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Shimane Prefecture along Japan's western coastline has spectacular views of mountains ranging from east to west. Our traveler's journey begins at Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's oldest and most famous shrines. At Lake Shinji, he meets a clam fisherman who uses a unique tool. Later he encounters a veteran blacksmith and learns about traditional ironmaking and enjoys Kagura, a spiritual dance performed by locals wearing masks. Join us on a 4-day trip to Shimane, where traditions are a vibrant part of daily life.
This time, we'll cycle through the mountains of Gunma and Tochigi Prefectures, meeting people living the traditional way. We'll visit 2 World Heritage Sites. The first is Tomioka Silk Mill, a landmark in the modernization of Japanese industry. Close by this monument to industrial history, we'll see silk making by hand, the traditional way. We'll visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine, nestling deep in a mountain forest. Lovingly restored and repaired throughout the ages, the art of these incredible buildings shines as brightly as it did 400 years ago. We'll meet the people who work in these forests, people still in touch with the old ways of nature. Join us on a 260-kilometer cycle ride through Japan's autumn mountains.
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.
Hyogo Prefecture is known for its capital and port, Kobe, but inland it has many other distinct areas, each proud of its culture and history. On this 300-km trip we cross the autumn mountains to encounter fascinating characters such as a farming couple who rescued a rare, historical variety of bean, and the lone artisan still plying a famous wicker trunk craft tradition. We'll ride the far coastline with a local cycling team, and visit a tiny country smokehouse run by a husband and wife.
This time, we take in the tropical breeze and blue ocean while cycling around the Miyako Islands in Okinawa Prefecture. Our cyclist samples local specialties including a kind of tofu made with seawater and gets a look at the Sanshin, a traditional instrument for playing folk songs loved by locals. He also chows down on local cuisine, discovers amazing white sand beaches, and marvels at a more relaxed, traditional way of life. Come with us to these beautiful southern islands.
A ride through the high mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, northern Japan, with a cyclist on his first long road trip. An interest in Eastern philosophy has drawn him to the 3 Mountains of Dewa, a legendary abode of kami deities. We begin by cycling among cherry trees and meeting a veteran artisan of Japanese chess pieces. On Mt. Haguro, we're guided up the sacred peak by a Yamabushi mountain ascetic. Finally, we help a free-spirited falconer train his bird of prey in the snowy wilderness.
This time, we ride south from Narita Airport for a vibrant spring ride through the Boso Peninsula. It's April, and the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom! First, we ride along Japan's second-longest river, which makes the peninsula a great place for farming, and see a festival created to pray for a good harvest. We also visit a secluded inn and try dishes made with freshly picked bamboo shoots. Our ride ends near the coast, where we learn about the unique spirit of some chic fishermen!
Our New Zealand cyclist begins his ride through Tottori Prefecture with a fat bike tour of its spectacular 16-km long sand dunes. In the mountains, he drops in to a high school calligraphy club where he is hugely impressed by the way these young girls have created a powerful performance using traditional brush calligraphy and music. Returning to the coast, he's amazed by hearing from farmers how their ancestors' hard work and inventiveness produced techniques for growing food in sand. Join us, and discover this unique part of Japan.
Oita Prefecture has been known since ancient times as the "Land of Plenty." But why? Cyclist James Hobbs looks for answers on a 3 day, 350km ride through this southern region. His route through Oita's majestic mountains brings him in touch with a doctor carefully looking after the region's aged residents. He also visits an island of just 18 inhabitants and learns how those inhabitants are working to keep their traditions alive for the future. All that and more on this ride through the Land of Plenty!
Our cyclist begins on Tanegashima with a ride down its beautiful coast and a quick dip in its hot rock-heated pools. Next, he cycles past stones carved by the ocean into fantastic shapes to Japan's biggest space center. Local schools here host children from all over the country for a year to learn about space and experience island life. Finally, he crosses to legendary Yakushima to explore its millennia-old forests and discover how nature inspires its islanders.
