Road Runners
JAPAN – CURVES, CULTURE & A LITTLE SAKE | WOMAN -ONLY | 1–11.11.2027
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The booking fee is 25%.
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DURATION:
RIDING DAYS:
TOUR TYPE:
ROAD SURFACES:
DIFFICULTY LEVEL:
GROUP SIZE:
MOTORCYCLE:
The tour price includes a rental motorcycle (P4), such as a Suzuki V-Strom 650XT, Honda NC750X DCT or Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 or Classic 650.
Upgrade options include:
- P5: Suzuki V-Strom 800/800DE, Yamaha Tracer 9 GT or BMW F750GS, for €115
- P6: BMW F800GS or Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT, for €230
- P7: BMW R1300GS for €570.
Supplements are per rider for the complete tour. Tell us your preferred model, height and riding experience so we can help find a suitable motorcycle.
TOUR DESCRIPTION:
Japan rewards curiosity—and a willingness to take the winding road. This 11-day women-only motorcycle tour combines time in Tokyo with six riding days through the Mount Fuji region, the Izu Peninsula and the mountains towards Nikko. Approximately 1,500 km bring together panoramic roads, hot spring towns and a taste of everyday Japanese life.
We ride with a dedicated support vehicle, travelling from Tokyo and returning to the capital. Beyond the riding, there are castles and shrines to explore, wasabi fields to visit and hot springs to ease tired shoulders. Dinner becomes another discovery. And once the motorcycles are parked, perhaps a little sake.
From Tokyo to mountain roads and hot spring towns
Leaving Tokyo, we head towards the Mount Fuji region and the clear spring-fed ponds of Oshino Hakkai. Around Hakone and the Izu Peninsula, the journey takes us through volcanic landscapes, along sweeping roads and towards the coast. The Izu Skyline and the spiralling Kawazu Loop Bridge give us plenty to enjoy from the saddle.
Further inland, we ride towards Nagano and Matsumoto, where a striking black castle offers a reason to put the helmets down. Kusatsu brings hot spring traditions, before the route continues towards the forested mountains of Nikko and the richly decorated Toshogu Shrine. Back in Tokyo, the pace changes again: neighbourhood streets, small restaurants and time to explore the capital complete the journey.
Tour highlights
- Six riding days and approximately 1,500 km through Japan
- The Mount Fuji region and Oshino Hakkai
- The curves of the Izu Skyline and Kawazu Loop Bridge
- Hakone’s volcanic landscapes and the Izu Peninsula
- Matsumoto Castle and the mountain roads of Nagano
- Japanese hot springs in towns such as Kusatsu
- Nikko Toshogu Shrine
- A wasabi-harvesting experience and local Japanese food
- Time in Tokyo before or after the motorcycle programme
- A women-only group, local riding guide and support vehicle
Who is this tour for?
This tour is for women who enjoy winding roads and want to discover Japan through both riding and cultural experiences.
Guidance and logistical support
A local and a MotoBirds guide support the motorcycle group, supported by a dedicated vehicle. Daily briefings introduce the route, planned stops and practical details of riding in Japan. The journey combines organised riding days with time to enjoy the places we visit. Road conditions, weather and access to mountain routes may require adjustments to the itinerary.
TOUR DETAILS
HIGHLIGHTS:
A taste for Japan. An appetite for bends.
The pleasure of this journey is in how much changes along the way. Tokyo’s busy streets give way to mountain roads, volcanic landscapes and the coastline of Izu. A day in the saddle ends with a hot spring bath; a stop for lunch becomes a discovery of flavours you’ll want to bring home.
- Ride approximately 1,500 km over six riding days, exploring Japan with a women-only group.
- Discover the Mount Fuji region, with stops around Oshino Hakkai and opportunities to see Japan’s celebrated peak when skies are clear.
- Enjoy the curves of the Izu Skyline and the coastal landscapes of the Izu Peninsula.
- Ride the spiralling Kawazu Loop Bridge, an unusual stretch of road that makes the journey part of the attraction.
- Explore Hakone’s volcanic scenery, where steam rises from the slopes of Owakudani.
- Visit Matsumoto Castle, with its striking black exterior and mountain setting.
- Unwind in Japanese hot springs, including the renowned onsen town of Kusatsu.
- Discover Nikko Toshogu, a richly decorated shrine surrounded by towering trees.
- Try harvesting fresh wasabi and discover Japanese food well beyond the familiar sushi menu.
- Spend time in Tokyo, exploring neighbourhoods, restaurants and shops before and after the ride.
- Travel in style, sharing the road and the discoveries with other women.
And the little sake? Best enjoyed over dinner, with the bikes parked and tomorrow’s adventures still to come.
