After leaving the hotel, stop at Suwa Taisha, one of Japan's oldest shrines with a history of over 1,200 years, stop at Suwa Taisha, one of Japan's oldest shrines, with a history of more than 1,200 years. Made up of four shrines dedicated to the spirits of nature, it offers a peaceful glimpse into Japanese spiritual culture. Then ride south along the scenic Kiso Valley.

Tsumago-juku was a post town on the Nakasendo, the old road that connected Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto in the Edo period. Preservation efforts began early here, and the stone-paved street is lined with wooden inns and merchant houses, with utility poles and signs kept discreet to protect the view. It feels like stepping back in time. Take a break with local treats such as gohei-mochi or soba noodles.
In the evening, relax in Gero Onsen, one of Japan's "Three Famous Hot Springs," and soak away the fatigue of the day's ride.

Our first stop is the Toyota Automobile Museum, where you can trace the history of world and Japanese automobiles from the late 19th century to today through real vehicles on display. Even if you are not a car enthusiast, you will find it fascinating.

In the afternoon, visit Nagoya Castle, built by the Tokugawa shogunate and crowned with its iconic golden shachihoko ornaments. The lavishly decorated Honmaru Palace, with its gorgeous painted sliding doors and walls, gives a glimpse into samurai culture of the early Edo period. (Access to the main keep may be restricted; we will confirm the latest status before departure.)
For dinner, enjoy Nagoya's famous local cuisine, such as miso katsu and hitsumabushi.

The Suzuka Skyline crosses the Suzuka Mountains through lush greenery. Open views at higher elevations and cool mountain air make for a refreshing ride.
Next, head to Iga Ueno in Mie Prefecture, famous as the home of the ninja. Iga Ueno Castle is known for its impressive high stone walls, which rise about 30 meters. At the neighboring Iga-ryu Ninja Museum, explore a ninja house full of hidden mechanisms, see displays of ninja techniques, and enjoy a ninja show.
In the evening, we arrive in the ancient capital, Kyoto.

Give your motorcycle a rest and enjoy Kyoto at your own pace. From Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine to Arashiyama and Gion, there is no shortage of sights.
You can also join an optional sightseeing plan prepared by our staff (available at extra cost). Even first-time visitors can enjoy a full day of traditional Japanese culture with confidence.

Mt. Koya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the sacred center of Shingon Buddhism, founded by the monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai) in 816. Visit Kongobu-ji, the head temple of the Shingon sect, and see its Banryutei, one of Japan's largest rock gardens.
For lunch, included today: traditional shojin ryori. Buddhist temple cuisine made without meat or fish, using vegetables, tofu, and other plant-based ingredients. The word shojin refers to devoted spiritual practice, and the meal reflects the Buddhist spirit of respecting all living things and eating with gratitude and mindfulness. It is a rare opportunity to experience Japanese spiritual culture in the quiet mountain air.
In the afternoon, ride the Ryujin Skyline along the ridges of the Kii Mountains, with endless views of layered peaks. Tonight we stay in Shirahama, one of Japan's oldest hot spring resorts. Its name means "white beach," after the 500-meter stretch of bright white sand that is the area's main attraction.

At Daitaiji Temple in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama, we may be able to try zazen, depending on timing. Zazen is seated meditation at the heart of Zen Buddhism: you sit quietly, focus on your breathing, and let your thoughts settle. Even a short session brings a refreshing calm, and no experience is needed.

Then continue to Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the three Kumano Grand Shrines, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." Beyond the pagoda of neighboring Seiganto-ji Temple, you can see Nachi Falls, Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall at 133 meters. It is one of the highlights of the trip.
Time permitting, we will also walk a section of the Kumano Kodo, such as the Daimon-zaka slope, where a stone-paved path winds through cedar forest.
After a break at Michi-no-Eki (roadside station) Kii-Nagashima Manbo, we head to our hotel in Taki, Mie Prefecture.

