Cycle Around Japan - Episode Guide

There's no better way to see the world than bicycle touring. We head for the Izu Peninsula to enjoy relaxing onsen hot springs, breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the blossoming charms of spring.

We head for Hokkaido, to enjoy breathtaking views in Furano, the hills covered with various flowers. We encounter Ainu, indigenous culture.

In this autumn edition, we will take you to the World Heritage Sites, Tomioka silk mill and Nikko Toshogu shrine. Along the journey, we will encounter the traditional life of deep mountain region.

In this edition, we will take you to a winter journey through Lake Biwa, the biggest lake in Japan, to Kyoto. You will find the traditional winter life on lakeside, and "Setsu-bun" festival in Kyoto.

This time we're cycling up the Noto Peninsula. We'll meet the people who live on this land, fishing its seas and farming its hills. We'll see a distinctive Noto craft, deeply rooted local tradition.

Our summer trip this year takes us on a 290km-tour of Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan's former entrance to the Asian Continent since ancient times. During the Sakoku Era, when a strict nationwide policy of isolation was in place, the city thrived as a gateway to the so-called Southern barbarian trade era. This led to the blossoming of unique crafts and culture born from exposure and fusion with foreign culture. Now, 70 years after the end of World War II, we see the Nagasaki residents continuing to pray. After enduring the horrific suffering caused by the atomic bomb in 1945, the city made a remarkable recovery. This show focuses on the locals who work hard to keep those memories alive. At the end of the trip, we visit Ikitsukishima, home to some of the Christianity-related artifacts which Japan is applying to register as a World Heritage Site. There, we meet locals who continue to believe in Christianity, for which their ancestors were punished during an infamous oppression against Christians. What are those people praying for now? What are they hoping for? This tour also features breathtaking views of Mt. Unzen and seashores of Genkainada, and introduces ways to use trains during a cycling trip.

Starting from Asahikawa, the 2nd largest city in Hokkaido, we will ride toward the Shiretoko Peninsula, the World Heritage Site. During 520km journey, we are going to meet people who live close to the nature in Hokkaido. We will visit the community of Ainu, an indigenous people of Japan. They still live in this region and struggle with maintaining their tradition and Ainu's way of life. You may find a mysterious lake near the Ainu's village where the water changes its color reflecting the sunshine. Our destination, the Shiretoko Peninsula is one of the most remote regions in all of Japan. The word "Shiretoko" is derived from an Ainu word, meaning "the place where the earth protrudes". The Shiretoko Peninsula is home to diverse wildlife, and UNESCO designated the area a World Heritage Site in 2005.

In this episode, we will take you to Amami-Oshima. This subtropical island is 1,300km away from Tokyo and blessed with transparent waters, bright colored coral reefs. We explore the local lifestyles.

We'll ride along the Pacific coast around Boso Peninsula, which is located directly east of Tokyo. We come across Spring festivals for harvest and meet the people living in tradition.

This time, Cycle Around Japan takes us to Iwate. We'll see unique traditions, still thriving in remote mountain villages. And the beauty of a coast preserved through so many natural disasters.

This edition features the Yaeyama islands in Okinawa Prefecture, where the lifestyle that has existed since ancient times is still strong. The trip is filled with discoveries, including the sabani boats of Ishigaki island made from logs, the exquisite scenery of Taketomi island, and a woman who carries on the tradition of minsa fabric.

This time we cycle around Toyama prefecture. We will climb into the deep mountains to visit those that preserve an old way of life, and encounter a festival that has been held continuously for over 300 years.

In this episode, we will recommend a journey that you may start cycling from Tokyo, the Japanese capital. We will take you to the popular towns such as Yokohama, Kamakura and Hakone. And our final destination will be Izu-Oshima, a volcanic island under the administration of Tokyo.
Izu-Oshima is located about 100 kilometers south of the metropolitan Tokyo. The island is a popular tourist destination, especially for those in Tokyo seeking a cycle ride. At the heart of Izu-Oshima is the Mount Mihara (758m), an active volcano which is the source of several interesting sites and various hot springs on the island. Izu-Oshima is also known for its Tsubaki, camellia flowers, which can be spotted almost everywhere from around January through March.

Kumamoto Prefecture is the stage for cycling this time. The area, in the center of the island of Kyushu, is recovering from an earthquake in 2016. The program starts in the city of Kumamoto and works its way around the Amakusa island chain. It then heads for Mount Aso, where one of the world's largest volcanic craters is located. Meet the people and see the sights of this 4-day, 300km bicycle journey.

Ehime Prefecture is located on the island of Shikoku. We will start our spring journey from the prefectural capital Matsuyama, which is best known for its castle and Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs. Facing the Bungo Channel that separates Kyushu from Shikoku, the coastline offers great scenery such as the Danbata terraced field. Uwajima, one of the coastal cities is known for the traditional bull fight events that it stages 5 times a year. We will visit the spring bull fight fest. Our final destination is Shikoku Karst, the mountain plateau on the border of Ehime Prefecture and Kochi Prefecture with an altitude of around 1,400 meters.

In this episode we will take you to northern country, Akita Prefecture in Tohoku region. We will start our journey from Kakunodate, the town is famous for its samurai tradition and its hundreds of weeping cherry trees, Shidare-zakura. Spring in Akita is marked by the melting of winter snows, feeding the hills and fields with moisture. The people of Akita have discovered many ways to take advantage of the region's bountiful nature. Our journey will bring us in contact with the unique cultural traditions borne from that nature and world-famous dog breed, the Akita Inu. It will be a 330-kilometer ride through a northern land emerging from its long winter and feeling the first breath of spring.

Australian Paul Salisbury takes on the challenge of a 2,000-meter peak in Nagano Prefecture. The Japan Alps mountain pass provides breathtaking views to inspire him onward and upward. Off the bike, Salisbury experiences traditions such as the harvesting of wasabi plants in pristine waters and the making of baskets from wild bamboo. All in all, he travels 300 kilometers across the verdant ridges and valleys of Nagano, finding new encounters around every bend.

Come along on a 550-kilometer bike ride through the grand scenery of Japan's northernmost prefecture. The city of Hakodate offers a mix of cultural influences from east and west. Down the road, a fishing village keeps busy in summertime with kombu kelp drying. The trip includes stops at a dairy farm and a watermelon patch, evidence of the close connection between the people and the land. As we'll see, Hokkaido is a place where nature takes its course.

This trip will take you to the westernmost part of the island of Honshu, Yamaguchi Prefecture that is surrounded on 3 sides by the sea. Our rider will enjoy cycling along a beautiful coastline. On the road, he will meet a family that has grown Japanese pears in the orchard for generations. Finally, he'll visit Hagi City, the old castle town that has a historical atmosphere. You'll experience its unique culture born in the samurai society.

Wakayama Prefecture is located in the southern part of Honshu. Our traveler rides through historical sacred sites and enjoys local products like persimmon and pickled plum.

Shizuoka Prefecture where Mt. Fuji lies is filled with lush nature. Our traveler hits the ancient Tokaido trail and discovers tasty Oden and traditional dyed handicrafts.

This journey takes us to Shimanami in the Seto Inland Sea, an area dense with islands. We see the distinctive ways of living in these beautiful islands. Slow but fulfilling, life is simple there.

Miyazaki in southeastern Kyushu is famous for its warm climate year round. Our rider enjoys a scenic coastline and lush forest on his way to Takachiho, an area featured in Japanese mythology.

Our traveler visits Aichi Prefecture in central Japan. He starts in Nagoya, one of Japan's biggest cities and makes his way to idyllic views along the Pacific Coast. His goal is to catch a glimpse of distant mountains covered in blossoming plum trees. He discovers locally grown cabbage, and a fermented soybean seasoning called hama natto. He comes across unique goods like traditional tokoname yaki teapots made from rich soil and inkstones carved from mountain rocks.

Shimane Prefecture along Japan's western coastline has spectacular views of mountains ranging from east to west. Our traveler's journey begins at Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's oldest and most famous shrines. At Lake Shinji, he meets a clam fisherman who uses a unique tool. Later he encounters a veteran blacksmith and learns about traditional ironmaking and enjoys kagura, a spiritual dance performed by locals wearing masks. Join us on a 4-day trip to Shimane, where traditions are a vibrant part of daily life.

Aomori Prefecture in northern Honshu is where our traveler navigates lush mountain trails along a clear blue lake in late spring. On his way, he meets a fisherman who cultivates scallops, proud apple farmers, and traditional Tsugaru Shamisen performers who play soul music. This region embodies the spirit of perseverance of locals who've had to endure long, severe winters and the wisdom of people who live for the land. Join us on a trip through nature and experience traditions of northern Japan!

The area around "Jingu", the Grand Shrine of Ise was lively even during the Edo period, bustling with activity and entertainment while the shrine itself served as a sacred place for worshippers. This created a distinct culture. The complex terrain led to unique customs which are still cherished today. A traditional shellfish female diver "Ama" who enters the water without any breathing gear is born from necessity. Discover the local culture and other traditions on our 300km journey.

Blue skies, tranquil sea and warm people, these are what our rider experiences as he travels through Kochi Prefecture on the Pacific coast. First, he heads for a scenic coastline that is popular among cyclists. There, he enjoys a lightly roasted bonito, a local specialty. In the mountains, he meets friendly people playing field games in mud! And a washi paper art craftsman demonstrates the beauty of mountain living. After riding along the Shimanto River, he gets a feel for an old pilgrimage known as Shikoku Henro. Join us on our 370km journey.

Hokkaido Prefecture's vast open spaces have always been a cyclist's dream! Through the Tokachi plain and Kushiro wetlands, our rider enjoys a journey through wilderness. He meets younger generations who find opportunities in fertile farming land. Around huge Lake Kussharo, he finds an open-air hot spring bath. Nothing beats bathing after a long ride! He also discovers the traditional culture of the Ainu, indigenous people and meets an Ainu artist. Join us on a 470km trip in the land of opportunity!

