Our self-guided motorbike tours give you the freedom of solo travel. Less planning, more riding - perfect for experienced riders or repeat visitors to Japan. Whether you’ve got 3 days, a full week, or more, our ready-to-ride itineraries take you through Japan’s most scenic roads - from the twisties of Mount Fuji and the Izu Peninsula to the volcanic heart of Kyushu. You choose your adventure. We handle the logistics.

Why Join This Tour

The Complete Kyushu Experience: A five-day, four-night, ~1000 km loop capturing the island’s diverse landscapes—from volcanic ridges and oceanfront roads to tranquil mountain towns and sacred valleys. Aoshima’s Ocean Sanctuary: Visit Aoshima Shrine, a mystical island shrine surrounded by the striking “devil’s washboard” rock formations of the Nichinan Coast. Ride the Southern Coast: Follow the sweeping Nichinan coastline to Cape Toi, a dramatic headland where wild horses graze against the backdrop of the Pacific. Volcanic Heart of Kyushu: Traverse the vast caldera of Mount Aso and explore the active volcanic island of Sakurajima, where the land breathes and smokes with geological vitality. Cultural Depth in Kumamoto: Experience a traditional tea ceremony in historic Kumamoto, a city celebrated for its castle, samurai heritage, and refined hospitality. Sacred Takachiho: Discover Takachiho, the mythic birthplace of Japanese legend, where shrines and gorge landscapes embody the spiritual core of Kyushu.

Tour Details

This five-day, four-night motorcycle journey covers approximately 1000km, averaging around five hours of riding per day. Departing from Fukuoka, the route circumnavigates the island across Kyushu’s dynamic terrain. Ride the vast caldera of Mt Aso and peer into its volcanic crater, then head to the coastal town of Kagoshima, known as the Naples of Japan, and ride on the active volcano Sakurajima. Continue along the coast to the epic Cape Toi, where wild horses roam on hills and cliffs overlooking the blue Pacific Ocean. From there head north to visit Aoshima Shrine, a sacred island sanctuary surrounded by the famed “devil’s washboard” rock formations, and spend the penultimate night in Takachiho, where the mystical origins of Japan linger in sacred shrines and ancient gorges. The Kyushu Grand Circuit condenses the island’s geological grandeur, coastal flow, and cultural richness into a single, fluid loop ideal for the adventurous rider. Ideal for: Adventurous riders seeking a curated journey through Kyushu’s complete landscape spectrum—volcanoes, coasts, culture, and hidden gems.

Tour Dates

Available from April- November

Full Itinerary

Day 1 – Kumamoto Depart Fukuoka and head to the Mt Aso area. Traverse the immense caldera of Mount Aso, peer into its crater, and ride along its famous roads with sweeping volcanic panoramas before descending toward the city of Kumamoto. Day 2 – Sakurajima Head to Kagoshima, and ferry across to Sakurajima to ride the volcanic island’s perimeter roads, surrounded by smoking vents and black lava fields that define one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. Day 3 – Nichinan Coast ​/​ Cape Toi Continue along the Nichinan Coast to Cape Toi, where wild horses roam freely above the ocean cliffs. Then take in Aoshima Shrine, a small island encircled by unique rock strata known as the “devil’s washboard.” Day 4 – Takachiho Travel north deep into the interior and spiritual heart of Kyushu. Visit Takachiho Gorge, framed by basalt cliffs and sacred shrines, and spend the night in the small town. Day 5 – Fukuoka Ride the famed Yamanami Highway through Kyushu’s open highlands, offering flowing curves and panoramic views. Descend from the volcanic plateau toward Fukuoka, completing a journey that captures the essence of Kyushu’s natural and cultural landscape.

How it Works

Ride at your own pace, we’ll handle the rest Book online - Click the link which will take you to our Self Guided Tour page. Secure your spot in minutes by booking directly on your chosen tour’s page. Include any add-ons you would like. We plan your ride - After receiving your booking, we’ll start finalising your ride plan and arranging accommodation, your motorbike and any cultural experiences that are included on your selected route. You ride - arrive in Japan ready to roll. We’ll send you everything you need, including a detailed guidebook with map links, local tips and what to do if you need help.

What is Included?

We organise everything for you, including: Motorbike, including insurance Pre-planned daily routes Comfortable accommodations booked for you, breakfast included. Accommodations are a mix of western-style and traditional ryokan accommodation depending on availability. Guidebook with route map links, highlights, food recommendations and cultural tips Note: Luggage can be left at the Bike Stores during your adventure, free of charge. Helmets can also be hired for a small fee.

What is Not Included?

Flights to Japan Visas and personal travel insurance (mandatory) Transport to and from bike pickup location. Lunches, dinners (dinners can be included as part of optional add-on)

Optional Add-Ons

You can select the following optional add-ons during the online booking process: Luggage equipment (panniers​/​side bags​/​top case) - subject to bike model and availability. eSIM (data only) - to guide you through Japan on your adventure Dinners included at accommodations

What do you need to bring

Your passport Your domestic drivers licence Your International Driver’s Permit (IDP) - please note Japan is strict on IDP’s, and only the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic IDP is accepted. Your personal travel insurance policy - see our T&C’s for more info Helmet, gloves, jacket, boots, riding pants - note, helmets can be rented out for a small fee and subject to size availability.

Gear

Here’s a quick overview of Japan’s seasons and what kind of gear is recommended depending on your intended month of travel. Weather can vary significantly depending on region and elevation, so it’s worth planning accordingly. Spring (March - May) - expect mild temperatures, typically ranging from 10–20°C (50–68°F). Early spring can still be chilly in the mountains, so layering is key. We recommend a mid-weight jacket with thermal liner, gloves with some insulation, neck warmer. Summer (June - August) - expect warm to hot conditions, especially in central and southern Japan. Daytime temperatures can range from 25–35°C (77–95°F). Rain is frequent in June, and it is very humid most of the time. Totally fine to ride if you're adequately prepared. We recommend a ventilated mesh jacket, summer gloves, waterproof overlay, and a hydration pack if you have one. Autumn​/​fall (September - November) - expect comfortable riding conditions similar to spring. Temperatures range from 10–25°C (50–77°F). Cool mornings and evenings are common, especially in higher areas. We recommend a versatile touring jacket with removable layers, light rain protection, neck warmer. Winter (December - February) - We don't run tours during this period due to weather conditions and road closures.

Our Bikes

https://www.shogunmotorbikeadventures.com/our-bikes

Cancellation and Refund Policy

https://www.shogunmotorbikeadventures.com/terms-conditions