On your mark, get set, sushi! Japan: a land where the wisdom of the ancients still echoes in the whispering bamboo groves, stoic castles, tranquil Shinto shrines, and Buddhist monasteries. This is the world you'll be pedaling through on our Stunning Shikoku bike Tour. But let's put the brakes on any ideas that this is just about sightseeing—oh no, this jaunt is often described as a 'food tour on bikes'. Buckle up; your taste buds are in for a wild ride! 

Here's a taste of what awaits you on this incredible journey: 

• Say hello to the world-famous Shimanami Kaido route across the Seto Inland Sea. The incredible views will make you forget you're actually exercising! 
• Delve into the essence of Japan by exploring some of the best temples along Shikoku’s historic temple pilgrimage. Each step is like immersing yourself in centuries of spirituality. 
• Channel your inner artisan as you create traditional washi paper in Yusuhara with a world-renowned artist. Who knew there was such depth to papermaking? 
• Embrace the warmth of Japanese hospitality in small, traditional inns and natural spring retreats. You'll be leaving with more than just memories, but a newfound sense of appreciation for the culture. 
• Take a break from all that pedaling and enjoy the efficiency of Japan’s train system (including the lightning-fast Shinkansen bullet train!). Sometimes it's OK to cheat a little. 
• Toast to your amazing adventure with a sake tasting session, discovering its rich history over dinner. Kampai!

And, of course, the food is a highlight on its own. Here are the top three iconic dishes you simply must try (with a few accompanying drinks to wash them down, of course): 

• Sushi: Yes, it's a cliché choice, but also an imperative one! You have not truly tried Sushi until you have tried it in Japan. There's nothing like savoring freshly caught fish elegantly draped over perfectly tangy-sweet sushi rice. Pair this with a cold Asahi beer, and you've got yourself a meal fit for an emperor (or at least, a really happy bike tourer).

• Ramen: The quintessential comfort food, a steaming bowl of ramen is a symphony of flavors and textures—slurpy wheat noodles dancing in a savory broth that's been simmered to perfection, garnished with tender slices of meat or tofu. Round off your ramen experience with a cup of warm sake, perfect for those cool nights. 
• Okonomiyaki: Think of this as the love child of a pancake and a pizza. Okonomiyaki is a heavenly savory griddle cake loaded with the chef's signature blend of ingredients. It's an adventure on a plate! A Japanese soda, like the delightfully unique Ramune, would be the ideal fizzy refresher to accompany your Okonomiyaki experience. 

Taiwan Bike, Walk, and Dumplings 

Having trouble deciding whether you were more of a bike, walk, or dumpling person? Well, in Taiwan, we say, "Why choose?" Rolling hills, steamy dumplings, invigorating hikes, soothing hot springs—and did we mention dumplings?! 

Welcome to the Taiwan Bike, Walk, and Dumplings Tour as we explore the jaw-dropping diversity of Southern Taiwan, both in its scenery and on the plate! 

Here's a little teaser of what this tour is serving up: 

• Rise up early to try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding on the serene lotus lake. Yes, we purposefully left out a proficiency level because falling in is half the fun! 
• Kayak in the clear, blue waters of Jialeshui 
• For those with a rock-solid spirit of adventure (get it?), hike through Kenting National Park's coral formations and caves. 
• Unwind at Sizhongxi Hot Springs. 
• Visit the Japanese Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium. 
• Relish the juicy satisfaction of Taiwan's iconic dumplings, and couple this with a guided tour of Cijin Island. Spoiler alert: with views that make for a sweet dessert! 

Now, prepare your taste buds for a sensational ride as we delve into Taiwan's culinary treasures. Here are the top three dishes you simply can't miss: 

• Dumplings: Have we mentioned this already? Each one is a bite-sized parcel of joy, with an assortment of fillings wrapped delicately in a thin, tender dough. Wash it all down with the not-so-creatively named “Taiwan Beer” for maximum authenticity. 
• Beef Noodle Soup: deceptively simple in its name, but a true flavor powerhouse! Imagine tender chunks of braised beef, handmade noodles, and greens nestling in a rich, deeply flavored broth. A cup of invigorating oolong tea would be the perfect balance for this hearty dish.

• Oyster Omelette: It's street food like this that'll make you never want to leave. Juicy, local oysters are tossed into an egg batter with leafy greens and then fried until lightly golden. Pair this with Taiwan’s refreshing iced fruit tea, and well, it's OK if you never want to come back home.

Cycling fanatics, history buffs, and food enthusiasts, lend us your ears (or eyes, in this case)! Behold the vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and captivating sounds of Vietnam in a way that most travelers only dream about.  

On this Vietnam Essentials Bike Tour, you'll pedal your way through the river town of Cai, the lush Mekong Delta, and the enchanting town of Hoi An. 
Here are just some of the special moments that await on this journey:

• Cycle leisurely through the small paths and villages of the Mekong Delta, each one more charming than the last. 
• Conquer the achievable challenge of the Hai Van Pass, then triumphantly cruise into the postcard-perfect Hoi An. 
• Dine in a family home, because nothing compares with the magic of home-cooked Vietnamese cuisine. Spoiler: There's more to it than just Pho. 
• Marvel at three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 
• Experience the real floating markets, where you mingle with locals, not crowds of tourists.

The adventure doesn't stop there! Vietnam is almost as famous for its cuisine as it is for its stunning landscapes. Here are the top three Vietnamese dishes you absolutely must try: 

Would any world food list be complete without the mention of Thailand? 

Imagine pedaling along the picturesque Gulf of Thailand, leaving behind the bustling city of Bangkok, for a journey down the Gulf of Thailand to the tropical utopia of Phuket. Now, blend that with a tasting tour of tantalizing Southern Thai cuisine. 

• Here's a taste of what's in store for you: 
• Glide along sandy beaches and tranquil roads. 
• Enjoy some time out of the saddle exploring Khao Sok National Park on foot and by kayak. Warning: Your jaw may drop at the sight of the exceptional wildlife and verdant landscape. 
• Dig your toes into the sand at Ban Krut while relishing fresh crab, plucked straight from the ocean. Remember to wear your bib; this could get messy! 
• Take a breather in Hua Hin, a charming resort town. 
• Bike, hike, and boat your way to Phraya Nakhon Cave, a hidden gem that’s well off the beaten track. 
• Sip exquisite Thai wine straight from the source and chat with the local sommelier, who'll unravel the vine-to-bottle story for you.

You didn't think we'd leave you without a culinary map of Southern Thailand, did you? These three local dishes are must-try gastronomic delights: