Japan: The Way of the Road
Sixteen days from Kyoto to the Izu Peninsula on a Suzuki V-Strom, over the Shimanami Kaido, the Japanese Alps and the Venus Line.
Tell us your trip details and we'll put together a complimentary Stradora Expedition Pack for the journey.
15 nights through Japan
Sixteen days, guided, on a Suzuki V-Strom or similar, across Japan from Kyoto to the Izu Peninsula.
The operator describes Japan as precision, rhythm and contrast, and this tour as a mix of mountain passes, coastal highways and cultural landmarks. It covers about 3,003 km, and the operator says road quality is exceptional, with technical but predictable mountain passes, flowing coastal stretches and good traffic discipline. It rates the tour intermediate, suited to confident riders who enjoy precise cornering, and says it is engaging without being extreme.
The tour begins in Kyoto and heads west to Himeji and the Setouchi region, where feudal castles and canal towns set the tone. It then crosses to Shikoku, climbing into elevated ridgelines with sweeping mountain curves, before reaching the bridges and island network of the Shimanami Kaido. In Hiroshima, history takes centre stage. Coastal roads along the Sea of Japan lead to vast sand dunes, and inland the countryside gives way to the Japanese Alps, where high-altitude roads such as the Venus Line offer smooth, panoramic riding. Further south, the Pacific coast runs through Hakone and the Izu Peninsula, with dynamic curves, ocean views and volcanic landscapes. Traditional post towns, Zen temples and hot spring resorts punctuate the route.
The price is per rider, with a lower pillion rate. It includes the motorcycle, fuel and spares, hotels, lodges and traditional Japanese ryokan, breakfast, dinner, snacks and beverages, local and international guides, a support vehicle with crew and mechanic and entrance fees. Airport transfers are not listed for this tour. Flights, visa, insurance and alcohol are extra. The listed departure is 10 to 25 May 2027, with a maximum of 12 riders.
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Photography and film: the operator
What's included
- Motorcycle
- fuel and spares
- accommodation
- meals (breakfast
- dinner
- snacks and beverages)
- local and international guides
- support vehicle
- crew and mechanic
- entrance fees to sites
- national parks and tolls
- first aid equipment
Not included
- Flights
- visa
- personal travel insurance
- personal health insurance
- alcoholic beverages
Ready to drive it?
15 days, from £8,266pp