Miyagi Prefecture is a beautiful part of Japan, and in autumn its seas and mountains are at their most scenic. Towns along this coast that were devastated by the great tsunami in 2011 are now almost totally restored. During this 300km cycle adventure, we'll encounter the irrepressible spirit of people who overcame disaster and the loss of loved ones to rebuild their lives, as we visit a workshop making salt the ancient way and a local festival that kept spirits high when times were tough.
This three-day, 360km trip takes us from lowland Gifu Prefecture and its blossoming cherry trees north into the snow-covered central mountains. We'll visit a traditional swordsmith to watch him forge katana blades from living flame, a hillside town built on water and some of Japan's most iconic thatched-roof homes. A final adventure involves our cyclist in a 200-year old tradition of amateur village kabuki, one of the many ways people have found to enjoy life in the remote mountains.
Our ironman cyclist Michael sets off from Osaka. Leaving the giant city, he tackles the challenge of Japan's steepest road on his way to historic Nara Prefecture, site of the capital 1,300 years ago. As he rides through this tranquil countryside, he dives into a world of myth -- from Nara's sacred forest, brilliant with the colors of fall, he travels south to a land teeming with prehistoric burial mounds. Here, where ancient rulers slept for millennia, the old wisdom still shows us how to live in harmony with nature.
Facing the Seto Inland Sea, sunny Kagawa Prefecture historically overcame a lack of natural resources and water through skill and hard work. Despite no local bamboo or paper, Kagawa artisans created paper fans famed for their quality. We get a look at how those fans are made. Then, after sampling Wasanbon sweets, prized for centuries for their delicate sweetness, we cross to a small island to sample soy sauce made the traditional way. A trip of tough but rewarding climbs, reflecting the spirit of Kagawa.
This time, we cycle through Toyama Prefecture, which has both a bountiful sea and 3,000-meter mountains that feed its fields with rich waters. First, we sample some rare seafood unique to the area. We then discover the culture and way of life created by the strong winds that blow here all year. That includes a traditional festival meant to calm disasters caused by the winds, plus a beautiful style of wood carving. Join us on a 250-kilometer cycling trip through the winds of Toyama.
This time we ride through the colorful autumn scenery of Hokkaido Prefecture. Our journey begins in Asahikawa and takes us through the Tokachi Plain, before we arrive at the Shiretoko Peninsula on the eastern coast. Along the way, we harvest soybeans, and meet the indigenous Ainu, who have long lived in harmony with nature. We encounter deer and bears, and an endangered species of owl. The trip showcases a way of life that coexists with the natural world.
This 400km winter cycle trip takes us through Ibaraki Prefecture. At Lake Kasumigaura, our cyclist plunges into freezing water to help a husband and wife harvest lotus roots. After hill climbing on Mt. Tsukuba, he visits a historic kendo hall, and a workshop where 2 brothers make fine armor the traditional way. Then he meets hotel brothers experimenting with fishermen's cuisine. Ibaraki families know the value of working together.
From Shibuya's newest skyscraper to nearby Shinjuku, where a man in a tiger mask cycles the city streets. Why did he choose such a life? After he introduces us to Shinjuku's lively back alleys, we ride west into a surprisingly natural landscape. By a tranquil river, we meet an artisan reviving a 200-year-old dyeing craft, and in a mountain forest a far-sighted woodsman explains his ecological approach. City and society change with the times, but these are people holding fast to their chosen paths in life.
This 300-km ride begins from the lakes surrounding Mount Fuji, the reflections of its snow-covered peak in the water at their most spectacular in winter, and ends with another reflected view of Japan's most famous mountain, at a lake in the highlands of central Japan where we'll try fishing from a unique local design boat. Along the way, we'll sample traditional country ways of life and cooking in an old-style farmhouse and make an adventurous side trip by fat bike through deep mountain snow.
The mountain ranges known as the Japanese Alps are a spectacular backdrop to our ride across Nagano Prefecture, its forests glowing with the late autumn colors. With many 3,000m peaks, Nagano is popular with climbers and we're given a brief taste by a world-class mountain guide. We'll meet people drawn to live here by the forests, including a man who left a top cabinet making career in Tokyo to craft uniquely distinctive furniture from these wild trees, and a group of friends who devote their spare time to caring for the woods.
