FAQs
General
What is motorbike touring?
Motorbike touring is a type of travel where individuals or groups use motorbikes to explore different regions, often over extended distances and periods. We think the best way to experience Japan is by touring on a motorbike - it’s a unique and immersive way to travel which offers an unparalleled feeling of freedom. Explore diverse landscapes and experience the journey itself as an integral part of the adventure. With its excellent quality of roads, exhilarating mountain passes, scenic coastal routes, and incredible history and culture, there is no better country than Japan to tour by motorbike.
What are some of the best places to visit on a motorbike tour of Japan?
Japan is a rider’s paradise, offering smooth, well-maintained roads, excellent safety standards, and the convenience of a highly organized country. From sweeping mountain passes and scenic coastal highways to cultural hotspots like Hakone, Mount Fuji and Matsumoto, Japan delivers unforgettable riding. Whether you would like to come on a group guided tour, a customised boutique private tour, or go on your own with our self-guided tours, we’ve put in the time to design itineraries that cover the very best Japan has to offer. We’ve taken into account distance, climate, terrain and attractions to ensure you get the most out of your time, whether that be with us on a tour, or heading out on your own.
Our guided tours include our flagship 7-day Fuji Explorer tour which departs from Tokyo. Highlights include exhilarating rides on Mount Fuji itself, stunning coastal routes along the Izu Peninsula, and thrilling journeys deep into mountain forests. You'll skirt the majestic Japanese Alps, visit the historic castle town of Matsumoto, and step back in time along the Nakasendo trail.
You can also ride with us on our 7-day Volcanic Voyage tour around the magical southern island of Kyushu, or conquer the three tallest mountain ranges in Japan on our challenging 9-day Mountain Strider tour. For those wanting a deeper immersion into Japanese culture and history, as well as epic mountain twisties, join us on our 10-day Heartland Odyssey tour departing from Tokyo. For more on all of these tours, click here.
Our self-guided itineraries range from 3-day to 7-day adventures across Japan, including departures from Tokyo and Fukuoka, covering amazing riding spots including Mount Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, Hakone, Fuji Five Lakes, the Japanese Alps, the Kiso Valley, the incredible and wild southern-Tohoku region, volcanic Kyushu, Hiroshima and Chugoku, and the untamed wilds of Shikoku.
How challenging are the roads and terrain for motorbike touring in Japan?
Generally, the roads on our tours are in superb condition. Some of the back roads are single lane only with unprotected shoulders, some can have loose gravel and some rarely used country roads can have vegetation on the roads which may make them slippery. We include routes with many many twisties with some having steep ascents as you ride through the corners. While these conditions make for an exciting and challenging ride, they also add to the thrill and authenticity of the adventure, providing a truly unforgettable experience. We recommend you have at least a few years experience on a motorbike before joining a Shogun Motorbike Adventure.
What is the best time of the year for motorbike touring in Japan?
The best times for mnotorbike touring in Japan are Spring (April-May) and fall (September-November), when the weather is generally mild and the scenery is stunning with cherry blossoms, vivid greens or forests ablaze with autumn foliage. Some routes, particularly high mountan passes like the Venus Line or Fuji Subaru Line open or close depending on the season and local conditions. For the most up-to-date advice on the best roads and routes for your trip dates, please contact us directly.
visas, rules, regulations & safety
Do I need a special license to ride a motorbike in Japan as a tourist?
You must hold a valid domestic drivers license (authorising you to ride motorbikes) and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Your IDP must be issued in your own country by an authorised issuer (e.g. AAA in the United States, CAA in Canada, RAC/NRMA in Australia). IDP's should be valid for 1 year, if yours is claiming to be valid for 5 years it's probably a scam IDP - watch out as there are a lot of websites out there selling scam IDP's. Your IDP must be issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention - make sure it says that on the front.
If you are from France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium or Taiwan, a Japanese translation of your driver's licence is sufficient.
Not every country is a signatory to the relevant Convention. For example, it is simply not possible for riders holding an Indonesian drivers license to get an IDP for riding in Japan. Unfortunately, there seems to be no change to this on the horizon.
