Tour Essentials for Japan

Our tours follow a well-established format to ensure a balanced and enjoyable experience.

Each riding day follows a similar structure:

• We begin with breakfast, aiming to leave the hotel between 08:30 and 09:00.
• The morning consists of about two hours of riding, followed by a snack break at a café, if one is available.
• We ride another two hours before stopping for lunch at a restaurant and then continue for 1 to 3 hours to our next hotel.

Afternoons often provide opportunities for extra rides, should you wish to add more kilometres to your day. Once we are in the hotel, between 14:00–16:00, you will have some free time to explore or rest.

The resting part of our Samurai tours is a highlight, with many of the places we stay having an onsen (natural spring bath) which is the perfect way to end a ride.

Occasionally, before dinner, we’ll have a drink together and the guides will take the opportunity to present any additional cultural or historical information. Dinner itself is served early at around 18:00 or 18:30 and it is normal to come to dinner dressed in a Yukata (simple kimono-style robes provided by the hotel) you will have changed into for the onsen.

For our more extended tours, a rest day is included after 5 to 7 days of cycling, creating a well-paced balance of activity and relaxation. If you prefer to ride on a rest day, you’re welcome to take your bike out for a spin. Similarly, if you wish to rest on a cycling day, the van is always available to accommodate you.∞

Your first day will have a relaxed and welcoming format.

Please dress in regular clothes for the initial meeting and look out for the guides in their Ride & Seek gear at the appointed time. In the afternoon, you’ll register for the tour, which involves getting set up with all the equipment and information you’ll need. If you’ve brought your own bike, the guides will be on hand to assist with bike builds. For those hiring a bike, the setup and fitting will take place the following day before the warm-up ride.

Once everyone is ready, we’ll gather as a group for a meet-and-greet, during which the guides will present an overview of the tour. The day concludes with a welcome dinner together. The next day, after a transfer to the ride start, the cycling adventure begins.∞

If you require help with pre and post-hotel bookings in the hotels we use on tour, please contact us at office@rideandseek.com and we can get these booked for you. Our booking agent charges a €10 per night fee for the service but as part of this we provide a preferential cancellation policy and a guarantee that you’ll be able to stay in the same room as when you are on the tour.

Our first-night hotels are airport hotels, which typically have fewer local attractions than hotels in nearby city centres. For this reason, we recommend booking no more than one additional night at either end of the tour.

Special Note: Osaka Kansai Airport

If your visit to Japan starts or ends in Osaka, booking an additional night at our airport hotel (Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport) can offer added convenience. Staying here for your first night or last night before flying out allows you to store excess luggage or your bike bags/case while you explore other parts of Japan.∞

Travel insurance is essential for all our tours. Here’s why:

1. Travel insurance is more than health insurance – While health insurance may cover medical emergencies abroad, it doesn’t protect you from unexpected travel disruptions. Travel insurance includes coverage for trip cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and more.
2. Emergency medical evacuation – Many of our tours explore remote areas where advanced medical facilities may not be readily available.
   Good travel insurance ensures you’re covered for medical evacuation to the nearest suitable hospital and, if necessary, provides support for a companion to travel to you or arranges your transport home.
3. Protection for personal belongings – Travel insurance covers valuable items like your bike in case of loss, damage, or theft. Giving you peace of mind on the road.
4. Acknowledging tour risks – Before the tour, you’ll be asked to complete a medical questionnaire and sign a risk waiver. These ensure that everyone understands the inherent risks involved in bike tours and reinforces the importance of having comprehensive travel insurance in place.
5. Cancellations and unexpected costs – We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance as soon as you book your tour (after paying your deposit). This way, you’re covered for potential costs if you need to cancel, including airfare and tour expenses.

Our recommended providers – We’ve found these travel insurance providers are popular among our riders:

• Tin Leg
• AXA
• Travel Guard
• Covermore
• Allianz

Having the right coverage means you can focus on enjoying the adventure, knowing you’re protected against the unexpected.

Packing for a cycling tour can vary greatly depending on individual preferences, but here’s our guide to help you cover the essentials:

Cycling Kit – While it’s always a good idea to pack enough cycling gear to avoid washing your kit every couple of days, Japan’s hotels make staying on top of laundry easy. Most hotels provide coin-operated washers and dryers in-house, allowing you to easily clean your gear during the tour. This convenience means you can pack lighter while still ensuring you have fresh kit ready for each ride.

