OSAKA
April 13 / may 11

Welcome to Japan! 🇯🇵

We’re thrilled to have you here as you arrive at Osaka KIX International Airport. After your travels, take some time to settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening in the vibrant city of Osaka. Known as Japan’s Kitchen, Osaka is a city that delights with its world-famous cuisine, lively atmosphere, and warm hospitality.

Whether you choose to explore the bustling streets of Dotonbori, savor local specialties like okonomiyaki or takoyaki, or simply unwind after your journey, tonight is yours to relax and soak up the energy of this incredible city.

Get some rest and recharge – your adventure begins tomorrow. Welcome to Japan, and enjoy your evening in Osaka!

O/N Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka

OSAKA TO ONOMICHI
April 14 / may 12

20.1 mi / 709 Ft
32.3 km / 216 m

Upon your arrival into Osaka International Airport (KIX) we will provide 1- scheduled transfer from Osaka to our arrival city, Onomichi. It is an easy 2h10min journey. Depending on your arrival time, we will either go for a short-guided ride to loosen up the legs or we can take the famous Onomichi Temple Walk, up and down the many stairs behind the town, visiting 25 temples along the way.

Only in Japan could a themed hotel complex, you don’t even have to step off your pedals — you can ride right into this cavernous space, which includes not just the hotel but a restaurant, a bar, a café, and a bakery, as well as a Giant bike shop and a retail space dedicated to local food, clothing and housewares. The building’s interior still retains some warehouse atmosphere, with its double-height ceiling and its elevated walkways. But the rooms temper their industrial origins with organic warmth, and they’re efficient, as you’d expect, complete with hooks for hanging your bike up out of the way.

O/N Onomichi U2 Hotel

ONOMICHI & tHE BRIDGES
OF SHIMANAMI KAIDO - IMABARI
April 15 / May 13

53.9 mi / 3,216 Ft
86.7 km / 980 m

Behold, the Shimanami Kaido. Known as the most scenic route in Japan, the 76km route between Onomichi and Imabari is dotted with orange orchards, traditional ryokans, and stunning views of the Seto Sea. There’s no better way to absorb the quaint, small-town Japan that tourists tend to ignore.

Our ocean front ryokan tonight is, Daichoso, located near Itozaki Park/Kurushima Observatory in the Seto Inland Sea National Park where we have stunning views of the Kurushima Strait. We not only come for the view, but the remarkable seafood served here. Since 1963 the in-house restaurant has served lavish seafood meals.

O/N Daichoso - Imabari

IMABARI TO YAWATAHAMA
April 16 / May 14

34.7 mi / 3,639 Ft
55.9 km / 1,109 m

After breakfast, we’ll hit the road for a 2-hour van ride to the western tip of Shikoku Island, cruising through winding backroads toward the coastal city of Yawatahama, famous for its citrus groves and salt production. Our first stop? The Kikitsu Fishing Port (喜木津漁港, Kikitsu Gyoko), where we’ll kick off the day with a ride along the scenic coastal lanes of the Sada Peninsula. This rugged stretch of land juts into the Seto Inland Sea, offering jaw-dropping views, rich history, and a natural landscape that’s nothing short of stunning.

Enjoy a peaceful one-night stay in Yawatahama, a charming coastal town in Shikoku. Explore the local attractions, including scenic ports, historic sites, and fresh seafood. Perfect for a tranquil getaway by the Seto Inland Sea.

O/N Harbor Plaza Hotel

YAWATAHAMA TO BEPPU
april 17 / May 15

50 mi / 5,845 Ft
80.5 km / 1,782 m
*Optional longer afternoon ride

This morning embark on a leisurely and picturesque journey aboard the Yawatahama to Beppu Ferry, a seamless link between the charming Ehime Prefecture and Oita’s iconic hot spring capital. Perfect for cyclists, and adventurers alike, this ferry ride offers more than just convenience – it’s a voyage of discovery through some of Japan’s most stunning coastal scenery.

The cycling adventure begins in Beppu, where the salty sea breeze mingles with the misty clouds of thermal steam. Pedal past the iconic "Hells of Beppu" and let the dramatic contrast of the ocean and volcanic landscapes inspire your ride. A gentle warm-up along the coastline sets the tone for the day.

After absorbing the wonders of today’s ride, we disappear into a Japanese Ryokan for the night, and relax in the many hot springs that await our stay as you are enveloped in a sense of the local culture, untouched by time.