In the city of Hiroshima we visit a community where the families who survived the devastation of the atomic bomb in the Second World War managed to revive their traditional farming specialty. In the islands to the south, we meet a potter uniquely making glazes from cast-off oyster shells, and in the mountains, a farmer tells of his passion for making animals happy. The last individual we encounter who has stuck to his own path in life is a carver of traditional instruments seeking the perfect sound.
In a 150km summer cycle ride, Michael Rice explores the remote Oki Islands, deeply forested and surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Sea of Japan. Riding in his triathlon gear, he's ready for a dip whenever Nishinoshima's beaches offer the chance. On Nakanoshima, he meets the 48th descendant of a proud family that looked after an exiled former emperor 8 centuries ago, and still cares for his tomb. And on Dogo, the largest island, he tries his hand at traditional Oki sumo wrestling.
Hokkaido Prefecturer's vast open spaces have always been a cyclist's dream. Our journey takes us across the wide Tokachi Plain to the wilderness of the Kushiro wetlands. We meet the next generation of farmers, keen to make the most of this fertile land. Nothing beats a good soak after a long ride, and we enjoy an open-air hot spring by Lake Kussharo before visiting an Ainu artist to learn about the traditional culture of Hokkaido's indigenous people. A 470km ride through the land of opportunity!
A 250-km ride through Niigata Prefecture, its green rice fields shimmering under the summer sun. From an artisan in hammered copper we learn about the long road to mastery, while in the paddy fields we see the hottest, hardest part of the rice growing season. Climbing up into the mountains, we'll experience a traditional style of river fishing and visit a breeder whose Nishikigoi carp are now world famous, 2 stories of hard work and cooperation rebuilding lives and businesses destroyed by natural disasters.
There's no better way to see the world than bicycle touring. We head for the Izu Peninsula to enjoy relaxing onsen hot springs, breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the blossoming charms of spring.
We head for Hokkaido, to enjoy breathtaking views in Furano, the hills covered with various flowers. We encounter Ainu, indigenous culture.
Autumn: World Heritage Sites - Tomioka to Nikko In this autumn edition, we will take you to the World Heritage Sites, Tomioka silk mill and Nikko Toshogu shrine. Along the journey, we will encounter the traditional life of deep mountain region.
In this edition, we will take you to a winter journey through Lake Biwa, the biggest lake in Japan, to Kyoto. You will find the traditional winter life on lakeside, and "Setsu-bun" festival in Kyoto.
This time we're cycling up the Noto Peninsula. We'll meet the people who live on this land, fishing its seas and farming its hills. We'll see a distinctive Noto craft, deeply rooted local tradition.
Our summer trip this year takes us on a 290km-tour of Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan's former entrance to the Asian Continent since ancient times. During the Sakoku Era, when a strict nationwide policy of isolation was in place, the city thrived as a gateway to the so-called Southern barbarian trade era. This led to the blossoming of unique crafts and culture born from exposure and fusion with foreign culture. Now, 70 years after the end of World War II, we see the Nagasaki residents continuing to pray. After enduring the horrific suffering caused by the atomic bomb in 1945, the city made a remarkable recovery. This show focuses on the locals who work hard to keep those memories alive. At the end of the trip, we visit Ikitsukishima, home to some of the Christianity-related artifacts which Japan is applying to register as a World Heritage Site. There, we meet locals who continue to believe in Christianity, for which their ancestors were punished during an infamous oppression against Christi
Starting from Asahikawa, the 2nd largest city in Hokkaido, we will ride toward the Shiretoko Peninsula, the World Heritage Site. During 520km journey, we are going to meet people who live close to the nature in Hokkaido. We will visit the community of Ainu, an indigenous people of Japan. They still live in this region and struggle with maintaining their tradition and Ainu's way of life. You may find a mysterious lake near the Ainu's village where the water changes its color reflecting the sunshine. Our destination, the Shiretoko Peninsula is one of the most remote regions in all of Japan. The word "Shiretoko" is derived from an Ainu word, meaning "the place where the earth protrudes". The Shiretoko Peninsula is home to diverse wildlife, and UNESCO designated the area a World Heritage Site in 2005.
