Secrets of Hokkaido By Bike

A guided cycle journey into the quiet heart of northern Japan - untouched, uncrowded, and unforgettable.

Hokkaido is the perfect destination for cycle adventures

Enjoy rest stops to learn about traditional culture, Hokkaido, Japan

Traditional Japanese soba noodles as enjoyed for lunch

An ezo red fox trots across in front of riders, Hokkaido, Japan

Hokkaido is the perfect destination for cycle adventures

Enjoy rest stops to learn about traditional culture, Hokkaido, Japan

Traditional Japanese soba noodles as enjoyed for lunch

An ezo red fox trots across in front of riders, Hokkaido, Japan

Moderate

Traveller Rating

Activities

6 day cycle

Accommodation

5 nights hotel
2 nights traditional inn (ryokan)

Meals

5 Dinners
7 Breakfasts

8 Days$7050NZD

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View Inclusions

Trip Code: JBB

Trip highlights

Cycle through eastern Hokkaido’s wild landscapes, from volcanic valleys and crater lakes to remote coastlines
Cross the UNESCO-listed Shiretoko Peninsula, riding from coast to coast through one of Japan’s last true wilderness areas
Relax in scenic outdoor hot springs, including a hidden seaside onsen and lakeside ryokan stays
Travel with an experienced bilingual guide who manages logistics, navigation and cultural connection throughout the journey
Enjoy fresh regional cuisine each night, showcasing Hokkaido’s seafood, dairy and seasonal produce

Why Book With Us

Carefully crafted cycling itineraries that showcase Hokkaido’s quiet roads, volcanic scenery and remote villages
Sustainability matters, with low-impact travel designed to tread lightly and connect meaningfully
Travel with an experienced bilingual guide who manages logistics, navigation and cultural connection throughout the journey
Well-maintained bikes included, with a support vehicle and knowledgeable staff providing daily backup and guidance
Accommodation with character, staying in traditional inns and coastal hotels with a strong sense of place

Ride deep into Japan’s wild north on this guided cycling journey through eastern Hokkaido, a region of volcanoes, crater lakes, quiet coastlines and remote fishing villages. From Abashiri, cycle through farmlands and forested mountain passes to Lake Kussharo-Ko and misty Lake Mashu, before crossing the UNESCO-listed Shiretoko Peninsula from coast to coast.

Quiet roads, sweeping sea views and ever-changing landscapes define the ride, while a support vehicle and expert local staff ensure a smooth, well-supported experience. Evenings are spent soaking in natural hot springs and enjoying Hokkaido’s celebrated cuisine, from fresh seafood to regional specialities. This is cycling at its most immersive—remote, scenic and unforgettable.

Itinerary

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Day 1
Join Abashiri

We will meet at 5pm (17:00) at our hotel in Abashiri near the station. After a tour briefing and introduction we stroll the city of Abashiri and have a welcome dinner in town. Abashiri is the largest city on the east coast of Hokkaido and is famous for the winter attraction Ryuhyo, the drift ice that flows down the Amur River. The Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum, Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples, and Abashiri Prison Museum are other popular attractions that are worth visiting if you arrive in Abashiri earlier. Accommodation: Hotel/Ensuite bathroom

Meals: D

Day 2
Abashiri to Notoro Misaki loop ride (45 km / 28 mi, 4–5 hrs cycling)

Begin with bike fitting and safety briefing before riding along the Okhotsk Sea coastline past shrines and fishing villages. A gradual climb leads to Notoro Misaki lookout with sweeping ocean views, followed by a scenic lakeside return via Lake Notoro. Dinner tonight features freshly prepared okonomiyaki at a local favourite. Accommodation: Hotel (ensuite bathroom) Total ascent: 250 m / 820 ft

Meals: B

Day 3
Abashiri to Lake Kussharo-Ko (88 km / 55 mi, 6–7 hrs cycling)

Ride south over Bihoro Pass with panoramic views across Lake Kussharo-ko and surrounding volcanic peaks. Descend to the lake shore for a soak at Sunayu foot spa before reaching your lakeside ryokan. The evening is spent relaxing beside the water. Accommodation: Ryokan (shared bathroom) Total ascent: 688 m / 2,257 ft

Meals: B,D

Day 4
Cycle Lake Kussharo-Ko to Nakashibetsu, (84 km / 52 mi, 5–6 hrs)

Follow the lakeshore before climbing toward the steaming slopes of Iozan, the active “Sulphur Mountain.” Pause at the lookout above mist-shrouded Lake Mashu-ko, then enjoy an easy downhill ride into pastoral farmland. Tonight’s stay is in the town of Nakashibetsu. Accommodation: Hotel (ensuite bathroom) Total ascent: 850 m / 2,789 ft

Meals: B

Day 5
Nakashibetsu to Rausu (65–113 km / 40–70 mi, 5–7 hrs cycling)