WEATHER:
Autumn colours, crisp mornings and hot spring evenings
Early November brings cooler air and autumn scenery to Japan, with noticeably different conditions along our route. Tokyo typically sees daytime temperatures around 18–19°C at the beginning of the month, while the higher roads around Nagano, Kusatsu and Nikko can feel much colder. Clear days may bring beautiful views of Mount Fuji, although cloud can hide the summit in any season. Come prepared for chilly mornings, and cool mountain riding. Warm layers, waterproof motorcycle clothing are essential for enjoying the days comfortably. Autumn colours arrive at different times depending on altitude and the season: some mountain areas may already be past their peak, while Tokyo’s leaves often turn later in November. Wherever we find them, the changing colours add another reason to stop—and a hot spring bath feels especially good after a cool day on the road.
MOTORCYCLE GEAR:
Warm hands. Clear visor. Enjoy the bends.
Each rider must bring her own complete protective motorcycle gear, including:
- A full-face helmet
- A motorcycle jacket and trousers with protective armour
- Sturdy motorcycle boots offering ankle and shin protection
- Protective motorcycle gloves
- Waterproof riding clothing or a reliable waterproof outer layer
For November, pack thermal base layers, a warm mid-layer and a neck warmer. We strongly recommend two pairs of gloves, including an insulated, waterproof pair for cold mornings and mountain sections. A clear visor with an anti-fog insert will help when temperatures drop or rain arrives. Flexible layers make it easier to adapt as we travel between the coast and the mountains. Keep waterproofs and an extra layer within easy reach during the riding day.
LUGGAGE:
Travel light. Ride free.
The support vehicle carries your main luggage during the motorcycle programme, leaving you free to enjoy Japan’s winding roads. Pack in one manageable soft travel bag, which is easier to load and handle when moving between hotels. On the motorcycle, keep the essentials you may need during the day: waterproofs, an extra warm layer, water, documents, medication and your phone or camera. Keep valuables with you and protect anything sensitive to rain in a waterproof pouch. For evenings and our time in Tokyo, bring comfortable walking shoes and a few casual layers. Simple packing makes each hotel stop easier—and leaves a little space for whatever catches your eye along the way.
IMPORTANT TRAVEL INFORMATION:
A little preparation. More freedom to enjoy Japan.
Japan has its own rhythms and customs, and getting familiar with them is part of the pleasure. We ride on the left, follow local road rules and take time during the briefing to explain what to expect. Please arrange your driving documents well before departure. Riders with a EU driving licence need their original motorcycle licence, passport and an International Driving Permit issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, with the motorcycle category correctly endorsed. The 1968 Vienna Convention permit is not valid in Japan. Requirements differ for licences issued in other countries, so please tell us where yours was issued. Bring the original documents; photographs or digital copies do not replace them.
Check the entry requirements applicable to your passport before travelling. Carry a payment card and some Japanese yen for smaller restaurants, shops and personal expenses. Tell us about food allergies or dietary requirements in advance so we can discuss them with our local partner.
Hot spring bathing is another part of the experience. Shared onsen generally require washing before entering the bath and bathing without swimwear. Tattoo policies vary between establishments; please let us know beforehand if this may affect you so we can check the available arrangements.
VISA: EU passport holders currently enjoy visa-free entry to Japan for tourist stays of up to 90 days.
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE:
1900
metres above sea levelDAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1 – November 1: Arrival in Tokyo (no riding)
Welcome to Japan! Arrive in Tokyo and settle into the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, head out for a first walk and something good to eat, or simply recover from the flight. Tomorrow, we begin discovering the city together.
DAY 2 – November 2: Tokyo – A first taste of Japan (no riding)
A full day to explore Tokyo before we take to the road. Busy shopping streets, small neighbourhood restaurants and quiet corners offer very different introductions to the capital. Take time to look around, try unfamiliar flavours and adjust to Japan’s rhythm.
DAY 3 – November 3: Tokyo – Tour briefing and welcome dinner (no riding)
Meet our local riding team for a detailed briefing covering the route, the motorcycles and the practicalities of riding in Japan. We discuss left-hand traffic, road etiquette and what to expect over the coming days. In the evening, a welcome dinner brings everyone together before our motorcycle journey begins.
DAY 4 – November 4: Tokyo → Oshino Hakkai → Hakone (approx. 200 km)
Our first riding day takes us out of the capital towards the Mount Fuji region. We stop at Oshino Hakkai, where clear spring-fed ponds lie among traditional buildings, with views towards Fuji when the weather allows. The roads become more winding as we approach Hakone, where a hot spring bath offers a satisfying end to our first day in the saddle.
DAY 5 – November 5: Hakone → Izu Peninsula → Nishi-Izu (approx. 180 km)
We explore the volcanic landscape of Owakudani before continuing towards the Izu Peninsula. The Izu Skyline brings sweeping bends and open views, while a visit to a wasabi farm introduces us to an ingredient that tastes quite different freshly grated. We ride the distinctive spirals of the Kawazu Loop Bridge before finishing near the coast in Nishi-Izu.