In this episode, we will take you to Amami-Oshima. This subtropical island is 1,300km away from Tokyo and blessed with transparent waters, bright colored coral reefs. We explore the local lifestyles.
We'll ride along the Pacific coast around Boso Peninsula, which is located directly east of Tokyo. We come across Spring festivals for harvest and meet the people living in tradition.
This time, Cycle Around Japan takes us to Iwate. We'll see unique traditions, still thriving in remote mountain villages. And the beauty of a coast preserved through so many natural disasters.
This edition features the Yaeyama islands in Okinawa Prefecture, where the lifestyle that has existed since ancient times is still strong. The trip is filled with discoveries, including the sabani boats of Ishigaki island made from logs, the exquisite scenery of Taketomi island, and a woman who carries on the tradition of minsa fabric.
This time we cycle around Toyama prefecture. We will climb into the deep mountains to visit those that preserve an old way of life, and encounter a festival that has been held continuously for over 300 years.
In this episode, we will recommend a journey that you may start cycling from Tokyo, the Japanese capital. We will take you to the popular towns such as Yokohama, Kamakura and Hakone. And our final destination will be Izu-Oshima, a volcanic island under the administration of Tokyo. Izu-Oshima is located about 100 kilometers south of the metropolitan Tokyo. The island is a popular tourist destination, especially for those in Tokyo seeking a cycle ride. At the heart of Izu-Oshima is the Mount Mihara (758m), an active volcano which is the source of several interesting sites and various hot springs on the island. Izu-Oshima is also known for its Tsubaki, camellia flowers, which can be spotted almost everywhere from around January through March.
Kumamoto Prefecture is the stage for cycling this time. The area, in the center of the island of Kyushu, is recovering from an earthquake in 2016. The program starts in the city of Kumamoto and works its way around the Amakusa island chain. It then heads for Mount Aso, where one of the world's largest volcanic craters is located. Meet the people and see the sights of this 4-day, 300km bicycle journey.
Ehime Prefecture is located on the island of Shikoku. We will start our spring journey from the prefectural capital Matsuyama, which is best known for its castle and Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs. Facing the Bungo Channel that separates Kyushu from Shikoku, the coastline offers great scenery such as the Danbata terraced field. Uwajima, one of the coastal cities is known for the traditional bull fight events that it stages 5 times a year. We will visit the spring bull fight fest. Our final destination is Shikoku Karst, the mountain plateau on the border of Ehime Prefecture and Kochi Prefecture with an altitude of around 1,400 meters.
In this episode we will take you to northern country, Akita Prefecture in Tohoku region. We will start our journey from Kakunodate, the town is famous for its samurai tradition and its hundreds of weeping cherry trees, Shidare-zakura. Spring in Akita is marked by the melting of winter snows, feeding the hills and fields with moisture. The people of Akita have discovered many ways to take advantage of the region's bountiful nature. Our journey will bring us in contact with the unique cultural traditions borne from that nature and world-famous dog breed, the Akita Inu. It will be a 330-kilometer ride through a northern land emerging from its long winter and feeling the first breath of spring.
Australian Paul Salisbury takes on the challenge of a 2,000-meter peak in Nagano Prefecture. The Japan Alps mountain pass provides breathtaking views to inspire him onward and upward. Off the bike, Salisbury experiences traditions such as the harvesting of wasabi plants in pristine waters and the making of baskets from wild bamboo. All in all, he travels 300 kilometers across the verdant ridges and valleys of Nagano, finding new encounters around every bend.
Come along on a 550-kilometer bike ride through the grand scenery of Japan's northernmost prefecture. The city of Hakodate offers a mix of cultural influences from east and west. Down the road, a fishing village keeps busy in summertime with kombu kelp drying. The trip includes stops at a dairy farm and a watermelon patch, evidence of the close connection between the people and the land. As we'll see, Hokkaido is a place where nature takes its course.
