FAQs

Some of Japan’s best riding areas include the Mount Fuji region (Fuji Five Lakes, Hakone, Izu), the mountains of central Honshu (Japanese Alps and historic valleys), and Kyushu (volcanic landscapes around Aso and the south). The best choice depends on your season, number of days, and whether you want more riding time or more cultural stops—our itineraries are curated to balance both. Check out our Group Tours, Private Tours or Self-Guided Tours to get an idea of what you can do and see on two wheels in Japan.

For most riders, Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–November) provide the most comfortable temperatures and best scenery. Summer can be hot/humid and may include rainy season, while winter conditions depend heavily on region and elevation. If you tell us your dates and preferred region, we’ll recommend the best fit. Or, you can read our blog about riding through Japan's four seasons.

We recommend riders have solid on-road experience and be comfortable riding multiple consecutive days, including sustained cornering on twisty mountain roads. If you’re unsure whether your experience is a good match, tell us what you ride at home and your riding history—we’ll advise honestly.

Yes. Japan drives and rides on the left side of the road. We provide guidance on common road scenarios (intersections, lane discipline, turning rules) so it feels natural quickly. You can learn the specifics on our road rules page.

In most cases you’ll need your full motorcycle licence from home plus an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in your home country under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Some nationalities instead require an official Japanese translation of their licence. Requirements vary by country—during booking we confirm exactly what you need. You can learn more on our blog about licenses.

Visa and entry requirements depend on your passport and length/purpose of stay. Always confirm current requirements via official government sources before booking flights. If you tell us your nationality and dates, we can point you to the right official guidance.

Yes—travel insurance is required to join any Shogun tour, and it should explicitly cover motorcycle riding. This is one of the most important details to check, as policies vary widely on engine size, exclusions, and riding conditions. Please refer to our terms and conditions for guidance on what your policy should cover.

Choose your tour type (group, private, or self-guided), then follow the booking instructions on the tour page. If you’re not sure which tour fits, send an enquiry and we’ll recommend the best option.

Inclusions vary by tour type. Guided group tours typically include a motorcycle, accommodation, planned routing, and guiding (and may include luggage support depending on the tour). Self-guided tours include a digital guidebook and navigation resources, while you ride independently. Each tour page lists exact inclusions for the particular kind of tour, plus our Inclusions page has all the information you'll need.

We accept card payments through our booking platform. If you need a different payment approach for business invoicing or group bookings, contact us and we’ll confirm what’s possible.

Cancellation terms are set out in our Terms & Conditions. Because tours involve pre-booked accommodation and motorcycle allocation, cancellation windows and fees can apply—review the terms before paying a deposit, and don't hesitate to ask if you want clarification. We accept card payments through our booking platform. If you need a different payment approach for business invoicing or group bookings, contact us and we’ll confirm what’s possible.

We offer a range of motorcycles depending on tour region, dates, and category (engine size/class). See our bikes page for examples of what may be available on your tour. We ask riders to provide their top 3 bike choices to avoid disappointment.

The best bike depends on your height/inseam, confidence with weight, riding experience, and whether you plan to ride two-up. Comfort and control matter more than engine size. Tell us what you ride at home and your preferences, and we’ll recommend the best match.

You can request a preferred model, even if it's not listed on our bikes page, and we’ll do our best to match it, but availability can vary by dates and region. We’ll confirm final allocation closer to the tour once supplier availability is locked in.

Bring your core riding gear you’re comfortable with: jacket, riding pants, gloves, and sturdy boots suited to the season. We recommend layers for temperature swings in the mountains, plus rain protection. Most riders bring their own gear for fit and comfort.

We can usually assist with helmets. Full gear availability (jackets/pants/boots/gloves) is not guaranteed, so plan to bring your main protective gear and treat any additional gear as request-based.

If you’re touring on our supplied bikes, maintenance and checks are handled prior to departure. Your key preparation is personal: bring the right gear, ensure documents are correct, and arrive rested. If you’re riding independently before/after, be comfortable with basic checks and safe riding habits.

Pack light layers, casual clothing, medication, chargers/power bank, and a small day kit (water, snacks) for walks and cultural attractions off the bike. Japan is convenient for essentials, but riding comfort items (earplugs, base layers, rain layers) are worth bringing. See our packing list page for more info.

Our tours follow curated regional routes designed around great riding roads and meaningful cultural stops. Routes vary by tour and season to maximise conditions and experience. If you share your dates and preferred region, we’ll recommend the best itinerary style.

Group sizes are intentionally kept manageable for a premium experience. For group tours we typically operate in small groups of a maximum of 8 riders, and private tours are just your party plus Shogun. The exact numbers depend on the specific tour—your tour page and booking confirmation will set expectations.

Daily distances vary by route style and region, but we design days to include time for stops, photos, meals, and cultural experiences—not just long highway slogs. As a rough guide, many days fall around 200–300 km, but mountain roads in Japan always make ride time feel “full” even at lower distances. Don't be surprised if a 7-day tour only covers 1200km, you'll still be riding 4-6 hours per day!