Evening Wear – Evening wear can remain casual throughout the tour. While we’ll dine in some lovely restaurants, there’s no need to pack formal attire—comfortable, neat casual clothing is perfectly suitable for all occasions. Additionally, most hotels provide a Yukata (a casual kimono-style robe) for guests. These are perfect for relaxing after your rides and can significantly reduce the amount of post-ride clothing you need to bring. You can learn more about wearing a Yukata here.

Weather Preparedness – Given the varied terrain and duration of our tours, you’ll need to pack for a range of weather conditions:

• Warm Weather: Lightweight and breathable gear is essential for sunny days.
• Cool and Wet Weather: A good waterproof jacket or windbreaker that fits into your jersey pocket is a must for unexpected rain. We always recommend bringing layers to adjust to changing conditions.
• Rain Options: If it’s a downpour, we recommend you wait it out or ride in the support van. So long as there is no lightning, we are happy to give you the choice of whether to ride or not.∞

1 suitcase and 1 day bag – like an aeroplane, we have limited space. Your suitcase will travel in the back of the van and be available once you check into the hotel. Your day bag will travel in the front of the van for easy access during the day. Ideally, please bring a drawstring bag as your day bag, as they are perfect for just the essentials.∞

We simplify bike storage and transport during your tour to make things hassle-free.

Storage at the First Night’s Hotel – Your bike bag/case will be securely stored at our first night’s airport hotel.

Post-Tour Travel in Japan – If you plan to continue travelling after the tour, remember that your bike must be packed in a bag/case for storage at an airport luggage facility or airport hotel (with an additional reservation before departure).

Bike Transport Logistics:

• Tours start and end at the same point, and we provide transport for your bike back to the starting hotel on the final day.
• If you bring your own bike, we’ll assemble it at the start and store your bike bag/case at the hotel.
• For riders connecting tours with start points in Tokyo and Kansai airports, we’ll handle bike and bag transport between tours.

Important Note for Connecting Tours:

• If your next tour starts from Kansai airport, we won’t be able to transport your bike back to Tokyo after the tour. In such cases, we recommend planning your departure airport from Kansai Airport or booking a connecting flight.∞

On the bike:

• 2-3 Pairs of cycling bibs.
• 2-3 Cycling jerseys.
• Bike helmet.
• Cycling pedals to match your shoes.
• Rechargeable front and rear lights.
• 3 pairs of athletic socks.
• Bike gloves
  (short and long-finger).
• Windbreaker or rain jacket.
• Insulating long-sleeve bike jacket.
• Athletic shoes or cycling shoes.
• Bifocal riding glasses if required to view Garmin routing instructions.

Off the bike:

• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Long-sleeve shirt.
• Lightweight clothing that can be layered.
• Sweater or jacket.
• Pyjamas/sleepwear.
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, small sunscreen.
• Small bag/backpack to use as a day pack.
• Toiletries & medications.
• Private first-aid kit.
• Smartphone and charger cables.
• Booking info for air, rail, etc.
• Passport /ID (and photocopy).
• Debit/credit cards.
• Health/travel Insurance info.
• Click here for Electric converters and adapters.
• Cash for incidentals and guide gratuities.

• Arm and knee/leg warmers.
• Shoe/toe covers, cleat covers, spare cleats.
• Neck gaiter or buff.
• Favourite energy gels.
• Insect repellent.
• Journal/laptop/tablet.
• GPS device/Garmin and charger.
• Portable charger for devices.
• Eye mask and earplugs.
• Laundry kit (soap, stain remover).
• Laundry bag.
• Cash in local currency.
• Scripts for additional medications.
• Scripts for additional medications.
• Quadlock phone case and handlebar attachment. Perfect for securing your phone while riding.
• Riding Glasses with internal mirror.

• Ride & Seek Cycling Jersey.
• Cycling Bibs for our Full Epic riders.
• Water bottle (1 or 2 if required).
• Garmin 1030 Edge computer and mount – feel free to bring your own.
• Luggage tags.
• Snacks on tour.
• Electrolyte powder.
• Rechargeable lights for hire bikes – feel free to bring your own.
• Saddle bag with tube, pump and tools for hire bikes.

Breakfast – Breakfast is included with all accommodations and is typically served at 07:30. In some places, you’ll have the choice between Japanese and Western-style breakfasts, but in most locations, only Japanese options will be available. These can range from a Western-style selection of toast, ham, and eggs to Japanese dishes such as rice, pickled vegetables, grilled fish, and miso soup.