This trip will take you to the westernmost part of the island of Honshu, Yamaguchi Prefecture that is surrounded on 3 sides by the sea. Our rider will enjoy cycling along a beautiful coastline. On the road, he will meet a family that has grown Japanese pears in the orchard for generations. Finally, he'll visit Hagi City, the old castle town that has a historical atmosphere. You'll experience its unique culture born in the samurai society.
Wakayama Prefecture is located in the southern part of Honshu. Our traveler rides through historical sacred sites and enjoys local products like persimmon and pickled plum.
Shizuoka Prefecture where Mt. Fuji lies is filled with lush nature. Our traveler hits the ancient Tokaido trail and discovers tasty Oden and traditional dyed handicrafts.
This journey takes us to Shimanami in the Seto Inland Sea, an area dense with islands. We see the distinctive ways of living in these beautiful islands. Slow but fulfilling, life is simple there.
Miyazaki in southeastern Kyushu is famous for its warm climate year round. Our rider enjoys a scenic coastline and lush forest on his way to Takachiho, an area featured in Japanese mythology.
Our traveler visits Aichi Prefecture in central Japan. He starts in Nagoya, one of Japan's biggest cities and makes his way to idyllic views along the Pacific Coast. His goal is to catch a glimpse of distant mountains covered in blossoming plum trees. He discovers locally grown cabbage, and a fermented soybean seasoning called hama natto. He comes across unique goods like traditional tokoname yaki teapots made from rich soil and inkstones carved from mountain rocks.
Shimane Prefecture along Japan's western coastline has spectacular views of mountains ranging from east to west. Our traveler's journey begins at Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's oldest and most famous shrines. At Lake Shinji, he meets a clam fisherman who uses a unique tool. Later he encounters a veteran blacksmith and learns about traditional ironmaking and enjoys kagura, a spiritual dance performed by locals wearing masks. Join us on a 4-day trip to Shimane, where traditions are a vibrant part of daily life.
Aomori Prefecture in northern Honshu is where our traveler navigates lush mountain trails along a clear blue lake in late spring. On his way, he meets a fisherman who cultivates scallops, proud apple farmers, and traditional Tsugaru Shamisen performers who play soul music. This region embodies the spirit of perseverance of locals who've had to endure long, severe winters and the wisdom of people who live for the land. Join us on a trip through nature and experience traditions of northern Japan!
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 300km journey.
Blue skies, tranquil sea and warm people, these are what our rider experiences as he travels through Kochi Prefecture on the Pacific coast. First, he heads for a scenic coastline that is popular among cyclists. There, he enjoys a lightly roasted bonito, a local specialty. In the mountains, he meets friendly people playing field games in mud! And a washi paper art craftsman demonstrates the beauty of mountain living. After riding along the Shimanto River, he gets a feel for an old pilgrimage known as Shikoku Henro. Join us on our 370km journey.
Hokkaido Prefecture's vast open spaces have always been a cyclist's dream! Through the Tokachi plain and Kushiro wetlands, our rider enjoys a journey through wilderness. He meets younger generations who find opportunities in fertile farming land. Around huge Lake Kussharo, he finds an open-air hot spring bath. Nothing beats bathing after a long ride! He also discovers the traditional culture of the Ainu, indigenous people and meets an Ainu artist. Join us on a 470km trip in the land of opportunity!
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 called kura 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 this episode, our traveler visits Aichi Prefecture in central Japan. He starts in Nagoya, one of Japan's biggest cities and the goal is to catch a glimpse of distant mountains covered in blossoming plum trees. He discovers a fermented soybean seasoning called Hama natto. He comes across unique goods like traditional Tokoname-yaki teapots made from rich soil and inkstones carved from mountain rocks. Join our 3-day journey and experience traditional craftsmanship and locally grown food!
Take in the tropical breeze and blue ocean while cycling around Miyako, a group of 8 islands in Okinawa Prefecture. Our cyclist explores the biggest one and samples local specialties including Shima-dofu, a kind of tofu made with seawater. San-shin, a traditional instrument made from the ebony tree is a key tool for playing folk songs loved by locals. This adventure features island-hopping by crossing numerous bridges and walking through a mangrove forest in low tide. Join us on this beautiful journey!