O/N Kotohira Onsen Kaya-Usagi

HITA TO OKUNOYU
April 18 / May 15

46 mi / 6,500 Ft
74 km / 1,983 m

Today’s ride sees us we pedaling through Ōita's enchanting countryside, where every turn of the wheel reveals a new facet of this remarkable region and its culinary treasure—the shiitake mushroom. This region of Ōita produces the most dried shiitake mushrooms in Japan.

By now most everyone is craving a pizza! And today’s lunch does not disappoint in both flavor and view! As we rest outside on the hillside deck take in the stunning views of the Kuju Mountains while you indulge on the traditional brick oven pizza.

We wrap up today’s shorter ride with plenty of time to check and relax at the elegant inn situated in the mountains surrounded by nature. With three types of private-use hot spring baths and several mixed open-air baths allowing you to wash away your soreness.

O/N Kurokawa Onsen Okunoyu Ryokan

OKUNOYU TO ASO
April 19 / May 16

46.5 mi / 4,664 Ft
74.8 km / 1,422 m

Today is our Queen Stage, heading south through the Ōita prefecture, known to many as the “Land of Abundance”. We will be traversing through the Kirishima Mountain Range, a volcanic belt of major peaks that run vertically through the prefecture and contribute to the many hot spring sources that make this region so popular. Ōita has the largest number of hot springs in the entire country! Known for its quiet roads and scenic beauty, 60% of Ōita is covered in dense forests.

This afternoon we spend climbing Mount Aso’s barren caldera, then descending back to the lush valley below. The constant smoke plume reminds us of its power and potential, and gazing down into the 20 mile-wide crater gives us a glimpse at the Earth’s origins. This is one of the most visually striking places in Japan, if not the world - its grey, craggy moonscape is covered in small, jagged rocks - like something from a SciFi film set on a distant world.

We’ll spend the night in the shadow of Mount Aso at another ryokan set among tranquil gardens and hot springs. Tonight we visit a small local restaurant where we will dine on some noteworthy regional cuisine this evening.

O/N Sozankyo Ryokan & Onsen

MT ASO TO mINAMIOGUNI
April 20 / May 17

22.4 mi / 2,245 Ft
36 km / 684 m

Leaving Aso, the route heads northwest, weaving through tranquil farmland, dense cedar forests, and a winding mountain pass. The gentle climb is balanced by joyful descents, with little traffic and endless scenery. The area’s rural charm – rice terraces, old wooden barns, and small shrines – makes every pedal stroke a delight.

Along the way, we pause to take in a view you’ll never forget: “From the summit of Daikanbō, the world stretches endlessly before you, and the breathtaking beauty of Aso unfolds like a living masterpiece.”

We ride along the sweeping ridgelines, taking in the final breathtaking views before concluding with a well-deserved bowl of hearty soba noodles. As we enjoy our lunch, the team will load the vehicles in preparation for our 2-hour shuttle to Fukuoka this afternoon.

Once we arrive into Fukuoka we will arrange to visit a special place, the home of Samson Bicycles. Stepping into Harada’s studio was like entering a sanctuary of craftsmanship. Tetsuro Harada is not just a frame builder; he is a master craftsman whose delicate touch and artistic vision have earned him a revered place in the world of Japanese frame building. His exquisite investment cast parts and lugs have even been sought after by the renowned Richard Sachs. Harada-san’s influence extends far and wide. He continues to produce original frame parts that are coveted by frame builders across Japan in his small studio in Fukuoka. His collaboration with Richard Sachs since 1982 stands as a testament to his enduring legacy, with over 1200 Richard Sachs frames featuring Samson parts to date.

Visiting Tetsuro Harada’s studio was not just a highlight of our tour—it was a profound experience that offered a glimpse into the meticulous artistry and unwavering dedication of a true master. If you ever find yourself in Fukuoka, a visit to Samson Bicycles is an absolute must for any cycling enthusiast.

From there we will enjoy a raman at Raman Shifuku, before we catch a late evening (9:00 PM) 1hr15m flight to Osaka KIX airport, where we’ll spend the night at an airport hotel, readying ourselves for the journey home tomorrow.

O/N Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport

OSAKA (KIX)
April 21 / May 18

Depart Osaka KIX airport this morning for your journey home. Sayonara and safe travels!