At a Glance
Saddle up and discover the majestic mountains, lush forests, and thermal springs of Daisetsuzan National Park of central Hokkaido, Japan, on this 7-day small group guided cycling adventure. With just a light daypack, pedal through the rolling, lavender-draped hills of ‘Japan's Tuscany’ in Biei and Furano, conquer the highest national road in Hokkaido of Mikuni Pass, and immerse yourself in the majestic wilderness of Sounkyo. Combine cycling through the best of Hokkaido’s high country roads with relaxing in Hokkaido's best hot spring resorts, including Shirogane Onsen & Sounkyo Gorge, where ryokan hospitality and steaming onsen baths offer a truly authentic taste of Japan.
You adventure begins at the foot of the smouldering Mt. Tokachi in Shirogane Onsen, where your cycling journey weaves through some of Hokkaido's most breathtaking landscapes. Pedal through ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 6 nights accommodation in deluxe and charming hotels and traditional ryokans on a twin-share basis
- Rental bike (hybrid with flat handlebar or road bike with drop bar handle). E-bikes available at an additional cost
- Other bike accessories
- 6 x breakfasts, 6 x dinners
- All transport as described in the itinerary
- Snacks and refreshments
- English speaking local guide
- Spare parts and mechanic services
- Support vehicle
Itinerary
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Our journey begins at the start hotel (group meeting at 5:00 pm) in Shirogane Onsen, nestled at the foot of Mt. Tokachi — an active volcano that sets the stage for the adventure ahead. We'll spend the first evening getting acquainted, reviewing the tour details, and fitting our bikes before sitting down for dinner together. If you're arriving earlier in the afternoon, Shirogane Onsen has plenty to offer. We recommend visit the stunning Shirahige Waterfall, where vivid blue waters cascade into the equally mesmerising Biei River — known locally as the Blue River for its striking, mineral-rich hue. For those who love to explore on foot, the 2 km forested trail leading to the tranquil Fudo Waterfall (Fudonotaki) is well worth the walk, offering a peaceful and scenic introduction to the natural wonders that await you on this tour. The Shirogane Onsen tour is an extra cost and booking on request. |
Hotel in Shirogane Onsen
Dinner  |
Approx. 80 km (49 miles), 5–6 hours cycling, Elevation gain: 521 m (1708 ft) Today's ride begins with a rewarding downhill sweep along a stunning avenue of Hokkaido silver birch trees, carrying you towards the charming town of Biei. Often compared to the rolling landscapes of Tuscany, Biei is celebrated for its sweeping hills and expansive crop fields that stretch endlessly to the horizon — a breathtaking backdrop that makes for truly memorable cycling. Along the way, we'll stop at some of Biei's most iconic landmarks. Shikisai-no-Oka Flower Park is a feast for the senses, with vibrant rows of seasonal blooms — from lavender to sunflowers — painting the hillsides in vivid colour. We'll also pause to admire Biei's famous solitary trees, rising dramatically from the crests of rolling hills, offering some of the most photographed vistas in all of Hokkaido. After a leisurely lunch, we'll make our way to a local lavender farm, where endless rows of purple blooms fill the air with a calming fragrance that has become synonymous with Hokkaido's summer season. With our senses refreshed, we'll continue our ride to our accommodation in the charming town of Furano, where rest and relaxation await. |
Hotel in Furano
Breakfast, Dinner  |
Approx. 80 km (50 miles), 5-6 hours hiking, Elevation gain: 886 m (2906 ft) Departing from the charming town of Furano, our journey begins across open farmland before the landscape gradually transforms as we ascend into the mountains, tracing the gentle curves of the Sorachi River. The ride offers a wonderful sense of progression, from the quiet rhythm of flat plains to the more invigorating challenge of mountain terrain. As we climb, the shimmering expanse of Lake Kanayama reveals itself, inviting us to pause and savour the serene beauty of its glassy waters. This is one of our favourite stretches of the entire journey, the lakeshore path is peaceful and unhurried, with little more than the sound of birdsong and the gentle lapping of water to accompany you. At the eastern end of the lake, we'll stop for lunch at a local Roadside Station — a well-loved Japanese institution that combines parking, restaurants, and artisan shops, often showcasing the finest regional produce and local specialties. We recommend taking your time here and fuelling up well, as the afternoon brings our first true mountain challenge of the trip. From here, we ascend to Karikachi Pass, a highlight of the day and a rewarding culmination of the climb. At the summit, the landscape opens up dramatically, revealing sweeping panoramic views of the vast Tokachi Plains, a patchwork of farmland and wilderness that stretches far into the distance, offering a breathtaking reminder of just how magnificent Hokkaido's natural canvas truly is. |
Hotel in Sahoro
Breakfast, Dinner  |