To ensure you’re never starting the day hungry, our van is always stocked with fruit and snacks, effectively acting as a mobile café. If you have specific preferences, let us know, and we’ll do our best to have them available.

Lunch – Lunch is at your own expense, offering you the freedom to explore other cuisines. Where possible, we provide lunch stops with a variety of restaurant options. These are typically quick and fresh, with choices such as ramen noodles, Japanese curry, bento boxes, Italian-inspired pasta, or a selection of treats from a local bakery. Lunch is a great opportunity to engage with the local culture, and our guides are always on hand to assist with ordering or menu navigation.

Dinner – Dinner is generally served earlier than on our European tours, often with the first course already on the table upon arrival. Most meals will feature authentic Japanese cuisine, celebrated for its distinct flavours, refined presentation, and use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Dinner may resemble a multi-course kaiseki meal, often regarded as the pinnacle of Japanese dining. Kaiseki meals include a variety of artfully presented dishes such as miso soup, rice (with unlimited refills), tempura (lightly battered and fried vegetables, fish, or prawns), sashimi or sushi, and small portions of grilled or fried meat, chicken, or fish.

Dining in Japan is an opportunity to embrace the culture and savour its culinary artistry. While Western alternatives may not always be available, an open mind and a sense of adventure will allow you to fully enjoy the experience. Although the cuisine is often delicate, and made up of many small dishes, you won’t leave the table hungry! For those unfamiliar with chopsticks, a little pre-tour practice can make meals easier, as many restaurants do not provide forks.∞

Drinks at dinner, other than water and tea, are not included. Soft drinks, beer, wine, and other beverages can be paid for directly at the restaurant, charged to your room, or settled with the guide.

In Japan, many hotels don’t offer a bar, however beer and other beverages are conveniently available in vending machines. These are affordable and accessible for those who want a post-onsen drink or an anytime refreshment. Feel free to bring an open drink purchased from a vending machine to the dinner table and order subsequent drinks from the staff.∞

Our tours predominantly use traditional Japanese inns, known as ryokans, which offer an authentic cultural experience. Ryokans are renowned for their hospitality, serene atmosphere, and relaxing onsens (hot springs). They also provide yukatas (light cotton robes) for you to wear during your stay, adding to the immersion.

Whenever possible, we select accommodations with Western-style beds. However, you’ll also have the chance to experience traditional Japanese-style rooms, which feature tatami (woven straw) floors, low tables for tea, and minimalistic décor. Instead of Western beds, these rooms include futons (Japanese mattresses) that are laid out for sleeping while you enjoy dinner. This setup creates a spacious, uncluttered room on arrival.

Please note that in some ryokans, there are no en-suite showers, as bathing is traditionally done in the shared onsen facilities. Onsens include showers for use before soaking in the communal hot springs.

Laundry facilities are widely available in the ryokans we choose, with coin-operated washers and dryers.∞

• Check the bike regularly; essential if it is disassembled for transport or if involved in an accident. If unsure, check with one of our guides. Key areas to check are the brake assembly, the tightness of wheel axles, seat and handlebar, alignment of the rear dérailleur and the condition of the tyres.
• Be seen. Wear bright clothing and use lights, especially in tunnels and ideally when riding in low light conditions and when heading into the sun.
• Ride and descend to your ability and to the road conditions and weather.
• Be aware. Know what is ahead and behind you. Expect the unexpected and have an escape plan.
• Use oncoming vehicles, blind corners and hill crests as a reminder to check what’s behind, as these will reduce the amount of space a passing vehicle will give you. Move to the shoulder, speed up or slow down accordingly.

Riding as a group/pelaton:

• Continue to think for yourself.
• Communicate your actions and dangers verbally and/or with understood hand signals
  (E.g. ‘right turn’, ‘left turn’, ‘slowing’, ‘stopping’, ‘rolling’, ‘car up’, ‘car back’, ‘gravel’).
• Keep your front wheel to the left or right of the rear wheel in front and know which way to swerve if something suddenly happens.
• Try to understand the cycling patterns of each rider, and don’t make any sudden or uncharacteristic moves.
• Hold the handlebar securely and cover both brakes in case of an unexpected bump or reduction in speed.