Cycle through open farmland toward the remote Shiretoko Peninsula, riding along the east coast to the fishing town of Rausu. Fresh seafood and local kelp feature prominently at dinner. An optional coastal ride leads to a secluded seaside onsen. Accommodation: Hotel (ensuite bathroom) Total ascent: 300–400 m / 984–1,312 ft

Meals: B,D

Day 6
Cycle Rausu to Utoro, (46 km / 29 mi, 4–5 hrs)

Climb steadily over the Shiretoko Crossroad with views of Mt Rausu before descending through old-growth forest. Visit the Shiretoko Nature Centre and explore the Five Lakes boardwalk if conditions allow. The day ends in Utoro with sunset views over the Sea of Okhotsk. Accommodation: Ryokan (ensuite bathroom) Total ascent: 1,200 m / 3,937 ft

Meals: B,D

Day 7
Utoro to Abashiri (85 km / 53 mi, 6–7 hrs cycling)

Ride north along the coast before returning to farmland and wide open roads. Stop at Koshimizu Wild Flower Reserve to see seasonal blooms. Celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner overlooking Lake Abashiri. Accommodation: Hotel (ensuite bathroom) Total ascent: 350 m / 1,148 ft

Meals: B,D

Day 8
Finish in Abashiri

After breakfast, transfers are available to the airport or station for onward travel.

Meals: B

Inclusions

What's included

7 breakfasts, 5 dinners
7 nights hotel/traditional inn accommodation on a twin share basis, some nights have shared bathroom facilities
Combined group leader/ driver/ mechanic (group sizes 2-4)
Cycle leader & separate driver/ mechanic (group sizes 5 plus)
Private vehicle transport
Rental bikes (either road bike or hybrid bike)
Water and snacks whilst cycling
Sightseeing and entry fees listed in itinerary

What's not included

International or domestic flights and taxes
Arrival and departure transfers
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary (allow 1000-1500 Yen for lunch per day)
All beverages
Compulsory bike helmet
Water bottle (help us save the environment and bring your own drink bottle or hydration system)
Optional activities, site-seeing and entry fees listed in the itinerary
Personal expenses (eg. phone calls, internet, laundry, shopping etc)
Additional transport required due to any emergency situation
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Visa (if required)
Tips

Accommodation

Hotel

In cities or large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star, twin share properties that are centrally located, atmospheric and reliable. The properties are equipped with private facilities, except for the few occasions where options are limited due to location and in this case bathrooms are shared.

Traditional Inn (Ryokan)

Away from the main towns and cities, we stay in traditional style inns, known as ryokan. These are small, family owned and operated accommodations. Hosts are warm and welcoming, providing comfortable accommodations and fantastic, traditional meals. Sleeping arrangements are on futon mattresses laid out on tatami floors and bathrooms are shared.

Bike information

Comfortable Hybrid Bikes

Lightweight, aluminium framed, carbon forked hybrid bikes which would be Trek 7.4FX or similar. Consistent and safe braking is ensured by V-brakes and the wide spread of gears provide the ability to ride up and back down the hills in comfort and confidence. If you have a saddle and clip in pedals you wish to bring and use, the mechanic would more than happy to fit them for you.

*For safety reasons, we also insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

Road Bikes

Lightweight, aluminium framed, carbon forked road bikes which would be Trek 1.2 C H2 or similar. Consistent and safe braking is ensured by powerful dual-pivot brakes and the wide spread of gears provide the ability to ride up and back down the hills in comfort and confidence. If you have a saddle and clip in pedals you wish to bring and use, the mechanic would more than happy to fit them for you.

*For safety reasons, we also insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

E-Bikes Available

Cycle hassle-free and climb mountains without difficulty, enjoy nature and landscapes without physical limitations. Electronic Bikes make it possible and are available to hire on this trip for an additional fee (see prices below). The E-bikes available are comfortable, Panasonic Jetter touring e-bikes and are perfect for those who like to cycle however are concerned about fitness; E-bikes allow people of different fitness levels to cycle together.

*For safety reasons, we also insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

Grading

Moderate
5

To determine the grade of a particular adventure we consider a number of factors. These include the condition of the terrain, the altitude, the number of pass crossings and the length of the trip. The Secrets of Hokkaido by Bike is graded moderate. You will need to be a competent cyclist with a good level of fitness, you should be able to cycle comfortably for up to 4-6 hours or around 65-85km/40-53miles per day, day after day, with some uphill climbs. There are some hilly days and some steep climbs. You should be confident riding on main roads alongside traffic which can be travelling at speed. This tour is not for beginners. The tour is fully supported and if at any stage you feel like having a rest from cycling you will be able to ride in the support vehicle.

Departure dates

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$7050NZD

Options & Supplements*

Secrets of Hokkaido Single SupplementNZD$430
Japan E-Bike UpgradeNZD$430

*Prices listed are per person

Essential information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Secrets of Hokkaido By Bike trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.