Japan
Motorcycle
Tour

Central Honshu, Japan

20 Oct → 1 Nov 2025 sold out

From cutting-edge innovation to timeless tradition and back

Overview

Two weeks on two wheels across Japan, where Tokyo's neon skyscrapers give way to the ancient, nature-connected side of the country. Winding mountain passes lead to volcanic hot springs, the sandy shores of the Sea of Japan guide us to the thousand-year-old heritage of Kyoto and Nara. True culture shock, rich traditions, incredible cuisine, and natural wonders, all connected by Japanese motorcycles and smooth asphalt.

Duration

13 days / 12 nights*

Location

Road trip from Tokyo to Kyoto and back, through Japan’s most beautiful and authentic landscapes

Motorcycle package

9-day long-distance touring motorcycle rental, made in Japan, with a support vehicle for luggage and guided tours by local and GoBeyond guides

Meeting point

Haneda International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT), Tokyo, Japan

Accommodation

8 nights in 4-star, urban hotels, 2 nights in small-town onsen hotels, 2 nights in authentic Japanese inns, known as ryokan and minshuku

Price

€4,390

*The duration of the trip lasts from meeting at Haneda (HND) or at Narita (NRT) International Airport / Tokyo, Japan, until the flight home from the same airports

Description

Kids dressed as anime characters, five-storey gaming arcades and flashing neon lights; ancient shrines, tranquil bamboo groves, rocky river valleys and volcanic peaks. Skyscrapers and traditional wooden houses, heated toilet seats, geishas, shoguns, samurais, hot springs and incredible cuisine – it is almost impossible to list all the reasons to visit Japan. Perhaps the most unique aspect of the Land of the Rising Sun is how its ancient culture and traditions thrive alongside hypermodern innovation and futuristic cities.

On our two-week motorcycle tour, we explore the central region of Japan’s main island, Honshu, discovering this fascinating duality, marvel at natural wonders, savour amazing cuisine, and admire the iconic creations of Japan’s world-famous car and motorcycle industries at the Yamaha and Honda museums.

After immersing ourselves in Tokyo’s high-tech world, we leave behind its Blade Runner-esque atmosphere and ascend winding mountain roads into the densely forested peaks of the Japanese Alps. Along the way, we pass through narrow river valleys and scenic mountain passes, ancient Shinto shrines, spa towns built around volcanic hot springs, and authentic villages that still preserve the Edo-era legacy of samurais and merchants.

Finally, we head to the northern coast of the island, where we leave our tracks on the concrete-hard sandy shores of the Sea of Japan, before heading south along the largest lake in the country toward Kyoto, the cultural hub, and Nara, the ancient capital, home to shrines and free-roaming deer. On the final leg of our journey, we travel back to Tokyo’s bustling heart along the Pacific Ocean coastline, with the iconic Mount Fuji providing a stunning backdrop as we cap off our journey.

Tour Package

Japan Motorcycle Tour
 

20 Oct → 1 Nov 2025 sold out
 

€4,390

The duration of the trip lasts from meeting and farewell in Tokyo, Japan. Tokyo has two international airports where you can arrive and depart: Haneda International Airport (HND) and Narita International Airport (NRT)

Included in the price

12 nights accommodation with breakfast included

2 dinners

Yamaha XSR700, Kawasaki Z650 or similar category rental for 9 days

Fuel

Support vehicle for luggage

Entrance fees for the attractions included in the program

Airport transfer on the official arrival and departure days of the tour

Local guide

GoBeyond tour guide

Optional extras

Upon request, the GoBeyond team will book the best available flight tickets for you. The handling fee is based on the price of the ticket:
– under €1,000: €30
– above €1,000: €50
If you need a visa – determined by your nationality – and you want us to arrange it for you, the administration fee is €35

Further expenses

International flights to Tokyo (HND or NRT airports) and back

Travel insurance

Personal expenses, lunches, dinners and drinks

Local transportation in Tokyo

Details

Accommodation

During our 12 nights, we will stay in 9 different types of accommodation, from small town hotels to large urban hotels, as well as authentic Japanese inns called ryokan and minshuku. Many of the evenings we can relax in hot springs at the end of long days, 3-4 nights we sleep on futon beds and the other nights in western style beds. One night we enjoy the view of Lake Suwa, the last night of the motorcycle tour the view of Lake Hamana and every night we enjoy the benefits of heated toilet seats and a home slippers.
In total we will spend 8 nights in 4* hotels in major cities, 2 nights in small town onsen hotels and 2 nights in authentic Japanese ryokans and minshukus.

