Zen and the art of motorcycle touring in Japan

Japan is an amazing destination to go motorcycle touring. Outside the megacities there are scenic roads and breathtaking views to be experienced.

You could go on a pre-packaged tour travel companies charge over $10,000 for two weeks in Japan. Finding the best roads to ride, shops to rent from, and places to stay would take hours of research.

The information that's available online is often a personal travel diary and not always up to date or fact-checked. And to access information in Japanese you would need to study full-time for at least 52 weeks to get basic proficiency.

This guidebook aims to help you help you plan and prepare for your next motorcycle adventure in Japan. It will show you how to see more, spend less and have an authentic experience in Japan.

PlanningWhere to goWhen to to goWhat to bringWhat to budget forWhere to rent a motorcycleWhat's good to know



Rides by regionHokkaidoTouhokuKantoChubuKansaiChugokuShikokuKyushu



On ArrivalCustoms procedureArriving at Narita International AirportArriving at Osaka - Kansai International AirportArriving at Nagoya international airportArriving at Fukuoka - Fukuoka AirportArriving at Sapporo - New Chitose AirportStaying connectedHelpful appsBuying motorcycle gear

On the roadTypes of roadExpresswaysRules of the roadNavigationTraffic SignsStickers on carsBike fuelBody fuelTaking domestic ferriesAccidentsTraffic violations and finesEarthquakes and tsunamis



AccommodationCampingYouth HostelsRider HousesLove HotelsBusiness HotelsRyokan/Onsen



AppendixThree most scenic viewsThree most famous gardensTwelve original castlesOverview of Japan's National Parks
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