• Wear a helmet at all times and ensure that it is fitted correctly.
• Obey and familiarise yourself with the local traffic laws and signage.
• Only ride single file as riding two abreast is not allowed in Japan.
• Ride on the LEFT SIDE of the road and bike lane and be vigilant about the infamous drift-right that is common for those who are used to riding or driving on the right side.
• Japan has no turn-on-red law so when you have a red light you must stop and WAIT for the signal to change. Additionally, all vehicles and bikes are required to stop before passing through a railway crossing.
• If you notice traffic accumulating behind you, return their courtesy and pull off momentarily to let traffic pass.
• Operate your bike consistently and predictably, avoiding erratic movements. Maintaining a straight line is the best way for motorists and other cyclists to predict your movements and pass safely.∞

Your Bike – If you’re bringing your own bike, it’s essential to give it a full service beforehand to ensure it’s in optimal condition for the tour.

On the first day, there will be time to set up your bike, and our guides will be on hand to assist with any adjustments needed.

Hire Bike – Rest assured that maintenance and spares are fully covered during the tour for those riding one of our hire bikes. Our bikes are equipped with a wide range of gears, carefully selected to handle the elevation profiles of each stage.

If you have bike fit measurements, please feel free to share them with us in advance. This allows us to set up your hire bike to your specifications before your arrival. Our hire bikes are fitted with flat pedals as standard. If you prefer to use your own pedals, ride with clip-in pedals, or use your saddle, please bring them along, and we’ll install them for you.

Renting a bike from us is a great way to ensure you have a well-maintained ride tailored to the tour. However, while we cover minor wear and tear (such as tyres and brake pads), you are responsible for the bike’s care during the tour, including any major damage, theft, or loss.

To give you complete peace of mind, we offer comprehensive hire bike insurance for US$150.

• This insurance covers:
• Accidental damage.
• Repair costs.
• Theft.
• Replacement bike hire if the bike cannot be repaired promptly.

By choosing our insurance, you can ride worry-free, knowing you’re protected against unforeseen incidents and costs.

Hire bike:

• A helmet (provided if required).
• Your preferred pedals
  (flat pedals are provided as standard).
• Rechargeable front and rear lights
  (provided if required).
• Your own water bottles, if preferred.
• Your own bike saddle, if preferred.

Own bike:

• A helmet.
• A spare tyre.
• Rechargeable front and rear lights.
• Your own water bottles, if preferred.

We also recommend bringing these small spare parts specific to your bike. They’re inexpensive but invaluable if they’re needed during the tour:

• 1 x rear derailleur hanger.
• 1 x spare front spoke.
• 2 x rear spokes (one for the drive side and one for the non-drive side).

These items can be ordered in advance from your local bike shop and will give both you and our bike mechanic peace of mind, ensuring you’re prepared for any unforeseen issues.

Our tour routes are navigated using a combination of Garmin GPS units, the Ride with GPS app, and printed day sheets that include key information and a map of the day’s ride. Additionally, there will always be at least one guide riding and another in a support van (often two cycling guides and two in support vehicles).

If you have your own GPS device, such as a Garmin, Wahoo, or Hammerhead, feel free to bring it along. On Day 1, we’ll load the routes onto your device. Please note:

• For Garmin units, we can provide maps if required.
• For Wahoo, Hammerhead, or Garmin Edge 1050 devices, we recommend downloading the necessary maps for the countries or region where you’ll be riding in advance.

Whether you’re a fan or just curious, Strava is a great tool for tracking your rides and staying connected. We’ve created a private Ride & Seek club where riders can share their achievements and keep in touch post-tour. Click here to join and submit your request to become a member.

Stay in the loop by connecting with us on Facebook (click here) and Instagram (@rideandseekers). On Facebook, you can follow our latest news, tour updates, and photos, and engage with your fellow riders. Instagram is a visual feast showcasing our adventures and the incredible scenery we ride through.

Smartphones have become essential travel companions, especially for accessing the internet, staying in touch with the group, and navigating during the trip. It is essential that you have internet access on your phone while travelling with us, as this will be crucial for:

• Receiving real-time updates via the group WhatsApp chat.
• Using Google Maps to locate meeting points or explore the area.
  Sharing your location with guides if assistance is needed.

To ensure seamless connectivity:

• Check your current mobile plan for international data roaming rates and activate a plan suitable for your travel needs. Many providers now offer affordable or inclusive roaming options.
• Consider an eSIM, a simple and economical way to stay connected abroad. We recommend country-specific or regional eSIMs from Airalo, (click here) which are easy to set up and widely used by our guests.
• Ensure your phone is eSIM-compatible and unlocked (note: most phones are unlocked unless tied to certain American contracts).

