Intrepid Bikepacking In Rural Japan
infinite shimmering suns
"Extended cycling and camping in an older, slower -- and I believe more true Japan -- was fundamentally life-changing."
Beat burnout. Disconnect. Realign. Build resilience.
US start-up zen cycle co offers immersive, integral bikepacking journeys through Japan’s timeless rural landscapes, where physical endurance meets inner peace. These guided expeditions are more than group rides; they’re a prescription for recalibration, mental strengthening and well-being enhancement. Designed for high-performing professionals seeking clarity and renewal, each ride is a full-body reset — a return to sacred rhythms, a reconnection with nature and discovery of your very own zen. For those who build the future yet feel detached from the present, zen cycle co strips life back to its essence. Fewer screens, less stress, more finding yourself in Japan.
Get re-inspired on a cycling tour in Japan!
2026 SEASONAL RIDE PACKAGES
WHEN—SPRING (April–June) & FALL (September–November)
WHY—Inspiring landscapes, regular onsen soaks, authentic Japanese cuisine and time for reflection and recovery in every ride.
HOW—You can choose a modern pilgrimage at a mindful pace, or more competitive – zen cycle co will do our best to coordinate riders by fitness level and experience to ensure an appropriate vibe for everyone.
WHO—Management has cycled extensively in multiple Japanese prefectures and other Asian countries for several decades.
WHERE—Each route is thoughtfully curated to gently enable strength training, deep breathing exercises and zazen.
I) Contemplative Pacific Coast RideS
- Japan’s East Coast: ride along the Pacific Ocean paths and roads due north from Narita International to Aomori Prefecture, camping and staying at guesthouses, airbnbs.
- Seven days of sweeping ocean vistas, rewarding climbs, swims and fishing villages.
- Moderate difficulty.
- Arrival airport: Narita International (Tokyo).
II) Enigmatic Kyoto RideS
- Multiple day rides and several nights camping among serene river routes and vibrant cities — the best of both worlds.
- Kyoto backcountry villages and farms experience.
- Lake Biwa circumvention option.
- Low to moderate difficulty.
- Arrival airport: Kansai International Airport (Osaka).
III) OSAKA BIKE CITY-RESPECT RIDES
- Leisurely cafe, art and cycling scene, martial arts demos such as Kyudo (Japanese longbow archery),
- Maximum backroad exploration.
- Moderate to difficult, some challenging hills.
- Arrival airport: Kansai International Airport (Osaka).
IV) SACRED KYUSHU RIDES
- Bikepacking to remote, sacred places like Mt. Aso, Takachiho Gorge, Oita and Beppu.
- A week of spectacular mountain and ocean vistas and friendly farming communities.
- Moderate to high difficulty.
- Arrival airport: Fukuoka Airport (FUK).
Costs + Expenses
The program fee is ¥75,000 (US$480) per participant and ride, plus expenses—a below-market rate that allows us to personally lead the ride with you in Japan. Total expenses (from California): depending on the travel season, starting at around ¥400,000 (US$2,500).
Beyond our guide fee, your personal expenses to reach Japan and join a group ride will vary, but typically include: airfare, airport fees and taxes, travel insurance, airport pickup and drop-off, bike rental, alternating Airbnb-style lodging and curated bush campsites, daily hot meals, and a chase vehicle for gear transport.
Combined price option
*For PREMIUM Narita International Airport PICK-UP/DROP-OFF rate: Everything included in one price (except airfare): ¥800,000 (US$5,110). Our bilingual team will provide full in-country support for any questions from the outset of planning and all along the way. Space is limited and reservations are first-come, first-served. To begin your digital reset in Japan in 2026, please reach out: zen@zencycle.co
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