Crosshill CF "Follow your own path"
Xelius DRS "Facing Headwinds"
New Pulsium "Endurance, redefined for all"
E-explorer & E-explorer FS "Redécouvrez votre quotidien"
Pièces et Accessoires
Gamme de vélos électriques
e-Sensium - Route électrique polyvalent
e-Urban - Vélo électrique urbain
e-Explorer - Vélo électrique voyage
e-Zesty - Enduro Light électrique
Overvolt AM - VTT Allmountain électrique
Overvolt TR - VTT Trail électrique
Overvolt HT - VTT électrique Hardtail
GLP3 - Enduro performant électrique
Pièces et Accessoires
RAPPEL AIRCODE DRS/XELIUS SL3
Bikepacking Japan – A Guide Through a Hidden Paradise
1,300 km, 13,300 meters of elevation, three weeks, two wheels – from Hiroshima to Tokyo.
Bikepacking across Japan is not yet considered a classic among bike travelers, which is exactly what made it so appealing to us. Japan is spectacular in scenery, excellent in terms of supplies and infrastructure, and a true bikepacking discovery.
Why Bikepacking in Japan?
The idea of bikepacking in Japan came to me because I had wanted to cycle in Asia for some time, but in a country with safe roads and a high degree of security. Japan was perfect: I had been there once before without a bike and knew: I had to go back. This time on two wheels, to truly experience the country.
Together with my partner Anton, I started in Hiroshima, aiming for Tokyo. We wanted to cover around 100 kilometers per day—sometimes more, sometimes less. Since Japan is 75% mountains, it was clear that elevation gain would be part of the journey.
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Planning & Preparation
Planning the route was challenging: on platforms like Komoot and Strava we found hardly any usable cycling routes or complete maps. Many bike paths simply aren’t documented. Once we arrived, we often made spontaneous decisions and followed small roads or local signs.
We decided against camping and chose hotels and guesthouses instead, which allowed us more flexibility and meant less weight on the bikes.
On the Road Experience
Japan is a hidden gem for bikepacking, and for good reason. The roads are mostly quiet, paved, and there are countless small rural routes that are perfect for cycling. However, major cities should be avoided due to traffic and frequent stoplights.
Resupply is excellent: convenience stores (Konbini) and vending machines are literally everywhere.
What impressed us most: the kindness and helpfulness of the people. We have rarely been welcomed so warmly anywhere else.
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Highlight: Shimanami Kaido
One of the most unforgettable parts of the journey was riding the Shimanami Kaido, a roughly 70 km cycling route connecting Honshu and Shikoku via bridges and islands. The scenery, the sea breeze, the graceful bridge crossings — a true bikepacking highlight. A strong recommendation for anyone traveling to Japan.
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Bike & Routine
We both rode the Lapierre Pulsium, a perfect all-round bike. With 38 mm tires, we were able to ride efficiently on asphalt while still being comfortable on occasional gravel sections. Fast on the road, smooth on rough surfaces — the bike was perfect for this trip. We did not have a single mechanical issue.
Three weeks of continuous travel was demanding but deeply rewarding. Every four days, we took a rest day, usually in places that culturally interested us, such as Kyoto or Tokyo.
Tips for Your Bikepacking Trip to Japan
Pack minimal. Japan has everything you need — from gloves to pajamas. It’s better to buy what you need along the way than to carry unnecessary weight.
Laundry is easy. Nearly every hotel has washing machines, or there are coin laundries in town. You definitely don’t need to bring hand-washing supplies.
Try the food! There is practically no bad food in Japan. Even convenience store food is often better than restaurant quality in other countries. We’ve rarely snacked so well while cycling.
Bikepacking in Japan is not mainstream yet — and that’s exactly what makes it special.
For cyclists who crave adventure, cultural immersion, and stunning landscapes, it’s a journey you won’t soon forget.
