japan motorcycle tour routes

Motorcycle Travel Guide: Japan

Welcome to the Motorcycle Travel Guide for Japan. Here’s everything you need to know about travelling overland with a bike in Japan. You’ll find links to our in-depth guides, info on roads, visas, accommodation, paperwork, tips, tricks and loads more.

Motorcycle Travel in Japan

Is japan good for motorcycle travel.

Japan is an incredibly beautiful country and you must visit. However, if you’re thinking of exploring the country with a motorcycle, then let’s clear up some points first.

For motorcycle travellers, there’s two ways to ride in Japan. You can either take your own (foreign registered) motorcycle into Japan by shipping it in or using a RoRo ferry from South Korea or Vladivostok. Or you can fly in and rent a bike or join an organised tour. Let’s look at your options below, and we’ll explain how to do both in more detail further in the article.

Taking your own motorcycle into Japan

Shipping into Japan, whether by international shipment or RoRo ferry, is very expensive and time consuming. If you are only going to be riding in Japan for a short period of time – say two to three weeks. Then it may not be worth the time and money to do this. That’s because it takes a lot of time to get around Japan. You will have spent a lot of money to get there and if you only have a few weeks, you won’t get far before having to turn around to get your bike back to wherever you’re going to ship it from. If you only have a short timeframe for Japan, it’s better to ship your motorcycle to the next destination, fly in and use public transport or rent a motorcycle when you’re there.

However, if you have a lot of time (one to two month plus) then it is certainly worth it. You will have time to get out of the big cities and find the incredible riding routes laced throughout the country. Of course, you’ll end up back on slow going main roads at times, but won’t be pushed for time to get around. You need time to enjoy and experience Japan on your own bike.

Joining an organised tour or renting

Even if you have a short period of time for Japan, this is still a great option. You won’t have any of the eye watering temporary import costs and will be able to jump on your bike and start riding straight away. Your rental company will be able to provide you with good routes and you can do a short or long trip. Same goes for joining a tour.

Our motorcycle travel experience in Japan

We spent five months and 5,000 miles exploring the country on our own motorcycles. We wouldn’t have enjoyed it with public transport because we crave the freedom our own transport offers and also because we wanted to see so much. To find out what it was like for us, have a read of the below guide and check out our blogs.

What Motorcycling in Japan is Really Like
Motorcycle Travel Blog Japan: Land of the Rising Sun 1
Motorcycle Travel Blog Japan: Land of the Rising Sun 2

Paperwork needed to take a motorcycle into Japan

We have a dedicated guide on what paperwork you need for Japan. Please follow the links below this section.

If you’re travelling with your own vehicle you will need either a carnet de passage or a temporary import. The carnet is the easiest way to enter and exit Japan. It will make your life easier. But, you can enter without one by using a temporary import.

There used to be a caveat that to use a temporary import you had to enter Japan using a RORO ferry (roll on, roll off) and – importantly – also exit using a ferry. This was the case back in 2019.

However, as of April 2024 we have received a report that it is now possible to enter Japan via ferry from South Korea with a temporary import and then ship your bike out of Japan – instead of having to exit via ferry.

See our Paperwork Guide for Japan below for more info.

Paperwork Guide for Motorcycle Travel in Japan
Carnet de Passage vs Temporary Import for Japan
What is a Carnet de Passage?
Motorcycle Travel Paperwork Explained

What visas do I need for Japan?

The visa situation in Japan makes motorcycle travel easy. UK citizens can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa. You’ll get a 90-day stamp in your passport when you enter.

You can extend your visa while you’re in Japan for a further 90 days before it expires. You can do this at an Immigration Bureau (Nyukoku Kanrikyoku). These bureaus are dotted all over Japan in major cities and just need a quick Google to find. Once you arrive, you will be directed by the staff on what paperwork to fill out.

We applied and received an additional 3-month stay; however, it was a little touch-and-go. The staff said we could not receive a further stay purely to extend our sightseeing. It took a little wrangling but they allowed it in the end. So, if you are planning on extending, plan carefully (you can not extend too far in advance either).

You can leave Japan and leave your vehicle in the country. You won’t be asked anything about your vehicle on leaving or when you re-enter.

How do I get my motorcycle or vehicle into Japan?

To get your own vehicle into Japan you can either ship it in via cargo ship, fly it in or use a ferry from Russia or South Korea.

Shipping your motorcycle to / from Japan

If you’re shipping your motorcycle to Japan by plane or cargo ship, then you will need to speak to a shipping company in whichever country you are shipping from for their prices. But, you will also need to speak to an agent in Japan.

We recommend contacting our recommended shipping company in Japan to help you receive the bike and handle the paperwork and customs. Check out our recommended motorcycle shipping company for Japan and have a read of our shipping guides too.

International Motorcycle Shipping Companies
Motorcycle Shipping Guides

Ferry from Russia to Japan

If you are using a ferry from Russia then you will be coming from Vladivostok using DBS ferries. Speak to Yuri from Links, Ltd (details can be found in Shipping Companies under Russia).

READ MORE: How to Get the Ferry from Russia to Japan

Ferry from South Korea to Japan

To enter Japan from South Korea you will be using Kampu Ferries or Camellia Line Ferries. Speak to Mr Youn (details can be found in the Shipping Companies Finder under South Korea).

South Korea Guides
How to Get the Ferry from Japan to South Korea
The South Korea Motorcycle Shipping Guide

How to rent a motorcycle in Japan

Renting a motorcycle or going on a bike tour in Japan is straight forward. Check out our comprehensive recommended companies page to see what’s on offer in Japan.

You will need your passport, driver’s licence and your International Drivers Permit to rent a motorcycle. It’s also worth taking your own riding kit as Western clothing sizes are usually larger than Japanese.

READ MORE: Japan Motorcycle Rental and Tour Companies

Is Japan as expensive as everyone says it is?

Japan is expensive compared to most motorcycle travel destinations like South East Asia, Central Asia and South America. You’re paying first-world country prices. A hefty chunk of your budget will be spent on entering and exiting the country (regardless if you’re using RORO or shipping/flying), Japanese insurance and the big one – accommodation. So, it is expensive but that’s relative to where you’ve been and what you’ve done prior. Read on to find out how to save money and make Japan more affordable for motorcycle travel.

Riding roads in Japan

Japan has two types of roads: the free national road and the jaw dropping expensive toll road. Toll roads will eat away at your budget. If you use a debit or credit card to pay, then they charge the full amount twice and reimburse one payment later. The national roads can be painstakingly slow, especially anywhere near a city. Plot your routes away from major cities, avoid toll roads and you’ll be fine.

BMW R1200GSA motorcycle touring and travel in Japan guide

Accommodation and camping in Japan

Hotels are a big expense in Japan. Turning up at a hotel without a reservation can sometimes appear rude to Japanese and you’d be surprised how full hotels get, so booking online in advance is worth it. Booking.com is your best bet for Japan. There are other similar Japanese websites, but they’re tricky to use and complicated.

We used AirBnB for longer stays as it proves a lot cheaper than hotels. We used an AirBnB for a four-week stay in Osaka and a three-week stay in Kyoto, had the entire apartment to ourselves and saved a mini fortune.

Love Hotels are also a good option. Before you spit out your breakfast in disgust, let us explain… Love Hotels in Japan are not the seedy and gross hotels that spring to mind. They’re immaculate, well looked after and socially acceptable establishments… that can be booked out for the hour. They’re dotted all over the country and are easy to spot. The prices are listed outside and you can book the room for 8 hours for a much cheaper rate than most hotels. The love hotel room is more often than not, twice the size of an average hotel room, packed with amenities, easy to check in and out and cheaper. Check them out!

For a rough idea, expect to pay 20 USD for a dorm room hostels, 50 USD for a hotel room, 30 USD for a Love Hotel and 10 USD for a campsite.

Here’s a handy map from Booking.com to give you an idea of hotel prices in Japan.

Motorcycle camping in Japan

There are three types of campsite in Japan: privately owned campsites, official free campsites or wild camping.

The privately owned campsites can prove quite expensive. They are lovely though, usually very well looked after and super clean.

The official free campsites are dotted all over the country and excellent. They don’t usually have showers but do have working toilets. They’re an excellent way to save money. We recommend the fantastic Facebook group Free camping and hotsprings in Japan. Download their map to your Google maps and you’ll see hundreds of great campsites spread across the country.

Wild camping is relatively easy in Japan. As long as you tuck yourself out of the way and disappear in the morning you won’t have a problem.

BMW R1200GSA and BMW G310GS motorcycles camping in Japan

Very little English is spoken outside of major cities. Prepare to get good at Japanese charades
However long you think it’ll take to get somewhere, double it
Cash is king in Japan
7-Eleven is your best friend. They’re a huge franchise in Japan, use them for free wi-fi, to cool down, for their clean high-tech toilets and tasty and cheap food. Also, we only ever withdraw money from ATMs in 7-Elevens as there’s no charge.
Try to avoid visiting during major national holidays like Golden Week. Cheery Blossom season is also pretty mad.
We recommend using skyscanner.net to book your flights to Japan. When you’re selecting dates, click ‘flexible dates’ and select the whole month. You’ll then find the cheapest dates.
It’s worth having mobile data in Japan for navigation and translation apps. We found the easiest way to get data is to use an eSIM service like Airalo , where you can download a SIM onto your phone and sort your data before you even arrive in the country.

Motorcycle Travel Blog Japan: Land of the Rising Sun Part 1

How to Get the Ferry from Russia to Japan

How to visit Japan’s stunning Vine Bridges

The South Korea Motorcycle Shipping and Ferry Guide

How to choose adventure riding gear for travelling

How to Choose Your Adventure Bike Riding Gear

The Motorcycle Luggage Guide

We hope you found the Motorcycle Travel Guide for Japan helpful. If you’re planning a trip there or have any questions, please post a comment below. We’d love to hear from you!

8 thoughts on “Motorcycle Travel Guide: Japan”

This is a bit confusing. On your site the Japan intro says:

“Japan is a phenomenal blend of culture, architecture, stunning scenery and fascinating ancient history. And riding a motorcycle through this incredible country is the best way to explore it and uncover its hidden gems. Japan is seriously addictive and you’re going to love it.”

Then this whole article basically says you spent 5 months rode 5000 miles and you feel it’s overpriced, crowded, you don’t really recommend it as a destination.

Which is true?

Hi Charlie, thanks for your comment! I can see how that may be confusing. Please allow me to explain… Both are true.

Japan is an incredible country, well worth visiting and riding a bike there is the perfect way to explore. But, as you also rightly pointed out I did write that it is expensive and busy. I explained in this article that because of the above reasons you mentioned, it is not worth riding your own bike (a foreign vehicle that you have temporarily imported into Japan) if you are riding there for a short period of time.

If you’re flying in and renting a bike or joining a tour for a short period, then great! You do away with all the massive costs of shipping in and your routes and roads are planned for you. Easy. If you are going to Japan for an extended period of time, like we did for 5 months then it is definitely worth riding as it’s the best way to get around the entire country over a long period. But only if you have the time. The fact that it takes a long time to get anywhere wont matter and you can spend more time searching out the great riding routes. You also won’t spend all your time on public transport.

So, yes it is an amazing country and you’ll love riding there – IF – you have the time for a long trip with your own motorcycle or if you are going to rent or join a tour. I appreciate that the article is a little confusing. I will amend it this week to make it clearer.

Thanks again for getting in touch, Cheers, Andy

Thanks for the reply. 👍👍 I ultimately decided on a Vietnam 1/2 street 1/2 Enduro ride. We’ll see how that goes! Excited and nervous at the same time!

Hey Charlie, no worries and that sounds like a great trip! Vietnam is awesome, we were just there riding through Ha Giang three months ago. Have a great trip mate and all the best! Cheers, Andy

Loving reading your stories. and seeing the photographs of Japan. Very inspiring and making us want to go next year. Did you use a translation app to communicate?

Hi Jenni, thanks very much for your comment! That’s brilliant! You should definitely go, you’ll love it 😀 If you want more ideas on places to go there, we have loads more guides in the Japan section. We just used Google Translate. You can download a language for offline use so you don’t need to have wifi or connectivity. But quite often, even without the app, you can get what you want to say across with a few hand signals and big smiles! You might find this article interesting: 5 Tips for Communicating when Travelling

Thanks again and all the best! Andy

Hi, thanks for your comment. Yeah, Google Translate is excellent! Here’s an article you might find interesting on helping to communicate when you don’t know the language 🙂 5 Essential Tips for Communicating While Travelling Cheers! Andy

Road-trips & motorcycle tours:

For many travelers, Japan represents modernity, inaccessibility, overcrowding, mystery, the ultimate experience. For others, it is a country that lives to the rhythm of the golden colors of the seasons, colors that you will find in Shinto shrines and temples, on embroidered kimonos, and even on delicate pastries that the Japanese particularly enjoy during their 4 o’clock tea.

Despite a spectacular modernization, the Japanese have a true reverence for nature. At the end of March, beginning of April during the hanami period, throughout the country, the Japanese gather under cherry blossom trees or go to admire the autumn when the maple trees ignite.

Motorcycle trip in Japan

Discover our motorcycle trip in japan.

Our travel agency, Air Moto Tours, was built on the desire to seek a change of scenery and to experience a sense of renewal in our motorcycle rides. In 2015, the year of our very first journey, we chose to put our trust in Japan. And this destination left such a positive impression on us that we now organize several road trips to Japan each year.

When to go on a motorcycle trip in Japan?

If you’re planning a trip to the Japanese archipelago, we recommend two seasons. Indeed, it’s during spring and autumn that you’re most likely to be amazed by the landscapes. During the months of April and May, enjoy a welcoming climate for a motorcycle trip. You’ll have the opportunity to admire the blooming Japanese cherry blossoms. If you prefer to travel between October and November, the weather will be milder, with some coolness, but the orange and red colors of nature that you’ll observe during your road trip will warm your heart.

Air Moto Tours is an agency specializing in motorcycle tours in Japan

Our travel agency, Air Moto Tours, organizes motorcycle road trips, bringing together motorcycle enthusiasts who wish to explore countries either alone or with other bikers. If experiencing this kind of adventure interests you, we invite you to explore the dedicated page about our agency to learn more.

Why go on a motorcycle trip to Japan?

Going on a road trip to Japan means visiting a country like no other. The Japanese archipelago is filled with places as unique as they are unusual. The bustling metropolis of Tokyo manages to bring together cutting-edge technology in robotics while also preserving ancient cultures. Traveling through Japan on a motorcycle means traversing a unique space where countryside and landscapes are alive, mirroring the perpetual movement of the surrounding ocean around this archipelago.

