9:00

Your guide will meet you upon arrival at Nagano station. Any luggage can be
transferred to the next accommodation from here.

After bicycle sizing and a safety talk, pedal your way to the revered Zenkoji Temple for a walking tour of its enchanting grounds. Pause for tea and snacks to savor the serene atmosphere. Continue your journey through the scenic Izuna Kogen, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes. Indulge in a delightful soba lunch on route to Togakushi, as you ride along the ancient soba road, setting the stage for a captivating ride to the historic Togakushi Hokoshya Shrine.

4:00pm

Finish your day with a tranquil Ryokan stay in Togakushi, ensuring a restful
night surrounded by the beauty of Nagano's serene landscapes.

• Activity

  Cycle | 25kms 1000 ascent |Time: 7 hours (1 hour lunch)

7:30am

Begin your day in Togakushi with a refreshing morning, treating yourself to a hearty Japanese-style breakfast and a revitalizing stretch, setting the stage for a day two of this scenic cycling adventure. After a short ride, we do a short walking tour exploring the Togakushi Shrines and natural parks, uncovering the rich heritage of Ninja, Shugenjya, and Shinto traditions that grace this area.

From here we descend through a long, picturesque route, reaching the shores of Lake Nojiriko—Nagano's second-largest lake and a historical backdrop of ancient culture and samurai battles. Along the lake's tranquil expanse, settle in for a serene stay, complemented by a relaxing hot sauna to ease any tired muscles. As the day winds down, relish a delightful evening meal featuring a fusion of Japanese and Western cuisines.

• Activity

  Cycle 30km Walk 4 km 400m ascent | 5 – 6 hours

Rise and shine for Day Three of our Nagano cycling tour! After a satisfying breakfast, set out through picturesque rice fields, adorned with recently planted or harvested crops, depending on the season. Begin your ascent towards the awe-inspiring Mount Myoko, conquering the Tsuginohara pass with a climb of nearly 800m, followed by a thrilling descent to the serene Sasagamine. Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch along the shores of Lake Otomi, surrounded by nature's beauty before continuing to traverse the hidden backroads of Nagano. Venture off-road through pristine mountains, reaching the
historically and naturally rich Otari Onsen. Immerse yourself in therapeutic waters, where Samurai once found solace for their battle-worn bodies centuries ago.

Spend the night at the historic Mountain Inn Yamada Ryokan (*)for a unique and immersive experience, capped off by star-gazing in the secluded northernmost mountains of Nagano.
*other accommodation options available

• Activity

  Cycle 47Km 1400m ascent | 7 hours

Following a satisfying Japanese-style breakfast, we embark on our journey towards the Himekawa River, where we ascend to the historic Shio-no-michi, known as the Salt Road. This ancient route, employed for trade since the 16th century between Matsumoto and the seaport of Itoigawa, offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Japan's cultural heritage. Along the way, enchanting shrines, temples, and well-preserved houses from bygone eras invite exploration.

As we draw near to Hakuba, a breathtaking vista unfolds before us, showcasing the majestic panorama of Japan's Northern Alps. The scenic beauty of this region adds a touch of grandeur to our journey, creating a memorable and immersive experience.

Tonight, experience Shirouma-so, a modern Japanese ryokan seamlessly fusing traditional wood and contemporary "Wa" architecture. Relax in the hot springs, a cherished feature since the early days of the Shio-no-michi, connecting you with the ryokan's rich history and Japanese culture.

• Activity

  Cycle 29km 700m ascent | 6 hours

Arrived in Matsumoto

On our concluding day, we trace the Shio-no-michi back to Matsumoto, relishing a picturesque ride with captivating views of the Northern Alps. The smooth journey allows us to appreciate the scenic beauty effortlessly. Along the way, we pause at a charming wasabi farm, delving into the intricacies of wasabi cultivation and savoring its unique flavors. Our day culminates at the iconic Matsumoto Castle, a fitting endpoint for our adventure.

• Activity

  Cycle 62km 250m ascent | 7 hours