Job Discussion Forums

markle · Joined: 17 Jan 2003 Posts: 1316 Location: Out of Japan

Does anybody cycle in Japan?
Are bikes 'expensive' (relatively)?
Are there places to ride or will you end up the lone eccentric gaijin pedalling around?

azarashi sushi · Joined: 23 Jan 2003 Posts: 562 Location: Shinjuku

You will definitely not be the lone eccentric gaijin on a bike... Many people both Japanese and gaijin ride bikes. They aren't too expensive either. Prices start at about 7000 for your classic obachan bike and go all the way up.

markle · Joined: 17 Jan 2003 Posts: 1316 Location: Out of Japan

cool.
Any where I can get info on cycling in Japan?
Bike shops, clubs, etc

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

The only time you'll be stared at is if you wear a bike helmet, and I'd recommend wearing one. Bike shops are so prolific here and second hand shops selling them too.

shmooj · Joined: 11 Sep 2003 Posts: 1758 Location: Seoul, ROK

I once saw a map showing a plethora of cycling routes all over Japan which surprised me. Now, unfortunately, I can't remember where or who published it but that fact that a) it existed and b) that it had been published proves that there is something out there for those who enjoy cycling.

FWIW, the only people I've ever seen wearing cycling helmets in Japan are Mormons. Can't think what they are attempting to protect but there you are...

ryuro · Joined: 22 Apr 2003 Posts: 91

hey all,

if yer interested in the great outdoors in japan- checkout this excellent english website:

http://www.outdoorjapan.com/

includes cycling and a WHOLE lot more. i've found it a great resource while living here in japan.

cheers,
ryuro

shmooj · Joined: 11 Sep 2003 Posts: 1758 Location: Seoul, ROK

yes it is very good but, be warned, it is under construction. Recently I went to Shimane and Tottori and they have nothing on their websites for either of these places. Don't blame them for Shimane ken though... Wink

Another good resource is http://www.jnto.go.jp/ which is in a few different languages.

markle · Joined: 17 Jan 2003 Posts: 1316 Location: Out of Japan

Thanks people.

The prospect of having the option of cycling around on the weekends is extremely appealing.

No helmet no problem? Hmm reminds me of the time the Bangkok traffic cop checked out my front and back lights one night thinking "You falang think of EVERYTHING!"

canuck · Joined: 11 May 2003 Posts: 1921 Location: Japan

I can't imagine not having a bicycle here. Riding around town, riding to the station, going to the store. You'll be amazed how many bicycles there are.

dthompson · Joined: 22 Apr 2003 Posts: 6 Location: United Arab Emirates

I did a lot of cycling when I lived in Japan. Never bothered with a book, just a good road map. I lived in Saitama at first where there are endless miles of cycle paths along the rivers.

The best trip I did was from Hakodate to Sapporo. I met cyclists daily, no hourly in fact. Had a one man tent and a few pannier bags. Saw lots of people travelling on bikes and motorbikes. There are campsites all over Japan so finding a place to sleep was easy.

I lived in Hitachi for a few years. That was more difficult. The roads were really dangerous around there. However the off-road trails were great. The problem was getting to them without getting whacked by an impatient driver.

Just jump on yer bike and go. Enjoy.