Motorcycle rental for 9 days and fuel for the tour route – depending on availability and your preferences, you can choose from well-maintained, long-distance touring bikes made in Japan, such as the Yamaha XSR700 or Kawasaki Z650. The tour will be led by a GoBeyond motorcycle guide with years of experience. Your luggage will be transported by a support vehicle, driven by our local guide. To take part in the tour, you need an international driving licence category "A" issued in accordance with the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic.

Everyone must bring their own protective gear and helmet. We don’t recommend wearing leather motorcycle gear as we won’t be riding fast and October typically has pleasant autumn temperatures. Due to the significant elevation changes (from sea level to 2000 meters), the daytime temperatures can vary, so layering your clothing is the best option. While October is usually not a rainy season, showers can still happen, so waterproof gear is advised. Hiking boots or motorcycle boots that go above the ankle are recommended.

GoBeyond's official motorcycle gear partner is FUEL. Gear up for the tour in their webshop and enjoy a special discount code for our guests!

In central Japan, October is typically a time of pleasant autumn weather, making it one of the most scenic periods of the year thanks to the red and golden foliage. In cities, temperatures can rise above 20°C, with minimal temperature fluctuations, meaning nighttime lows stay around 15°C. In the mountains, the weather is slightly cooler, with daytime highs of around 17-20°C and nighttime lows near 10°C. October is generally a dry month in this region, though occasional rainfall can still occur.

During the 8-day motorcycle tour, we will cover approximately 2,000 km on good quality, asphalted and mostly low-traffic roads. The precision and quality so typical of the Japanese doesn't let us down here, so we get the chance to experience what it's like to ride on mirrored asphalt in the forest. Along the way, we'll get used to driving on the left-hand side of the road and the local traffic culture: nowhere else in the world are drivers so patient and courteous.

Depending on your spending habits, you can expect to spend between €600 and €900. A meal costs between €7 and €25, but you can get away with less with good quality ready meals and freshly baked food. It's easy to spend money in the cities and less in the countryside, but if you want to come home full of souvenirs, plan ahead.

Over the 13 days, we will immerse ourselves in Japanese cuisine. In addition to rich ramen, fresh dumplings, and authentic sushi, we will try regional specialties such as soba noodles from Nagano. We will enjoy breakfast at the hotel 11 times, and one morning, we’ll have breakfast at a nearby market. Two evenings, dinner will be provided at our accommodations. For lunch, we’ll stop along the way, and in the evening, we’ll explore a local izakaya in each city. Expect noodle soups packed with vegetables, crispy tempuras, fermented vegetables, and table grilling experiences. There will even be moments when we won’t know exactly what we’re eating, but we’ll be sure to enjoy it!

A maximum of 12 group members, representing a mix of nationalities.

We make high-quality content in all our camps. You will receive the photos after returning home to remember all the amazing memories.

A comfortable transfer will take you from the airport to your accommodation and back after the tour. The price does not include transport within Tokyo, as it is expected that there will be occasions when the whole group will not be moving together, and everyone will be able to use public transport with a card added to their phone. Outside of Tokyo, we will use the hired motorbikes throughout the trip, and a support car will be available if needed.

You should choose an insurance that covers motorcycling and is valid in Japan. You can contact us and we will be happy to recommend the most suitable one.

Program

13-day itinerary

GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
Day 1

Arrival

We arrive in Tokyo, where a transfer will be waiting for us at the airport, and the team will gather in Shinjuku. We acclimatize, recover from the long journey, and dive into Tokyo's vibrant nightlife.

Day 2

One of the world's most exciting cities

After breakfast, we head out for a sightseeing tour to the must-see spots, but since our goal is for everyone to get the most out of one of the world’s most exciting cities, we adjust the schedule based on the team's preferences. During the city tour, we visit one of Tokyo's most significant Shinto shrines, the Meiji Jingu Temple. We explore the bustling center of the metropolis, Shibuya, and of course, we can't miss the world’s most famous intersection. In the evening, we lose ourselves in the traditional bars, known as izakayas, in the popular nightlife district, Shinjuku.

Day 3

The beginning of the tour

After breakfast, we pick up our bikes, say farewell to the world’s most populous metropolis, and head north. In the afternoon, we visit the Honda Museum, which showcases around 350 cars and motorcycles, where we admire the legendary vehicles of this global brand. We spend the evening in Utsunomiya, the capital of Tochigi Prefecture, known for its exceptionally delicious gyoza. In the evening, we relax in the hotel’s onsen, unwinding from the urban frenzy and tuning into the slower pace of the countryside.

Day 4

Winding through the mountains

Our first stop is Nikko, where we marvel at the 103-building shrine complex, including the Toshogu Shrine, considered the most elaborately decorated shrine in Japan. We continue winding through the Japanese Alps, passing volcanic mountains, river valleys, mountain lakes, and waterfalls, until we reach the uniquely atmospheric spa town of Kusatsu, where we relax our feet in a roadside footbath filled with steaming hot spring water. By evening, we arrive in Nagano Prefecture, where an authentic 200-year-old ryokan awaits us with a traditional dinner, followed by a soothing soak in the onsen to unwind from the long day.