If you're a thrill seeker, we recommend the steep roads of Aizu, in the Fukushima mountains. Our cyclist heads deep into the woods where autumn colors decorate the forest. He finds a village stuck in time where locals gladly share their traditions. He learns about a style of hand weaving called, Karamushi and explores 300-year-old storehouses called kura where sake is brewed. We'll also be exposed to an education system from the samurai era for girls that remains unchanged. This 300km ride provides a glimpse into the lives of proud locals with a resilient culture.

Take in the tropical breeze and blue ocean while cycling around Miyako, a group of 8 islands in Okinawa Prefecture. Our cyclist explores the biggest one and samples local specialties including Shima-dofu, a kind of tofu made with seawater. San-shin, a traditional instrument made from the ebony tree is a key tool for playing folk songs loved by locals. This adventure features island-hopping by crossing numerous bridges and walking through a mangrove forest in low tide. Join us on this beautiful journey!

Kagoshima Prefecture, known as the land of brave samurai, was called Satsuma in ancient days. Our cyclist takes in scenic views on his ride along the sea and an active volcano. He discovers jars filled with a local specialty, fermented black vinegar, which make a tart and powerful beverage. In the mountains, he meets a craftswoman who revives old, beautiful buttons. He then finds a secret martial art inherited from samurai. Discover the spirit of this historic land on our 290km ride through Satsuma.

Take in the crisp air as we make our way around Mt. Fuji and surrounding lakes for a perfect winter bike ride. Our cyclist Michael picks the best trails on this challenging journey, which includes crossing a steep mountain to get scenic views of Japan's tallest peak. He also takes a fat bike tour through snowy mountains. Finally, he is rewarded with local lessons on the importance of preserving old ways and the environment. Join us on this 230-kilometer winter ride.

This three-day, 360km trip takes us from lowland Gifu Prefecture and its blossoming cherry trees north into the snow-covered central mountains. We'll visit a traditional swordsmith to watch him forge katana blades from living flame, a hillside town built on water, and forests with wood of such quality it inspired some of Japan's finest artisans. A final adventure involves our cyclist in a 200-year old tradition of amateur village kabuki, one of the many ways people have found to enjoy life in the remote mountains.

A 360km ride through the high mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, with a cyclist on his first long road trip. An interest in Eastern philosophy has drawn our traveler to the Three Mountains of Dewa, legendary abode of the gods. From a landscape of flowering cherry trees, we ride into the snow-capped mountains to meet a veteran artisan of Japanese chess pieces. On Mt. Haguro, we're guided up the sacred peak by a Yamabushi mountain ascetic. Finally, we help a free-spirited falconer train his raptor in the snowy wilderness.

Oita Prefecture was known since ancient times as the "Land of Plenty." But why? English cyclist James Hobbs looks for answers on a 3-day, 350-km ride through this southern region. His interest captured by a mysterious sight in a mountain forest, he learns the skill and effort required to cultivate quality mushrooms. Down by the coast, by a fertile sea filled with islands, he experiences Oita ingenuity first hand. And on one of the tiny islands, he meets a young couple who are its hope for the future.

In a 150-km summer cycle ride, Michael Rice explores the remote Oki Islands, deeply forested and surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Sea of Japan. Riding in his triathlon gear, he's ready for a dip whenever Nishinoshima's beaches offer the chance. On Nakanoshima, he meets the 48th descendant of a proud family that looked after an exiled former emperor 8 centuries ago, and still cares for his tomb. And on Dogo, the largest island, he tries his hand at traditional Oki sumo wrestling.

A 250-km ride through Niigata Prefecture, its green rice fields shimmering under the summer sun. From an artisan in hammered copper we learn about the long road to mastery, while in the paddy fields we see the hottest, hardest part of the rice growing season. Climbing up into the mountains, we'll experience a traditional style of river fishing and visit a breeder whose Nishikigoi carp are now world famous, 2 stories of hard work and cooperation rebuilding lives and businesses destroyed by natural disasters.

Miyagi Prefecture is a beautiful part of Japan, and in autumn its seas and mountains are at their most scenic. Towns along this coast that were devastated by the great tsunami in 2011 have now almost completely been restored. Throughout this 300-km cycle adventure, we'll encounter the irrepressible spirit of people who shrugged off disaster and the loss of loved ones to rebuild their lives, as we visit a workshop making salt the ancient way and a local festival that kept spirits high when times were tough.

Riding up Tanegashima's western coast with its sandy beaches, our cyclist visits a scissor craftsman, last of a 500-year old tradition. The east coast takes him past rocks carved by the ocean into fantastic shapes to Japan's biggest space center. Local schools here host children from all over the country for a year to learn about space and experience island life. Finally, he crosses to legendary Yakushima to explore its millennia-old forests and discover how nature inspires its islanders.