The morning air is crisp, carrying the earthy scent of cedar trees and the soft rustle of leaves. You wake up to the quiet hum of a new day in Japan, far from the bustle of city life. Outside, the mist hugs the valley, slowly lifting to reveal hills painted with the colors of the season. 

It’s day five, and already, Japan feels like a second home. You’ve traded the chaos of your daily routine for the peaceful cadence of pedaling through a country that’s equal parts tradition and wonder. Every twist in the road brings something new — an ancient temple tucked into the hills, a steaming bowl of ramen at the perfect moment, or a breathtaking view that makes you pause and simply be. 

Want a sneak peek of what a day on two wheels in Japan looks like? Buckle up — it’s a ride you won’t forget (or... regret!)

07:00: 

Ohayō Yusuhara! Early risers, when in Japan, we do as the Japanese do—hit the hot springs! Steamy, soothing, and the perfect way to wake up. It’s like a warm hug from Japan to kickstart your day. 

08:00 

Japanese breakfast = next-level feast. Fluffy tamago (Japanese omelet), crispy fish, rice bowls, and pickles galore. Got a sweet tooth? Grab a few pieces of fresh fruit and enjoy a cup of coffee before we hit the pedals. 
“But what about my bags?” Don’t sweat it – we’ll stash them in the Rest&Ride vehicle, so you can ride light and easy. 

09:00 

Fueled up and ready to roll, it’s time to meet your local legend (aka your tour leader) and your fellow Grasshoppers! We hop on our bikes and pedal out of the valley where we've spent the last two nights. The misty morning air is brisk, but don’t worry — the sun will soon peek over the hills, warming us up for an epic ride. 

We cycle past bubbling mountain rivers, forests of Ichii oak, and Japanese bay trees. We’ll take a breather halfway through, stopping to smell the matcha (literally!) and enjoy a snack (mochi, anyone) and oh-so-good-coffee. 

11:00

Cue the Rocky soundtrack — it’s time to conquer the big climb. 

Your legs are ready, the challenge is set, and we’re about to tackle a climb that’ll reward you with epic views and some serious bragging rights. The fall foliage at the top is like nature’s confetti — gold, orange, and all-around jaw-dropping. 

But hey, if you’d rather not turn this into a sweat-fest, grab an e-bike and cruise up with a lot less huff and puff. And if your backside needs a break, our Rest & Ride vehicle is always close by, ready to lend a hand (or a seat). 

12:00 

After that? We've all earned lunch! Your tour leader’s got a knack for finding the best spots, and today’s gem is a wellness retreat right by a river with (impossibly) clear water. 

But we're here to feast! Will you dive into a bowl of katsu don—crispy breaded pork cutlet, nestled in a sweet-savory sauce, served over a steaming bowl of rice? Or maybe you'll go for unagi—grilled eel glazed with a rich, smoky-sweet sauce that’ll have you wondering why it’s not served everywhere? 

13:30 

Back on the bikes, our afternoon ride is smooth sailing with some gentle ups and downs. Picture this: lush fields, rolling hills, and the kind of views that make you want to take a million photos (okay, maybe a million and one).  

Then, the fun really begins! We hit the final stretch—a thrilling downhill ride. And the cherry on top? Our destination is just ahead: a clifftop retreat overlooking the deep, blue Pacific. *Cue the dramatic music* 

The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore! Will you kick back in a natural onsen (hot spring) or rally up your newfound friends for a friendly (or not ) game of cards?

18:00

Tonight’s feast? A kaiseki dinner straight out of foodie dreams. A multi-course kaiseki masterpiece. Seasonal, local, and ridiculously delicious ingredients from the land and the sea.  

The adventure continues tomorrow, so for now simply kick off your trainers and surrender to slumber. 
 
This was just one day. One. Day. Now, imagine what eight days of biking, hiking, and kayaking through Japan’s hidden corners could look like. The open road is calling, and the adventures you’ll have here are waiting to become stories you’ll tell for a lifetime. 

Are you ready to hop in the saddle and see Japan like never before?