2026 Cherry Blossom Bike Tour in Japan
March 29 - April 10 : 13 Day tour - $4,840
Day 1 – Tokyo & Houseboat Dinner Cruise
Touch down at Haneda Airport and settle into the lively Asakusa district, where the streets hum with life and the scent of fresh yakitori fills the air. As dusk falls, trade the city streets for the tranquility of Tokyo Bay.
With the Rainbow Bridge glowing in the distance and the Tokyo Skytree towering over the city, you’ll enjoy a multi-course Japanese dinner aboard a traditional yakatabune houseboat beneath the Tokyo skyline.
Day 2 – Journey to Nikkō & Bike Fitting
Leave the capital behind for a scenic two-hour drive into Tochigi Prefecture, where cedar forests and mountain air replace neon lights. The World Heritage Site Nikkō —home to the ornate Tōshō-gū Shrine—offers a first glimpse of rural Japan in spring. Nikkō boasts over one hundred historic buildings associated with two Shintō shrines
After exploring the shrines and local streets, you’ll meet your bikes. The rental team will fine-tune each bike to your liking, preparing you for adventures on the road ahead.
Day 3 – Cycling Utsunomiya to Nikkō
Your first full day on two wheels starts near Ōtani Kannon Temple, before carving through the foothills around Utsunomiya, home of the oldest stone Buddha. The route traces part of the Japan Cup Cycle Road Race course, giving a taste of the nation’s top cycling terrain—rolling valleys, smooth pavement, and quiet roads shaded by towering cedars.
The blend of endurance, heritage, and natural beauty makes this an unforgettable start to your cherry blossom ride.
Day 4 – Cycling Lake Chuzenji to Senjogahara
Start your day at Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls, before tracing the quiet shoreline of Lake Chuzenji. The road winds through cedar and maple forests, offering smooth climbs and descents with constant views of Mt. Nantai reflected on the water.
Midway, pause at Senjugahama Beach, a serene spot where cyclists often rest and take in the mountain air. The route continues to the Senjogahara Marshland, and finishes at the stunning Ryuzu Falls.
Day 5 – Cycling Nikko to Kinugawa Onsen
This day’s ride climbs into the Kirifuri Highlands, where each turn reveals sweeping views of the valleys below. The uphill stretch is a test of endurance, but the reward — vast panoramas of forested ridges — is worth the effort.
After a scenic descent, you’ll stop for a traditional soba noodle lunch near the Kinugawa River. The day ends in Kinugawa Onsen, a peaceful hot spring town. Soak in mineral-rich waters while the sound of the river drifts through open-air baths.
Day 6 – Travel to Isumi City
Leave the mountains behind and journey south to Isumi City, a quiet coastal town in Chiba Prefecture and sister city to Duluth. Isumi’s charm lies in its simplicity — fishing boats, locals selling fresh catch, and temples tucked among pine groves.
You’ll visit the Isumi Temple Bell, a symbol of reconciliation and friendship between Japan and Duluth. The day is relaxed — a chance to unwind, enjoy the sea air, and connect with the community before returning to the bikes the next day.
Day 7 – Coastal Cycling Near Isumi City
Set out along the quiet roads of the Bōsō Peninsula, a region known for its rugged coastline, vibrant farming communities, and small fishing villages. The terrain rolls gently, offering relaxed riding with sea views and pastoral roads through the rural fields of rice.
Japanese drivers are generally very respectful, which is appreciated by bikers who traverse these narrow country roads. And as is the case throughout Japan, ancient shrines are found throughout the region, waiting to be discovered.
Day 8 – Morning Market in Isumi City
Start the day at Isumi’s lively Morning Fish Market, where families, chefs, and local fishermen gather at sunrise. Stalls overflow with just-caught seafood, handmade pickles, and seasonal specialties. It’s a chance to meet the people who call this small coastal community home and experience the rhythms of daily life.
After the market, choose your own pace: ride along quiet coastal paths, explore sandy beaches, or simply relax at the beach. In the evening, Isumi Sister Cities will host a dinner — an opportunity to share stories, enjoy regional dishes, and strengthen the cultural connection between Isumi and Duluth.
Day 9 – Shinkansen to Hiroshima
Trade two wheels for high-speed rail as you board the Shinkansen bound for Hiroshima. These legendary bullet trains glide through the countryside at nearly 200 mph, offering wide-window views of farmland, rivers, and distant mountain ranges.
Aboard the train, the atmosphere is peaceful — phones stay on silent, conversations remain quiet, and the smooth ride creates a calm transition between the coast and western Japan. By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Hiroshima, ready to begin the next chapter of the trip.
Day 10 – Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a city shaped by history yet filled with resilience, culture, and natural beauty. You’ll explore landmarks such as the Peace Memorial Park, a moving reminder of the city’s past and a symbol of its hope for the future.
Spring is especially stunning here: the Hiroshima City Botanical Gardens host one of the world’s largest collections of cherry trees, while places like Hiroshima Castle, Shukkei-en Garden, and the port town of Onomichi offer scenic walking paths lined with blossoms and traditional architecture.
Day 11 – Kyoto
This day, we travel to Kyoto, the cultural mecca of Japan. With more than 1600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, and a history that spans over 1,000 years, Kyoto is the traditional and religious heart of Japan.
Explore iconic sites such as the Golden Pavilion, traditional teahouses of Gion, bamboo forests, and temple gardens glowing with spring color. Kyoto in cherry blossom season is unforgettable. With petals drifting across stone paths, temple roofs framed in pink, and tranquil courtyards, Kyoto feel like a place where time stands still.
Day 12 – Osaka
Your final full day takes you to Osaka, a vibrant port city known for its energetic street life and world-class food. Once Japan’s ancient capital, Osaka blends historical landmarks with modern culture.
Explore Osaka Castle, walk the riverside promenades, or wander the lively districts where street vendors serve takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and other local favorites. The city’s warm, friendly atmosphere makes it a fun and memorable stop before returning home.
Day 13 – Return to Tokyo & Depart for the U.S.
Travel back to Tokyo by train for your return flights. After two weeks of riding mountain roads, exploring coastal towns, and experiencing Japan’s cherry blossom season across multiple regions, you’ll leave with new friendships, new landscapes in memory, and a deeper connection to Japan’s culture and natural beauty.