Kyushu Motorcycle Tour: Our Routes

Kyushu, located in the southern part of the archipelago, plays an important role in trade and cultural exchanges with neighboring countries. While this region may not attract many tourists, its beaches, palm trees, and vast volcanic landscapes make it both charming and endearing. If you are curious about Japanese culture without fearing crowds, enjoy natural spaces, and beautiful panoramic routes without traffic, then this journey is for you.

Samurai Country Motorcycle Tour: Our Routes

Kanto, Chubu, and Kansai are among the few geographical divisions that make up the Japanese archipelago. They undoubtedly have marked Japanese history and still contribute to the country’s richness today. This circuit offers you a total cultural immersion and allows you to discover its popular wonders and secrets along routes exclusively reserved for motorcyclists.

Japanese Alps Motorcycle Tour: Our Routes

At the heart of Japan, nestled between the sea, Kansai, and Kanto, lies the magnificent mountain range of the Japanese Alps. The highest peaks reach nearly 3200 meters in altitude and are the pride of its inhabitants. Villages with thatched roofs, classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cultural and artistic treasures, and beautiful roads that will take you there are sure to amaze you. Life is zen in this part of Japan, just like in the Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa.

Essential Japan Motorcycle Tour: Our Routes

In the center of Japan, between the sea, Kansai, and Kanto, lies the splendid mountain range of the Japanese Alps. The highest peaks in the region reach nearly 3200 meters in altitude and are the pride of its residents. Villages with thatched roofs, which have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, present numerous cultural and artistic riches, as well as beautiful roads that will take you to them. Life here is zen, just like in the Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa.

Motorcycle trip in Japan, and more!

Are you a culture enthusiast and a travel lover? Look no further! Air Moto Tours offers various organized motorcycle road trips around the world. From Japan and Canada to Portugal and many other dream destinations, we’ve got you covered. To learn more about our organized tours, we invite you to visit the page dedicated to our other journeys.

1B PROMENADE DES ANGES 78210 SAINT CYR L’ECOLE – FRANCE TEL. +33 (0)1 30 85 09 68

RCS VERSAILLES 804472157 IMMATRICULATION ATOUT FRANCE IM078140005

Information

Newsletter subscription

Made with ❤ by IDNET .

Subscribe to the newsletter

Stay up to date with our latest news, developments and events

Best motorcycle roads in Japan

on July 11, 2017

Recent Posts

BMW K1600GT Vs Honda Gold Wing - June 17, 2024
Portugal & Spain part two - June 6, 2024
Portugal and Spain - June 3, 2024

I have completed 110,000km touring Japan by motorcycle. I made this map initially just so I knew which roads I had explored because it got confusing with the extraordinary density of roads in this country.

It was never intended to be a guide for others but I decided to share it because information about riding in Japan for foreigners is limited and besides now I have seen more of this country then most people so this map actually has some good info.

If you open the map on to a new tab/page (use the brackets icon top right of map) then you can see the map legend and easy pan and zoom. Clicking on roads will usually give some description. Hotels are not positioned precisely and are just for my own records of where I stayed previously.

As you can see there are good roads everywhere in Japan as you might expect in a land of mountains as well there are superb viewpoints everywhere.

If you are wondering where to ride first then anywhere away from the Japanese cities is enjoyable. Shikoku and the inland sea and Kyushu are my favourites but there are fabulous roads everywhere. Hokkaido despite the marketing hype offers few twisty roads being flat farm land. But in the extreme heat of Summer this is the best place to ride just don’t think it will be dry as that is also marketing, it rains there often.

If you have limited time then from Tokyo you cannot go wrong with planning a ride to Izu and around Mount Fuji. Even 3 days you can experience a lot and in as little as 4-5 days you could ride the Japanese alps in Nagano and Mount Fuji and Izu in a small tour that will show you some amazing scenery and awesome motorcycle roads.

I have written much much more detail about how and when to ride Japan in my Guide to Motorcycle touring Japan that tries to cover everything you need to know. Please click on that link for more information.

37 Comments

Hey thank you so much !!

Thank you a lot from this great map. I just finished one week long motorcycle trip in middle Japan. I partly used this guide to plan my route and I cannot thank you enough from the all great tips and routes that you have marked in here. I would have probably missed many great routes if not thanks to this guide!!!

Your welcome Jami 🙂

I’m shocked with the news Warren, stay strong in mind and body and I agree with you that you will be riding bikes in future for sure. Determination to succeed is in your nature I know that.

Thanks Jon, I appreciate your kind words

Hi Warren, Really appreciate your effort and dedication. A really wonderful act. I have been a serious follower of the routes you have highlighted. and tried many. Really enjoy the local roads you have selected. Thanks again.

Thanks Raghu, appreciate your feedback. Unfortunately no updates to my map in 2022 as I am unable to ride this year due to medical situation. Sure hope I will be able to ride more of Japan again in the future.

thanks for all that!!! I want to make a trip to Japan and travel by motorcycle maybe…. not sure because have no idea. I ride here in the Usa. I also want to bring my painting equipment. Im an artist. Can you buy a motorcycle in Japan to travel ?

You will need a residential address to buy a motorcycle in Japan, or register and insure it in a friends name perhaps. You can certainly bring your painting equipment and obtain a rental bike with luggage as an alterative to buying.

Warren, I am traveling to Japan this April! Meeting up with my Japanese friend in Ebina (he’s bringing his SV650 on the ferry from western Honshu to Yokohama), renting a CBR from a shop there, then riding around the Izu Peninsula and Mt Fuji for 3 days before returning the bike. Do you have suggestions or “must sees” while we are there? I previously thought that would provide plenty of entertainment for 3 days, but wondering now if we have time to go farther distances, and if so do you have recommendations?

With three days I think Izu and Fuji is your best choice. You could go a little further however realise in April many high mountain roads will still be closed with snow or at the very least high risk of black ice. Izu will be open and free of snow and very low risk of any black ice in April there. It’s also a superb place to ride, Izu skyline seems like a road made for motorcycles. Between Izu and Fuji is Gotemba and Susuno, places where you will find affordable good hotel chains like Route Inn that I have used in both those locations. These are big congested towns so try use toll roads to get through there a quickly as possible. If you ride the 139 up to Motosu Lake there is good Mt Fuji view point there and the nearby roads in Yamanashi are less traffic than the roads at base of Fuji on the southern side. Pack your winter liners and warm gloves it will be cold around Mt Fuji foot hills. Have a great time 🙂

Hi Warren, thanks for this amazing resource! My friend and I are renting bikes out of Tokyo for just two days in mid May, 10am pickup, 6:30pm drop off next day. What would be the best use of our time without doing crazy miles? Much obliged, Jonny

For two days then I think the Izu region is your best choice. It is not too far from Tokyo, offers a mix of coastal and mountain roads and on a clear day has good views of Mt Fuji.

If you use my best Japan motorcycle roads map then you can see the nice riding roads there marked and work on how many you might link together.

The western coast IMO rides better from south to north as does the Izu Skyline because then you are looking towards Mt Fuji as you ride, but the skyline is good any direction.

It really depends on where you stay that night as to how you might route. A suggestion might be exit at Gotemba and ride via Hakone to the Izu Skyline then the 414 then up the western coast and climb to ride the Nishi Izu Skyline with it’s excellent views and then cut back over to ride part of the Izu skyline again northbound then continue past it to the Akinoko Skyline at Hakone or one of the other roads good there then rejoin expressway at Gotemba.

Alternatively you could just ride the Hakone roads, Izu Skyline and then cut over to the Nishi Izu skyline and stay in Mishima city which has lots of chain hotels and will be easy to find accommodation. Then day two ride back via Hakone roads and then to Tokyo via Doshi route 413 which is a popular bike road.

Hi Warren, Hope you are doing great. I am planning a 14 days trip to Japan completely dedicated to riding. Initially I thought I’ll start from Tokyo go upto Hokkaido and back. Any alternate suggestions basis weather and number of days. Thanks in advance 🙂

Unless you will be in Japan in Summer when it is very humid I would not recommend going to Hokkaido. It is mostly flat farm lands with straight roads.

If you are going to Japan in Summer then has to be Hokkaido. If going in Spring or Autumn I suggest take the overnight ferry to Kyushu then ride back via Shikoku. Kyushu and Shikoku are the best areas of Japan in my opinion.

To do this if you rented via Best Bike *link in my Japan guide https://motorcycleparadise.net/2016/05/see-japan-on-two-wheels.html* they can arrange for you to collect it at Yokosuka, my former home town, and an overnight ferry runs from there. Making the booking requires a little use of Google Translate, perhaps Best Bike can assist, a person I know just rented with them and took their bike to Kyushu on that ferry so they are familiar with this.

It that sounds a bit too much then my other suggestion is do a tour from Tokyo to Shikoku and return. Take the ferry down via Wakayama but return via islands of the Seto inland sea.

Thanks for the response. I think in that case I’ll skip Hokkaido and follow the itinerary suggested by you. I’ll just have a visit to Hokkaido as it’s on the list too. And I’ll rent a bike from the suggested partner. Thanks a lot. Happy riding.

Hokkaido is also a must see, a different side of Japan. If you have your heart set on it then try schedule it for last week of May – first week of June or Last week of August – first week of September.

I just finished Kasumigaura Ring Ring road. Mainly for cyclists for most of it you can either ride on it, or parallel to it on a motorcycle. There were just a few small areas that were exceptions. Might be a nice addition, I really enjoyed it.

Thank you, I was not aware of this.

Hi Warren, Thanks so much for sharing your rides! I’ve done rides looping through 162, 367, 169, 168 and Ryukin Skyline this week based on yours recs, and they were absolutely phenomenal! In general the rounds in Japan are pretty amazing so far, but these were stunning, I ascended Ryukin from the south as you recommended ? Cannot wait to come back and ride Shikoku! (I was meant to do it this week, but some thunderstorm predictions changed that).

Thanks again Amelia

Nice to hear you enjoyed those roads and my rides were of some help, makes me happy to know this 🙂

Thank you for this resource, it is incredibly helpful for someone like me. In 2024, I will be riding solo across Japan for 4 weeks with a BMW GS in the month of May, starting in Osaka, then clockwise around the country. I am a seasoned rider of 20 years and have hundreds of thousands of miles clocked – but only in the US. I have ridden in snow and rain, and am very confident in my abilities. Are there any areas in which you feel I should avoid during this time in the season, despite this? My main concern is potential for ice in certain areas that are still coming out of the winter as I plan on riding on mountain passes as much as possible.

My main goal is to circumnavigate the entire country if possible – including Hokkaido, saving that for the end of the trip in hopes of warmer weather. I do not plan on spending every night (except for 5 days in Tokyo) in a room and am prepared to camp quite a bit, do you know how accessible or accepting it is for a foreigner to use these accommodations? I know that your posts mentioned staying at hotels, but was wondering if you had any insight.

Starting your ride in May is the best month however some mountain passes may still be snowed in. The central Japanese alps around Nagano and the high roads to the north of Nagano in Aomori some will be closed early May.

The solution is from Osaka to go south and this is important for another reason, the rainy season starts the end of May from the south of Japan so you want to ride there first to let the northern road become open and to not be in the south late May.

If you are starting in Osaka I would suggest taking your bike on the excellent overnight ferry from there to Shibushi in Kyushu. Then you can ride back north around Kyushu and Shikoku and Shimane region with much more time because four weeks to ride all of Japan is a little tight time wise but using the ferry network will let you ride more of Japan.

From Osaka the ferry is the Sunflower ferry which I have used a few times https://www.ferry-sunflower.co.jp/en/ There is a few tricks to making a booking if you get stuck message me. And another ferry I would suggest you use is from Tsuruga to Hokkaido then ride Hokkaido and come back down to Osaka with more time to zig zag and ride all the best roads but I suggest you avoid the Kanto region the traffic is very heavy anywhere near Tokyo. (Osaka is intense too especially it’s complex expressway network)

If you want to use commercial camping sites then you must phone ahead to make a booking and will need a reasonable level of Japanese. They do not accept people without a advance booking. On Golden week everything will be booked in advance including hotels, be sure to check the dates of Golden week 2024 and secure hotel or camp sites for that period well in advance.

There is free camping/wild camping in Japan. Actually I met a guy who free camped his entire trip outside of Tokyo. Check my guide to motorcycle touring Japan if you have not already read it and there is a map there of free camp sites. Also if you are discreet you pretty much can camp in many of the parks that are out of town or at end of one way roads up a hill. Japan has very few parks in cities but the countryside is overflowing with small parks which you will see as you ride and a friend of mine pitches his tent out of sight or just as dusk is falling and everyone has left with no problems all over the country. He uses onsens for his bath and thus doesn’t use hotels much at all but rural onsens will require you speak Japanese and of course onsens are not for everyone, personally I find them scolding hot and don’t like the attention a naked foreigner attracts from other men.

Your other option is stay at rider inns. There is a network of rider inns across the country which are affordable hostel type places but often with private rooms but shared bathroom or a onsen however you will need a little Japanese to use these and they are not on booking.com or anything like that just have to google and contact direct. I stayed in one on my first time riding in Japan and it was this guy who had an old ski resort he turned into his home and biker accommodation. They are very cheap but I do not have a list unfortunately.

is there a nice riding route from tokyo to osaka or vice versa?

You can exit the expressway network at a few places and then ride nice roads then rejoin the expressway a little further towards your destination however there is no viable alternative to using the expressway unless you were prepared to detour well north and meander for couple days in the other prefectures then circle back.

Hi Warren, I found your website a few years ago and I am so glad it is still on. I have been dreaming of doing a motorcycle tour of Japan for 6 years and will probably be able to do this Fall or Spring 2025. Your map is amazing and I am so thankful you shared it. I found a foreign moto garage owner in Yamanashi who would be capable to find me a bike to buy and resell when leaving. I think it will be cheaper than renting on very long trip. I have some other questions which you could probably help with. In terms of period I was thinking End of August go from Yamanashi to North through central mountains before it gets to cold on Hokkaido. Then head back south on west coast all the way to Kagoshima. Then Back up through shikoku. If I do it in Spring I was thinking to do the opposite starting in Mai? What do you think about the timing and itinerary? I don’t find any information about potential rider friendly accomodation. In Europe there are some places calling themselves “moto camp” with cheap rooms, camping available, and garage with tools if you need to do a bit of mechanic. Great rider community vibe too. Is there something similar in Japan? I am considering camping as I found quite a lot of free camping spots in Japan. And I hear public bath are really cheap. BUT camping gear requires lots of luggage to bring to japan. And lots of luggage on the bike. Also, I hear that whatever the season. going through all japan will 100% get rained on. So I am still a bit on the fence on this topic. If I camp a few days a week vs hotels everyday I wonder how much can it save on the budget. How much is a typical private camping with showers? I have done a few trip in central Japan (osaka,nagano, nagoya,..) So I am more interested everything West and South of Osaka and Tohoku. I will do Hokkaido but having ridden all accross Europe I don’t think it will be the most memorable thing to see…? As for you which region is worth having a particular focus to spend more time?