Approx. 76 km (47 miles), 5-6 hours hiking, Elevation gain: 1236 m (4056 ft) This morning's ride takes you through the rolling hills that frame the eastern edge of the Tokachi Plains, a landscape defined by sweeping farmland, wide open skies, and a sense of quiet grandeur. A short morning tea stop at a local Roadside Station offers a welcome chance to rest and sample some of the region's finest local produce before continuing on. From here, the route winds through the heart of Tokachi's celebrated agricultural country — a region renowned across Japan for its dairy farms, wheat fields, and vegetable crops — before the road begins to climb towards Shirakaba Pass. As you crest the pass, you'll cross the threshold into Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido's vast and awe-inspiring wilderness reserve, and one of Japan's largest national parks. The reward for the climb is Lake Shikaribetsu, a remote and pristine alpine lake sitting at 810 m / 2,657 ft above sea level, cradled by forested mountains and known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. After a well-earned lunch by the lakeshore, you'll follow the water's edge before the route climbs alongside a rushing mountain stream, then descends to Lake Nukabira at 525 m / 1,722 ft. Tonight, you'll be staying at a beautifully renovated historic hotel, now a charming Japanese-style inn lovingly managed by a local family. Be sure to take full advantage of the outdoor onsen, there are few finer ways to end a day in the saddle than soaking beneath a canopy of stars. |
Ryokan in Nukabira Onsen
Breakfast, Dinner  |
Approx. 51 km (32 miles), 5–6 hours cycling, Elevation gain: 839 m (2,754 ft) Today brings one of the most exhilarating challenges of the journey, the ascent of Mikuni Pass, the highest National Road in Hokkaido, soaring to 1,139 m / 3,736 ft above sea level. Your ride begins along a enchanting White Birch-lined road, winding its way from the shores of Lake Nukabira to the foot of the pass. As you climb, a series of bridges reveal sweeping panoramas across the valley below, offering some of the most breathtaking vistas of the entire trip. At the summit, pause for a well-earned lunch at a scenic lookout, where the rugged peaks of the Kumaneshiri mountain range stretch out before you, their slopes blanketed in dense, ancient woodland. After lunch, the hard work gives way to one of cycling's greatest pleasures — a long, sweeping 24 km / 16 mi descent from the pass towards Sounkyo Gorge. |
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For the final 10 km / 6 mi, you'll travel by van to navigate a series of dark and narrow tunnels before arriving at your destination for the evening: Sounkyo Onsen, a charming hot spring resort village nestled among dramatic natural surroundings. We highly recommend taking a stroll to Sounkyo Gorge, where powerful waterfalls cascade down towering cliff faces of columnar jointed rock — a geological wonder that has shaped this landscape over thousands of years. As the day winds down, immerse yourself in the restorative waters of the village's famous hot springs, and let the warmth of the onsen melt away the miles. |
Hotel in Sounkyo Onsen
Breakfast, Dinner  |
Approx. 79 km (49 miles), 5–6 hours cycling, Elevation gain: 224 m (733 ft) This morning, we bid farewell to the majestic wilderness of Daisetsuzan National Park and turn our wheels towards Asahikawa City. Our route follows the gentle flow of the Ishikari River — Hokkaido's longest river, stretching an impressive 268 km / 167 miles — along a purpose-built cycling path that glides effortlessly through the landscape, leading us directly into the heart of the city. Asahikawa is Hokkaido's second-largest city, a vibrant cultural hub known for its world-class ramen, stunning winter festivals, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. To celebrate the journey's end in fitting style, we visit one of the region's celebrated sake breweries. The area's fertile land, abundant rice harvests, and exceptionally pure spring water have long made it one of Japan's finest sake-producing regions. Here, you'll gain a fascinating insight into the centuries-old brewing process before sitting down to sample a selection of the brewery's finest award-winning sake, a memorable and fitting toast to an extraordinary adventure. |
Hotel in Asahikawa
Breakfast  |
After a final breakfast together, our cycling adventure comes to an end. We say our goodbyes at our conveniently located hotel near JR Asahikawa Station, with easy access to trains to Sapporo and shuttle buses to Asahikawa Airport. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
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Breakfast Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The starting point is Shirogane Onsen. The closest airport is Asahikawa Airport (AKJ), with direct flights to and from Tokyo Haneda (HND). Guests can travel from Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) to Shirogane Onsen directly, a taxi is the quickest way. Alternatively, guests can join the hotel's complimentary shuttle service. It departs Asahikawa Airport at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm. If you would prefer to travel over land, there are regular trains between Asahikawa and Sapporo. The hotel's complimentary shuttle service from Tabist Asahikawa Station Hotel departs at 11:00 am. While the shuttle is free, advance reservation is required. Please let us know if you would like us to book a seat for you.