Day 5

Monkeys, Venus Line & Lake Suwa

After breakfast, we visit the world-famous Jigokudani Monkey Park and then set off on one of Japan's most scenic routes, the Venus Line, where we wind through beautiful mountain ranges, plateaus, rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, all the way to Lake Suwa. Lake Suwa is not only the largest lake in Nagano Prefecture and a popular spot for relaxation, but it is also a part of Japanese culture, featured in films, anime, and video games. In the evening, we enjoy dinner at our lakeside hotel, unwind in the onsen, and take in the peaceful view of the lake.

Day 6

Exploring authentic small towns

After breakfast, we saddle up again and head northwest through the volcanic mountains toward the Sea of Japan. Our first stop is Narai-juku, located along the ancient Nakasendo route once traveled by samurais, merchants, and other mysterious travelers. The town still preserves the cityscape from centuries ago. In an open house, we can also see how merchants lived during the Edo period. As we continue winding through the mountains, we arrive in Takayama, often referred to as the crown jewel of Gifu Prefecture, and shortly after, we reach the mountain village of Ainokura, adorned with traditional Gassho-style houses. We spend the night on the shores of the Sea of Japan, in an authentic guesthouse, a minshuku.

Day 7

Noto Peninsula, Kanazawa

We have breakfast at the market next to our accommodation and take a stroll around the harbor town, often called the Venice of Japan, with its unique atmosphere. We visit a 300-year-old home of an Edo-period seafaring family and a ceramic artist’s gallery. In the afternoon, we ride out to the Noto Peninsula, where we enjoy the stunning view of the bay from the mountaintop. Then, we head south along the western coast, Japan’s only stretch of beach where we can ride directly along the water, on the firm, sandy shore. We spend the night at a hotel in downtown Kanazawa, just a few minutes' walk from the historic district, where samurais and their families once lived.

Day 8

Sea of Japan, Lake Biwa & Kyoto

In the morning, we continue our journey along the Sea of Japan, making stops at the most scenic parts of the coastline. Then, we head inland, winding through mountains, valleys, forests, and towns until we reach Japan's largest lake, Lake Biwa. Along the way, we are accompanied by castles, villages, towns, rivers, and dense forests as we move southward. On the other side, we arrive in Kyoto. Known as Japan's cultural capital, we settle into our accommodation and explore the city's vibrant nightlife.

Day 9

Rest day in Kyoto

We take a rest day in Kyoto and visit the city’s key landmarks – at least those we can fit into one day. In the northern part of the city, we visit the famous Zen Buddhist Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and the beautiful bamboo forest. In the afternoon, we head to the eastern side of the city. We see the Imperial Palace, a symbol of Kyoto’s history, along with its expansive surrounding park. We also visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its striking orange torii gates made of cedar wood, which lead us through scenic walking paths. We wrap up this long sightseeing day with a visit to a downtown izakaya, where we relax and enjoy some local food.

Day 10

Nara

After breakfast, we head to the ancient city of Nara, which was Japan's first permanent capital in the 8th century and boasts some of the country’s oldest temples. At Todai-ji Temple, we see the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue, standing at 15 meters high, and of course, we also visit the free-roaming deer in Nara Park. Next, we visit the nearby Horyuji Temple, built in 607. It is not only one of Japan’s oldest temples but also the world’s oldest surviving wooden structure. In the afternoon, we head east, circling around the Ise Bay, passing through Nagoya, and finally reaching Lake Hamana. We end the day by relaxing in the onsen at our lakeside hotel.

Day 11

Yamaha Museum & Fuji

We start our final motorcycling day at the Yamaha Museum, where we admire iconic pieces from Japan’s automotive and motorcycle history. In the afternoon, we spend a significant portion of the journey on the highway heading back to Tokyo. Before reaching the metropolis, we take one last ride into the mountains, winding along former volcanic craters and the mountain ridge, while enjoying exceptional views of Mount Fuji, Komagatake, and Lake Ashinoko. By evening, we return to Tokyo, return the motorcycles, and raise a glass to the great adventure we've had.

Day 12

Tokyo

We spend our last full day in Tokyo with a free program. Depending on the team's mood, we may head out for a joint city tour, but everyone is free to explore their own path and visit the shops that interest them most, picking up those essential souvenirs. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner to say goodbye to each other and to Japan, then we’ll try to get some rest before the long journey home.

Day 13

Departure

We head to the airport by private transfer, with everyone departing according to their flight schedules. After two weeks of unforgettable adventures, we leave feeling pleasantly tired and with memories that will last a lifetime as we fly back home.