Sorry for all the questions. I am going to save up your map to integrate it in my project. And if I can return the favor, I have been living in Taiwan for 8 years and I rode around this little rock so many times that I can definitely recommend you the best road and places to see if you want to explore this beautiful country. Cheers.

Yes if you will ride for long time then buy and sell will be cheaper. If you do rent then choosing a 400cc bike will bring the price down considerably and 400cc is ample power for Japan especially if you rent a inline 4 engine like the CB400 which is a brilliant bike only sold in Japan. One idea might also be try Best Bike they have 400cc and then take the Ferry from Yokosuka were I used to live to Kyushu this will save you considerable time.

I am guessing that dealer you found for buy sell is the one also listed in my Japan guide (Australian owner?) He will take care of everything needed to own and insure a bike in Japan but do look into the cost of everything Vs a smaller cc rental, it will depend on time frame. Consider also keeping the bike in storage at his shop if possible and come back year after as there is so many good roads in Japan one trip is not enough.

Kyushu and Shikoku are the best areas of Japan, especially the areas of Amakusa and the Inland Sea regions.

May is much better than August. August is steamy hot, almost unbearble to ride in. If you went south on ferry in May then rode north you stay in front of the monsoon and arrive Hokkaido end of May which is basically earliest you should go there then returning to Tokyo in June you will probably start to get more rain but May is best month in Japan.

There is a chain of Rider Inns across Japan. You will need to speak Japanese to stay in these, if you can speak Japanese then if you Google rider inns there are web sites but booking is mostly phone ahead not by web site. I stayed in one on my first ride in Japan but even with some basic Japanese it was too awkward.

Public bathing in onsens is cheap, speaking some Japanese is again needed to use these especially in countryside away from cities where tourists go nobody will speak a word of English.

Commercial camping sites must be prebooked, no ride up’s are allowed, these also need Japanese as they are booked on phone mostly. They can cost as much as a cheap hotel, 3000Y a night for tent site as camping is a trendy thing in Japan but the sites have everything and being Japan are spotlessly clean toilets and hot showers.

Free camping is easy to do in Japan, besides the map of free sites on my Japan guide page you literally can camp in most any park out of town if you arrive late in afternoon and leave fairly early but yes you will have rain. Also many small temples in countryside sit empty and I think you could pitch a tent round back, they always have a unlocked toilet. I used them many times for lunch breaks and often nobody goes there during weekdays. Another option is stay in Love Hotels out of town, they can be very cheap.

I really want to return to Taiwan. I was set to go there last year in October to ride the southern cross island road then it was washed away in typhoon so I cancelled. I am thinking to come again this year about same time of year. Any tips for where I can rent either a scooter that is say 160cc like Nmax size or bigger or a small regular moto?

Ask me anything more I will get back to you asap but I am riding in Mexico at moment so could be little delay. 🙂

Thank you for the valuable advice. I am planning on riding in Shikoku or Kyushu in mid-March. Would ideally grab a bike from rental819 in Matsuyama and do a 3-4 day loop in and/or near Shikoku. Do you have any advice for this time of year? I’ve always wanted to surf the Tokushima coast. Also, is Kansai feasible? Would like to avoid icy roads.

Mid March will still be very cold. Plan on bringing full thermal winter gear. I rode in March one year and it was between 1 to 5 degrees. Near to the oceans the roads should be free of ice but higher roads would be risky.

Hello, happened to stumble across this while researching for my few day – 1 week trip. Reading through this, you recommend taking the ferry from Yokosuka – Kyushu (Shinmoji?) I am hoping to do so with the Tokyo Kyushu ferry. My current plans are to maybe rent a bike in Yokosuka and ride it in the ferry, are there any extra costs attached when bringing one? I would also like to ride in the Kyushu region and eventually make my way up to Shizuoka and Ine to go around the surrounding areas of Mt. Fuji. How long would you allocate this trip for? I am a fairly new rider so I would be very cautious riding across the country, and I think it will be good weather to do so since I would like to do this around mid June.

Hi there (Oat?),

Mid June is not a good time to do this route because the rainy season starts in Kyushu first week of June and moves north – you could possibly be riding in rain a lot. Best time is just after Golden Week about Mid May, this is best chance of fine weather in the south until August but that month is extremely hot. If not May then wait until after Typhoon season and go October. If you can only travel in June then please think about going North to avoid rain and return by ferry to avoid arrival of rainy season.

If you can go in May then Best Bike rentals will deliver a bike to Yokosuka and you can collect anytime, the ferry leaves in the evening. There is a fee for taking a motorcycle on the ferry and it varies according to engine size. You will need the bike model and licence plate to make the booking which can be obtained in advance. I would allow two weeks, have a look at my Japan tours – there is some where I take ferry from Yokosuka or Osaka to Kyushu. These will give you an idea on routes and time needed. I tour at gentle pace not riding long days which might suit you also. All my GPS routes are available to download.

Hi Warren, Thank you for all those precious informations!

I was planning a trip for enxt year but I have an unexpected work trip to Tokyo in May and I will be able to escape from it for 3 days so I just booked a bike. I saw a comment above with somebody going for a 3 days trip around Izu and Mt Fuji, so I will probably do something similar. Do you have any other advices? (I’m going to rent my bike at Rental819 Ota).

Thank you! Chris

For three days I would suggest the Izu region. It is possible to also see the alps but would be long days and maybe too much for 3 days.

From Ota you will use same roads I always travelled, route 16 toll road (prepay flat fee at toll gate) to E1 toll road west (take ticket then pay at exit of expressway) Can use credit card for both – always hand credit card with the toll ticket together to toll booth person.

If this is your first time riding in Japan and navigating their expressways my suggestion is day one you could ride the roads around Hakone (see my best roads map and make a loop of them) suggest the Ashigaratōge Pass then ride over back roads to the Hakone Turnpike (toll) to Mt Taiken observation deck then ride down Tsubaki line and back up Yugawara parkway, then Ashinoko skyline (toll) then Hakone skyline and you could include visit to Lake Ashi inbetween those and then make your way to Gotemba for overnight (try the Route Inn). If riding during Golden Week holiday then many hotels will already be full and you will have to be flexible and alter your route to where you can find a room, book that asap.

Day two do a big loop of Izu, ride all the best roads from my map, Izu skyline and the 127 are essential. Avoid Mishima/Shimizu city when you ride Izu, it is highly congested so essential to use the toll roads to by pass.

Day three from Gotemba ride the base of Fuji stopping at the lakes to the north west for the famous Fuji views then you could time permitting ride routes 300,409,36,358 in a loop then East via 413 Doshi road then join expressway back to Ota. See my map for these roads.

I’m confident if the weather is good you will be delighted with the views and roads on this ride.

Hi Warren, Sorry for the late answer. Thank you so much for this! It looks like an amazing itinerary! Can’t wait to go ride, if you happen to be in Tokyo, I’d be happy to buy you a drink! Thanks again for all the informations you provided! Chris

No problems Chris, I will be riding in Spain in May but thanks for the offer.

Hi Warren, Mid september this year I’ll be starting a 7 day self-tour from Odaiba; can you be so kind as to recommend an itinerary which loops back to the start point for these 7 days? Do you think it’s best to book accomodation ahead of time (meaning I need to be quite regimented as to each nightly checkpoint) or do you think it’s possible to do a Google Hotel search 1) on the day or 2) the day before, in order to find a place to plonk down for the night? This is my second time riding in Japan the first time was 2019, for 6 days with a group of friends unfortunately I didn’t map out that route nobody else kept records and I don’t have records (which is a major regret and has always been). I recall the roads around Hakone in the East were great, also Kanazawa on the West coast and those approaching Nagano were pretty good too, it would be nice to include those again this time around, as well as Mt Fuji because for some reason (I think it was the weather) that was skipped completely 🙂 Thank you 🙂 This time around I’ll be sure to meticulously write every single detail down(!)

I whipped up a 7 day tour for you that includes the places you mentioned and added in Mt Bandai and other good twisty roads:

https://www.myrouteapp.com/en/social/route/9464628?mode=share

I don’t think you need to book hotels much in advance but still this is Japan so if you like that route I’d go ahead and book stuff that can be cancelled day before no penalty. Try using Rakuten Travel (the Japan hotel version not the english version) You might need a VPN to do that – I use Proton VPN which is totally free to get a VPN to access Japan only sites. The route is designed first night to stop at Route Inn AizuWakamatsu but could be ridden in reverse if you had a late start from Tokyo. The daily distance is designed to be 250-300km which you can slide up or down depending on where you stop each night and what detours you make to visit things or to hotels. You could do this in 6 days but not have time to stop much and there are lots of viewpoints and other interesting things along this route. Let me know how you go.

Ninja Tours : Japan Motorcycle Touring

Japan Motorcycle Tours Ninjatours Mt Fuji at sunrise

Privacy Settings

You are welcome to change your privacy preferences here.

Japan Motorcycle Rental Tours with Ninjatours.com!

Ride the best roads in Japan!
Motorcycle rentals, tour planning and all contracts and correspondence in English!
Custom Tour Packages, including personalized itineraries, guides and maps tailored specifically to your ride.

24 Hour Emergency Support in English
English speaking trip planning.
English maps and navigation systems
Luggage forwarding and free storage of your suitcases and bags while in Japan

All Packages Include: Motorcycle Rental, Insurance, Gear, English GPS Navigation, and Standard Class Accommodations with Dinner and Breakfast!

About ninjatours, your japan motorcycle touring experts….

한국어

Newsletter - Join!

Now Reports

Kyushu On Two Wheels: Discovering Japan’s Best Motorcycle Routes

A s a land where the giants of motorcycle manufacturing—Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Suzuki—reign, Japan’s rich motorcycling heritage is no secret. Yet, in the world of motorcycle tourism, a burgeoning global phenomenon, Japan harbors an untapped paradise. This hidden treasure? Kyushu Island.

Unleashing Kyushu's Motorcycle Tourism Potential, ツーリング天国「九州」を楽しむ2泊3日の旅

Kyushu emerges as the quintessential motorcycle touring haven in Japan. It offers a year-long rider-friendly climate, roads that promise exhilaration at every turn, and a landscape that shifts from sprawling open roads to serpentine mountain passes and breathtaking coastal views. With attractions like the Honda Motorcycle factory in Kumamoto, elite race tracks, and private museums dedicated to the two-wheeled marvels, Kyushu is not just a journey; it’s a rider’s dream come to life.

But there’s more to it than just the thrill of the ride. Motorcycle tourism stands as a gateway to deeper, more intimate explorations of Kyushu’s countryside, potentially revving up the local inbound tourism sector. Our mission? To validate the hypothesis that investing in and promoting Kyushu’s motorcycle tourism is not just viable, but essential. Together, let’s throttle up and explore this less-followed path. Prefer to watch a video? – here’s our video report .

A Quick Introduction: I’m Nick Szasz, the CEO/Publisher of fukuoka-now.com. Joining me on this exploratory ride are my life and business partner, Emiko, and our close friend Asaf, a seasoned rider with decades of experience and thousands of kilometers in Kyushu under his belt.

Our Expedition: We embarked on a meticulously planned 2-night, 3-day motorcycle tour across the northern expanses of Kyushu. Setting out in early November, we found Kyushu draped in the crisp embrace of autumn, the prelude to a vibrant display of fall foliage. Scroll down to see our exact route.

Choosing the Steed: To fully immerse in the experience of an international rider, I parked my beloved Moto Guzzi V7 II at home and headed to Ricoland Fukuoka. More than Kyushu’s largest motorcycle gear hub, it’s a haven for motorcyclists. Here, international riders can seamlessly transition from their flight into Fukuoka to the freedom of the road, luggage and all. Fukuoka Airport is literally within sight, a manageable walk, and a cheap cab ride away.

If you complete all necessary rental processes beforehand, you qualify for perks like a complimentary airport shuttle and an ultra-convenient early morning self-checkout, starting as early as 5 am. Whether renting on the spot or reserving a bike online, the choice is vast: over 100 bikes ranging from nimble mopeds to large displacement models, both domestic and international.

For our test tour, we aimed for a mix of comfort and practicality, choosing the versatile Honda X-ADV750. To complement our journey, we kitted out with optional hard bags – side and top boxes, ensuring ample space for our gear. I’d never ridden such an automated bike before. It took some getting used to, but it was ideal for two-up touring. Emiko reports “comfy seating and good visibility,” so a win for sure!

We dropped by the day before, completed the necessary paperwork, got acquainted with our ride, and received a special QR code for an effortless departure the next morning. It was a relief to have everything squared away beforehand, setting the stage for an adventure where the only focus was the open road ahead.

Kickstarting Our Kyushu Odyssey at Ricoland Our journey began at the well-positioned Ricoland Fukuoka Airport Store . Conveniently situated near Fukuoka’s Urban Expressway, it allowed us to quickly escape the dense urban concrete.

Taking advantage of Ricoland’s Early Morning Rental Service, we effortlessly self-checked out using a private QR code, even before the store’s doors officially opened. My bike, meticulously prepared, was ready and waiting for me. Ricoland, with its spacious and modern amenities, provided everything we needed for a smooth start to our trip. This included separate male and female changing rooms, lockers, and restrooms, as well as showers for a quick freshen-up. These thoughtful touches make a significant difference, especially for riders arriving from overseas.

With every detail taken care of, our engines humming in anticipation, the vast and inviting roads of Kyushu beckoned. It was time to rev up and immerse ourselves in the motorcycling nirvana that is Kyushu. Let the adventure begin!

Embarking on Kyushu’s Winding Roads Our early start paid off big time, allowing us to dodge the traffic and hit the urban expressway toward Dazaifu. Before long, we were carving through lush mountain roads and farm fields en route to Akizuki.

The ride to Akizuki was an hour of pure joy, taking us through stunning country views. We cruised through a quaint old castle town, often referred to as ‘Little Kyoto’, before arriving at the historic Akizuki castle ruins. This place offers something different in every season – cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and a riot of autumn colors. Note to self: aim for the ‘sakura’ season next time!

Our next destination was Hikosan, a mountain both sacred and revered. En route, we discovered the Koishiwara Dam Freai Park, a new addition near Koishiwara Dam Lake that opened in April 2022. Located right off National Route 500, it features a well-designed riding skill course – perfect for practicing S-curves and cranks.

Sitting about 1,200 meters high, Hikosan straddles the Oita and Fukuoka Prefectures. The roads in and around are mostly tight twisties – quite a workout indeed. You can take a cable car up to Hikosan Shrine from the parking lot for even grander views.