DAY 6 – November 6: Nishi-Izu → Mount Fuji region → Nagano (approx. 300 km)
The Nishi-Izu Skyline gives us another morning of rewarding riding before we head towards Numazu, with a chance to enjoy seafood for lunch. We continue through the Mount Fuji region and inland towards Nagano. Coastal scenery gives way to mountain landscapes as we make our way towards the Tateshina area for the night.
DAY 7 – November 7: Nagano → Matsumoto → Kusatsu (approx. 240 km)
Today combines mountain riding with a visit to Matsumoto. Its black-and-white castle, surrounded by a moat, makes an impressive change of scene after the morning’s bends. We then continue towards Kusatsu, a hot spring town where steaming water and the smell of sulphur announce our arrival. Mountain roads, including the planned Venus Line section, depend on seasonal access and conditions.
DAY 8 – November 8: Kusatsu → Nikko (approx. 290 km)
We ride towards the mountains and forests of the Nikko region, following a route adapted to the day’s conditions. Winding roads and changing elevations keep the riding engaging, with stops to enjoy the scenery along the way. Our destination is the Kinugawa area, where dinner and another opportunity to unwind in hot spring waters await.
DAY 9 – November 9: Nikko → Motegi → Tokyo (approx. 290 km)
Before returning to Tokyo, we visit Nikko Toshogu, where elaborate carvings and richly decorated buildings stand among tall trees. The planned route continues via Motegi, known for its motorsport circuit, before the final ride into the capital. We return the motorcycles and gather for dinner, with six riding days’ worth of stories to share.
DAY 10 – November 10: Tokyo – Time for your own discoveries (no riding)
A final full day in Tokyo, with no riding gear to put on and no luggage to load. Return to a neighbourhood that caught your eye, browse the shops or find a small restaurant for a long lunch. This is time to follow your own interests and enjoy the city before heading home.
DAY 11 – November 11: Departure from Tokyo (no riding)
Check out of the hotel and depart from Tokyo. Japan leaves us with plenty to remember: mountain bends, hot spring evenings, unfamiliar flavours and the women who shared the journey.
Distances are indicative and the route might change depending on external factors.
WHAT OUR RIDERS SAY
GOOGLE REVIEWS
Google rating score: 5.0 of 5,based on 47 reviews
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
MOTORCYCLE
GUIDE
SUPPORT VEHICLE
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
ACCOMMODATION & MEALS
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE TRANSFERS
ACTIVITIES
All attractions except the Tokyo activities are included in the tour prices.
INSURANCE
- Basic travel insurance.
- Tourist Guarantee Fund fee.
- Tourist Support Fund fee.
IMPORTANT: For an additional fee, there is an option to independently extend the insurance within the Signal Iduna Safe Travels and/or Global Rescue partner offer. The price of the tour includes basic travel insurance.
WELCOME PACK
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
The few things you take care of
To keep the tour price clear and transparent, the following services and personal expenses are paid separately:
- International flights to and from Japan. Please do not book flights until MotoBirds confirms that the minimum group size has been reached.
- Motorcycle fuel during the six riding days.
- Lunches and additional dinners not included in the programme. The tour includes 10 breakfasts and 7 dinners.
- Drinks and alcoholic beverages.
- Optional activities and entrance fees in Tokyo, outside the guided motorcycle programme.
- Motorcycle upgrades to categories P5, P6 or P7, according to the selected model.
- Single-room supplement of €1,300 for the complete tour, subject to availability.
- Motorcycle insurance deductible in the event of an accident: JPY 50,000 for category P4 or JPY 100,000 for categories P5–P7, per incident. Non-Operation Charge (NOC) of JPY 20,000–50,000 following motorcycle damage, plus any applicable towing or recovery costs. Motorcycle damage or theft-related costs not covered by the rental insurance or Collision Damage Waiver (CDW).
- Personal riding equipment, including helmet, protective clothing, gloves and motorcycle boots.
- Medical expenses exceeding the limits of, or excluded from, the travel insurance provided by MotoBirds.
- Visa and travel document expenses, where applicable. Eligible EU passport holders do not require a tourist visa for stays of up to 90 days.
- Personal expenses, including shopping, laundry, souvenirs and tips.
- Additional accommodation, transfers or services outside the scheduled tour programme.
- Toll road fees incurred during the motorcycle tour, payable on the final riding day when returning the motorcycles.
- Any item or service not specifically mentioned as included in the tour price.
MOTORCYCLE SECURITY DEPOSIT:
Motorcycle Insurance and Damage Liability
The tour price includes rental motorcycle insurance with Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which limits the rider’s financial liability for damage covered under the policy. The deductible is JPY 50,000 for P4 motorcycles and JPY 100,000 for P5, P6 and P7 motorcycles, per incident. In the event of motorcycle damage, an additional Non-Operation Charge (NOC) of JPY 20,000–50,000 may apply, together with any applicable towing costs. These charges are not covered by CDW.
Insurance coverage is subject to the rental company’s terms, conditions and exclusions. Full details will be provided to participants before signing the motorcycle rental agreement.