Self-guided tours include a digital guidebook and navigation resources so you can follow the planned route confidently. Guided tours include daily briefings and on-road leadership so the day flows smoothly, with clear regroup points, plus a digital guidebook as a backup.

On guided tours we ride at a safe, sensible pace suitable for the group and the day’s conditions. On private tours we can tailor the pace more closely to your preferences. On self-guided tours you control your own pace, following the planned route.

We ride predictably and respectfully: safe spacing, controlled overtakes, and clear regroup points. The focus is smooth, safe riding rather than racing. Your guide will brief expectations and group-riding norms so everyone stays comfortable and together.

Yes—many guests travel as rider and pillion. The best setup depends on bike choice and comfort riding two-up for multiple days. We’ll help you choose a configuration that’s safe and enjoyable. Our tours are designed for riders, so we can’t accommodate non-riding partners who need separate transport.

It can be, provided you’re both comfortable riding two-up for consecutive days and choose a suitable motorcycle. If you’ve never toured two-up before, tell us and we’ll recommend the most appropriate tour style and pacing.

On supported guided tours, luggage support may be included so you can ride unencumbered. Some smaller departures or tour types may use alternative luggage solutions which will be provided complimentary. You will be advised well before departure on the luggage situation for your tour.

We prioritise comfort, quality, and local character. Depending on the tour, you’ll experience a mix of excellent hotels and traditional inns (ryokan) where appropriate. The aim is always premium, memorable stay—not just the cheapest option available. Check out our blog on accommodation to learn about different accommodation styles in Japan.

Unless you are a couple, or in some instances family, Shogun sets itself apart by providing private rooms for all its riders. We do not require you to share with strangers. Some traditional properties may have shared facilities (e.g., onsen areas), which is normal in Japan.

Inclusions vary by tour. Some nights may include meals (particularly at ryokan), while other evenings are left open so you can explore local restaurants. Your specific tour page outlines exactly what is included.

Yes. We typically stay at least one hotel during the tour that has guest laundry facilities (coin-operated washers/dryers). Where a hotel doesn’t have laundry on-site, there’s usually a laundromat within walking distance.

We can often accommodate dietary preferences, but options vary by region and accommodation type. Tell us your requirements early (especially for strict vegetarian/vegan, allergies, or coeliac) so we can plan appropriately and set realistic expectations.

On guided tours, we assist with the immediate response and coordination. For self-guided tours, you should contact local emergency services first, then notify us/bike provider as relevant. We provide our self-guided riders with a Garmin inReach SOS device in case of emergencies in areas with no phone signal, as well as relevant phone numbers to contact.

Mechanical issues are rare, but if they occur we move quickly to keep your adventure on track as much as possible. On guided tours, we coordinate assistance and practical solutions. On self-guided tours, you’ll follow the support process outlined for you in your guidebook; depending on circumstances, repairs or a replacement bike may be arranged.

Weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. We plan routes with seasonal conditions in mind. On guided tours, we may adjust the route or timing for safety. On self-guided tours, we recommend being ready to be flexible and prioritising conservative decisions in poor conditions.

Many riders arrive 1–3 days early to adjust to the time zone and explore, and add extra days after the tour for slower travel. Great add-ons include major cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto) and regional stays depending on your route. For airports, transport basics, and getting to your start point, see our Travel Info page; for etiquette and cultural guidance, see our Japanese Culture & Tips page. Shogun can also arrange non-motorbike tours, contact us to enquire about seeing more of Japan before or after your motorbike tour.

We outline airport arrival and how to reach each tour start point on our Travel Info page. If you send your arrival airport, date, and accommodation area, we’ll confirm the simplest route.

Yes. Tell us your dates, rider numbers, riding experience, and whether you prefer more riding time or more cultural stops. We’re responsive and will recommend the best-fit tour type and region.

Self-guided tours include a professionally designed itinerary, a digital guidebook, and navigation resources so you can ride independently with confidence. You'll follow a curated route that’s been built for riders, stay at pre-booked accommodation, and explore Japan with the recommendations, information and tips packed into your guidebook. Click here to learn more.

No—self-guided means you ride independently. You’ll have detailed route guidance and resources. If you prefer a guide riding with you and handling day flow, choose a guided group or guided private tour.

Yes. Private tours are guided tours tailored to your group—your pace, your priorities, and your preferred style of immersion. Tell us your dates and what you want from the experience and we’ll propose an itinerary. Visit our private tours page for more info.

Yes. Our group tours are guided and designed for riders who want a premium experience, great roads, and cultural immersion without having to plan the logistics. Check the tour page for tour options, dates, itineraries and inclusions.

Yes. Our self-guided tours are ideal if you want independence with a professionally built route and detailed guidance. You ride on your own schedule using our digital guidebook and navigation resources.