Volcanic Voyage 10 Day
Embark on an exhilarating journey with our Volcanic Voyage tour, traversing the dynamic and fiery landscapes of Kyushu. Starting and ending in the energetic city of Fukuoka, this tour promises thrilling rides, breathtaking vistas, and rich cultural encounters. As we navigate Kyushu's rugged terrain, you'll delve into the heart of Japan's volcanic wonderland.
ITINERARY
Day 1
Hiroshima
Day 1 sees us riding from Fukuoka to Hiroshima, enjoying scenic coastal roads with coffee and lunch stops along the way. The day concludes with a sobering visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, a poignant reminder of history.
Day 2
Onomichi, Shimanami Kaido & Matsuyama
Day 2 is a culture-focussed day which takes us to Matsuyama via Onomichi, where we walk its charming temple trail. Afterward, we unwind at a ryokan and visit a historic onsen said to have inspired the bathhouse in the famous movie Spirited Away.
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Day 3
Shikoku & Beppu
Day 3 is all about exploring the island of Shikoku’s stunning landscapes and natural environment. We cap the day with a ferry ride back over to Kyushu, taking in sweeping ocean views as we approach the geothermal hotspot of Beppu.
Day 4
Beppu
We start Day 4 by exploring the “Hells of Beppu,” a series of colorful geothermal wonders. The afternoon features thrilling explorer rides through Beppu’s mountainous surroundings. We'll stay the night again in Beppu.
Day 5
Kumamoto
Day 5 takes us across Kyushu’s lush interior to Kumamoto. Here, we explore the iconic castle and dive deep into the rich cultural heritage of this historic town, with options for tea ceremony, caligraphy and more!
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Day 6
Mount Aso & Kumamoto
Day 6 is dedicated to the majestic Mount Aso. With winding roads and volcanic vistas, it’s a motorcycling paradise and a highlight of our Kyushu journey. We'll finish the night by soaking our tired muscles in one of the best public onsen in Kumamoto - a quintissential Japanese experience.
Day 7
Sogi Falls & Kagoshima
Day 7 sees us hugging the southern coastline to Kagoshima, home to the Sakurajima volcano and renowned for its exceptional shochu, one of Japan’s favorite distilled spirits. We'll stop off to take in some coastal views, and also at Japan's "niagara falls" in the heart of Kyushu.
Day 8
Kagoshima & Sakurajima
On day 8 we base ourselves in Kagoshima, riding around the volcanic island of Sakurajima’s just off the mainland. The afternoon will include tranquil Japanese gardens and a visit to a traditional shochu brewery.
Day 9
Takachiho Gorge
Our penultimate day takes us to Takachiho, steeped in myth and legend and a place of profound religious importance in Japan. Highlights include its dramatic gorge, ancient shrines, and an evening of traditional dance, with a stay in authentic accommodation.
Day 10
Kurokawa Onsen, Dazaifu Tenmangu & Fukuoka
Our final day sees us traversing Kyushu’s spine, stopping in a charming onsen town for coffee before visiting the over 1000-year old Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine complex. The tour concludes with a farewell dinner in Fukuoka.
tour
Dates
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Choose your tour date and secure your spot today!
With a limited group of just 10 riders per tour, you’ll enjoy an exclusive, immersive experience. Once these spots are filled, the next chance won’t come until our new calendar is released next year. Don’t miss out!
Love this itinerary but can’t make the dates? Let us know!
Express InterestBIKE OPTIONS
Tour Inclusions
Included
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Not Included
TOUR GALLERY
Accommodation & Dining
- Accommodation will usually be split half-half between traditional Japanese ryokan accommodation with onsen, and Western-style hotels.
- We request you bring a flexible attitude with you, as services and facilities in some locations may not be what you are accustomed to. However, they are a part of the Japan experience!
- All accommodation is single-occupancy, unless you are a couple or family.
- Breakfast - Your tour includes breakfasts for each day of the tour.
- Lunch - Lunches are not included.
- Dinner - We typically provide dinners on half the nights on tour. Dinner on the first and last night is at an izakaya (a Japanese pub) and is on us. You will also have the opportunity to sample local delicacies and traditional Japanese food during your stay at ryokan accommodation.