Then, it was off to Yabakei in Oita, another top-notch touring destination. Riding through small canyons with steep cliffs was nothing short of epic. We were so immersed in the experience, we regret not taking photos. Whoops!

Even in the heart of these scenic mountains, there are fine places to eat. It’s tempting to ride non-stop, but trust me, stopping at spots like these for a bite is an adventure and discovery in itself. Who would have thought you could find such a high-quality meal in the deep countryside?”

Restaurant Sardinas – Location: 1476 Oshima, Yabakei-machi, Nakatsu City, Oita – https://www.restaurant-sardinas.com/ – Heads up: Better to reserve in advance

Riding through Kyushu’s twisty roads was more than just clocking miles; it was a full-on journey into the heart of Japan, where every corner revealed something new. And this was only the first day!

After a relaxed lunch, we were back on the road, this time touring the Kunisaki Peninsula and heading towards our overnight stay. The area, dotted with mountain temples and trails, is an ideal spot for both motorcycle and bicycle touring. Don’t miss the local produce stands along the way. We picked up some Ajimu wine at a farmer’s market in Ajimu, perfect for unwinding at dinner.

Our accommodation for the night was unique— a private house run by an organic farmer who had relocated from Kanto. Interestingly, the father used to work in the motorcycle industry, making for some great bike-related conversations. Plus, having a mechanic nearby was reassuring. Then there’s Fusako-san, an English-speaker with experience working for a major brand in Germany. After a tour of their fields, we were treated to a fantastic dinner and breakfast, all made with organic veggies grown on-site.

DAY 2: A Ride from Kunisaki to Aso The next day began with a refreshing morning walk in Kitsuki, a charming former castle town. Following Akizuki the previous day, Kitsuki was our second castle town experience. Here, a full-size replica of the original castle stands, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline.

Our journey then took us towards Beppu, renowned for its abundant hot springs. We visited Myoban Onsen, one of Beppu’s eight major onsen areas, famous for its traditional ‘yunohana’ hot spring minerals and delicious hot spring steamed puddings. It’s a popular spot, so arriving early is advisable.

Our next stop was the eagerly anticipated ‘Iwashita Collection,’ a veritable treasure trove featuring an extensive array of prized motorcycles, classic cars from around the world, and Showa-era retro gems. They boast over 600 motorcycles from every corner of the globe, with about 200 on display. Mr. Iwashita, the curator, plans to add around 100 more bikes to complete his collection.

A highlight is the unique Ducati Apollo L-type 4 cylinder (1260cc) – the only one in the world, valued at a staggering ¥200 million. The collection also includes a range of historic Honda models, some of which are among Soichiro Honda’s first commercial models. Allow for at least an hour to scratch the surface.

Iwashita Collection – Location: 645-6 Kawakita, Yufuin-cho, Yufu City, Oita – https://iwashitacollection.jp

After immersing ourselves in the rich motor history of the region, our appetites were whetted for a hearty meal. The Aso area, known for its cattle grazing, is synonymous with ‘Akaushi’ beef.

We stopped at a family-owned ranch restaurant renowned for its Akaushi steaks. To our delight, they even added some extra cuts of ‘yakiniku’ specially for us bikers. The meal was a hit, enhanced by appetizers made from local vegetables and the restaurant’s warm hospitality.

With full stomachs, we then headed towards our next highlight – the crater of Mt. Nakadake in Aso.

A quick tip: Always check the official site in advance to confirm access to the crater, as it sometimes closes due to excessive gas emissions. Standing at the edge of an active volcano crater offers an exhilarating experience, a true connection to the planet’s raw energy.

Waking up inside a caldera is an extraordinary experience, one that defies capture by any camera.

The best part of rising early? The luxury of traversing empty roads and soaking in unbeatable views. We savored every moment.

We had already journeyed along some of Kyushu’s most iconic routes – the Yamanami Highway and Milk Road, and now we were gliding along the celebrated Green Road.

Kenny Road Part of this road is named in honor of the legendary 500cc motorcycle racer, Kenny Roberts. Along this route, there’s a rest stop with a covered shelter offering breathtaking views of the caldera. The sweeping roads, the wide-open vistas, and the feeling of riding in the footsteps of Kenny Roberts – it was pure awesomeness all around!

Our journey then led us through Kumamoto City and onto the Shimabara Peninsula in Nagasaki. This scenic route, with Mt. Unzen, an active volcano, as its centerpiece, offered a visual feast, especially when viewed from the ferry – a 60-minute ride, or just 30 minutes on the high-speed boat.

In the heart of the peninsula lies Unzen Onsen, a historic retreat for Europeans during the late Edo period and Japan’s first national park. The roads from Shimabara Port to Unzen are a biker’s dream, curving and dipping through breathtaking scenery.

A must-do is walking through the steaming, sulfur-scented ‘Unzen Hells’ – an otherworldly experience.

From Unzen, we crossed Isahaya Bay and followed Nagasaki Prefectural Road 207 along the Ariake Sea.

Our route then took us along the picturesque Tara-dake Orange Seaside Road, winding through mountains towards the Yutoku Inari Shrine, which draws millions of visitors each year.

Our final objective? To catch the sunset in Itoshima, Fukuoka Prefecture, before returning my bike to Ricoland in Fukuoka City. We adhered to our plan, resisting tempting detours, and arrived at the Itoshima Peninsula.

The view at Futamigaura, with its iconic Meoto Iwa (husband and wife rocks) and the pristine torii gate of Sakurai Shrine, was a fitting culmination of our journey – the sunset there was nothing short of magical.

From Itoshima, it was a 45-minute ride back to Fukuoka City, cruising along the urban expressway towards the Fukuoka Airport International Line’s nearest interchange, ‘Enokida’. The final stretch of our journey was a blend of satisfaction and anticipation – reminiscing about the roads traveled, yet eager to conclude our adventure.

As we pulled into Ricoland to return my motorcycle, a sense of accomplishment enveloped us. With tanks full and engines cooled, we had completed our 690 km, 2-night, 3-day expedition. It was a journey that showcased a slice of northern Kyushu, from the serene beauty of calderas and rustic countryside roads to the thrilling heights of active volcanoes and the mystical allure of ancient shrines.

Kyushu, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, had proven itself not just a destination, but a biker’s haven, offering experiences as diverse as the roads that wind through it. As we handed back our keys at Ricoland, we were already planning our next adventure, knowing that the roads of Kyushu would always call us back for more.

Itinerary (as of Nov. 2023)

DAY 1 From Fukuoka to Kunisaki in Oita Prefecture 07:30 Gathering: Ricoland Fukuoka Airport Store 08:00 Departure: 35km 09:00 Akizuki Castle Ruins 09:30 Departure: 40km 11:00 Mt. Hiko 11:45 Departure (Via: Yabakei) 12:45 Lunch (Yabakei) Restaurant Sardinas 13:45 Touring Kunisaki Peninsula 17:00 Check-in: Farm Stay “Organic Farm Stay”

DAY 2 From Kunisaki in Oita Prefecture to Aso 08:30 Check-out & Departure 09:00 Kitsuki Castle 09:30 Departure: 26km 10:15 Myoban Onsen 10:45 Departure: 26km 11:45 Iwashita Collection 12:45 Departure 13:00 Lunch (Ubuyama Village) Farmer’s Restaurant Yama no Sato 14:00 Departure 15:30 Mt. Aso Nakadake Crater Area (Motorcycle Entry ¥200) 16:00 Departure 17:15 Check-in (Aso Area)

DAY 3 From Aso to Unzen and Itoshima 07:30 Check-out & Departure (Via: Kenny Road) 09:00 Kumamoto Port (Complete boarding procedures 20 minutes before departure) 09:25 Kumamoto Ferry (Motorcycle over 750cc + Driver ¥3,850, Adult ¥1,500) About 30 minutes Or 9:55 Kyusho Ferry (Motorcycle over 750cc + Driver ¥2,340, Adult ¥890) About 60 minutes 10:55 Shimabara Port 11:00 Departure (to Unzen): 19km, 30 minutes Unzen Hell 11:35 Lunch ( Green Terrace Unzen ) 12:15 Departure (to Yutoku Inari): 1 hour 40 minutes + Break 20 minutes 14:15 Yutoku Inari Shrine 14:45 Departure: 2 hours 15 minutes + Break 30 minutes 17:30 Futamigaura 18:00 Departure: 45 minutes + Gas Refill 15 minutes 19:00 Ricoland Airport Store – rental bike return

Ricoland Fukuoka Airport Store

– Operating Hours: Weekdays 11:00-20:00, Weekends and Holidays 10:00-20:00 – Contact: Tel. 092-412-5819 – Address: 2-14-24 Hanmichibashi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka – https://www.ricoland.co.jp/shopinfo/fukuokaairport/ * Rental Service: Rental 819 * Additional Information: Support in English and Korean, duty-free shopping, and free parking for bikes and cars during the rental period. * Open in Mar. 2023

Rental Bike – Costing The rental bike, a black X-ADV750 with full pannier options, was perfect for our needs. The costs broke down as follows:

– Basic Fee: ¥21,120 (24 hours) + ¥14,080 for 2 additional days – Vehicle Insurance: ¥3,520 (24 hours) + ¥1,870 for 2 additional days – Accessories (Top Case and Pannier Case): ¥1,650 (24 hours) + ¥330 for 2 additional days, each – ETC Card: ¥220 x 3 days (for auto-payment on highway tolls) – Total: ¥61,820 (including 10% consumption tax)

Majestic Japan Motorcycle Tour

Mesmerizing Vietnam Motorcycle Tour

Download Tour PDF

Skill Level: Intermediate

Touring Roads: 70%

Challenging Roads: 30%

History / Culture:

Riding Time: 5 to 7 hours

How our rating system works →

IMTBIKE ROUTE rating

It is essential to know the different skill levels needed to participate in the IMTBIKE TOURS that are offered to you. IMTBIKE makes sure that it offers different tours for all riding styles and levels. The IMTBIKE team always works diligently in designing our routes. This is a laborious process which entails reviewing all road choices before selecting the best option for an IMTBIKE tour.

The most experienced motorcyclists looks for roads that require technical skill; narrow twisty roads with little traffic and endless curves. But these same roads would be too difficult for a less experienced rider.

The local driving habits, the amount of traffic, the asphalt quality and the radius of the curves vary considerably from country to country and even in different regions of the same country. They will also vary depending on the season of the year. All of these factors have been studied by IMTBIKE and have been taken into consideration when rating our tours.

IMTBIKE thinks it is also important to know about the different types of roads you will be enjoying on your tour. To understand the road types easier, IMTBIKE has divided them into two categories, and we have calculated an approximate percentage of each on all of our tours.

TOURING ROADS: These are wider roads comprised mainly of larger radius sweepers. They are still curvy roads but not tight mountainous twisty curves. Please remember that you will ride very few straight roads on IMTBIKE tours!
CHALLENGING ROADS: These are roads that are tight twisty turns which require more technical skill. Many times they will be narrower roads without a shoulder and sometimes with steep inclines or descents. Normally they will be mountainous roads accompanied by spectacular sceneries.

If you have never ridden a motorcycle outside of your country, or if you have little experience riding on mountain roads with many curves, we recommend that you choose a tour rated moderate or intermediate. If you have any questions or doubts please do not hesitate to call or email us. We are always happy to answer your questions to make sure that you choose the best tour for your riding level.

This route offers wider sweeping turns that are easy to maneuver. This route may have some tighter turns in a few places but this will be the exception. Regardless, even on moderate tours you must be able to ride a large cylinder motorcycle in any condition. Never plan to learn how to ride a motorcycle on an IMTBIKE tour. We recommend having a minimum of 8.000 km (5.000 miles) of experience riding a large cylinder motorcycle to participate on a MODERATE rated IMTBIKE Tour and you should ride a motorcycle on a regular basis at home.

Intermediate

This route rating can have sections of very twisty curves on narrow roads with no center line to divide the road. There will also wider radius curves on these routes. Traffic conditions can be intense at times in some urban environments and the local driving habits may seem aggressive and unpredictable to you. It is imperative that you are an experienced motorcyclist. We recommend that you have a minimum of 12.000 km (7500 miles) of large cylinder motorcycle experience to participate on a INTERMEDIATE rated IMTBIKE Tour and you should ride a motorcycle on a regular basis at home.

This route rating has long sections of technical narrow twisty roads and sometimes single lane roads. These twisty roads will often be in mountains where steep inclines and descents will be commonplace. Some riding days can be long and challenging. Traffic conditions can be intense at times in some urban environments and the local driving habits may seem aggressive and unpredictable to you. It is imperative that you are a very experienced motorcyclist on a large cylinder motorcycle. We recommend that you have a minimum of 16.000 km (10.000 miles) of large cylinder motorcycle experience on an ADVANCE rated IMTBIKE Tour and of course you should ride a motorcycle on a regular basis at home.

IMTBIKE Average Daily Riding Hours

5 to 7 hours 6 to 8 hours 7 to 9 hours

How many hours a day you ride on a tour is important information in helping you decide on the right IMTBIKE tour for you. Some tour members want to ride as many hours as possible everyday, while others prefer to stop more frequently and dedicate more time to enjoying the scenery, visiting cultural sights and arrive at the hotel earlier to relax before dinner. The daily riding hours are calculated including the coffee breaks and photo stops but they do not include the time taken for lunch.

Normally we’ll start our riding day at 9:30am and we will take about a one hour lunch break sometime between 1pm and 2pm. So if the daily riding hours for a given tour are 5-7, then you will arrive at the hotel between 3:30pm- 5:30pm depending on the average speed of the group.

Land of the Rising Sun

Sep. 23 — oct. 08, 2024 5 spots left, oct. 12 — oct. 27, 2024 sold out, may. 11 — may. 26, 2025 14 spots left, sep. 22 — oct. 07, 2025 14 spots left, oct. 11 — oct. 26, 2025 14 spots left, from: € 10400.

Japan is one of the most desired destinations for many tourists, at IMTBIKE we have prepared a Motorcycle route that highlights little known roads, sophisticated Japanese food its refined culture and rich history. On this tour you will enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, lush forests of the Japanese Alps and relax in the famous natural hot springs that we find along our way. Live this autumn in a different way on this incredible motorcycle tour in Japan.