Seki in Gifu Prefecture has been a center of blade-making for nearly 800 years. This area is famous for its master craftsmanship in forging blades, from kitchen knives to traditional katanas. You will enjoy an impressive katana performance showcasing the precision and artistry of these legendary swords. Following the performance, You will watch a traditional sword-forging demonstration that shows the precision and artistry of these legendary blades. Afterwards, we visit a working sword forge to see how katana are made. This stop is a favorite among our customers, and you may even choose to purchase an authentic Japanese knife as a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

In the afternoon, visit Gujo Hachiman, a castle town where clear streams and canals run through the streets. The town is known for its food sample industry, and you can try making your own realistic tempura or lettuce food samples. Take your finished creations home as souvenirs.
After a rest stop at a roadside station, we ride north and stay overnight in Awara, Fukui Prefecture.

After crossing into Ishikawa Prefecture, our first stop is Natadera Temple, known for its moss garden and rugged rock formations. The temple grounds blend with the natural rock cliffs and have a unique, tranquil atmosphere.

In Kanazawa, stroll through Kenrokuen, one of Japan's "Three Great Gardens." This landscape garden of ponds, streams, and artificial hills changes its look with every season, and This landscape garden of ponds, streams and artificial hills changes its look with every season, from fresh greenery in spring to the first autumn colors in September.

Afterward, we head to the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway, the only beach in Japan where you can ride a motorcycle on the sand. This extraordinary spot also serves as the finish line for the annual SSTR (Sunrise Sunset Touring Rally), making it a dream destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. After a coffee break at the SSTR Café, we stay in Nanao.
**The Chirihama Nagisa Driveway may be closed in strong wind or high waves.

Today is flexible: you can join the guided ride around the Noto Peninsula or take it as a rest day at the ryokan.
We begin with a visit to the Shioyasu Lacquerware Factory, one of Japan's oldest lacquerware workshops. This traditional craft requires immense time and dedication to complete, and during the visit, you have the unique opportunity to watch skilled artisans meticulously creating exquisite lacquerware pieces. It’s a fascinating glimpse into one of Japan’s cherished cultural traditions.

Next, we ride to the Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces on the peninsula's northern coast, where about 1,000 small rice paddies cascade down to the Sea of Japan, cascading down toward the Sea of Japan. Each field is small and requires hand labor, embodying the enduring spirit of traditional Japanese agriculture. 

We return to the ryokan early today, giving you ample time to relax, enjoy the facilities, or simply unwind after a day of exploration.
Please note that due to natural disasters in 2024, some routes may have restrictions, and adjustments will be made accordingly.

We head to Kanayamachi in Toyama Prefecture, where you experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Matcha is carefully prepared and served individually, accompanied by a seasonal sweet, offering a serene moment to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.

Our journey then takes us south to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses. With their steep thatched roofs, some of these houses are over 250 years old. Enjoy lunch and a walk, and don't miss the panoramic view from the observation deck.
We then ride the mountain roads to Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture for the night.

In the morning, visit Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure. It is considered the oldest surviving five-story castle keep in Japan, and its jet-black walls and red bridge reflected in the moat make a striking sight. Climb the steep stairs to the top floor for a view of the castle town.

Next, ride the Venus Line, a scenic highland route. Enjoy the wide grasslands of Kirigamine and the distant peaks of the Japanese Alps.
After a break at Michi-no-Eki Asagiri Kogen, we enjoy views of Mt. Fuji, Japan's highest peak at 3,776 meters and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then we take the expressway to Nishi-Izu (West Izu), where we stay tonight.

The Nishi-Izu Skyline runs along a ridge with views of Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji. The Izu Skyline follows the mountain spine of the Izu Peninsula and is a favorite among riders for its curves and scenery.

After a rest stop at Bikers Paradise Minami-Hakone, our final cultural visit is Hamamatsuya, a long-established workshop for Hakone's traditional yosegi-zaiku craft. Woods of different colors and grains are assembled into beautiful geometric patterns, and you will see the artisans' skill up close.
Then return your motorcycle to the departure store and celebrate the end of your 16-day journey at our farewell dinner.

As your journey with us comes to an end, please check out of the hotel and begin your trip home. We hope you carry with you unforgettable memories of your time here. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you on our next adventure together!