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In this episode, we feature Shizuoka Prefecture, known for its lush nature and Mt. Fuji, Japan's highest peak, a major attraction for tourists from Japan and abroad. Our traveler takes the old Tokaido road which connects Edo and Kyoto, a route used for over 400 years since the Edo era. Today, locals welcome him with hospitality and local favorites. He enjoys a hot stew called "oden" and delicious green tea, and discovers traditional dyed handicrafts. Join us on this 3-day journey in Shizuoka!
Our journey takes us to Shimanami in the Seto Inland Sea, an area dense with islands. Since 1999, the Shimanami Kaido was opened, highways and bridges linking the islands and cyclists from all over the world have discovered the delights of this area. Here one can experience the slow but satisfying way of living and cultural highlights such as growing mikan oranges and drying fish. Join us on a 4-day ride, island-hopping through the Seto Inland Sea.
Spring has come at last in Aomori Prefecture, at the northernmost tip of Honshu. In May, buds are blooming and the countryside is turning lushly green. Our cyclist takes a ride from the ocean to the mountainside. Scallops are cultivated in the rich spring ocean and apple trees are blooming in the vast plane. Locals love the soulful melody played with Tsugaru Shamisen, a traditional musical instrument. They endure long severe winters and bring up the spirit of fortitude. Join us on a trip through nature and experience traditions of northern Japan!
If you're a thrill seeker, we recommend the steep roads of Aizu, in the Fukushima mountains. Our cyclist heads deep into the woods where autumn colors decorate the forest. He finds a village stuck in time where locals gladly share their traditions. He learns about a style of hand weaving called, Karamushi and explores 300-year-old storehouses where sake is brewed. We'll also be exposed to an education system from the samurai era for girls that remains unchanged. This 300km ride provides a glimpse into the lives of proud locals with a resilient culture.
In spring, cherry trees are full blooming in the Noto Peninsula, extending into the Sea of Japan. We explore the rich culture of this land cultivated by its history. We will start our trip from Kanazawa where people enjoying cherry blossom, to Rokko Saki, the northernmost tip of the peninsula. You can enjoy beach cycling in the west coast. In the mountain side, locals enjoy newly sprouting mountain vegetables. This peninsula is full of rich nature and culture such as the lacquer-making town of Wajima. Come along on 230km ride with us.
Summer, when Hokkaido Prefecture's flowers are in full bloom, is the best season to visit the most northerly of Japan's major islands. On this 530km cycle trip, Zac Reynolds from Australia discovers the history of Hokkaido's early pioneering farmers, and explores the culture of the island's indigenous Ainu people.
The area around "Jingu," the Grand Shrine of Ise, was lively even during the Edo period, bustling with activity and entertainment while the shrine itself served as a sacred place for worshippers. This created a distinct culture. The complex terrain led to unique customs which are still cherished today. A traditional shellfish female diver "ama" who enters the water without any breathing gear is born from necessity. Discover the local culture and other traditions on our journey through Mie Prefecture.
Blue skies, tranquil sea, and warm people are what our rider encounters as he travels through Kochi Prefecture. First, to a scenic coastline popular among cyclists where he enjoys seared Katsuo, a local specialty. In the mountains, he meets friendly people playing field games in mud! And a washi paper craftsman demonstrates the beauty of mountain living. After riding along the Shimanto River, he gets a feel for an old pilgrimage known as the Henro. Join us on our journey through Kochi.
Historically known as Satsuma, Kagoshima Prefecture was a region famed for producing warrior heroes. This 290km ride takes us via its beautiful coastlines to the active volcano of Sakurajima. On a detour into the mountains, we meet a woman who singlehandedly revived the unique regional craft of Satsuma button making. We also visit modern day swordsmen who train in a tradition directly handed down from the samurai.