Start / End Tokyo Total Distance 1,740 miles / 2,818 km
Total Time 16 Days Riding Days 14 Days
Rest Days 3 Kyoto, Hiroshima, Kusatsu Breakfast 15 Included Breakfasts
Dinners 12 Dinners Daily Mileage 160-220 miles / 250-350 km
Hotel Overnights 15 Nights Riding Season Autumn
Highlights: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Japanese alps, Tsumago, Shikoku, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Eiheiji, Matsumoto, Kusatsu, Nikko. Accommodations: Quality hotels and Japanese Ryokans. Ryokans are a type of traditional Japanese Inn that has existed since the 8th century. The oldest hotel in the world is a Japanese Ryokan founded in 718 A.D.

Majestic Japan Motorcycle Tour Gallery

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: arrival in tokyo, day 2: hakone - kawaguchi lake, day 3: lake kawaguchi - kiso valley - gero hot springs., day 4: gero hot springs - kyoto, day 5: kyoto - rest day, day 6: kyoto – takamatsu, day 7: takamatsu - hiroshima, day 8: hiroshima - rest day, day 9: hiroshima - tottori, day 10: tottori - fukui, day 11: fukui - takayama, day 12: takayama - kusatsu, day 13: kusatsu - rest day, day 14: kusatsu - nikko, day 15: nikko - tokyo, day 16: flight back home.

Arrive to Japan and transfer to hotel. You will have some free time to relax or explore the Odaiba bay area before the welcome briefing. After the briefing we will have a welcome dinner at a traditional Japanese izakaya restaurant.

Our first riding day will get us outside of the bustling Tokyo, through Yokohama and its impressive suspension bridges. Then we will continue riding through the picturesque west of Kanagawa prefecture to reach the famous Mazda Turnpike Road. At the top we will be greeted with a beautiful view of Mount Fuji. We will continue to ride towards it through two skylines. After reaching the fifth station of Mount Fuji we will visit the second world heritage site of the day; the old town of Oshino Hakkai. Then we will continue to the hotel at Kawaguchi Lake, riding around Mount Fuji.

Lake kawaguchi - Kiso Valley - Gero Hot Springs.

We will head west, having the Japanese Southern Alps on the left to reach the Suntory Hakushu Whisky Distillery, enclosed in a forest in the mountains, for a tour of how they make this acclaimed spirit. Then we will continue towards Suwa Lake to enter the Kiso Valley and ride its winding roads to Tsumago Village, and old town that has been restored to its appearance as Edo-era post town. It was the 42 of the 69 post towns that connected Edo (present Tokyo) with Kyoto. After we will go to Gero city, famous for its hot springs.

We will ride through Gifu Mountain roads to reach Ibuki Driveway, a fun toll road that that goes all the way up to Ibuki Mountain for a wonderful view of the area from the top. Then we will continue to pass by Hikone city and its castle, one of only 12 Japanese castles with the original keep, and one of only five castles listed as a national treasure. And continue to ride along Biwa Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Japan to reach the old capital of Kyoto.

Today is a rest day in Kyoto, most well known in Japanese history for being the former imperial capital of Japan for more than one thousand years. Due to its exceptional historic value, the city was dropped from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and escaped destruction during World War II. Countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today. We suggest taking a walk in the bamboo grooves in the morning followed by visits to some of the most beautiful temples the city has to offer, like Kinkakuji (the golden temple) or Kiyo Mizudera.

Today we will ride through Osaka and Kobe to reach the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. It was opened in 1998 and with a length of almost four kilometers, it is the world's longest suspension bridge. Through it we will reach Awaji Island first and then head into Shikoku Island. Shikoku (literally meaning "four countries") is Japan's fourth largest island. True to its name, Shikoku is divided into four prefectures. In the city of Takamatsu we will visit the Ritsurin Gardens, one of the most famous historical gardens in Japan, build by the local feudal lords during the early Edo period.

Today we will ride through Shikoku island and some of its mountain roads, and then cross back to Honshu the main island. We will do so through the impressive Shimanami Kaido, a 60km long toll road that connects six small islands in the Seto Inland Sea. Beautiful scenery can be enjoyed all along the way. Once back in Honshu we will head to Hiroshima city, where we will stay for the night.

Today is a rest day in Hiroshima. When the first atomic bomb was dropped over Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, the city became known worldwide for this unenviable distinction. The destructive power of the bomb was tremendous and obliterated nearly everything within a two kilometer radius. Only the atomic bomb dome building was left standing. A visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and to the near Miyajima Island are highly recommended. Miyajima is most famous for its giant torii gate, which at high tide seems to float on the water. The sight is ranked as one of Japan's three best views. While officially named Itsukushima, the island is more commonly referred to as Miyajima, Japanese for "shrine island". This is because the island is so closely related to its key shrine, Itsukushima Shrine, in the public's mind. Like the torii gate, the shrine's main buildings are built over water. Miyajima is a romantic place and there are also wild deer on the island roaming around. Watch out, they like to eat maps and any paper you have on your hands!

Today we will cross Honshu Island to reach the Sea of Japan, going through mountain roads on three different prefectures; Hiroshima, Okayama and Tottori.

Today we will ride to Amanohashidate, one of the known as best three scenic views of Japan. We will continue to ride through Obama city and then ride the Mikata Five lakes Rainbow Road. A beautiful winding road that has the sea of Japan on one side and the Mikata five lakes on the other. The panorama from the top is astonishing. We will then continue riding to Fukui prefecture.

Today we will visit Eiheji, a large temple complex and active monastery standing on a cedar covered slope in the mountains just outside Fukui City. The temple was founded in 1244 by Dogen, the Buddhist scholar who introduced Soto Zen from China to Japan in 1228. We will then continue to visit the World Heritage Site of Shirakawago in the remote mountains that span between Gifu and Toyama. They are famous for their Gassho-Zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old. Then we will reach Takayama where we will spend the night.

Today we will visit Matsumoto Castle. It is one of the most complete and beautiful among Japan's original castles. It is unique for having both a secondary donjon and a turret adjoined to its main keep. The castle structures, in combination with their characteristic black wainscoting, give off an air of grandeur and poise. We will then continue to ride to the Japanese Northern Alps, including the highest public road in the country. On the way there we will visit the largest wasabi farm in Japan to learn more about this iconic element of Japanese cuisine. An idyllic scene of old-fashioned, wooden water wheels alongside the river of the farm can also be enjoyed from the walking trails. The water wheels were constructed here for the filming of Kurosawa Akira's "Dreams" in 1989 and have been left standing. We will spend the night at the Hot Spring town of Kusatsu.

Today is a rest day in Kusatsu. It is one of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts and is blessed with large volumes of high quality hot spring water said to cure every illness except lovesickness! Well known as a hot spring resort for many centuries, Kusatsu's fame was further boasted by German doctor Erwin Von Baelz, who served at the imperial court in the late 1800s and recommended Kusatsu for its water's health benefits. Kusatsu is situated at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture and is a great place to walk and relax in their hot springs. It also offers great day trips for riding in the near mountains for those who want to keep exploring on two wheels.

Today we will ride the Japanese romantic road, and through two lakes in volcano craters. One is Mount Haruna, and the other Mount Akagi, which has a temple inside an island, inside a lake, inside the crater. Then we will continue riding winding roads all the way to Nikko.

One the last day before heading back to Tokyo we will ride through the 400 year old Suginami Cedar Avenue. It is the longest tree lined avenue in the world with cedar trees that stand 30 meters tall and enclose over 35 kilometers of road. Originally about 200,000 trees were planted in a project which began around 1625, and extended over approximately 20 years. We will also go to the Twing Ring Motegi Circuit and enjoy the extensive Honda Collection Hall Museum were hundreds of motorcycles are displayed and kept in running condition.

Today you will say your goodbyes to the guides and the other tour members (now your new friends) as you make your way to the airport to fly home. We’ll see you again on our next motorcycle adventure together!

Majestic Japan Motorcycle Tour Pricing

The base price of every tour is calculated for a single rider on a Honda NC750X or Suzuki VStrom and sharing a double room.

Add passenger

+ € 7300

Single Room Supplement

+ € 2100

+ € 350

+ € 600

BMW R1200RS

BMW R1250GS

+ € 895

BMW R1250RT

+ € 1215

€ 10400

Included in tour:.

Overnight accommodations in high quality hotels
A gourmet dinner every night (except on rest days).
Complete buffet breakfast every morning.
New model BMW motorcycle fully equipped with 3 BMW cases.
Tour handbook (normally about 70 pages-very comprehensive) and highlighted map.
Expert multilingual guide on a motorcycle.
Multilingual guide in support vehicle which will carry your luggage, any oversized purchases you make; or even a passenger or two.
Tour Souvenirs.

Not included in Tour:

Air ticket, lunches, gasoline, drinks, tolls, personal spending and tips

Cookie Policy

We use our own and third party cookies to prepare statistical information and show you personalized advertising through the analysis of your browsing, if you continue browsing, you accept its use.

21 DAY TOUR (Japan – Endless Discovery)

DATE & PRICES
Book the tour

Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Let us introduce you to some of the best spots, courses, and plans recommended by Big Bike Tours. Can you imagine? Riding through Japan on a rising dragon-shaped road, passing through several of the most fascinating places in all of Japan.

Being 70% mountains, having perfect roads, lots of nature, delicious food, and being super safe, Japan is truly a paradise for riders. On top of all this, it has a magnificent unique culture, not only in Asia but in the whole world. And exploring it with the freedom that a motorcycle gives you is the best way possible! And then we Big Bike Tours come in to provide you with priceless local knowledge and “omotenashi” for a dream-like adventure. Omotenashi is the philosophy of Japanese hospitality, it goes beyond service, captures how Japanese hosts pay attention to detail and anticipate their guests’ needs.

Come and experience it all with us! Send us a message to discuss this further and we will organize your motorcycle tour in Japan. A unique riding experience you will never forget! And no one offers all of this and the time to enjoy and savor each location more than Big Bike Tours!

Please be informed, that we offer the best cost-benefit ratio for motorcycle touring in Japan. You can entirely focus on your holiday, the adventure, the riding, and Japan’s endless discovery. Come ride with us – the real deal !

TOKYO – LAKE KAWAGUCHI – GERO HOT SPRINGS – KYOTO – HIMEJI – HIROSHIMA – KITA KYUSHU – BEPPU HOT SPRINGS – KUMAMOTO – FUKUOKA – MASUDA – TOTTORI – FUKUI – NANAO – HIRAYU – KUSATSU – NIKKO – TOKYO

(Distance: approximately 3.300 km / 2.050 miles)

Day 1. Arrival in Tokyo

Day 2. tokyo - lake kawaguchi (103 km), day 3. lake kawaguchi - gero hot springs (326 km), day 4. gero - kyoto (220 km).

Day 5. Rest Day in Kyoto

Day 6. Kyoto - Himeji (131 km)

Day 7. himeji - hiroshima (234 km).

Day 8. Rest Day in Hiroshima

Day 9. Hiroshima - Kita Kyushu (222 km)

Day 10. kita kyushu - beppu hot springs (111 km), day 11. beppu hot springs - kumamoto (140 km), day 12. kumamoto - fukuoka (120 km), day 13. fukuoka - masuda (250 km), day 14. masuda - tottori (280 km), day 15. tottori - fukui (300 km), day 16. fukui - nanao (160 km), day 17. nanao - hirayu (170 km), day 18. hirayu - kusatsu (200 km), day 19. kusatsu - nikko (170 km), day 20. nikko - tokyo (180 km).

Day 21. Tokyo, Departure

1. Motorcycles

Some examples of bikes according to their class:

P4 bikes: Yamaha MT09, Kawasaki W800, Honda NC750X, Yamaha XSR700, Suzuki VStrom650, Honda CB400SB.

P5 bikes: Honda CB1300SB, Yamaha Tracer 900 and GT, BMW F750GS, Honda CB1100, Yamaha Z900RS, Yamaha XSR900

P6 bikes: Honda Africa Twin 1100 (normal transmission and DCT), Ducati Multistrada 950S

P7 bikes: Ducati Multistrada 1260S, Multistrada 1260 Enduro, BMW R1250GS, BMW R1200GS

P8 bikes: Honda Goldwing, Harley Heritage Classic, Harley Road Glide, Harley Street Glide, Harley Electra Glide, Harley Road King

2. License and other requirements

What do I need to drive in Japan with Big Bike Tours？

Be at least 20 years of age.

Credit card (we recommend bringing more than one just in case).

Have a valid motorcycle driving license from Japan or one of the following countries, plus an international driving permit stamped on “A” for motorcycles or an Official Japanese Translation, depending on the country. For more details please continue reading:

If your driving license was issued in a country not listed above, you cannot drive in Japan. Also please check notes regarding foreign driving licenses at the end.

Notes regarding foreign driving licenses:

Please check the expiration date, and make sure it is still valid.

Does your motorcycle license have any restrictions like engine displacement, transmission type, etc.? If so, the same restrictions will apply in Japan.

You must have spent 3 months in the country where your motorcycle license was issued after obtaining the license. This is a requirement by Japanese law.

※If the International Driving Permit has

“1968” written on the front cover, is NOT valid in Japan. It also has to be stamped on “A” for motorcycles, and the 1-year validity has to be in force:

Important notes regarding the International Driving Permit (IDP):

It has to be issued in the same country as the driver’s license.

Check that the IDP is issued by the correct licensing authority.

The IDP has no validity on its own. It has to be accompanied at all times by a valid driving license.

Home Country Driving License + Official Japanese translation of the Driving license

If your license is issued in Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, Monaco, Estonia,　Slovenia, or Taiwan you will need to obtain an official Japanese translation of your home country driving license. This can be obtained at the Japanese Automobile Federation or official authorities like Embassies and consulates.

Special notes:

License holders from Belgium, France, and Monaco have two options :

Obtain a 1949 Geneva Convention-based IDP, as the “Group 1” countries mentioned above.

Obtain an official Japanese translation of their driving license, as the “Group 2” countries mentioned above.

Italy, Poland, and Russia signed both the :

1949 Geneva Convention on road traffic.

1968 Vienna Convention on road traffic.

Therefore authorities of these countries have the right to issue IDPs based on both conventions, but they usually issue IDPs based on the 1968 Vienna Convention. However, Japan only recognizes IDPs issued based on the 1949 Convention. If you can obtain an IDP based on the 1949 Geneva Convention (“1949 Convention” is written on the front cover), you can drive in Japan. But with an IDP based on the 1968 Vienna Convention, you cannot drive in Japan.

In the USA , only two organizations are allowed to sell real, legal IDPs: the American Automobile Association, and the American Automobile Touring Alliance, which offers IDPs through the National Automobile Club.

3. Recommended items for touring

3.1. riding clothes.

At Big Bike Tours we believe in safety and for us, a good tour is also a safe tour. Therefore we encourage the use of high-quality riding gear fully covering your body, possibly with protectors inside. Also, to let you freely come to Japan without the weight of the riding gear, we provide the rental of a wide range of gears in many sizes.