Most places we travel to have internet access, and nearly all accommodations offer complimentary Wi-Fi. However, high-speed connections are not always available, particularly in remote regions.

To ensure reliable access, consider purchasing an eSIM for your phone. This way, you won’t have to depend solely on Wi-Fi, which can sometimes be slow or unavailable in parts of a hotel. With an eSIM, you’ll always have internet at your fingertips, making your experience even more convenient.

The world’s most comprehensive navigation app and a must-have for any traveller. Key features include:

• Routing options for driving, walking, cycling, or public transport.
• Real-time public transport schedules and route previews, with options to minimise transfers or prioritise specific modes (e.g., bus, metro).
• Points of interest: Search for restaurants, attractions, or landmarks with user reviews.

A versatile tool for breaking language barriers.

• Offline Translation: Download language files for quick translations even if you can’t get phone internet.
• Camera Translation: Instantly translate menus, signs, or documents by pointing your camera at the text and watch as it magically changes it into english.
• Conversation Mode: Two-way instant speech translation for communicating with locals.
• Helps build confidence and independence while navigating foreign countries.

A favourite among cyclists and athletes.

• Route Tracking: Track your ride, analyse performance, and monitor stats.
• Photo Integration: Share ride photos and achievements with friends.
• Join our Ride & Seek Strava club to connect with fellow riders and share your journey here!

Ideal for quick language help in areas without connectivity.

• Preloaded Phrases: Access commonly used words and phrases recorded by native speakers.
• Voice Recording: Record and playback phrases to refine your pronunciation.
• Keyword Search: Quickly find phrases relevant to your situation.
• Works offline, so it’s always accessible.

Bravolov

Perfect for sharing your travel memories in a private, interactive way.

• Shared Albums: Invite friends and family to follow along with your tour photos.
• Interactive Maps: Photos and videos are automatically pinned to a map, creating a timeline of your journey.
• Commenting & Liking: Engage with others by liking or commenting on their posts.
• Photobook Creation: Transform tour photos into a physical photobook post-trip.

Tripcast

A creative way to relive your rides and share your experiences.

• 3D Video Stories: Create stunning video recaps of your rides, integrating photos taken along the way.
• Customisation: The paid version lets you edit videos, add music, and refine your story.
• A great way to impress friends and family with a visual summary of your day’s adventure.

Relive

This powerful cycling navigation app will be your digital guide on tour. Beyond a detailed daily itinerary and location-specific highlights, the app offers the following features:

• Route and Elevation Details: View your day’s route, climbs, and descents in detail.
• Turn-by-Turn Navigation: Voice-guided and
  on-screen directions.
• Offline Navigation: Access maps and navigation tools even without an internet connection.
• Interactive Points of Interest: Discover key landmarks, viewpoints, and services along your route.
• The above features are offered as a paid premium feature of the app, but is provided for free, even without an account, during the tour.

Ride with GPS

Essential for staying connected on tour and beyond.

• Messaging & Calls: Secure, real-time messaging, voice, and video calls.
• Group Chats: Keep updated with guides’ notifications and reminders during the tour.
• Location Sharing: Easily send your location to guides or fellow travellers.
• Multimedia Sharing: Share photos, videos, or voice messages with your group.
• Operates over data, so ensure your phone has data roaming enabled or an active eSIM for seamless usage abroad.

WhatsApp

Preparing for one of our tours is an exciting part of the adventure. While the grading of your tour gives a clear idea of the difficulty, the multiday nature of our trips means they are all physically demanding endeavours. We hope your training so far reflects this, but we also understand that life sometimes gets in the way and not everyone has the luxury of fully committing to a structured training plan. If you’re feeling a little ‘undercooked,’ don’t worry—we’re here to help.

The key to a successful and enjoyable tour is conditioning your body to spend multiple hours on the bike, day after day. Saddle time is critical—getting used to being in the saddle for extended periods will make a huge difference. The last thing you want is to spend the first few days of the tour dreading sitting down!

Our tours are not a race, and you can always ride at your own pace. With a reasonable level of stamina, the daily distances should feel achievable. That said, we strongly recommend incorporating some back-to-back long rides into your preparation. These rides will help you adapt to the demands of consecutive days on the bike, mimicking the experience of the tour.

