JAPAN – CHERRY BLOSSOMS AND MT. FUJI
Our 14-day tour of Japan begins and ends in Kyoto and features Japan’s famous Cherry Blossoms as well as one of its most popular attractions – Mt. Fuji.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Japan is its distinctive culture. Riders will enjoy a two-week immersion into this captivating environment, riding stunning rural Japanese roads, staying in traditional Japanese hotels and guesthouses and enjoying delicious Japanese cuisine.
This exciting tour is filled with carefully selected attractions that will fulfill the promise of a truly premium-level Japanese motorcycling experience.
- Kyoto – one of Japan’s most beautiful and historically significant cities
- Yoshino – famous for its many thousands of sakura (cherry blossom) trees
- Koyasan, the primary pilgrimage destination and cradle of Buddhism in Japan
- The island of Miyajima, a sacred site in Japanese Buddhism and site of the famous floating gate “O Torii”, one of the three most photographed attractions in Japan
- A motorcycling paradise – the north coast of Honshu, featuring breathtaking views and twisty roads with little traffic
- Mt. Daisen National Park, home of the oldest Shinto shrine in Japan
- The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, a village consisting of traditional houses with steep thatched roofs – a famous Japanese photo opportunity
- Matsumoto, with its famous Black Crow Castle, surrounded by countless cherry trees
- Mt. Fuji – includes a free day to ride around the mountain or visit the famous Fuji Sengen Shrine
Our Japanese Adventure includes stunning motorcycling roads, coupled with an opportunity to truly experience the cultural aspects of this fascinating land. The route is totally paved and ideal for two-up riding, but includes some technical mountain riding with many twisty and serpentine roads.
AT A GLANCE YOUR JAPAN – CHERRY BLOSSOMS AND MT. FUJI ADVENTURE
Day 1 – Arrival in Kyoto
Welcome to the most beautiful and historic city of Japan! Take your time to walk around and immerse yourself in Japanese culture. If you arrive a day or two early, go for a guided city tour and explore the surroundings. You will receive your bike at the hotel in the afternoon. Afterward, we’ll meet for the kick-off briefing and dinner.
Day 2 – Kyoto to Wakyama ~ 140 miles
The first riding day of the tour starts with two highlights: Yoshino — one of the centers of sakura (cherry blossoms) — and Koyasan, the primary pilgrimage destination and cradle of Buddhism in Japan.
Day 3 – Wakyama to Kochi ~ 125 miles
A two-hour ferry ride in the morning will bring us to Tokushima, from where we ride on wonderful mountain roads to Kochi, which features the mildest climate of the region and also our first “ryokan” – a Japanese style hotel, where everything works a little bit differently.
Day 4 – Kochi to Hiroshima ~ 170 miles
Again we ride small backcountry roads, heading north. We’ll experience the express road that connects nine different islands and approach Hiroshima. Our hotel is located on the coast, about 12 miles from Hiroshima, and sits directly across from the island of Miyajima, one of the most sacred and celebrated sites in Japanese Buddhism.
Day 5 – Free day in Hiroshima
Today you can either visit the city of Hiroshima with its Peace Memorial and A-Bomb Dome, or spend the day on the island of Miyajima, which includes the famous floating gate “O Torii”, one of the three most photographed attractions in Japan. You can also hike up the sacred mountain and visit the famous shrine there.
Day 6 – Hiroshima to Matsue ~ 150 miles
Today will be a challenging riding day! We will enjoy the twisty mountain roads as well as the pink cherry trees right next to them and arrive in Matsue. Don’t miss a walk around the castle there and make sure to get a picture of the famously beautiful lakeshore sunset!
Day 7 – Matsue to Tottori ~ 160 miles
The north coast of Honshu is a rider’s paradise: wonderful views, twisty roads and not much traffic. We’ll cross the Mt. Daisen National Park, where we may see some snow on the side of the roads. And we’ll stay in a hotel that overlooks a breathtaking section of the rugged coastline!
Day 8 – Tottori to Fukui ~ 160 miles
The ride today will mostly take place on twisty backcountry roads along the central north coast of Honshu and includes the visit of another famous location: Amanohashidate in the village of Miyazu is a popular sightseeing point – a two-mile-long, pine-covered narrow sandbar, also called “Heaven’s Bridge”.
Day 9 – Fukui to Takayama ~ 140 miles
Into the mountains and back into history! From the coast around Fukui we turn east to higher regions and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakawa-go, a village consisting of traditional houses with steep thatched roofs – another famous picture stop in Japan! Our destination Takayama – famous for its beef, sake breweries and historic center is well worth a walk before dinner!
Day 10 – Takayama to Yamanakako (Mt. Fuji) ~ 160 miles
After enjoying a wonderful mountain road in the morning, we visit Matsumoto and its iconic black “Crow Castle,” beautifully framed by countless cherry trees. Later in the afternoon, snow-covered Mt. Fuji comes into view on the horizon. With a little bit of luck, we’ll have a perfect view of “Fuji-san” right from our hotel at the foot of the mountain.