The winning kit for the perfect rider:

Here you are the list of the items we suggest to bring with you for a wonderful and safe tour in Japan.

・Helmet (Mandatory by law)

・Winter Jacket (leather or Goretex best)

・Trousers (leather or Goretex best)

・Riding boots

・Winter gloves

3.2. Documents

People not holding a Japanese driving license must bring below 3 fundamental items to legally and safely ride in Japan. We will require a copy of your documents while organizing booking operations for your motorcycle tour.

For more detailed information regarding the documents you need, based on your nationality, to safely ride in Japan, check out the first section at the top of this page: “1. License and other requirements”

Domestic Driving License

The first, fundamental, item to safely ride in Japan is your domestic license. Also, it must be not expired and valid for riding the vehicle of your choice in Japan.

The second important item to ride in Japan for people not resident in this country is the Passport. Bring it with you as a personal document and also as proof of your legal stay in Japan.

The time limit for a tourist visa in Japan varies from country to country, so please check your maximum permitted length of stay with the Japanese Embassy in your country.

International Driving Permit or Official Japanese Translation

Based on your driving license issuing country, to drive in Japan you will need an International Driving Permit based on the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic or an Official Translation of your Driving License made by the Japanese Automobile Federation (JAF).

To check which one of these two documents you will need based on your country, check out the first section at the top of this page: “1. License and other requirements” Riders coming from countries under the International Driving Permit have to make sure to have the stamp on the A section for motorcycle riding. Also, they must make sure to receive a 1949 Geneva Convention-based International Driving Permit, since there is also another International Driving Permit based on the 1968 Vienna Convention on road traffic, which is not accepted in Japan.

4. Traffic Rules

4.1. left-hand traffic.

Roads in Japan use a left-hand traffic system. Since right-turning cars may be waiting in the right-hand lane of a two-lane road, keep driving in the left lane if you do not intend to turn right. Don’t forget to use your indicators when changing lanes so that the cars behind know your intentions.

4.2. Right-turning vehicles must wait

Drivers are asked to give way to oncoming vehicles in principle when the driver intends to turn right. Make right turns after oncoming cars have traveled past or turned left. Priority is given to left turns in Japan. There are no rules regarding giving way to right-turning cars.

3.3. Never fail to stop when a traffic light is red

Watch the traffic light in front carefully and do not start to move before the traffic light turns green. Traffic lights in Japan are located on the front side of intersections and you must stop your motorcycle rather far.

Bring your motorcycle to a complete stop at stop signs and in front of train crossings.

4.4. Obey arrow traffic lights.

When the traffic light is red, all cars must in principle stop. However, where there are arrow traffic lights provided below or at the side of the traffic lights, you may turn in the direction the arrow points when it is green. Right-turn arrow traffic lights are the most prevalent. When a right-turning arrow is shown, turn quickly while paying full attention to oncoming vehicles. Many intersections where this type of traffic light is provided have right-turn-only lanes.

4.5. Always pay attention to speed limits.

Speed limits are set at 30-50km/h in urban areas and 40-60km/h in the suburbs and on major roads. The speed limit is normally set at 70-100km/h on expressways.

4.6. Pay attention to the no-overtaking zones

4.7. never drink and drive.

It is now considered common sense not to drive a car under the influence of alcohol. It is the same in Japan, however, enforcement of the law and penalties for breaking it are stricter here. If alcohol is detected by a breath test, you will be penalized with imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to 500,000 yen. Even more severe penalties are imposed for driving while intoxicated. In Japan, drivers who refuse to take a breath test are also punished. Sober passengers who ride together with a drunken driver and those who encourage a driver to drink will also be punished. Never drink and drive.

4.8. Traffic Signals

You must stop before the stop line (or before the intersection when there is no stop line) at an intersection with a Stop sign, and yield to vehicles traveling on the crossing road.

WARNING SIGNS

Day 1. Tokyo, Arrival

Day 2. Tokyo – Lake Kawaguchi (103 km)

Day 3. Lake Kawaguchi – Gero Hot Springs (326 km)

Day 4. Gero – Kyoto (220 km)

Day 6. Kyoto – Himeji (131 km)

Day 7. Himeji – Hiroshima (234 km)

Day 9. Hiroshima – Kita Kyushu (222 km)

Day 10. Kita Kyushu – Beppu Hot Springs (111 km)

Day 11. Beppu Hot Springs – Kumamoto (140 km)

Day 12. Kumamoto – Fukuoka (120 km)

Day 13. Fukuoka – Masuda (250 km)

Day 14. Masuda – Tottori (280 km)

Day 15. Tottori – Fukui (300 km)

Day 16. Fukui – Nanao (160 km)

Day 17. Nanao – Hirayu (170 km)

Day 18. Hirayu – Kusatsu (200 km)

Day 19. Kusatsu – Nikko (170 km)

Day 20. Nikko – Tokyo (180 km)

2024 Tour Starts | 07. September – 27. September | –> still 1 spot left!

2025 Tour Starts | 24. March – 13. April | –> Sold Out! | 06. September – 26. September |

Beautiful cherry blossom spot “Yoshinoyama”

I went to Yoshinoyama in Nara Prefecture, which is famous nationwide as a cherry blossom spot! The mountain cherry blossoms spread from ridge to ridge, and from valley to valley. This year, the cherry blossoms bloomed early, and while the cherry trees in Shimo-senbon and Naka-senbon were already starting to fall, the cherry blossoms in…

Suzuki History Museum

I went to the Suzuki History Museum in Hamamatsu!From the original weaving machines to retro old and new motorcycles and cars, Suzuki’s charm was fully showcased!I was overwhelmed by the historic motorcycle such as the Diamond Free, which traveled 47,000km from Bangkok to Paris in two years in 1957, and the RM62 that won the…

Delicious! it’s a perfect Unagi eel. It was worth the 5-hour journey. It’s really delicious! Since it’s Kansai-style, the outside is crispy and the inside is soft and fluffy. The sweet and savory taste of soy sauce and mirin, with a fragrant aroma. Waking up early was a good decision.

Mount Fuji has appeared

Mt. Fuji showed its face a little! What a beautiful view✨ Now, I’m going to Hamamatsu to eat eel. I’m excited.

Touring report

5 days Venus Line Tour

Customers : 12 people-11 riders & 1 pillionpassenger country : PhilippineTouring course: Tokyo-Izu peninsula-Mt.Fuji 5th station-Tateshina-Venus Line-Matsumoto-Shirakawago-Takayama-Kusatsu-Kawaguchiko lake-TokyoTotal distance : 1250kmThey are from Philippine. We had a wonderful Japan tour with a group of close friends from the Philippines! The first day was a bit tough with rain and wind, but from the second day,…

Continue Reading 5 days Venus Line Tour

7days Tohoku Tour

Customers : 7 people- 6 riders & 1 pillion passengerCountry : Italy Touring course: Tokyo-Yunishikawa-Aizuwakamatsu-Zao–Akiu-Naruko -Ikaho-TokyoTotal distance: 1390km They are from Italy.They are the repeat customer.It’s been five years since we last met.This time we rode to Tohoku area to enjoy autumn leaves.It was a journey through the beautifully adorned Tohoku region with autumn foliage,…

Continue Reading 7days Tohoku Tour

10 days Tohoku Tour

Customers : 4 people- 2 riders & 2 pillion passengers Country : Malaysia Touring course: Tokyo-Kinugawa-Sendai-Lake Tazawa-Sakata- -Nozawa Onsen-Matsumoto-Gotenba-Tokyo Total distance: 1785km They are from Malaysia.They are the repeat customer. It’s been six years since we last met. This time we rode to Tohoku area to enjoy a true Japanese atmosphere. They enjoy scenery, local…

Continue Reading 10 days Tohoku Tour

Los Angeles, CA
Portland, OR
Anchorage, AK
One-Way Rentals
Transporter Specials
TERMS & CONDITIONS
PRIVACY & COPYRIGHT

JAPAN: HOKKAIDO EXPLORER

During the Hokkaido Japan motorcycle tour you will experience the island that every Japanese motorcyclist dreams of riding. Hokkaido offers perfectly manicured scenic roads, large national parks, wildlife, natural hot springs, steaming volcanoes and wildlife. It is known for having 20% of the land of Japan and 5% of its population. The tour is designed to stay for two nights at each location, so each rider may explore each section of the island on their own or with the guide.

NOTE* There is a list of MOTORCYCLE UPGRADE CHOICES at the bottom of this page.

Road Conditions: This motorycle tour features all paved roads winding through forests, past mountains, rivers, lakes and along the ocean coast. The quality of the roads on Hokkaido are exceptional, and feature some sections where there there is little or no traffic.

TOUR PRICING

*Double Occupancy - Base Bike with a Shared Room *Single Occupancy - Base Bike with Your Own Room *Couples Package - Two Participants on One Base Bike in One Private Room

UPGRADE PRICING

The itinerary, arrival day.

DAY 1 - Your motorcycle tour will begine when you arrive in Chitose, Hokkaido. We will come meet you at the airport this day and transport you to Sapporo, the main city of Hokkaido. Later, join all the MotoQuest riders at a welcome dinner, first class. Stay in Sapporo

DAY 2 - Sapporo Free Day: Sapporo is a rarity in Japan as it was designed before it was built. Its wide boulevards, spacious parks and general layout make it an easy city to get around. Take advantage of this day to catch up on jet lag and explore the city of Sapporo. Visit a bike shop or two, go shopping, get accustomed to the time change and walk the main park during this leisurely day. Stay in Sapporo.

DAY 3 - Sapporo to Furano: Today you will pick up bikes in Chitose, and ride to Tokachi Dake area near Furano. Furano is know for its lavendar fields in the summer and its ski area in the winter. It hosted the 1970 Winter Olympics and is know for some of the best snow in the world for downhill skiing. The road today is through a forest with virtually no traffic. This is ubiquitous for Hokkaido and you will soon realize that there are many faces of Japan, with Hokkaido leading the way in wild, open spaces. Stay in the Furano area.

DAY 4 - Furano to Bifuka: The motorcycle adventure continues as we pick out some more great backroads of Hokkaido. Enjoy the serenity of perfectly manicured paved roads with little or no traffic. Stop at a biker cafe and take in the atmosphere. Marvel at the hospitality of the Japanese. Stay in Bifuka area.

DAY 5 - Free Day Bifuka: Ride the coast of the Sea of Japan today! Venture to the most northern tip of Japan at Cape Soya. Ride through the busy port city of Wakkanai. Experience solitude as you ride the coast of the Sea of Japan. Stay in Bifuka.

DAY 6 - Bifuka to Mt. Io area: Ride through countryside and over mountains. These roads are twisty and and in excellent condition, with virtually no stop lights. This island is made for riding! Stay in Iozan area.

DAY 7 - Free day in Mt. Io area: Ride a terrific loop out to epic Shiretoko Peninsula and back, home to Shiretoko National Park. Gaze out over Russian Islands and ride sweepers by steaming volcanoes. Stay in Mt. Io area.

DAY 8 - Iozan to Minami Furano Town: Take some twisty backroads by serene lakes and over heavily forested mountains. You will find that sparsely trafficed roads are almost without limits on Hokkaido. Stay in Minami Furano Town.

DAY 9 - Free Day in Minami Furano Town:There are alot of activities to enjoy in this little mountain town: canoeing, rafting, hiking...just to name a few. You may also consider taking a day ride out to Cape Erimo, and ride the epic "Golden Road" along the Pacific Ocean...a ride you will not soon forget!! Stay in Minami Furano Town.

DAY 10 - Minami Furano Town to Niseko: Ride past conical volcanoes, clear water lakes and to the outdoor recreation capital of Hokkaido, Niseko. Stay in Niseko.

DAY 11 - Free Day in Niseko: There are many outdoor activities to choose from. This is the rafting capital of Hokkaido. You may also join the guide for a loop ride around the area of Niseko. The volcanoes set up an exotic backdrop to some incredible paved roads winding through the mountains and along the rugged coast. Stay in Niseko.

DAY 12 - Niseko to Sapporo: Ride the scenic Sea of Japan coast back towards Chitose. Sadly, we will be turning in our bikes today. Farewell Dinner this evening in Chitose. Stay in Chitose.

DAY 13- Fly Home or keep the dream alive. The next motorcycle adventure vacation awaits.

DEPARTURE DAY

The gear to bring.

MotoQuest guides wear KLIM helmets, jackets, pants and gloves, and we outfit our motorcycles with luggage and accessories from Twisted Throttle. You can view and download our complete MotoQuest packing list here .

Starting Price for This Tour: $10,800 See Full Tour Pricing

Total Miles for this Adventure: 1900

Difficulty: Is this tour right for me? Contact us with any questions

MotoQuest Staff on Tour

Motorcycles Included

Motorcycles Available

Included with the tour.

Hotel Accommodations
Premiere Welcome and Farewell Dinners
Professional MotoQuest Guide(s)
Support Vehicle
Support Vehicle Driver
Staff Trained in First Aid with Satellite Phone
MotoQuest Swag Bag
Photos Taken on the Trip
Automatic Enrollment in Global Rescue

Not Included

Meals on the Road
Alternative Tours
Travel Insurance
National Park Entrance Fees

Special Circumstances

Choose a date.

June 01, 2025 - June 13, 2025

Your First Name:

Your last name:, enter your email address:, enter your phone number:, choose a motorcycle.

Please Select a Motorcycle Suzuki DL650 V-Strom

Your privacy is very important to us. View our privacy policy here.

Interested in joining us on one of our motorcycle adventures, or renting one of our bikes to go on an adventure of your own? Fill out the information below, and one of our MotoQuest experts will get back to you.

First Name:

Your phone number:, your email address.

How would you like to be contacted?

Email Phone No Preference

If you chose phone, when would be a good time for us to call?

Your Question:

Tell us what you would like to know more about so we can assist you better

Would you like to receive our newsletter?

Your First Name (required)

Your Last Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Destination

Custom Tour Start

Custom Tour End

Number of Riders

Tell us about what you want to do and see on your custom tour!

Your Question

Subscribe to our mailing list

Please fill out the form below and a MotoQuest representative will get back to you as soon as possible. Or, feel free to call us at 1 (800) 756-1990.

Your Phone Number

Your Message

Motorcycle Roads in Japan

Venus Line (Nagano) | Routes Around the World

Newest Motorcycle Roads & Rides in Japan

Best Motorcycle Roads & Rides in Japan

Signup For eNewsletter

Updates on new roads, events, motorcycle news and more!

*Due to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake that occurred on January 1 2024, some routes and stops may be changed.