Please check this page for further information.
Do I need a visa to visit Japan?
For most of our riders, no visa is required to join a Shogun Motorbike Adventure. Citizens of countries such as Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, and Israel can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism. You simply need a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
Japan’s immigration process is efficient, and pre-registering on the 'Visit Japan Website' portal is recommended to streamline entry. If you hold a passport from a country not on Japan’s visa-exempt list, you will need to apply for a short-term tourist visa before traveling.
This is general advice only. Please double check requirements prior to booking a Shogun Motorbike Adventure.
How do I stay safe while touring Japan on a motorbike?
Japan’s roads are very high quality and drivers are typically careful and courteous. However, it’s always important to wear the right protective gear, obey local traffic rules, stay alert and be aware of road conditions. If you're on a guided tour with Shogun, we’ll run you through the local rules so we can all have a safe ride. If you're embarking on a self-guided tour, please be sure to read our traffic rules page before you set off. On any Shogun tour you're on, you will also receive a Safety Briefing which will cover all the other ways you can ride as safely as possible in Japan.
How do I stay safe while touring Japan on a motorbike?
Japan’s roads are very high quality and drivers are typically careful and courteous. However, it’s always important to wear the right protective gear, obey local traffic rules, stay alert and be aware of road conditions. If you're on a guided tour with Shogun, we’ll run you through the local rules so we can all have a safe ride. If you're embarking on a self-guided tour, please be sure to read our traffic rules page before you set off. On any Shogun tour you're on, you will also receive a Safety Briefing which will cover all the other ways you can ride as safely as possible in Japan.
Getting ready for my tour
What bikes do you have for me to ride?
We have a wide selection of bikes for you to choose, from cruisers to touring bikes to sportsbikes. We've divided our bikes into Platinum, Gold and Silver categories depending on engine size. Head over to Our Bikes page to see specific bikes on offer. We'll ask you to let us know your bike selection prior to the tour. If there's something you really want to ride but that's not listed, please let us know and we'll do our best to source it for you!
What bike is right for me?
When it comes to touring Japan with Shogun Motorbike Adventures, choosing the right ride can make all the difference in ensuring your journey is an unforgettable adventure. We have a wide range of bikes available that suit every rider, but we encourage you to prioritise comfort as we want to make sure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Ultimately, the ideal touring bike is one that seamlessly integrates with your personal style and promises a smooth, comfortable journey on the open road.
What gear should I pack for a motorbike tour in Japan?
If you have your own motorbike gear you can bring that with you to Japan. Wearing gear that is familiar to you is a good way to ensure your comfort.
Japanese Road Traffic law mandates that all motorbike riders must wear helmets. It does not explicitly state that the helmet must be certified under Japanese standards. But, for peace of mind and insurance protection, Shogun strongly recommends that your helmet meet recognised international standards (e.g. ECE 22.05/22.06; Snell M2020; DOT; AS/NZS 1698). Shogun also strongly recommends your helmet is full face and in good condition with no damage.
In addition to helmets, Shogun strongly recommends you ride with a proper motorbike jacket, gloves, leg pants and appropriate footwear.
If you would prefer, you can hire gear for your tour for a reasonable price - just let us know and we’ll add it to your package for you.
Are there specific maintenance tasks I should perform before a tour?
Shogun Motorbike Adventures uses Japan's most trusted and reputable motorbike provider. All motorbikes are fully checked and serviced prior to each tour commencing. Just show up, hop on and head off with us on your tour.
What can we do before and after our motorbike tour in Japan?
Got some time to kill before or after your Shogun Motorbike Adventure? Here are our top recommendations for Japan:
Tokyo
If you’re on our Fuji Explorer tour your journey with us will start and end in Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital. It’s a fusion of ultra-modern skyscrapers, historic temples, and vibrant districts, and we highly recommend spending as much time as you can exploring this incredible place. Visit the serene Meiji Shrine, shop in Shibuya’s bustling streets, and experience the eclectic nightlife in Shinjuku. Tokyo Tower offers stunning city views, while the Imperial Palace provides a glimpse into Japan’s rich history. Reach out for more tips!
