Cycle Around Japan - Season 5 / Year 2018

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.