We ride the western half of the Toyama Bay Cycling Route today. En route, we stop by Takaoka and visit Zuiryuji Temple, a magnificent Zen temple celebrated for its elegance and symmetrical layout. We continue pedaling along the Toyama Bay. Weather permitting, we can enjoy the stunning combination of coastal views and a mountain backdrop from the Amaharashi Coast. Our We stay at a Japanese-style hotel by the ocean. (Breakfast and dinner included)

We continue pedaling along the coast, heading north towards the neck of Noto Peninsula. After enjoying the calm sea in Nanao Bay, we head inland and traverse the Peninsula. Our route takes us through the picturesque farmland and enchanting forest to the Peninsula's west coast. The last 10 kilometers are on a cycle path built on a former rail track.

 (Breakfast and dinner included)

Following a transfer by train, we arrive in Kanazawa in the late morning. Kanazawa has prospered for some 300 years since the feudal lord Maeda Toshiie built a castle here in the late 16th century. The city has not suffered from any war devastation or big natural disaster up to now. Therefore, you can see many winding paths and streets lined with latticed doors and earthen walls, reminiscent of old Japan. We visit the stunning Kenrokuen Garden, one of the three most famous gardens in Japan. The remainder of the afternoon is your free time – enjoy exploring a district of old geisha quarters, former samurai mansions, or the city’s vibrant food market. We stay at a western-style hotel conveniently located in the center city. (Breakfast included)

Today we transfer by train to Obama in the morning (takes about 3 hours). Situated in the inner inlet of Wakasa Bay, Obama flourished as a port connecting Japan to Korea and China in the old days. It used to have strong ties to the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara. We visit Myotsuji Temple to see a stunning garden, the main hall, and the three-story pagoda designated as national treasures. Then, we bike through idyllic rice paddies, along Wakasa Bay, and onto narrow alleys in Obama's old town quarters. (Breakfast and dinner included)

Leaving Obama, we ride along the quiet coastline of Wakasa Bay and eventually head inland. After pedaling along a gentle river, we ride over the hill and take a lunch break. Our afternoon ride starts with a relaxing 10km ride on a flat terrain, giving us enough time to digest our lunch and prepare for a 9km climb. You can ride at your own pace, enjoying the fresh air of forests and the sound of water streams. We eventually cycle down Miyama, which consists of clusters of picturesque hamlets with traditional kayabukiyane (thatched roof) farmhouses. Kayabukiyane houses nestled in peaceful mountains are the perfect example of what the Japanese countryside used to look like in the old days. We stay at a Japanese-style inn.  (Breakfast and dinner included)

We bike past Kitayama Mountains and approach Kyoto from the north through dense forests on quiet mountain roads. It involves some steep climbs but also downhills with spectacular views of deep valleys. We reach the Hozugawa River that winds through steep mountain canyons. After the last brief but challenging climb, we descend to Sagano, located at Kyoto city's western edge. The area offers plenty of attractions to stop by, including small alleys with traditional shops and temples, as well as Arashiyama, one of the best scenic spots in Kyoto. We then ride to our hotel conveniently located in the city center. (Breakfast included)

An ancient capital for 1,100 years, Kyoto is a living museum full of history and culture and a must-see destination in Japan. We spend the morning touring some of the city’s historical sites registered with UNESCO as World Cultural Heritage Sites, including Kinkakuji Temple, Nijo Castle, and Kiyomizu-dera temple. The afternoon is your free time – the city has so much to offer, so you will never feel that you have had enough time in this city! (Breakfast included)

Following breakfast, we say goodbye. Our guide will escort you to the Kyoto train station, where you can catch a limousine bus to the Kansai International Airport or a bullet train for the next destination. If you wish to extend your stay in Kyoto, please ask for room availability when you make a reservation. (Breakfast included)