Kyoto
Kyoto, the ancient capital, is a treasure trove of traditional culture. Explore the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the historic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates. Stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and discover the serene beauty of Gion, home to traditional geisha performances. Reach out for more tips!
Osaka
Osaka, known for its modern architecture and vibrant nightlife, is also a food lover’s paradise. Explore the bustling Dotonbori district with its neon lights and street food stalls. Visit Osaka Castle for a slice of history and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Umeda Sky Building. Reach out for more tips!
Hiroshima
Hiroshima, a city with a poignant history, is now a symbol of peace and resilience. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum are must-visit sites, offering a sobering look at the events of World War II. Nearby, the serene Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, with its iconic floating torii gate, is a beautiful escape. Reach out for more tips!
Nara
Nara, home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is a haven for history enthusiasts. The Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple is a remarkable sight, and the surrounding Nara Park is famous for its friendly, free-roaming deer. Explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine, adorned with hundreds of lanterns, for a spiritual experience. Reach out for more tips!
Sapporo
Sapporo is the vibrant capital of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. The city is famous for its beer, skiing, and annual snow festival. Explore Odori Park and the historical Sapporo Clock Tower, then visit the Sapporo Beer Museum. If you happen to be there in winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland with intricate ice sculptures. Reach out for more tips!
Kanazawa
Kanazawa, often overlooked by tourists, boasts beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts. We highly recommend Kenrokuen Garden which is one of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes, while the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art offers a modern contrast. Visit the historic Nagamachi Samurai District and the vibrant Omicho Market for a taste of local culture. Reach out for more tips!
Okinawa
Okinawa is a tropical paradise that feels more like Hawaii than Japan. Only a couple hours flight from Tokyo, Okinawa offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. Explore Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about the unique Ryukyu culture. Snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs of the Kerama Islands or relax on the white sandy beaches of Miyako Island. Reach out for more tips!
on tour
What routes can I do on a motorbike tour of Japan?
Japan is home to some of the world's most spectacular motorbike touring routes, offering everything from twisty mountain roads to epic coastal cruisers. Popular riding regions include the Japanese Alps where winding passes like the Venus Line and Noriega Skyline provide breathtaking mountain views and a rewarding riding experience, and the Mount Fuji area (easily accessible for a 2+day trip from Tokyo) with beautiful routes around the Fuji Five Lakes.
Further south, Kyushu is famous for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, and is one of Shogun's favourite places to ride as it is away from the tourist hotspots of Japan's main island. Here the open roads unfold before you with less traffic and cleaner air. Likewise in the far north, Hokkaido offers expansive open roads, little to no traffic and pristine untouched wilderness.
At Shogun Motorbike Adventures, we've curated our tours to feature Japan's very best roads, combining world-class riding with cultural and historical highlights and authentic experiences. Whether you're after iconic destinations like the Irohazaka Winding Road, Izu Skyline or the Noto Peninsula Skyline, or hidden gems far away from the tourist trails, our routes showcase Japan's incredible diversity, all in a safe and convenient way designed for international riders.
Can I bring my partner with me?
We would love for you to bring your partner! If they don't ride themselves, they can join as a pillion with you - simply select the pillion option when booking a guided tour or self-guided tour, or let us know via our contact form for private tours.
Our tours are designed specifically for riders, so we're unable to accommodate non-riding partners or provide separate transport.
Can I bring my partner with me?
We would love for you to bring your partner! If they don't ride themselves, they can join as a pillion with you - simply select the pillion option when booking a guided tour or self-guided tour, or let us know via our contact form for private tours.
Our tours are designed specifically for riders, so we're unable to accommodate non-riding partners or provide separate transport.
How many people will be on my tour?
If you are joining a group guided tour with Shogun, rest assured we like to keep our group sizes small so that you get the most immersive experience on tour. In a typical tour we aim for no more than 8 riders.
