The secrets of Japan
Not a very short trip to reach Japan, but it was definitely worth it! The first impression of Tokyo, one of the most populated metropolises in the world, is mind-blowing! People are very kind and helpful, the public transport system is nearly perfect, and the city feels so safe and well organized. Some of us had time to explore Tokyo a bit before the welcome briefing. After that, and following the motorcycle handover, we went for dinner at a wonderful restaurant — and now we’re eager to start exploring this fascinating country on two wheels!
Our first riding day, leaving Tokyo was overwhelming. A city where 40 million people are living, whit a spaghetti off roads and towering buildings. But we went through it very easy and had our coffee at the sea. After that we went into the mountains and saw mount Fuji for the first time. Clouds and a bit of rain blocked our view but not enough to see that we were going through an exceptionally beautiful country. Upon arrival at the hotel we were welcomed by the staff, received free beer and put on our kimono's. A superb start of our tour. And! We already can feel we are a good group. More about that later...
Today we spent the entire day chasing Mount Fuji, hoping to admire it in all its magnificence from the many viewpoints along the beautiful roads of the Izu Peninsula. Japan's most imposing volcano, however, was a bit shy today, hidden behind a blanket of clouds. Despite this, the motorcycle ride was wonderful: the peninsula's mountain roads are nothing short of spectacular, and we can only imagine how much more extraordinary the views would have been with Mount Fuji in the background. But once we arrived at the hotel, luck smiled on us: the clouds finally cleared, and the perfect cone of this sacred mountain appeared before us!
Today we said goodbye to Mount Fuji, which this morning appeared in all its glory under a perfectly clear sky — a stunning sight that stayed with us for much of the ride. Our first major stop was at the beautiful Shiraito Falls, a peaceful and refreshing spot after the morning ride... and where you can also find great coffee! Afterward, we took a short stretch of highway to cover some distance, then turned back into the mountains inland from Shizuoka, where the narrow road wound through endless hills covered with green tea plantations — one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes! By late afternoon, we reached Hamamatsu, and before heading to the hotel, we made a special stop for a quick photo at the Suzuki headquarters... we are motorcyclists after all!
Today is going to be an extra special one. We all have to get up early because we've got a ferry to catch. This will take us onto the Pearl road, named after the famous female pearl divers, and known as one of the most scenic coastal roads in Japan. Lunch is at a authentic little local restaurant. With the help of our hands, feet and google translate we're able to order a delicious and healthy meal. Is it possible to make the day even better? Oh yeah! Great twisties along the ocean and we even spot some wild monkeys!
Today’s ride from Kumano to Kyoto was one to remember — probably the best one so far! We climbed into the mountains along the Ryujin–Koya Skyline, a spectacular road of endless curves, sweeping views, and pure riding joy. The air was cool and clear, and every turn revealed another breathtaking panorama. Our journey took us to Koyasan, a sacred mountain filled with centuries-old temples and towering cedar trees — a place where time seems to slow down and peace fills the air. In the afternoon, we rode the final 100 kilometers on the expressway, leaving the mountains behind and gliding smoothly toward Kyoto, Japan’s former capital, while skillfully avoiding the busy traffic of Osaka’s vast metropolitan area. We’ll be spending two nights here, and tomorrow we’ll explore this fascinating city!
A full day exploring Kyoto on foot! From our hotel, we took the subway into the city center and started our walk through the historic Gion district, with its traditional wooden houses and charming streets. We then visited some of Kyoto’s most iconic temples, including Kōdai-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views over the city. After a well-deserved lunch, we continued our stroll to the lively Nishiki Market, where the sights, sounds, and aromas of Kyoto’s street food scene filled the air. By late afternoon, we headed back to the hotel to rest a bit — because tonight it’s time for karaoke and a special traditional dinner!
After having enjoyed Kyoto big time, as one can probably tell from yesterday's pictures, we started half an hour later this morning. One group, the culture lovers, went straight to Himeji to visit the impressive castle. The other group, the ride lovers, took the scenic route through mountains and forests. Everyone had a fantastic day!