Kagoshima Prefecture, known as the land of brave samurai, was called Satsuma in ancient days. Our cyclist takes in scenic views on his ride along the sea and an active volcano. He discovers jars filled with a local specialty, fermented black vinegar, which make a tart and powerful beverage. In the mountains, he meets a craftswoman who revives old, beautiful buttons. He then finds a secret martial art inherited from samurai. Discover the spirit of this historic land on our 290km ride through Satsuma.
Take in the crisp air as we make our way around Mt. Fuji and surrounding lakes for a perfect winter bike ride. Our cyclist Michael picks the best trails on this challenging journey, which includes crossing a steep mountain to get scenic views of Japan's tallest peak. He also takes a fat bike tour through snowy mountains. Finally, he is rewarded with local lessons on the importance of preserving old ways and the environment. Join us on this 230-kilometer winter ride.
This three-day, 360km trip takes us from lowland Gifu Prefecture and its blossoming cherry trees north into the snow-covered central mountains. We'll visit a traditional swordsmith to watch him forge katana blades from living flame, a hillside town built on water, and forests with wood of such quality it inspired some of Japan's finest artisans. A final adventure involves our cyclist in a 200-year old tradition of amateur village kabuki, one of the many ways people have found to enjoy life in the remote mountains.
A 360km ride through the high mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, with a cyclist on his first long road trip. An interest in Eastern philosophy has drawn our traveler to the Three Mountains of Dewa, legendary abode of the gods. From a landscape of flowering cherry trees, we ride into the snow-capped mountains to meet a veteran artisan of Japanese chess pieces. On Mt. Haguro, we're guided up the sacred peak by a Yamabushi mountain ascetic. Finally, we help a free-spirited falconer train his raptor in the snowy wilderness.
Oita Prefecture was known since ancient times as the "Land of Plenty." But why? English cyclist James Hobbs looks for answers on a 3-day, 350-km ride through this southern region. His interest captured by a mysterious sight in a mountain forest, he learns the skill and effort required to cultivate quality mushrooms. Down by the coast, by a fertile sea filled with islands, he experiences Oita ingenuity first hand. And on one of the tiny islands, he meets a young couple who are its hope for the future.
In a 150-km summer cycle ride, Michael Rice explores the remote Oki Islands, deeply forested and surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Sea of Japan. Riding in his triathlon gear, he's ready for a dip whenever Nishinoshima's beaches offer the chance. On Nakanoshima, he meets the 48th descendant of a proud family that looked after an exiled former emperor 8 centuries ago, and still cares for his tomb. And on Dogo, the largest island, he tries his hand at traditional Oki sumo wrestling.
A 250-km ride through Niigata Prefecture, its green rice fields shimmering under the summer sun. From an artisan in hammered copper we learn about the long road to mastery, while in the paddy fields we see the hottest, hardest part of the rice growing season. Climbing up into the mountains, we'll experience a traditional style of river fishing and visit a breeder whose Nishikigoi carp are now world famous, 2 stories of hard work and cooperation rebuilding lives and businesses destroyed by natural disasters.
Miyagi Prefecture is a beautiful part of Japan, and in autumn its seas and mountains are at their most scenic. Towns along this coast that were devastated by the great tsunami in 2011 have now almost completely been restored. Throughout this 300-km cycle adventure, we'll encounter the irrepressible spirit of people who shrugged off disaster and the loss of loved ones to rebuild their lives, as we visit a workshop making salt the ancient way and a local festival that kept spirits high when times were tough.
This 300-km autumn ride starts from the great international port of Kobe. Cycling across the mountains to explore Hyogo Prefecture's inland areas, we discover some unique local cultures. We learn how a farming couple rescued a rare and tasty type of bean, meet the last craftsman making a castle town's traditional wicker trunks, ride along a scenic coast with a cycling team of local innkeepers and merchants, and find out how a husband and wife team put their tiny country smokehouse on the world gourmet map.
Our New Zealand cyclist begins his ride through Tottori Prefecture with a fat bike tour of its spectacular 16-km long sand dunes. In the mountains, he drops in to a high school calligraphy club where he is hugely impressed by the way these young girls have created a powerful performance using traditional brush calligraphy and music. Returning to the coast, he's amazed by hearing from farmers how their ancestors' hard work and inventiveness produced techniques for growing food in sand. Join us, and discover this unique part of Japan.
