3–4 Days | Cycling, nature and a reset in the Japanese Mountains
Tour Overview
This journey is designed as a reset. A chance to slow down, reconnect with yourself and nature by experiencing the quieter rhythm of rural Japan.
Set amongst the forests and mountains of northern Nagano, the journey combines gentle cycling, wellness practices, and time spent in landscapes designed for stillness. Travelling by e-bike is the best way to leisurely explore quiet country roads, mountain villages, lakes and cedar forests, ensuring full immersion in the surroundings.
Inspired by Japanese approaches to wellbeing, the experience focuses on simplicity and balance: forest walks, onsen baths, mindful movement, nourishing local meals, as well as moments for spiritual learning.
Accommodation is carefully chosen to support rest and recovery, ranging from wellness-focused retreats to remote countryside stays with private onsen baths and uninterrupted night skies.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1 — Shinanomachi & Myoko
Forest therapy as a reset
Arrive in Nagano and transfer into the quiet mountain landscapes surrounding Shinanomachi.
Begin the journey slowly with a guided forest walk inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. Surrounded by cedar forests and mountain air, the focus is on acclimatising to the refreshing mountain air and grounding the body and mind in local surroundings before the cycling begins.
Continue to a wellness-focused retreat in Myoko for spa treatments, onsen baths, and a nourishing seasonal dinner designed around fresh, local ingredients.
Highlights
- Forest therapy walk
- Spa treatments and onsen
- Wellness-focused accommodation
- Healthy seasonal cuisine
Day 2 — Myoko to Togakushi
Slow cycling and sacred forests
An optional morning yoga session begins the day before setting out by bike through quiet country roads, taking in stunning lakeside scenery and forest landscapes.
The ride is unhurried, with opportunities to stop to enjoy the views, coffees, saunas, or a swim along the way. Arrive in Togakushi, a spiritual mountain region known for its ancient shrine complex hidden amongst ancient towering cedar trees.
Spend the afternoon walking through the forest paths and shrine grounds before settling into a peaceful mountain stay for the evening.
Highlights
- Optional morning yoga
- Gentle cycling through forests and countryside
- Sauna and swim stop options
- Togakushi Shrine and cedar forests
- Seasonal mountain cuisine
Cycling Distance: Approx. 25–35 km
Day 3 — Mountains, Meditation & Remote Onsen
Stillness and connection to nature
Begin with an optional morning yoga session before cycling through peaceful mountain landscapes with wide views across the Japanese Alps.
The winding route passes small farming villages along quiet mountain roads, encouraging a slower pace and time to fully absorb the scenery. Along the way, stop at a temple for a guided meditation experience and time for reflection.
The final accommodation is a remote countryside retreat designed for complete rest. Rooms feature private onsen, nourishing food, silence, and exceptionally clear night skies far from the cities.
Highlights
- Optional morning yoga
- Mountain cycling with alpine views
- Temple meditation experience
- Remote accommodation with private onsen
- Stargazing and deep relaxation
Cycling Distance: Approx. 30–40 km
Day 4 — Departure
Slow morning and return to Matsumoto
Enjoy a final slow morning with optional yoga, breakfast, and onsen before transferring to Matsumoto for departure.
The journey finishes leaving you feeling refreshed, rested and more connected to the natural rhythms of rural Japan.