We have a minimum group size of 3 riders. Smaller guided tour groups (less than 4 riders) may not include the support vehicle, however all riders will have side cases and a top case, as well as secure luggage storage, included in their booking free of charge.
What kind of distances do you cover on tour?
Our touring days usually run from around 9.00am to 5.00pm, with plenty of stops for leg-stretches, sight-seeing, lunch and breaks. While daily distances usually range from 200km - 300km, Japan's roads are famously twisty and scenic, meaning you'll spend an average of 5 hours in the saddle each day. This balance ensures an immersive ride without feeling rushed or exhausted. Longer tours like our 10-day Heartland Odyssey will feature a rest-day, while our 7-day tours typically feature one day on which we immerse in a cultural activity for a half-day, providing at least a morning or afternoon off the bikes.
Our self-guided tours offer two riding styles - cruisy or adventurous. Cruisy tours offer slightly less km's and hours in the saddle, averaging about 4 hours per day with a greater focus on culture, food and history. Our adventurous tours are for those comfortable with tackling 6+ hours of mountain twisties per day.
How will I know the route and directions?
All participants on our tours receive an electronic tour guidebook, viewable on any smartphone.
The guidebook will have the complete itinerary, with useful information, tips, hints and suggestions for each day. It will also have map links that can be used in Google Maps.
The guidebook provides an enriched experience for you on your tour, as well as ensuring no-one gets lost should the group get split up.
What do I do incase of an emergency or medical situation on the road
On guided tours, Shogun crew will be present to assist you. Shogun crew are first aid trained, and have the means to contact emergency services if necessary. It is vital that you disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to Shogun prior to your tour.
On self-guided tours, you should contact emergency services or ask passers-by to. You will be provided with contact numbers and a helpful translation card for emergency situations. For routes that include roads in areas of low mobile phone coverage, Shogun also provides a satellite SOS device that you can use to call for assistance.
For your protection, it is mandatory to hold travel insurance that covers motorbike riding. See our terms & conditions for more information.
What is the riding etiquette on tour?
On the road we will ride together in a group, one rider after another. The lead tour rider will be riding up the front of the group with everyone else following behind. Our support vehicle (if included) will also be following at the back of the group. For your safety, please try to stick within this formation on your tour.
Please note, when approaching toll gates it is best to ride single file with a few metres gap between bikes, so that the toll gate can detect each bike individually. We have broken toll gate detectors on tours before by rolling up as a group!
How do I handle breakdowns or mechanical issues during a tour?
Shogun partners with Japan’s most trusted and reputable motorbike provider, so mechanical issues or breakdowns are very rare. In the unlikely event you do experience a problem on a guided tour, our crew will take care of everything to get you back on the road as quickly as possible. For self-guided tours, you can contact our provider directly for prompt assistance. With branches throughout Japan, they can often repair issues on the spot or provide a replacement bike so you can continue your adventure as quickly as possible.
What are the accommodations like on Shogun Motorbike Adventure tours?
Enjoy a blend of Japan's rich tradition and modern comfort with our included accommodations. From the night before the tour begins to the final evening, all accommodations are covered, providing a seamless experience. Relax in charming ryokans, complete with tatami mats and onsen baths, and unwind in contemporary hotels that offer all the amenities. This unique mix allows you to experience the best of both worlds while exploring Japan on two wheels.
Most ryokan accommodation will include breakfast and dinner. Ryokan rooms may or may not have an ensuite toilet and sink, and onsen baths may be shared and gender segregated. You can also expect Japanese style sleeping arrangements with futons on tatami mats. This may be different to what you are used to, but staying in a ryokan is an authentic Japanese experience not to be missed!
Will I be sharing my room?
Unlike most motorbike touring companies in Japan, Shogun gives you your own room each night - no sharing with smelly strangers!
At some Ryokans there may not be an ensuite bathroom in your room, in which case those facilities will be shared (this is not unusual in Japan). Onsen baths may also be shared and gender segregated. However, accommodations in Japan have some of the highest cleanliness standards of any country, so while facilities may be shared you can be rest assured that they will be spotless!