Our ironman cyclist Michael sets off from Osaka. Leaving the giant city, he tackles the challenge of Japan's steepest road on his way to historic Nara Prefecture, site of the capital 1,300 years ago. As he rides through this tranquil countryside, he dives into a world of myth -- from Nara's sacred forest, brilliant with the colors of fall, he travels south to a land teeming with prehistoric burial mounds. Here, where ancient rulers slept for millennia, the old wisdom still shows us how to live in harmony with nature.
This 400km winter cycle trip takes us through Ibaraki Prefecture. At Lake Kasumigaura, our cyclist plunges into freezing water to help a husband and wife harvest lotus roots. After hill climbing on Mt. Tsukuba, he visits a historic kendo hall and a workshop where 2 brothers make fine armor the traditional way. Whether it's an old couple crafting heirloom brooms, or hotel brothers experimenting with fishermen's cuisine, Ibaraki families know the value of working together.
Riding up Tanegashima's western coast with its sandy beaches, our cyclist visits a scissor craftsman, last of a 500-year old tradition. The east coast takes him past rocks carved by the ocean into fantastic shapes to Japan's biggest space center. Local schools here host children from all over the country for a year to learn about space and experience island life. Finally, he crosses to legendary Yakushima to explore its millennia-old forests and discover how nature inspires its islanders.
Selected moments from past trips to Japan's smaller islands, exploring their unique cultures and ways of life. Riding a scenic cycling route spanning the Seto Inland Sea, we learn how an island community's hopes for the future rest on the students of their tiny school. On the Oki Islands off Japan's west coast, we stand atop its awesome cliffs before getting hands-on in an island sumo ring, and on southern Miyakojima, we taste the ocean in the local tofu and the island's history in its traditional music.
Selected moments from rides in the north country, cherry blossoms in spring and red leaves in fall. In Aomori Prefecture, northernmost part of Japan's main Honshu island, we encounter its traditional tenacity of spirit in young children learning to master the local style of shamisen playing. In neighboring Akita Prefecture, children sing songs handed down for generations, tales of fishermen, their families and the sea. Finally, in Fukushima Prefecture, we see how Aizu still lives by the code of its mountain samurai clan, famed for staying true to their principles.
Facing the Seto Inland Sea, sunny Kagawa Prefecture historically overcame a lack of natural resources and water through skill and hard work. Despite having no local bamboo or paper, Kagawa artisans created paper fans famed for their quality. Bonsai grow well in this dry climate, and Kagawa's have won fans worldwide. After a taste of Wasanbon sweets, prized for centuries for their delicate sweetness, we cross to a small island to sample soy sauce made the traditional way. A trip of tough but rewarding climbs, reflecting the spirit of Kagawa.
14,000km. That's how far our cyclists have ridden around Japan. We've chosen the most invigorating scenes as well as new footage for you to enjoy. Cycle through the changing seasons - the blossoms of spring, summer's verdant green, the brilliant colors of autumn and winter's snowy landscapes. And then see how these landscapes were shaped by farming communities in harmony with the sea, rivers and mountains. Touring by cycle isn't just the most exhilarating way to go, it also gives you the closest look at the land.
On these rides, we've often met people who battled hard times to emerge stronger than before. We've heard stories of overcoming natural disasters and disease, of a doctor taking on the challenge of singlehandedly caring for the elderly population of a remote mountain village and of how one young woman is raising a family on a tiny island, ensuring a future for its aging community. In this special episode, we get back in touch to hear their inspiring accounts of coping with the current pandemic.
From Shibuya's newest skyscraper to nearby Shinjuku, where a man in a tiger mask cycles the city streets. Why did he choose such a life? After he introduces us to Shinjuku's lively back alleys, we ride west into a surprisingly natural landscape. By a tranquil river, we meet an artisan reviving a 200-year old dyeing craft, and in a mountain forest a far-sighted woodsman explains his ecological approach. City and society change with the times, but these are people holding fast to their chosen paths in life.
