Kyoto to ocean
7 days
Fully Guided Japan Cycling Tour

Check in the hotel in central Kyoto. Today, we'll meet at 5:00 pm in a hotel located in the heart of Kyoto. Here, we'll host a brief introductory meeting where you'll get acquainted with your guides. We'll also ensure your bikes are a perfect fit and then indulge in a delightful Japanese welcome dinner. Kyoto is renowned for its rich tapestry of traditional cultures and activities, encompassing handicrafts, the tea ceremony, Noh theater, and Kyo-ryori (Kyoto's original cuisine).

The city brims with opportunities for diverse cultural experiences. To truly immerse yourself in Kyoto's charm, we strongly recommend arriving a day or two in advance to explore. Iconic landmarks like Kiyomizu Temple and Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) are must-sees.

Accessing Kyoto is convenient, being approximately 1.5 hours by express train from Osaka's Kansai International Airport, or around 2.5 hours by shinkansen from Tokyo.

Departing from the old Imperial city of Kyoto, known as the heart of Japan, we will cycle on serene back roads alongside the Yura river. As we traverse this picturesque route, we'll encounter locals immersed in various traditional activities such as farming, thatching, and charcoal making.

Our path will take us through beautiful mountain roads adorned with ancient

traditional houses. Our destination is the quaint Miyama village, renowned for its preserved thatched farmhouses. While Kyoto is famous for its cherry blossoms, magnificent shrines, temples, and numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, Miyama offers a unique and authentic experience of Japan's rural life. As we near the village and the conclusion of this leg of the tour, we'll appreciate the simplicity and beauty that makes Miyama a hidden gem.

This morning, we continue journey along the picturesque Yura River, soaking in its breathtaking landscapes. As we traverse the serene back roads, we're given a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the local residents. Along the way, we make a stop at the Gunze Museum. Established in 1896, the museum showcases the rich history of the renowned textile company, Gunze.

Here, we delve into the world of sericulture and silk production, witnessing an impressive array of machinery and tools used in the silk industry, offering an insightful and educational experience.

The beautiful Yura River eventually guides us to our destination for the day, the historic castle town of Fukuchiyama. Famed for the Fukuchiyama Castle, constructed in 1576 by the legendary samurai Akechi Mitsuhide, the town is dotted with numerous preserved wooden structures.

As we walk the streets, we are transported back in time, tracing the footsteps of the renowned Akechi Mitsuhide and immersing ourselves in the rich history of this enchanting town. Let's explore this captivating place together.

Today, we set out on an exhilarating journey, cycling over the Oe Mountain to reach the Japan Sea. Oe Mountain, steeped in lush greenery and rich history, offers more than just a climb; it's a hilltop gateway to rewards. From its summit, you're treated

to a sweeping view of the Japan Sea and the charming cityscape of Miyazu.

Cycling along the coast, we'll make our way to Amanohashidate, one of Japan's three most scenic views. Known for its narrow sandbar lined with pine trees, it appears like a bridge to heaven, hence its name. We'll take a lift to the park atop the hill for a grand perspective of Amanohashidate in its full glory, a breathtaking sight resembling a landscape painting.

As evening draws near, we'll cap off the day with a taste of the sea, indulging in the fresh seafood nurtured by the Japan Sea. This culinary delight, rich with local flavors, promises to soothe our travel-weary spirits and offer an unforgettable night.

Today, our journey commences with the pedals turning and the heart soaring as we cycle through the breathtaking sandbar of Amanohashidate. Renowned for its splendor, this strip of heaven forms the perfect prologue to our adventure. The path

ahead leads us to the tranquil fishing village of Ine. Here, a picturesque array of 'funaya'—unique boat houses perched over the waters—beckons. Each structure stands as a living testament to the maritime life and traditions of the Tango Peninsula. We will capture these moments in photographs, immersing ourselves in the serene daily tapestry woven by the locals.

After soaking in the charm of Ine, we continue our ride along the coastline of the Tango Peninsula. The journey unfolds with the grandeur of the Sea of Japan stretching out before us, its dynamic beauty an ever-changing backdrop.

Our trail eventually brings us to the Taiza Onsen area, where the setting sun stages a spectacular show, dipping into the Sea of Japan in a blaze of colors reminiscent of a painter's palette. Amidst this gift of the Tango Peninsula, we'll surrender to the warm embrace of the hot springs, allowing the weariness of the day to dissolve. As the evening deepens, we'll celebrate the day's end by savoring the region's freshest seafood, toasting to the memories made under the watchful eye of the descending sun.

Today, we embark on a new journey by bicycle through the dynamic and beautiful Tango Peninsula. Along the way, we will visit a beautiful beach with white sand and crystal clear waters. The sea, known as "Tango Blue," takes on the color of the sky to create a tapestry of blue that seems to rival heaven itself.

Our route takes us through charming fishing villages that live in harmony with the sea. We will cycle through pastoral landscapes that seem to whisper old tales,

places where time aligns with the gentle rhythm of nature. Leaving the enchanting countryside behind, we arrive at Kinosaki Onsen, a hot spring retreat steeped in 1300 years of history. Tonight, we'll don yukatas and wander the town to the rhythmic sound of geta, embraced by Kinosaki's blend of historic charm and joyful spirit.

Rejuvenated by the healing waters of the onsen, we celebrate the final evening of our journey. In the glow of lantern-lit streets, we'll raise a toast to the paths we've cycled, the wonders we've beheld, and the bonds we've formed, all complemented by delicious local cuisine.

The tour officially ends after breakfast. If like you can choose to spend some time in this beautiful city or leave for the other destinations

At Kinosaki Onsen we recommend doing the seven outdoor hot springs tour with a one-day ticket. Stroll from one relaxing Onsen to the next. The seven onsens are Kouno-yu, Mandara-yu, Goshono-yu, Ichino-yu, Yanagi-yu, Jizou-yu and Satono-yu

each Onsen is Unique with a different feel.

You can hike many trails around Kinosaki to the Mt. Taishi. There is a 10km hiking trail through the mountains that surround Kinosaki. Most of the trail is through forests, on the way you will see the scenic view from the summit of Mt. Taishi. After you summit if you don't feel like a return hike to town you can take the Kinosaki Onsen ropeway to get back down the mountain, the Kinosaki Ropeway/ Mt. Taishi was awarded one star in the Michelin Green Guide Japan for its spectacular view. Hiking takes 1-3 hours to the top depending on the hike you do.

In Kinosaki take time to discover the many shops, restaurants and cafes that make up this wonderful town...but don't forget

to have a rest as well.