Yamaguchi Lakes and Asahi Circular
A ride north from Hofu to Lake's Miyano, Sasanami, Abu and Kinkei. This is a six to seven hour, 110km cycle through some of the most beautiful and remoter parts of Yamaguchi. It involves over 2000m of climbing, some of which are quite long with some challenging technical descents.
Shunan Cycling Spectacular Yamaguchi
Shunan is an industrial city located in the southwest region of Yamaguchi prefecture. It is probably most synonymous with the petrochemical and steel industries with Idemitsu, Tosoch and Tokuyama and Nisshin Steel all having major plant located on the coast around the city of Tokuyama. Whilst this might sound somewhat off putting, we invite you […]
Hofu Yamaguchi: Mountain, river and coastal circular
This is a two and a half hour in Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, relatively gentle 40km ride. It involves a 450m climb over a ridge of Ohira mountain, a ride along the river Saba Gawa cycle way, cycling through the city of Hofu and a brief encounter with the coastline of Yamaguchi. We cycled this in late December, the weather was […]
【Cycling Diary】Limestone and Grasslands: The Akiyoshidai Circular
We cycled to Akiyoshidai 秋吉台 in Yamaguchi 山口 Prefecture. Starting in Ogori 小郡, we cycle north west on the 28 from the Fushimi river 伏見川. After a kilometre, on the right hand side of the road, there is a useful 7/11 convenience store where it is possible to stock up on provisions for what will […]
【Cycling Diary】A Mountain and Lake circular in Yamaguchi
From Shunan 周南 a most rewarding cycle ride is north along the 315 to Ato 阿東 district returning via Lake Ohara 大原湖 on the 439. Cycling through remote parts of Yamaguchi 山口 you will encounter mountains, lakes, orchards with endless breathtaking views. However, with almost 2,000 metres of climbing and 140 km of cycling, this […]
What to do in emergencies : traffic accidents whilst cycling
Japanese drivers are relatively well mannered and are normally aware of cyclists, but there is still the chance that you may be involved in a traffic accident. In this article I reflect upon my experience of being involved in an accident whilst cycling in Japan and try to advise on how to deal with the […]
When to go for a bike trip in Japan?
When to go to to Japan for a bike trip? Japan has distinctive seasons which should be taken into consideration when planning a bike trip, particularly for a long tour. Generally speaking, spring 春 (March to early June) and autumn 秋 (October and November) are the best seasons for bike trips as the temperatures are pleasant […]
Why cycling in Japan?
Japan may not come to minds of many as tour destination when they plan bicycle trips, but it is an excellent destination to discover hidden attractions by bicycle, not often experienced by those travelling in cars and trains. Rather than rushing from one place to another, why not take the time to enjoy the journey by […]