Higashikawa Discovery 1-Day Guided Cycling Tour

Proudly known as the “Town of Photography”, Higashikawa is blessed with rich nature and breathtaking landscapes. Join us and cycle amongst a carpet of rice paddies set against the backdrop of Daisetsuzan and Tokachi mountain ranges.

HIGHLIGHTS
Cycle along Chubetsu River while taking in the stunning views of Lake Chubetsu and Daisetsuzan
Learn about the rural culture and lifestyle of Higashikawa
Get an authentic perspective on Japanese rural life from your local English speaking guide and experienced cycling instructor
Enjoy lunch prepared by locals using locally produced ingredients
Visit a master craftsman’s wood workshop
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty and small-town charm of Higashikawa on this fully guided cycling tour. Spend the day pedalling through Higashikawa’s rice gardens, following the Chubetsu River and listen intently as your local guide relates tales of rural life. Throughout the tour, there will be plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the spectacular views, as well as explore the town. Two wheels, not four is the best way to explore Higashikawa.

THIS TRIP IS PERFECT FOR TRAVELLERS THAT ENJOY…
Riding on scenic and bike-friendly roads
Cycling for more than 4 hours
Exploring at a leisurely pace

LANDSCAPES OF THE FOUR SEASONS
Ride with us through the four seasons and experience the seasonal beauty of Higashikawa. From May to October, discover the rich scenery of farming practises in the region such as rice planting. One of our favourite times of the year is early May when the snow-capped mountains can be seen in the distance and the colours of the sky can be seen on the reflection of water-filled rice paddies. July to August are our warmest months where you can enjoy the sound of cicadas while cycling through lush greenery. From August to September, the rice fields turn gold, making for spectacular photos. After the harvest season in late September, the arrival of autumn sets the trees ablaze in colour. Temperatures begin to drop in October with light snowfall in the mountains. For many, November is too cold to cycle outside. But if you’re up for an adventure cycling in the snow, you can count us in!

ITINERARY

Kick-off your adventure at 8 am with a convenient hotel pick up service or at a pre-arranged location in central Asahikawa and head out to Higashikawa.
After a bike fitting and safety briefing, together with your English speaking guide set off for the bike trail along Chubetsu River and cycle to Lake Chubetsu. Enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Asahidake while crossing the crest of the dam overlooking the lake. It’s one of our favourite spots! At midday, stop off for lunch at our favourite local restaurant and then pay a visit to a master craftsman’s workshop to learn about the town’s unique wooden handicrafts. We wrap up the tour at 4 pm and drop you off back at your hotel or where requested.

Cycling distance: 30-50km / Required time: 8-9 hours

If the weather is unsuitable for cycling, we will visit the mentioned locations by car and offer an alternative activity such as trekking to Hagoromo Waterfall and dipping our feet in a natural hot spring.

Please note that the distance and route shown in the tour map is only provisional.
We adjust where and how much we cycle according to the requirement of participants on the day.