- On the last day, the tour finishes after breakfast and hotel check-out. The hotel is right next to Asahikawa Station, so guests can easily walk to the station. From there, guests can take a train to Sapporo or a bus to Asahikawa Airport to head to your next destination.
Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island, has a cooler climate than the rest of the country because of its higher latitude. Winters are long and cold, with inland temperatures frequently falling to -10°C or below, while coastal areas remain milder. Summers are pleasant and mild, averaging between 17°C and 22°C, which makes the season comfortable for outdoor pursuits without the humidity found further south. Spring, from April to June, brings a gradual warming as temperatures climb from single digits into the mid-teens, while autumn, from September to November, sees a steady cooling from the low twenties back towards freezing by late November. These distinct seasonal shifts, combined with consistently lower temperatures than Honshu and the southern islands, give Hokkaido a temperate character that appeals to travellers seeking crisp, refreshing conditions throughout much of the year.
While we try to organise everything, mother nature is out of our control. If the weather is too bad to safely cycle, such as a typhoon or sudden storm, we will travel the route in our support vehicle. Along the way we will still stop at local restaurants and visit indoor facilities, so you can still experience the charm of the area while travelling safely and comfortably.
Ideal for: Active cyclists whose perfect day out is riding on mountainous terrain for up to 80 km (49.7 mi) per day with up to 1,200 m (3,937 ft) of climbing. Avid cyclists who enjoy cycling on back roads off the beaten path. Adventurous travellers who enjoy rural hospitality, staying in Japanese style accommodations with natural hot springs on site.
Travel Style: We cycle from accommodation to accommodation on most days of this tour. We will provide a vehicle to support cyclists and carry water, snacks and any other items needed for cycling. You will load your luggage into the support vehicle, so you only need to carry daily necessities as you ride. If you need to stop cycling at any point during the day, you are welcome to take a rest in the support vehicle. Please be aware that the number of seats may be limited depending on the number of people and the type of vehicle we use. Your guides are with the group throughout. Having a guide lead the way means you can relax and take in the scenery. They are also there to provide context on the local landscape and help navigate the dishes served in the evenings.
Roads & Drivers: Hokkaido has been a popular destination for bike touring with Japanese cyclists for many years. One of the main reasons for this is that our roads all have wide shoulders to accommodate the snow in winter and this conveniently makes for spacious road cycling in summer. Another reason to love cycling in Hokkaido is the Japanese drivers, who are known for being polite and courteous to cyclists.
Tour Departures: We run this tour from July to September and any time during this period makes for wonderful cycling! Outside of these months, snow and ice on the roads can make conditions dangerous for cyclists and the weather tends to be a little more changeable. Hokkaido’s summer peaks in July-August, and you’ll be able to enjoy the sight of agricultural landscapes bursting with ripe crops and the bright green leafy mountains. The scenery changes in September, with sunflower and mustard green meadows replacing wheat fields and rice paddies full of ripe crops. At higher altitudes in autumn, you may start to see some dazzling colours as they begin to sweep down from the summits of Daisetsuzan National Park. The first snows of winter usually come in October, transforming the mountain passes back into a winter wonderland and ending the cycling season in Daisetsuzan National Park.
Single Supplement: Our tours are priced on a twin share basis. Those travelling by themselves will need to pay an additional supplement for use of a single room. If you are happy to share a room with another guest - of the same gender - then let us know at the time of booking. If we match you with another solo traveller then we can discount the single supplement for both of you.
We like to encourage travellers to visit traditional Japanese 'onsens' while in the country as it is a quintessential local experience. In public onsens this means bathing naked with others of the same gender. While the experience can feel strange at first for some, most of our groups end up enjoying this activity. There is very specific etiquette for visiting onsens - your leader can give you some tips and instructions. Please be aware that travellers with tattoos may not be permitted to enter public onsens. Private onsens may also be available. Talk to your leader for more information.
Day 2: Shirogane Onsen to Furano
Day 3: Furano to Sahoro
Day 4: Sahoro to Nukabira Onsen
Day 5: Nukabira Onsen to Sounkyo
Day 6: Sounkyo to Asahikawa
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Road: Trek 1.2 Frame sizes from 43 to 60cm |
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Hybrid: Trek FX 7.4 Frame sizes from 15 to 22.5 inches |
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Road Upgrade: Additional cost. Canondale Topstone, Soma Double Cross etc. Frame sizes from 50 to 58cm |
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E-Bike: Additional cost. Panasonic Jetter, Giant Escape etc. Frame sizes from 15 to 20 inches |
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