Day 11 – Free Day in Yamanakako (Mt. Fuji) ~ 100 miles (optional)
This region deserves a free day! Whether we ride a loop around the mountain, visit the famous Fuji Sengen Shrine, or simply hang out at the hotel – there are lots of options today.
Day 12 – Yamanakako (Mt. Fuji) to Toba ~ 175 miles
A nice ride will bring us down to the south coast. We will cover most of the ground there on the expressway with eventual excursions into the mountains, before we hit “land’s end” in Irago-misaki and take the ferry to Toba, the center of Japan’s pearl production.
Day 13 – Toba to Kyoto ~ 110 miles
After an optional visit to Ise with its famous shrine, we turn inland and north on small roads, enjoying our last riding day in Japan. Once back in Kyoto, we have some free time in the afternoon, before we meet for our final dinner – Japanese style of course!
Day 14 – Departure from Kyoto
We hope that you enjoyed the roads, sights and locations of Japan and look forward to next time! We will arrange an airport shuttle for you and wish you a safe flight back home.
TOTAL MILES ~ 1,550
The route is fully paved with a variety of road features. This trip is intended for experienced riders.
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Honda CBR400R
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
Included
Unladen weight (with fuel): 192 kg/423 lbs
Engine displacement: 399 cc
Power output: 46 hp
Fuel capacity: 17 L/4.5 gal
Standard seat height: 785 mm/30.9 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Honda Shadow 400
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
Included
Unladen weight (with fuel): 229 kg/505 lbs
Engine displacement: 398 cc
Power output: 33 hp
Fuel capacity: 14 L/3.7 gal
Standard seat height: 675 mm/26.6 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Yamaha Drag Star 400
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
Included
Unladen weight (with fuel): 236 kg/520 lbs
Engine displacement: 399 cc
Power output: 33 hp
Fuel capacity: 16 L/4.2 gal
Standard seat height: 660 mm/26.0 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Honda CB400 Boldr
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
Included
Unladen weight (with fuel): 203 kg/448 lbs
Engine displacement: 399 cc
Power output: 53 hp
Fuel capacity: 18 L/4.8 gal
Standard seat height: 755 mm/29.7 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Suzuki V-Strom 650
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
Included
Unladen weight (with fuel): 213 kg/470 lbs
Engine displacement: 645 cc
Power output: 67 hp
Fuel capacity: 20 L/5.3 gal
Standard seat height: 835 mm/32.9 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Suzuki Gladius 650
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
Included
Unladen weight (with fuel): 202 kg/445 lbs
Engine displacement: 645 cc
Power output: 72 hp
Fuel capacity: 14.5 L/3.8 gal
Standard seat height: 785 mm/30.9 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Honda NC750X
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$250
Unladen weight (with fuel): 214 kg/472 lbs
Engine displacement: 745 cc
Power output: 58 hp
Fuel capacity: 14.1 L/3.7 gal
Standard seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Yamaha MT-09
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$250
Unladen weight (with fuel): 193 kg/425 lbs
Engine displacement: 890 cc
Power output: 117 hp
Fuel capacity: 14 L/3.7 gal
Standard seat height: 825 mm/32.5 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Kawasaki Z900RS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$500
Unladen weight (with fuel): 215 kg/474 lbs
Engine displacement: 948 cc
Power output: 111 hp
Fuel capacity: 17 L/4.5 gal
Standard seat height: 835 mm/32.9 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
BMW F800GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$800
Unladen weight (with fuel): 214 kg/472 lbs
Engine displacement: 895 cc
Power output: 87 hp
Fuel capacity: 15 L/4.0 gal
Standard seat height: 815 mm/32.1 inches
Low seat height: 790 mm/31.1 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 762 mm/30.0 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $3,600
BMW R1300GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$1,050
Unladen weight (with fuel): 237 kg/523 lbs
Engine displacement: 1300 cc
Power output: 145 hp
Fuel capacity: 19 L/5.0 gal
Standard seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Low seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $3,600
Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$900
Unladen weight (with fuel): 423 kg/932 lbs
Engine displacement: 1,923 cc
Power output: 93 hp
Fuel capacity: 22.7 L/6.0 gal
Standard seat height: 735 mm/28.9 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$900
Unladen weight (with fuel): 416 kg/917 lbs
Engine displacement: 1,923 cc
Power output: 93 hp
Fuel capacity: 22.7 L/6.0 gal
Standard seat height: 740 mm/29.1 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Harley-Davidson Street Glide Limited
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$900
Unladen weight (with fuel): 376 kg/829 lbs
Engine displacement: 1,923 cc
Power output: 93 hp
Fuel capacity: 22.7 L/6.0 gal
Standard seat height: 690 mm/27.2 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: No
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $3,600
Personal Motorcycle
Deduct from rider tour price:
-$2,900
Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like a make or model of motorcycle that is not listed on this page for your tour and we will make every effort to secure the motorcycle of your choice.