While it’s important to train consistently, be mindful not to overdo it. Arriving fatigued or ‘overcooked’ can diminish your experience. Plan to taper your training in the week leading up to the tour, allowing your body to rest and your energy levels to peak. Cramming in last-minute rides the weekend before is tempting but counterproductive. Arrive fresh, energised, and ready to enjoy the journey.

Our support van is there for you, serving as a sag wagon if you ever need a lift. Whether it’s a tough climb, fatigue, or simply needing a rest, there’s absolutely no shame in hopping in. We’d much rather you take a break than push too hard on one day and end up unable to ride for the next two! Listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to signal if you need some assistance.

The more prepared you are, the more you’ll enjoy the tour. There’s still plenty of time to build your fitness, so start your training now—it’s never too late to make progress.

If you’re looking for professional guidance, our training partner, Angus Burrell of FTP Training, can help. Angus is a highly experienced coach who has worked across various cycling disciplines. He also has a deep understanding of bikepacking and multiday touring, making him uniquely equipped to prepare you for the challenges ahead.

• Remote Coaching: Train from anywhere in the world with Angus’s remote coaching platform.
• Tailored Plans: Access a 12-week training plan designed specifically for our tours or opt for personalised coaching to ensure you arrive at your adventure in peak condition.

Start your journey to being tour-ready today. Contact Angus directly at: a.burrell@ftptraining.com or visit FTP Training for more information.

Beyond the information provided on the website, we will provide you with:

• Tour Overview, which contains a table of the ride data and an overview of the tour, which can be easily shared with friends and printed.
• Tour Essentials (this page).

All remaining information will be sent out via email. Please ensure you have office@rideandseek.com saved in your contacts so you don’t miss any communications.

In the lead-up to the tour, we’ll update you with the following details:

• Tour-Specific Blogs: Articles on history, culture, and destinations en route.
• Reading Recommendations: Suggested books to deepen your connection with the regions you’ll explore.
• Guest Name List.
• Hotel List.
• Approximately two weeks prior to the tour, we will send an email containing any last-minute information and your guides’ contact details.

Ride with GPS

Once on tour, you will receive a detailed daily itinerary, route, and elevation details through this app. The app is very easy to use and even offers turn-by-turn navigation as a backup or alternative to Garmin navigation.

The tour dates have been carefully selected to align with the best possible weather for cycling, aiming for the year’s ‘Goldilocks’ weather window—neither too hot nor too cold. However, weather can be unpredictable, which only adds to the adventure! Given the tour’s multi-regional route and varying elevations, it’s important to prepare for a range of conditions, from warm sunshine to cooler temperatures. Packing versatile cycling gear for both hot and cold weather will ensure you’re ready for anything. For more specific climate and weather details, visit worldweather.org.

While Japan is renowned for its technology, it remains a predominantly cash-based economy. Many small vendors, restaurants, and shops accept only cash (yen ¥).

• Currency: Familiarise yourself with Japanese denominations, which include 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen coins, as well as 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 yen notes. Pay attention to the zeroes to avoid confusion.
• Travelling with cash: Japan is a very safe country, and carrying large amounts of cash is common. Nevertheless, secure your money, passport, and travel documents appropriately.
• ATMs: You’ll find international ATMs at the airport, post offices, and convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven). However as we do travel to some remote areas, we recommend withdrawing a few days cash in advance.∞

• Lunch: Around ¥800
• Beer: ¥300 from a vending machine or ¥600 in a restaurant (Note: wine is less common in Japan; beer and sake are the preferred beverages.)∞

We handle tipping in restaurants and hotels, but tipping your guides is customary in the industry. As we host multinational groups, we understand cultural differences in tipping norms. Rather than suggesting a percentage like many other tour companies, we recommend a daily amount based on your tour duration. A guideline is €10 (or your local currency equivalent) per guide per day if they have met your expectations.

Aside from tipping your guides, tipping is not customary in Japan. In restaurants and hotels, staff will typically return any money left behind so it’s best to wait for your change as it will usually result in the staff chasing after you in order to return the money you ‘forgot’.

If you wish to recognise exceptional service, place the tip in an envelope and hand it directly to the recipient. Note that bargaining is also uncommon, except at select flea markets.∞

We hope this document answers most of your questions, but additional resources are available:

FAQs: For more details about the tour, check our FAQs by clicking here.

Terms & Conditions: Familiarise yourself with our terms and conditions.

Website Resources: Explore more about the tour, including information on food and wine, history, the espresso grading system, and testimonials, at www.rideandseek.com.