Leaving Himeji took longer then expected but once we were in the mountains the scenery was very nice. Found a new coffee stop were you could smell-try the different kinds of coffees. And all of a sudden there it was, the Sea of Japan, separating Japan from mainland Asia! And lakes! And rivers! And the Rainbow skyline. We even saw a real rainbow there! With a chair lift we went up the mountain where the view was even nicer. Back at the bikes we were surrounded by many other bikers and quickly made new friends. Our hotel for tonight is located at the entrance to the approach leading to Eiheiji Temple. Tomorrow morning, anyone who’s interested can join an introduction to Buddhism — the two tour guides are already booked!
Eiheiji is famous for the Buddhist temple, founded in 1244 by the Zen master Dōgen. We were invited to join the morning prayer session at 4:40 a.m. Together with 120 monks, we had the privilege of experiencing this unique and deeply spiritual event. It was truly impressive to hear 120 monks chanting in unison. Our ride began with a bit of rain, but soon our friend the sun showed up again. Lunch was in Shirakawa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its gassho-zukuri — traditional farmhouses whose steep thatched roofs resemble praying hands. And for dinner we went out tonight, to a traditional japanese restaurant downtown Takayama!
Early in the morning the bikes have a thin layer of ice on them, but as soon as the sun comes over the mountain everything heats up; a glorious riding day is waiting for us. The castle in Guy Hajiman is beautiful, so is the bridge over the river Gucho. The plastic Sanpuru food, created by the artist Iwasaki Tokizõ is truly unbelievable realistic. A great opportunity to buy souvenirs. And then to most beautiful autumn scenery unfolds in front of us! The freshly fallen snow on the mountains create extra drama. What a beautiful day!
We left Hirayu in the morning, a bit later than usual, and rode to the charming old post town of Narai-juku, where we stopped for a nice coffee and a short walk through its beautifully preserved streets. After that, we headed back to our hotel in Hirayu. Not a long ride today — just the perfect little loop for a rest day! By the way, if it weren’t for all the tunnels and bridges in this region, Hirayu would be really difficult to reach, as it’s tucked deep in the mountains!
With a beautiful blue sky we take off from chilly Hirayu. Autumn has struck the trees with intense colours and sunlight makes them look even more spectacular. Coffee in Matsumoto shows that this town, with a river running thrue it, has a surprisingly pleasant atmosphere, a large temple and many little shops. At the wasabi farm it's clear that the plants, whose roots are being used for this spicy condiment, need a lot of water. The wasabi ice cream tastes great! Lunch in Nagano is either conveyor belt sushi or a sandwich at the parking lot. Both taste good! And then, it's into the mountains to see the steaming monkeys. That's not a Japanese dish but machaques who keep warm by sitting in warm water heated by volcanic activity. Very interesting to see how their social structures work. The snow covered hills look nice, but when the road is closed due to snowfall you have to change the plan. At the end of the day everybody is enjoying dinner with red cheeks and a head full of beautiful images.
Almost the entire tour we've been lucky with the weather. Also today the sun is out, ready to guide us over mountain passes and along lakes. Our coffee stop is at lake Haruna, were the highlight is a car sitting in the water. And lovely ocal origami! Just before lunch we visit the Akagi shrine to wash away evil thoughts. After lunch it's up and down the mountains again: what a great day! The best one so far...?
We’re going to finish this lovely tour in style by enjoying the last curvy roads, great views, and — to top it all off — the Honda Motegi Twin Ring circuit! Here we can admire the legendary Honda Collection Hall, featuring Valentino Rossi’s bikes, Paris–Dakar racers, Ayrton Senna’s Formula 1 car, Max Verstappen’s F1 machine, and much more. Entering Tokyo is an experience in itself: from the highway you look out over this immense metropolis and its endless skyline of skyscrapers — a truly impressive sight. We can all look back on a truly remarkable tour: from the Sea of Japan to Mount Fuji and countless other highlights. The little details made it even more special — the friendly locals, the great food, the Buddhist temples. New friendships were created and old ones strengthened. Hopefully we’ll see each other again in the future! Thank you Dave, Missy, Robbie, Ralph, Antonia, Kiki, Guido, Johann, Jörg, Chris, Thom, Marti, Julie, Michael, and Gudrun!