The Dragon Route(Shoryudo) Motorcycle Guided Tour

Nagoya(Aichi) Departure / 7Days / 6 Nights Can you imagine? Riding through Japan on a rising dragon shaped road, passing through several of the most fascinating places in all Japan.The world heritage Shirakawa-go and its steep thatched roofs, resembling the hands of a Buddhist monk in pray. The gorgeous Noto Peninsula, stage of the legendary Genpei War, with its gorgeous coastal scenery and the luxurious Wakura Onsen.And then, the dream road no one can ever imagine: Chirihama! The only one riding beach in all Japan! Going on the motorcycle of your dreams, enjoying the energizing sensation of the bright blue see at less than one foot from your tire. A unique riding experience you will never forget!

from ￥519,000

2024 Tour schedule

Please choose your preferred departing schedule. This is a guided tour which will give you the possibility to enjoy Japan in total security with a tour guide and a support van accompanying you. *Be aware that in case the minimum number of 6 riders is not reached, the tour may be canceled.

24 MAR 2024 - 30 MAR 2024 Application closed
12 MAY 2024 - 18 MAY 2024 Application closed
23 JUN 2024 - 29 JUN 2024 Application closed
13 OCT 2024 - 19 OCT 2024
03 NOV 2024 - 09 NOV 2024

Sightseeing

History culture

◎ Included in Tour

Guide on motorcycle

Vehicle’s rental price

Support Van

Collision damage waiver

ETC card rental fee

Toll roads fee

6 nights overnight hotel accommodations

6 breakfasts/6 dinners

Route guide

Tour road book

× Not Included in Tour

Helmets, gears,and other optional accessories

from 519,000 yen

Reccomended Motorcycles

BMW / R1250GS(P-7)

BMW / F750GS (P-5)

Honda / NC750(P-4)

DAY1 & 2

DAY1 & 2 : Briefing and Welcome Party & Departure(Nagoya)

On the day before our departure, our tour guides will hold a brief meeting time to let you enjoy your tour in Japan in with security and fun. They will explain you Japan's riding rules, peculiarity, Japanese culture and of course your tour schedule in detail. After the first briefing and some kilometers on the road, we will visit the Nagoya Castle、built in the beginning of the Edo Period and one of the most popular castles in Japan. We will then move to Atsuta Shrine, ancient structure enshrining the Sun Goddess Amaterasu and store of the the sacred sword Kusanagi, one of the three imperial treasures. At lunch we will have a local delicacy: Hitsumabushi, Nagoya specialty made of grilled fresh water eel are served over rice. After lunch we will ride to a place called Heaven's Green Tea Fields in Gifu. We will stop for a while, maybe a cup of green tea, and go ahead to the hotel we stay over tonight.

DAY3 : Gifu→Ishikawa

Today we will ride north to Ishikawa for a beautiful ride into the mountains. First stop will be Gujo Hachiman Castle Town, famous for plastic sample foods. You can actually try making a sample food. Then, we will stop at Road Station Kuzuryu for lunch. Please enjoy local foods. Today's other highlight is the Japan Automobile Museum. Established in 1978 by Shoso Maeda, popular entrepreneur, with the aim to display his personal collection of cars, including some historically iconic Japan's commercial vehicles, but also ordinary vehicles, embodying the authenticity of the ordinary life Japan in the last years. Tonight, we will stay at traditional Japanese hotel, Ryokan. Please enjoy delicious dinner and hot spring bath in Awara Hot Spring Town.

DAY4 : Ishikawa→Nanao

Today we will visit first Kenrokuen, which is justifiably classified as one of Japan's ""three most beautiful landscape gardens". Opened to the public in 1871, Kenrokuen features a variety of flowering trees, giving the garden a different look in each season. We will continue to the north to enjoy some extraordinary beach ride on the legendary Chirihama beach, the only beach driveway in Japan. We will then move to the Keta Shrine, Shinto shrine with a history as a holy spot datings back over 2000 years. This shrine enshrines the deity Okuninushi, who is a god of finding true love. We will then end our day into a luxury hot spring resort by the sea.

DAY5 : Nanao→Himi

Lacquerware is one of the traditional crafts in Japan. Today we will continue riding up to the north by visiting the Shioyasu lacquerware factory, one of the most old wax factories in the country. It takes so much time to complete one craft. You will be able to see artisan actually making lacquerware piece. After visiting Shioyasu, we will ride to the east side of the Peninsula with a beautiful view of the Senmaida, a hillside of terraced rice fields along the Sea of Japan with over 2000 small rice fields that must be worked by hand. Today, we will go back to the Ryokan early that you can enjoy and relax. It is famous for the beautiful sun set view from the ryokan. There is optional experience of Sutra copying and Zen meditation in Shorin Temple.

DAY6 : Himi→Hida

Today we will first experience Japanese tea ceremony in Kanayamachi. Maccha will be made one by on e in front of you and will be served with seasonal sweet. After tea ceremony, we will go ahead to Takaoka which is famous for fresh seefood. Please enjoy really fresh tast of sashimi and sushi. In the afternoon, we will ride to Sake and Wisky brewing factory. You can learn history and how sake is made, and also there are many photogenic spots in the factory. We will then ride to the south to the World Heritage site of Shirakawago,with their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old. Tonight, we will stay in Hida, which is famous for Hida beef! Fresh seefood for lunch, tasty beef for dinner.

DAY7 : Hida→Nagoya(Aichi)

Our last day we will ride on the Seseragi road, heading back to Nagoya along the Japanese Alps. We will stop at Seki, famous in in the country for being the base city for most of Japan’s cutlery industry. Here we will enjoy a katana performance and we will then have a unique visit into the laboratory to take a look at an authentic katana laboratory at work. We will then go back to the shop to return our vehicles.

Departing Store

Meito store.

＜Nearest Airports＞ Chubu International Airport Classified as a first class airport and is the main international gateway for Chubu ("central") region, it is an international airport on an artificial island 35 km south of Nagoya. Kansai Airport An international airport located on an artificial island in the middle of Osaka Bay off Honshu shore, it is the international gateway for Japan's Kansai region, which contains the major cities of Kyoto, Kobe, and Osaka.

Regarding the payment

A 20% deposit on the total tour cost is required to confirm a booking. To be paid within 3 days after the application is done.
Full payment is required until 60 days before the tour starts.
In case of bookings within 60days before the tour starts, full payment is required at the time of the booking.
The payment shall be done by credit card.
There is no security deposit fee.
In case of cancellation of the booking, our cancel policy will apply.
Any change on tour contents will comport a handling charge.

Show me more tours

Mount FUJI Tour The Symbol of Japan

Dogashima’s relaxing hot spring, the view from the Ashinoko Skyline and Mount Fuji, symbol of Japan. This tour is specifically made to let you enjoy all these unique pieces of Japanese culture in the trip of a lifetime.

Guided Tour

from ¥542,000

Tohoku Tour The "Revival of Tohoku Area"

The Tohoku area of Japan is not yet well known by many countries, let alone many Japanese people who have never been there, even though it has its own unique and original beauty. Our tour is a special chance to be able to discover not only popular sightseeing spots and roads but also a secret that only Tohoku area has to offer!

from ¥540,000

Kyushu Tour Shrines and Blue Sea

This is a course that packs some of the best ridings and sightseeing Kyushu has to offer. Famous mountain roads like the Yamanami Highway or Shimoshima coast ride. And then luxurious hot springs and delicious food.

from ¥536,000

Bay Area Motorcycle Ride

Tour the regions east and south of San Francisco on a Bay Area motorcycle ride with REVER. San Francisco may get most of the attention, but there is a lot more to see on Bay Area motorcycle rides outside of The City By The Bay. Oakland, San Leandro, Hayward, Santa Clara and San Jose all have excellent Bay Area motorcycle roads that will help you escape the city when you need a break from the crowds. All you need to do is download the REVER App, pick a route below and fire up your bike!

Tips For The Best Bay Area Motorcycle Rides

Nothing quite matches the thrill of the open road, and the REVER App helps you clock mile after epic mile of the best Bay Area motorcycle rides. You'll uncover top routes vetted by industry professionals, unique challenges designed to push your limits and live trip tracking all for free. It only takes moments to download the app, and you can hit Bay Area motorcycle roads right away. But for the best touring experience, you're going to need REVER Pro . Just a few bucks a month unlocks premium features like turn by turn and voice navigation, weather radar and alerts, LiveRIDE real time location tracking and so much more. It's the best way to see all the Bay Area has to offer.

Oakland and the surrounding towns of Berkeley, Hayward and San Leandro are generally sunnier and warmer than San Francisco as they aren't subject to the fog and chilly wind that is common closer to the ocean. You may see fog close to the bay in the morning, but it burns off pretty quickly as the sun rises. The summers in Oakland are warm and rain is fairly rare, so the riding conditions are near perfect. San Jose receives even less rainfall than Oakland, so you can tour without worry of dark skies ruining the day. You will experience regular rainfall in the winter, so pack the rain gear before you go. However, the weather shouldn't deter you from excellent rides in the area. The mountains east of the Bay Area transform quickly into desert terrain, so don't forget to stay hydrated with a motorcycle hydration system . If a higher elevation ride is on your list, don't forget to layer up and bring a reliable cold weather riding jacket .

Bay Area Attractions

The Bay Area provides rich attractions outside of San Francisco, and you can start your sightseeing in Oakland. First, you'll want to walk along the waterfront and grab a bite to eat at Jack London Square. This new area is part of the dedicated effort to revitalize the Oakland area, and you'll definitely want to make a stop to see the transformation. If you're interested in American history, the USS Potomac moored right next to Jack London Square offers a unique way to cruise the bay. This restored ship was once known as “The Floating White House” for President FDR. From there, head over to the Oakland Coliseum to catch an Athletics game. While this certainly isn't the fanciest stadium in MLB, the constant chants and banging drums from dedicated fans more than make up for it.

South from Oakland and its neighboring cities is San Jose, and it is actually beats out San Francisco as the largest city in Northern California. Silicon Valley offers its share of attractions both in the city and the surrounding mountains. San Jose is about four hours from Yosemite National Park , and it is well worth your time to take a break from motorcycle rides Bay area and head over to this majestic park. Or stay in town and tour the haunted halls of the Winchester Mystery House. Sarah Winchester was the heiress to the Winchester Repeating Arms fortune, and in the late 1800s, she built a maze-like mansion with over 160 rooms in San Jose. San Jose is also host to the Sharks NHL team if you want to catch a hockey game after a ride. Finally, if you want to do your own exploring on motorcycle routes Bay Area, there are hundreds of miles of coastal highways to the north and south that will take your breath away.

Pacific Coast Highway Carmel To Cambria Round Trip

Few places in the world stun riders more than the ride from Monterey to Big Sur on the Pacific Coast Highway. You could easily call this route the best road trip in America, and few would argue. This section of California Route 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, hugs the cliffs of the Big Sur area. Here the Santa Lucia Mountains emerge dramatically from the sea, and much of this rugged coastline is dotted with rock formations that jut out of the ocean. You'll will have to ride a fair bit south from San Jose, CA, but the trip is 100% worth it.

There are a couple other things to know before you go. This route is extremely popular, especially in the summer. Much of the ride consists of a winding two lane road, and it can get pretty bogged down by tourists. You can opt to hit this route in the winter during the off-season, and you'll experience far less traffic, but the temperatures will be cooler. One last note, this section of highway is subject to landslides. In 2017, a massive landslide closed a section of the Pacific Coast Highway for over a year. No problem, you can just go around, right? There is actually only one road that leads inland from the Big Sur area, so when you take the PCH, it's pretty much your only option. The moral of the story is check for road closures before you head out!

We'll start this route in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, just south of Monterey. You'll find two world-famous attractions in this area, Pebble Beach Golf Course and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. As you ride south out of Monterey on the 1, the road narrows into a two lane highway and the epic sights begin immediately. First, you'll pass by Point Lobos known for its sea lion viewing. Cruise the rocky Pacific coast, and keep an eye out for viewpoints like China Lookout that offer a chance to pull off and get a closer look at the ocean. Garrapata State Park Vista Point is just south of China Lookout, and there will be plenty more pull off opportunities to come. You'll cross over the Granite Canyon Bridge and Garrapata Creek Bridge on the way to Notleys Landing. The 1 is famous for its iconic bridges, and one of the most popular is next up in the Rocky Creek Bridge. This concrete arch bridge is sometimes mistaken for the world-famous Bixby Creek Bridge, but it is beautiful in its own right. Hang tight on pulling off for another mile as the Bixby Bridge is ahead.

Chances are even if you've never been to California before, you've seen the Bixby Creek Bridge. This epic concrete arch bridge spans 360 feet over Bixby Creek right next to the ocean. It was completed in 1932, and it is still one of the tallest single-span arch bridges in the world. There is a viewpoint right before you ride over the bridge, but it can only accommodate a few cars at a time. Still, you should have an easier time squeezing in a bike if you want to stop and marvel at the bridge. If you have an ADV setup, you can opt to take the Old Coast Road up to a higher viewpoint, and you'll encounter less traffic here as this is a rough dirt road. Once you've had your fill of the Bixby Bridge, keep winding along the cliffs past more viewpoints and over the Little Sur River. After the Point Sur Lighthouse, you'll ride through Andrew Molera State Park that features several hiking trails next to the coastline. This area is where you'll find most of the lodging for Big Sur as well if you're staying the night.

Once you pass the Big Sur Lodge and Campground, there is a short detour out to the ocean that you don't want to miss. Ride out to Pfeiffer Beach on a narrow, sometimes one lane road and park to see the rock formations out on the beach. You may have to wait a bit if the parking area is at capacity. The highlight here is a large rock out in the ocean with a natural arch carved through the middle. You'll be surprised at just how mesmerizing it is to watch wave after wave crash through the arch. Back on the PCH, the next section heads into the forest, and this is where you'll find the few restaurant options in the Big Sur area. Nepenthe is the most popular place to eat, and this unique restaurant perched on the cliff is definitely worth the visit. You will likely encounter long wait times if you're riding through in the summer, and there are no reservations, so keep that in mind. The Big Sur Smokehouse is a good backup plan if the Nepenthe wait times are insane.

Our REVER route ends here in Big Sur, but you'll want to ride a little farther down the Pacific Coast Highway to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The star attraction here is McWay Falls, and it is only a very short hike near the road to see the falls. This waterfall flows 80 feet down from the cliffs right onto a hidden sand beach or directly into the ocean if it is at high tide. Unfortunately, you can't hike down to the beach itself, but even seeing the waterfall from the viewpoint is a can't-miss stop. There are many more miles of rugged coastline if you keep riding south, but not much in the way of services or food until you get to Cambria, CA. You can also turn around and ride back up north to complete the ride, as it's almost impossible to get enough of this epic route.