• Greetings – Bowing is the traditional form of greeting, though handshakes may be offered to international visitors. A simple nod or slight bow of your head in response shows courtesy and respect.
• Shoes – Always remove your shoes when entering a house, ryokan, or temple. Look for a designated area, such as a shoe rack or step, where slippers are usually provided. Remember to switch to toilet slippers when using the bathroom, and don’t forget to change back afterward!
• Tea – Tea is a staple of Japanese hospitality and will often be served upon arrival at Ryokans or during meals. Your host may refill your cup without asking; to politely decline, leave the cup full.
  Dining Etiquette:
• Slurping – Slurping noodles is not only acceptable but encouraged— it shows appreciation for the food.
• Chopsticks – Avoid pointing and waving just as with a fork, or sticking your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this mimics a ritual performed at funerals.
• Quiet Streets – Eating, drinking, or speaking loudly while walking in public is considered impolite. Instead, enjoy food or drinks while stationary and keep conversations at a moderate volume.
• Observation – The best way to adapt to Japanese customs is to observe those around you. Whether at shrines, ryokans, or onsens, follow the lead of the locals. The idea of observation and politeness is the foundation to much of Japan’s culture and behaviour. Half the fun of visiting a foreign country is to see, interact with, and immerse yourself into the unique cultural behaviours of that place. If you’re unsure about a ritual or practice, ask your guides—they’ll be happy to help.

Trying out Japanese culture is part of the joy of the journey. Embrace the traditions, stay curious, and enjoy discovering the nuances of everyday life in Japan!∞

Onsens are a quintessential part of Japanese culture, offering a blend of relaxation and tradition. Our tour includes visits to historic onsen towns and stays at ryokans (hot spring hotels) where you’ll have the chance to experience this uniquely Japanese practice. Onsen etiquette is steeped in ritual, and following the traditions adds to the experience. While locals will likely forgive any unintentional slip-ups, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the basics.

Key Onsen Tips:

• Clothing & Preparation – Enter the changing room and leave all personal items—clothes, shoes, phone, wallet, and jewellery—in a locker or basket. Onsens provide a small towel (which doubles as a modesty towel) for use in the shower/bath area. Leave your large towel behind with your belongings.
• Showering – Before entering the bath, thoroughly clean yourself using the shower area. You’ll find stools, showerheads, and buckets provided for this purpose. Sit while washing, a practice that is both hygienic and respectful of others. Rinse off all soap and shampoo completely, as no residue should enter the bath.
• Bathing – Onsens are enjoyed in the nude—bathing suits are not permitted. Take your small towel with you but do not immerse it in the water. You may place it on the edge of the bath or on your head, as many locals do. Immerse yourself slowly and relax; soaking neck-deep is customary.
• Towels – After bathing, use your small towel to dab off excess water before returning to the changing area, keeping the floors dry. Each ryokan will provide unique towels, which make great keepsakes. If visiting public onsens outside of the ryokan, towels are often available for purchase.
• Conversation & Atmosphere – Onsens are social spaces, but the atmosphere is tranquil. Keep conversation volumes low and respect others’ desire for peace. Some onsens may have a quieter or more family-oriented vibe—observe and adapt accordingly.
• Tattoos – Tattoos are not permitted in some onsens. In the 18th century tattoos were outlawed in Japan because of their affiliation with crime. Most notably, the yakuza (Japanese mafia) decorated their bodies with tattoos as a sign of their bravery and resistance against the law. The tattoo ban has since been lifted but its legacy still remains. If you have any tattoos, it is not an issue at Ryokans as they are used to tourists, while others simply ask visitors to cover their tattoos. If required, adhesive patches to cover tattoos are sold at convenience stores.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid entering the bath if you feel unwell or have open wounds, as this is considered unhygienic.
• If visiting an outdoor onsen, also known as a rotenburo, take in the stunning scenery and sounds—it’s part of the experience!
• Some onsens have mineral-rich water with specific health benefits; signs will often explain the properties of the water.∞

If you intend to travel without your bike both before and after the tour, train travel is a great way to get around and the JR pass a good option – (click here). For storing bikes and additional luggage, the airports have secure storage facilities that are not prohibitive in cost. The tour will finish after breakfast on the final day of your respective tour, so please let us know your plans at the start of the tour so we can purchase your return train tickets to the airport (included in the tour price) or help you with onward travel plans.∞