation challenges.
Our cycling tours typically run from 9:00 AM to around 4:00 PM, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable ride. We follow a well-paced schedule that allows for scenic stops, local experiences, and proper rest breaks.
We always aim to arrive at our accommodations before dark, so you can unwind and enjoy the evening without feeling rushed. Our itineraries are designed to provide a balanced mix of cycling and exploration, making for a smooth and comfortable experience.
Absolutely! Sightseeing and cultural experiences are an integral part of our tours. Along the way, we make stops at historic landmarks, local villages, and scenic spots, giving you the opportunity to explore Japan beyond the usual tourist routes.
It depends on the tour you choose!
Self-Guided Tours – You’ll navigate the route on your own, following our carefully planned itinerary. These tours offer maximum flexibility and independence.
Fully Guided Tours – An experienced English-speaking local Japanese guide will accompany you throughout the journey, providing support, insights, and local knowledge to enhance your experience.
Whether you prefer to explore independently or with expert guidance, we have the perfect option for you!
As long as you can ride a bike comfortably and have basic fitness, you’ll be fine! Our tours are designed for enthusiastic riders, but you don’t need to be a professional cyclist.
Most of our participants are in their 50s and 60s, and no one has ever had to drop out due to fitness issues. The routes are well-paced, and we ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride without extreme physical demands.
Laundry facilities are available at select accommodations. Locations with laundry access will be marked on the provided accommodation list.
We offer a variety of accommodations based on your budget and preferences:
Ryokan: Traditional Japanese inns often featuring natural hot springs and futon bedding on tatami mats. Perfect for a cultural experience.
Minshuku: Family-run guesthouses with a warm, homey atmosphere. Some include shared facilities and hot spring access.
Hotels: Conveniently located in urban areas, near airports, train stations, or shopping hubs.
Vacation Rentals: A flexible, private option growing in popularity among cyclists joining our bicycle tours in Japan.
Note: Standard check-in time is 3:00 PM, and check-out is 10:00 AM.
Tour prices vary depending on the itinerary, duration, and services included. Please contact us for specific pricing details.
6. Additional Information
Tours are primarily conducted in English, but Japanese-speaking guides can also be arranged upon request.
Yes, we offer family-friendly bike tours in Japan. Children must be at least 145 cm in height to ensure they can comfortably ride the provided bikes.
ours are primarily conducted in English, but Japanese-speaking guides can also be arranged upon request.