The program is subject to change at any times. The final itinerary depends on current weather conditions and the group’s skills and stamina.

GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan
GoBeyond | Motorcycle Tour | Japan

Your tailor-made motorcycle tour in Japan

Would you rather visit the island with your mates on a different date? Do you want to visit Osaka, have a longer adventure in the Japanese Alps, or maybe you have less time and want to take a shorter route? If you're thinking of travelling with family or friends on a different date, or have something else on your bucket list that you don't want to miss, contact us with your ideas and we'll make your dream adventure a reality!

Discover more

Our guides

GoBeyond_Team_Levi

Levi

Business Developer & Tour Guide

One of our most seasoned guides: wherever he is, you can count on him to organize, negotiate, handle, and control even the most extreme circumstances you can imagine.

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GoBeyond_Team_Norbi

Norbi

Travel Expert

Norbi is a constantly curious world wanderer. He is most content and happy when he’s outdoors.

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GoBeyond_Team_Gunti

Günti

Tour Guide

His endless humor and calm are contagious—something especially welcome when you’re enjoying extreme conditions at 5,500 meters!

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01
Enquiry
Call us, email us or use the form below
02
Availability confirmation
We will get back to you within 48h
03
Booking
Secure your spot with a deposit & travel contract
04
Plane tickets & visa arrangement if needed
Typically 1-2 months before departure
05
Second Instalment
30 days before departure
06
GoBeyond adventure starts
We greet you at the meeting point

    FAQ

    Not at all. Half of the group usually comes alone, so you can be sure you'll make new friends!

    We don't ride fast or in extreme terrain, so if you're comfortable riding a 600-700cc bike for 6-8 hours on tarmac, even in the rain, there's no need to worry that your skills aren't up to it.

    In October, central Japan enjoys pleasant autumn weather, making it one of the most scenic periods of the year thanks to the red and golden foliage. Daytime highs are typically 17-22°C, and nighttime lows cool to around 10-15°C. While October is generally dry, rain showers can still happen, so it’s a good idea to pack a waterproof layer. As with transitional seasons in general, it’s worth preparing for this trip with breathable, layered clothing.

    To ride in Japan, you must have a driving license issued by a country that is a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. Japan only accepts International Driving Permits (IDPs) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention, not those from the 1968 Vienna Convention. Ensure that your IDP is obtained in your country of residence and complies with the correct protocol. IDPs are valid for one year and must be accompanied by a valid domestic license and passport. The IDP must include the stamp in the 'A' section for motorcycles to be eligible to hire a motorcycle over 50cc.

    Depending on your spending habits, your budget will likely fall between €600 and €900. Meals usually range from €7 to €25, though you can cut costs with some savvy choices. Cities have a way of tempting you to spend more, while the countryside tends to be kinder to your wallet. If you’re planning to come home with plenty of souvenirs, it’s smart to factor that into your budget ahead of time!

    You need an insurance that covers cycling and is valid in Japan. You can contact us and we will be happy to recommend the most suitable one.

    We'll be staying in the central area of Japan's main island, Honsu, known as the Chubu region.

    Over the 13 days, we will immerse ourselves in Japanese cuisine. In addition to rich ramen, fresh dumplings, and authentic sushi, we will try regional specialties such as soba noodles from Nagano. We will enjoy breakfast at the hotel 11 times, and one morning, we’ll have breakfast at a nearby market. Two evenings, dinner will be provided at our accommodations. For lunch, we’ll stop along the way, and in the evening, we’ll explore a local izakaya in each city. Expect noodle soups packed with vegetables, crispy tempuras, fermented vegetables, and table grilling experiences. There will even be moments when we won’t know exactly what we’re eating, but we’ll be sure to enjoy it!

    Over 12 nights, we’ll experience nine unique accommodations, from small-town hotels to large urban ones, and authentic Japanese inns like ryokan and minshuku. Most evenings, we can unwind in hot springs, spending 3-4 nights on futons and the rest in Western-style beds. Highlights include stunning views of Lake Suwa and Lake Hamana, plus Japan’s signature comforts like heated toilet seats and slippers. The breakdown: 8 nights in 4-star city hotels, 2 in small-town onsen hotels, and 2 in traditional inns.

    The local currency is the Japanese Yen, JPY. There are many exchange offices and ATMs at the airport, but it is best to exchange small amounts of cash at the airport as you will be able to exchange it later in the city at a cheaper rate. You can use a card in many places, but surprisingly, there are still quite a few where you can’t, especially in rural areas. We recommend that you carry enough cash.

    Travelers from many countries across the globe can visit Japan for up to 90 days without requiring a visa, but if you require one, we are happy to help! Check this link to see which countries require a visa: https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/visa-info/

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