Mt. Hamilton Loop / Diablo Grande

Ride out of Silicon Valley into the Diablo Range east of the Bay Area on this five hour plus trek. This route is paved, but portions of it contain single-lane roads and rough pavement, so it's best to have an ADV setup. We'll begin this route in eastern San Jose, CA on Quimby Road. There are no services on this first section, so make sure you're prepared to go. You'll wind through the foothills into Joseph D. Grant County Park where you'll link up with Mt. Hamilton Road. Take a right when you reach the junction with Mt. Hamilton Road. Ride past Grant Lake and gear up for some serious twists and turns on the canyon road. This road was first built to transport telescope parts up to the Lick Observatory in the late 1800s. Because the telescope parts were heavy and had to be hauled by horse-drawn wagons, the grade was kept under 7% for much of the road. This makes for a gradual and winding climb that is popular among motorcyclists and cyclists alike.

Proceed up the snaking highway towards the top of Mt. Hamilton. At one hairpin turn along the way, there is a pull off for Jupiter's Bluff overlook. Soon after, you'll reach the top of Mt. Hamilton at 4,265 ft. This point offers some of the best views in the Bay Area. On a clear day, you can look down onto San Jose and the Santa Clara Valley, over to Mt. Tamalpais by the Golden Gate Bridge and far off to the Sierra Range around Yosemite National Park. The ride down the other side of the mountain is just as engaging, although the name changes to San Antonio Valley Road on the east side of Mt. Hamilton. Once you reach the valley floor, you'll hit a dry wash as the road curves to the north. Ride all the way through the desert valley until you hit the junction with Del Puerto Canyon Road. There is a little biker roadhouse called The Junction that is a great place to grab a burger if you're hungry.

For the next section, we're going to do an out and back on Del Puerto Canyon Road. As the name suggests, you'll ride a winding desert canyon road through remote country. However, there is one stop along the way of note aside from the beautiful desert scenery. Frank Raines Park features a large OHV area that you'll want to keep in mind if you like to ride dirt. There is a fee to use the park, and some of the trails can be challenging, but this is one of the better off-road areas in the Bay Area. As you near the end of the valley, the terrain will flatten out into the agricultural center that is the Central California Valley. Fuel up in the outskirts of Patterson, CA, and then turn around to ride back through the Del Puerto Canyon.

Once back in the San Antonio Valley, we'll continue on the loop by riding north on Mines Road next to The Junction restaurant. This is a long haul along another canyon road with great desert views. Certain sections of this route narrow to a one lane road with rough pavement as mentioned before, so ride carefully. You'll encounter a lot of side roads along the way, but stay on Mines Road until you pull into the Livermore, CA area. Mines Road ends at Tesla Road. Take a left to continue the route. You're only Tesla Road for a short stretch. Look for a left onto Concannon Blvd. to stay on the loop. You can also ride a bit farther on Tesla Road to grab some BBQ at Emil Villa's Hickory Pit. Stay on Concannon Blvd. until it ends at Highway 84, then hang another left to ride south. This four lane road winds through wineries and suburbs to meet up with Interstate 680. You won't get on the Interstate, but rather stay on 84 until you can take a left on Calaveras Road.

The San Antonio Reservoir is on your right as you cruise south on Calaveras Road. You'll enter one more scenic stretch in the foothills called the Sunol Wilderness. If you need a break to stretch your legs, take a detour on Geary Road to past the Sunol Visitor Center down to Little Yosemite on Ohlone Road. This gorge on Alameda Creek features waterfalls and boulders, and it's a worthwhile stop before you head back into the bustling Bay Area. Back on Calaveras Road, there is one more snaking stretch ahead as you continue south past the Calaveras Reservoir. Stay right on Calaveras Road at the junction with Felter Road to ride back into the San Jose outskirts. Watch for a left onto Evans Road which soon becomes Piedmont Road when you hit the city. After you ride by the middle school, the road becomes North White Road. This will take you back down to Quimby Road to complete the loop.

Patterson Pass

Take a short but exhilarating ride up and over Patterson Pass on this escape into the hills east of the Bay Area. Interestingly enough, the town of Patterson, CA is a good distance south of this route. Instead Patterson Pass Road connects the communities of Livermore and Tracy, CA. The road over the pass itself is mostly one lane, so proceed cautiously as you ride. Traffic can sometimes get a little bogged down in the narrow sections as vehicles try to pass one another. However, bikes should be able to pass any oncoming traffic with ease even on the one lane sections. Of course, this route is at its best when you hit open stretches of road through the rolling hills. There are some solid food options in downtown Livermore if you want to grab a bite before you ride. Check out Sauced BBQ & Spirits before or after the ride for ribs and live music on the weekends.

We'll begin the ride in eastern Livermore on Patterson Pass Road just south of Interstate 580. The road starts out with two lanes, but as you ride into the hills, it narrows into a one lane road with just enough room for oncoming traffic to pass. As you leave civilization behind, it's just a short climb up to the pass itself. Once you climb over the hill, you'll be treated to great views of the hills and valley below the pass. There is a little section here where you can pull off and snap some pics. It's hard to miss the large wind farm that lies in the valley below while you take in the view. Continue down from the pass on the steepest section of the route, and then wrap around a hill into a narrow section along a ravine. The terrain flattens as you pass by a large substation. Soon after, the road will widen back into two lanes. You'll meet up with Interstate 580 just outside of Tracy to complete the route.

There are a couple options from here if you want to make a loop of this route. You can either ride up north to Altamont Pass Road or south down to Tesla Road. Both routes will take you through similar terrain in the area. Tesla Road features the Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area, so if you're into dirt riding or searching for camping nearby, this is a solid choice. Otherwise turn around and ride Patterson Pass back towards the Bay Area. Watch the steep shoulder with no guard rail on the climb up to the pass from west to east.

"You don't stop riding when you get old, you get old when you stop riding." ― Anonymous

REVER Brigade

Labs & Partners

Partner With Us
Press Releases
Privacy Policy / Terms & Conditions
Work With Us
[email protected]

Sign up to our newsletter

We use cookies to help make Rever better. By visiting this site, you agree to our cookie policy .

50% Labor Day "Flash Sale"

IMAGES

Hokkaido Japan Motorcycle Tour
Majestic Japan Motorcycle Tour
Puno Küche Starren scenic motorcycle routes Realistisch Bachelor Disziplin
Motorcycle Travel Guide: Japan
Self Tours|Moto Tours Japan
Japan motorcycle tour

VIDEO

Nagoya S2 Ep 1
Motorcycle Tour Japan
Motorcycle Tour Japan
GSF1200P白バイ緊急発進 Japanese Police Motorcycle scrambles
Bike Touring Japan with Grasshopper Adventures
Motorcycle Travel

COMMENTS

Moto Tours Japan
Moto Tours Japan, the first official Japanese Ducati Travel Partner, will offer you the unique experience of a Ducati Tour in the Land of the Rising Sun. We can organize tour with any model in Ducati official lineup. The peerless sensation of riding on the Ducati of your dreams to reach Tokyo's futuristic street, ancient and luxurious Kyoto ...
Motorcycle Travel Guide: Japan
The visa situation in Japan makes motorcycle travel easy. UK citizens can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa. You'll get a 90-day stamp in your passport when you enter. You can extend your visa while you're in Japan for a further 90 days before it expires.
Japan Motorcycle Tours
Japan Motorcycle Tours. MotoQuest has been organizing Japan Motorcycle Tours for over a decade and our riders love it. Experience traditional Japanese travel lodges, authentic Japanese cuisine, relaxing thermal hot springs and amazing roads. You may explore the southern three islands of Honshu, Kyushu, and Shikoku during the cherry blossom time ...
Motorcycle Trip in Japan: Air Moto Tours
Essential Japan Motorcycle Tour: Our Routes. In the center of Japan, between the sea, Kansai, and Kanto, lies the splendid mountain range of the Japanese Alps. The highest peaks in the region reach nearly 3200 meters in altitude and are the pride of its residents. Villages with thatched roofs, which have been inscribed on the UNESCO World ...
Best motorcycle roads in Japan
BMW K1600GT Vs Honda Gold Wing. Portugal & Spain part two. Portugal and Spain. I have completed 110,000km touring Japan by motorcycle. I made this map initially just so I knew which roads I had explored because it got confusing with the extraordinary density of roads in this country.
The 63 best rides in: Japan
With our tour suggestions, you will find the most impressive and popular motorcycle routes, no matter where you are. Our global collection is created by calimoto users who have already traveled these routes themselves and want to share their experiences. ... We've found 63 motorcycle rides in the "Japan" region. autorenew. GET IN TOUCH ...
NinjaTours Premium Japan Motorcycle Touring
With its affiliated land agent Rush Corporation in Japan, Ninja Tours is able to offer an exciting array of the finest motorcycles available, including BMW, Moto Guzzi, Aprillia, Benelli, Kawasaki and Yamaha. Affiliated Land Service Agency Rush Corporation, Ltd. Land Service License #306659803556 1-1-25 Minami Senju, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo Telephone ...
Kyushu On Two Wheels: Discovering Japan's Best Motorcycle Routes
09:00 Kumamoto Port (Complete boarding procedures 20 minutes before departure) 09:25 Kumamoto Ferry (Motorcycle over 750cc + Driver ¥3,850, Adult ¥1,500) About 30 minutes. Or 9:55 Kyusho Ferry (Motorcycle over 750cc + Driver ¥2,340, Adult ¥890) About 60 minutes. 10:55 Shimabara Port.
Majestic Japan Motorcycle Tour
Book Tour. Calculate your price →. Japan is one of the most desired destinations for many tourists, at IMTBIKE we have prepared a Motorcycle route that highlights little known roads, sophisticated Japanese food its refined culture and rich history. On this tour you will enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, lush forests of the Japanese Alps ...
A Quick Guide to Japan Motorcycle Tours
Japan motorcycle tours are a great way to experience all of the beauty this island nation has to offer. Read on to learn why. ... We have been riding the scenic routes in Thailand and all over Asia for over 15 years, and have been providing guided tours since 2009. If you love to ride, but hitting up the standard tourist spots simply isn't ...
Guided Tours|Moto Tours Japan
Riders dreamland. Gorgeous mountains full of beautiful roads, a deep blue ocean enjoyable by kilometers long coast rides, and officially recognized Japan's most delicious food. You will enjoy all of it in this must ride! Schedule. 2024. ☑ 21 JUL 2024 - 27 JUL 2024. ☑ 28 JUL 2024 - 03 AUG 2024. Guided Tour.
Self Tours
30Days Run Through Japan Tour! The Ultimate Dream Tour. We finally made the ultimate dream tour of Japan. You will ride all the four main islands, from Honshu to Shikoku, Kyushu, and Hokkaido. Your motorcycle will take you to deep inside of Japan. Self Tour. from ¥1,196,000.
21 DAY TOUR (Japan
They usually range from 300 yen to 1,000 yen (3 to 9 US$) Visa fee for Japan. Please be informed, that we offer the best cost-benefit ratio for motorcycle touring in Japan. You can entirely focus on your holiday, the adventure, the riding, and Japan's endless discovery. Come ride with us - the real deal!
Japan Three Island Motorcycle Tour
JAPAN THREE ISLAND CHERRY BLOSSOM ADVENTURE. Our Japan Three Island motorcycle tour features the best riding of the three main southern Japanese Islands of Honshu, Kyushu and Shikoku.The route is laid out to avoid city traffic and focuses on open country roads, elevation changes, and stunning coastal riding.
Motorcycle Tours in Japan
5 days Venus Line Tour. Customers : 12 people-11 riders & 1 pillionpassenger country : PhilippineTouring course: Tokyo-Izu peninsula-Mt.Fuji 5th station-Tateshina-Venus Line-Matsumoto-Shirakawago-Takayama-Kusatsu-Kawaguchiko lake-TokyoTotal distance : 1250kmThey are from Philippine. We had a wonderful Japan tour with a group of close friends ...
Hokkaido Japan Motorcycle Tour
During the Hokkaido Japan motorcycle tour you will experience the island that every Japanese motorcyclist dreams of riding. Hokkaido offers perfectly manicured scenic roads, large national parks, wildlife, natural hot springs, steaming volcanoes and wildlife. It is known for having 20% of the land of Japan and 5% of its population.
Japan
Add New Route. "Japanese motorcycle roads have a lot to offer considering the vast mountainous areas, coastal roads, and lush forests that characterize much of Japan. Riders not familiar with riding on the left side of the road obviously need to be prepared for that difference and the fact that Japanese speed limits are modest compared to many ...
Hokkaido
This motorcycle tour explores the "wild north" of Japan. Discover the island of Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan's main islands, known for its excellent roads, abundant nature and natural hot sprints.
The Dragon Route (Shoryudo) Motorcycle Guided Tour
The only one riding beach in all Japan! Going on the motorcycle of your dreams, enjoying the energizing sensation of the bright blue see at less than one foot from your tire. A unique riding experience you will never forget! from ￥519,000. Book Tour. Motorcycle Tour Japan | Let's ride on the beach by BMW & Ducati! (Long ver.)
California Motorcycle Roads
Stop dreaming about cruising down California motorcycle roads. Take adventure into your own hands and ride this collection of hand-picked California motorcycle routes. The Golden State offers the perfect combination of coastline, desert and mountain landscapes, and there are 163,696 square miles of engaging cities and countryside to explore.
Top 7 Best Motorcycle Rides Near Me In New Mexico
ROUTE 15. NM-15 DISTANCE: 37 miles TIME: 1.5 hours. This motorcycle route is very close to the above mentioned NM-15 route, and can be started in Silver City, NM. Ride along one of the best motorcycle roads in New Mexico through the curves through the southern portion of Gila National Forest, and up north to beautiful mountain scenery. The road ...
Bay Area Motorcycle Ride
Mt. Hamilton Loop / Diablo Grande. Ride out of Silicon Valley into the Diablo Range east of the Bay Area on this five hour plus trek. This route is paved, but portions of it contain single-lane roads and rough pavement, so it's best to have an ADV setup. We'll begin this route in eastern San Jose, CA on Quimby Road.
Motorcycle Tours
EagleRider. Our exclusive tours partner in the United States, EagleRider is the global leader in providing once in a lifetime motorcycle travel experiences. EagleRider offers a full range of late model Harley-Davidson motorcycles at 100 locations throughout the US. From Route 66 to The Pacific Coast Highway EagleRider has a wide variety of ...
A Heuristic Procedure for Improving the Routing of Urban Waste ...
This paper proposes a heuristic procedure created to improve the collection routes obtained with the support of the ArcGIS software and its complement, Network Analyst. After a series of experiments, it was found that the software presents several inconsistencies with logistical and operational management concepts, such as the unnecessary realization of U-turns in a dead end and unnecessary ...