Climate
The Volcanic Voyage tour runs in late April and early November, offering excellent riding conditions with comfortable temperatures and spectacular seasonal scenery. In April, Kyushu enjoys mild spring weather, with daytime highs ranging from 17–24°C (63–75°F) and fresh mornings ideal for riding. Cherry blossoms linger in some areas, while the countryside bursts into vibrant green, making for breathtaking views along coastal and mountain roads. In early November, temperatures range from 14–21°C (57–70°F), and the island is ablaze with autumn colors, particularly around Mount Aso and Takachiho Gorge. These months generally bring stable weather, though occasional showers are possible, especially in the mountains.
Ride Profile
Generally, the roads on this tour are in superb condition. Some of the back roads are single lane only with unprotected shoulders. Some roads can have loose gravel and some rarely used country roads can have vegetation on the roads making them slippery. There are many many twisties on this ride with some twisties having steep ascents as you ride through the corners.
The shogun promise
We are obsessed with Japan and are devoted to sharing our passion, knowledge and experience with you. Our goal is that you finish your tour not only having had an amazing motorbike riding experience, but that you also feel you’ve explored and immersed yourself in Japan beyond the bike.
We strive to deliver excellence. Going on an adventure like this isn’t cheap. We understand you’ve worked hard for your money and you want to make sure you invest it wisely. We’re committed to offering you the best experience on 2 wheels that money can buy!
We hand-select quality, comfortable and unique accommodations, including traditional style ryokans, that allow you to experience authentic Japan in comfort and style.
We don’t want you having to ride heavy bikes laden with all your luggage. From day 1 our support vehicle will carry your luggage from one hotel room to the next so you can focus on riding some of the best roads in the world.
Shogun’s crew are not just experts in Japan's landscapes and hidden gems; they are passionate storytellers eager to share their deep understanding of the country's rich history and culture. With their expertise, you'll not only traverse breathtaking routes on two wheels but also gain insights into Japan's traditions and modern quirks. We ensure your journey isn't just about riding; it's a journey enriched with knowledge and unforgettable experiences that go beyond the ordinary tour.
We recognise that some people are put off by “organised” tours as they don’t want to all ride in a line from one place to the next, never going off the route to explore what is over a crest or down a valley. We’ve designed our adventures so the rider can explore by themselves if they choose to, safe in the knowledge that we are there to help. On most days we offer a choice of routes or activities, and if we finish the riding day early we’ll often organise a ride to a temple or a night out together. These aren’t compulsory but are options for you to experience and enjoy Japan your way if you wish.
FAQ
You can find a full list of FAQs on our FAQ Page
How many people will be on my tour?
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 10 riders, plus a guide up front and a support vehicle at the tail end of the group (carrying all your luggage for you!).If you would like a private tour for just you or your group please visit our Private Tours page.
What distances will we cover on this tour?
The total distance covered on the Volcanic Voyage tour is 1497 (930 miles). Day 1 is the longest day at 291km (181 miles). Day 3 is the shortest day at 171km (106 miles). On average, we'll ride 214km (133 miles) per day.
What are the accommodations like?
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?
You'll have your own room each night. At some Ryokans there may not be ensuite toilet and sink, in which case those will be shared. 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!
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.
Do I need a special license to ride a motorbike in Japan as a tourist?
Please refer to https://www.rental819.com/license for detailed licensing information.
What kind of roads will we be riding on?
100% asphalt all the way. The roads in Japan are some of the highest quality roads in the world and are a pleasure to ride on!
Can I bring my partner/wife/girlfriend/better half with me?
We would love for you to bring your partner/wife/girlfriend/better half!
If they ride a bike please reach out to us and we can offer their tour at a discounted rate for twin share. If you would like them to come on as a pillion passenger please confirm with us to make sure we have enough pillion spots left on your tour.
Is this tour right for me?
Our routes are suitable for motorbike riders of all levels. There is no off road riding, so as long as you can ride on roads and highways you’ll have a great time! If you have any concerns or you would like to chat about our tours, just reach out via our contact page.
Tour Dates
29th April 2026, 30th October 2026
Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Register your interest today!
With a limited group of just 10 riders per tour, you’ll enjoy an exclusive, immersive experience. Once these spots are filled, the next chance won’t come until our new calendar is released next year. Don’t miss out!
