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Conquer hills with ease
Who needs Japan’s neon hustle and bustle when you can cycle the spectacular coastline of old Japan, visit sleepy fishing villages and gorgeous ryokans along the way? Buddhist temples, tea ceremonies, and steaming onsen baths are more our speed here. We’ve sought out some of the most picturesque rides on offer—epic climbs and all—made effortless with your faithful e-bike in tow (meaning you can go the extra mile!). Bike along the Noto (sublime) and stay at the exquisite Kayotei (whose owner has raised many a glass of sake with us).
Itinerary
Day 1. Discover the heart of the rustic Noto Peninsula and its rugged coastlines, rice paddies, and endless farmland. Dinner will be on a menu made from fresh, local ingredients with a “strict” dress code requiring your traditional yukata (kimono).
Day 2. Visit the asaichi, or morning market, finding anything from lacquerware and sake to fresh fish and vegetables. Ride along the scenic coast to a gorgeous waterfall and later on, take part in a special welcome ceremony at the local Shinto shrine.
Day 3. This morning, learn about the traditional craft of paper-making. Then, stop for a dip in a local hot spring, taking in views out across the bay.
Day 4. Ride back in time through sleepy fishing villages and past lush forests. Stop for a local lunch and head to the hot spring town of Wakura Onsen to indulge in a taste of Japan’s signature suki yaki with famous Noto gyu(beef) as the highlight.
Day 5. Drive through the awakening streets of Nanao to the island of Noto. Circumnavigating the island, pass through parkland and fishing communities, stopping along the way to watch for dolphins before a simple yet delicious lunch.
Day 6. Explore the beautiful gardens of Kanazawa today. Then, experience a traditional tea ceremony before setting out on a scenic loop ride in the hot spring town of Yamanaka Onsen.
Day 7. Bike through the winding mountains (with ease!) before exploring an amazing Buddhist temple. Walk up the marvellous 3 km gorge below Yamanaka or relax in the onsen with a shiatsu massage. Enjoy a sake tasting with a 13th generation sake brewer.
Day 8. After breakfast, transfer to Kyoto and say farewells. Kyoto easily demands a stay of several nights with its temples, shrines and UNESCO World Heritage sites.