In this episode, we send 2 cyclists to explore some lesser known parts of Tokyo as they compete in our special bingo game. They have 2 days to find typical items and places in the city that correspond to squares on their cards. Pursuing this quest they discover little known facts about the city, see how a popular traditional snack is made, visit a boatyard that's been making wooden craft for 200 years and a family farm hidden among suburban houses, and play along with an ingenious drum maker.
Kagoshima Prefecture, known as the land of brave samurai, was called Satsuma in ancient days. Our cyclist takes in scenic views on his ride along the sea and an active volcano. He discovers jars filled with a local specialty, fermented black vinegar, which make a tart and powerful beverage. In the mountains, he meets a craftswoman who revives old, beautiful buttons. He then finds a secret martial art inherited from samurai. Discover the spirit of this historic land on our 290km ride through Satsuma.
The mountain ranges known as the Japanese Alps are a spectacular backdrop to our ride across Nagano Prefecture, its forests glowing with the late autumn colors. With many 3,000m peaks, Nagano is popular with climbers and we're given a brief taste by a world-class mountain guide. We'll meet people drawn to live here by the forests, including a man who left a top cabinet making career in Tokyo to craft uniquely distinctive furniture from these wild trees, and a group of friends who devote their spare time to caring for the woods.
In the city of Hiroshima we visit a community where the families who survived the devastation of the atomic bomb in the Second World War managed to revive their traditional farming specialty. In the islands to the south, we meet a potter uniquely making glazes from cast-off oyster shells, and in the mountains, a farmer tells of his passion for making animals happy. The last individual we encounter who has stuck to his own path in life is a carver of traditional instruments seeking the perfect sound.
After 30 years in Japan, Michael Rice recently settled in Odawara, where he runs a cycling cafe. He shows us Odawara Castle, and introduces artisans making traditional local specialties such as Kamaboko fish paste and paper lanterns. After Yabitsu Pass, a popular day trip for Tokyo cyclists, Michael explores nearby places he has yet to visit, including Manazuru, a small town on this beautiful coast known for its easy-going lifestyle and commitment to guarding the surrounding unspoiled nature.
15,000 km. That's how far our cyclists have ridden around Japan. We've chosen the most invigorating scenes as well as new footage for you to enjoy. Cycle through the changing seasons - the blossoms of spring, summer's verdant green, the brilliant colors of autumn and winter's snowy landscapes. And then see how these landscapes were shaped by farming communities in harmony with the sea, rivers and mountains. Touring by cycle isn't just the most exhilarating way to go, it also gives you the closest look at the land.
In this episode, we send 2 cyclists to explore some lesser known parts of Tokyo as they compete in our special bingo game. They have 2 days to find typical items and places in the city that correspond to squares on their cards. Pursuing this quest they discover little known facts about the city, see how a popular traditional snack is made, visit a boatyard that's been making wooden craft for
James Hobbs, living in Japan for 30 years, teaches at a medical university in Iwate Prefecture. He takes us along on some hard weekend training with cycling friends and on a camping trip with his wife to enjoy the famous evening views of Mt. Hayachine, where they show their skill at cooking local Iwate ingredients. After riding along the Sanriku coastline, James tackles a tough hill climb with a friend who describes how cycling gave him the strength to recover from the devastating tsunami of 2011.
Zac Reynolds has lived in Japan for over 20 years, and now works for a bicycle maker in Mie Prefecture. As a crossroads on the old Tokaido Highway, Mie has a unique cultural legacy. In the post station of Sekijuku, we visit a sweets store run by the descendants of a famous ninja spy. After a small island fishing village where the locals preserve some unique customs, on the south coast we meet a couple who have cultivated pearls for 45 years. This remains one of Japan's most vibrant and exciting places to live.
The late autumn gingko trees are a brilliant yellow in Tokyo's neighboring prefecture of Saitama. Surprisingly unexplored, this is an area of great natural beauty with its own distinct traditions. We learn how a family of dollmakers breathes life into their creations, treasured for generations. And we discover how Saitama's special climate is the secret behind a world-class whisky.