Standard Inclusions
- Late model, low mileage motorcycle
- Upscale accommodations
- À la carte dining
- One Ayres Adventures tour leader assisted by Japanese guide
- Airport arrival/departure transfers
- Luggage handling
- Support vehicle for non-riding companions
- Comprehensive pre-trip planning and assistance
- Customized trip booklet with day-by-day itinerary and attractions
- Commemorative shirt
- Adventurer Club travel award credit
Meals
- All breakfasts
- 11 dinners
Special Inclusions
- Ferry rides to Tokushima and to Toba
- Entry fee for Amanohashidate and Matsumoto Castle
- Several authentic Japanese-style hotels
Deposit per person: $800
2027 Schedule
| Date | 2027 Adventures | Length | Rider Price (USD) | Co-Rider Price (USD) | Single Room Supplement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 10 - 23 | Japan Cherry Blossoms and Mt Fuji | 14 days | $12,280 | $9,350 | $1,950 |
2028 Schedule
| Date | 2028 Adventures | Days | Rider Price (USD) | Co-Rider Price (USD) | Single Room Supplement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 8 - 21 | Japan - Cherry Blossoms and Mount Fuji | 14 | $12,900 | $9,900 | $2,100 |
Cancellation fee and refunds
| FROM DATE OF SCHEDULED COMMENCEMENT | AMOUNT FORFEITED |
|---|---|
| More than 60 days | 50% of deposit |
| 60 days or fewer but more than 45 days | 100% of deposit |
| 45 days or fewer but more than 30 days | 50% of full tour payment |
| 30 days or fewer | 100% of full tour payment |
Claus is an outstanding guide!
Claus is an outstanding guide with whom we have ridden in the past. He imparts a confidence that there is no issue he can’t handle. Also, he does a great job of moving the group along without seeming overbearing. He makes an effort to know the country and the culture.
Bernard and Rhoda's Adventures include:
Japan - Cherry Blossoms and Mt. Fuji Adventure
Houston, TX
Thank you again for another wonderful tour!
Thank you again for another wonderful tour! We always wanted to go to the North Cape, with all the planning you did for us, you made this trip a great experience. You found nice twisties with spectacular views, stunning landscapes and outrageous bridges from one island to another, which made our hearts beat faster.
Our tour leaders had a lot of inside information on special routes, which were not crowded at all. GREAT RIDING!
Birgit and Manfred's Adventures include:
Norwegian Midnight Sun Adventure
Japan Cherry Blossom
Call of the Wild
Machu Picchu Excursion
Hamburg, Germany
We’re already signed up for the Alps and Morocco
I’ve ridden eight Ayres Adventures tours, three of them IBA (Iron Butt Association) specific rides and haven’t been disappointed. All have been first class, unique, and full of very pleasant surprises. Ron and his staff have always been courteous, helpful, and patient. In fact, he has found some special tour leaders and guides. By the end of the tour, they become friends that we look forward to seeing again.
Each tour had it’s own highlights. The IBA tours fit our style of riding since we are interested in seeing as much as we can and not spending a lot of time at the destination hotels. If you ride one, be prepared to cover some distance in all kinds of road and weather conditions.
Ushuaia had been one of those must see places for us and the South America IBA ride was the perfect way to do it, we ended up with more than we expected. The scenery was spectacular, the food was excellent, and this group of riders made it a ride to remember.
We enjoyed this one so much, we’re already signed up for the Alps IBA ride this September and the Portugal, Spain, and Morocco tour next year.
Tom and Mona's Adventures include:
IBA Ushuaia Tour
IBA Africa Tour
IBA Extreme Alps Tour
Machu Picchu Excursion (Empire of the Incas)
Spain and Morocco
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Namibian Splendors (Africa)
Russia - Beyond the Golden Ring
Munich to Istanbul
Japan Cherry Blossoms and Mt. Fuji
The Epic Journey - Moscow to Hong Kong
Vista, California
START CITY: Kyoto
- Nearest international airport: Kansai International Airport
- Airport code: KIX
- Approximate distance from city centre: 62 miles/100 kms
END CITY: Kyoto
- Nearest international airport: Kansai International Airport
- Airport code: KIX
- Approximate distance from city centre: 62 miles/100 kms
Private Tour Inquiry
We are happy to book any of our motorcycle tours as a private tour. For most tours, we require a minimum of 8 bikes or 12 participants (riders plus co-riders). We can provide a private motorcycle tour for smaller groups, but a surcharge may apply. We can also customize any of our regular tours for a private group.