Lake Toya to the Sea of Japan
4 Day Cycling Tour

This morning we farewell Lake Toya and head north into the farming area of Toyoura. This area has unobstructed views of Mount Yotei, also known as Ezo Fuji as it resembles Mount Fuji. We will point our front wheels towards the volcano with spectacular views all morning.

Arriving at the foot of Mount Yotei, we visit a popular natural spring water park. Local people come here to fill their water bottles with natural mineral-rich water. The heavy snowfall that makes the area of Niseko a world-famous winter resort also gift us with special water, proudly known as one of ”Japan’s 100 Best Springs”.

After filling our bottles with fresh water, we continue to cycle through farmland around the northern fringe of Mount Yotei to the potato capital Kutchan Town. From Kutchan we climb through the international resort town of Niseko to Konbu Onsen, our hotel at the foot of Mount Niseko Annupuri. (B, D)

Cycling Distance – 87 km / 54 miles
Elevation – 1,150m / 3,773ft

Today is our final and most challenging cycling day, with three major climbs. From our hotel in Konbu Onsen, we start climbing towards Goshiki Onsen on an alpine road that cuts through the Niseko mountains.

Just before reaching the top of the pass at 800m/2625ft above sea level, we will have a short break, enjoying morning tea in the mountains. We then continue on our bikes, passing between Mount Iwaonupuri and Mount Niseko Annupuri before descending into Kutchan Town on a stunning mountain road.

Stopping for lunch in Kutchan, we savour the local specialty of Udon noodles made with potatoes grown in the area. After filling up, we leave for our final destination Yoichi, on the Sea of Japan.

After another scenic climb, we stop at the small farming village of Akaigawa for a break before attacking the last hill. Alternatively, you can part from your bike and travel in the van for 30mins to finish.

In Yoichi, we celebrate finishing our ride at the Nikka Whisky Distillery, founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, the first Japanese person to serve as an apprentice whisky maker in Scotland. (B, D)

Cycling Distance – 55-78 km / 34-48 miles
Elevation – 900-1,260m / 2,953-4,134ft

Our tour finishes after breakfast today; we will take you to the Yoichi JR Station. We recommend that you visit the historic port town of Otaru, which is only half an hour train ride from Yoichi, on the way to Sapporo.
Otaru is renowned for its nostalgic, old-fashioned atmosphere, enhanced by its architecture and the famous canal. From Otaru to Sapporo is another half an hour train ride and the same train goes all the way to New Chitose Airport (CTS). (B)

No Cycling