Spring is in the Air, and we want to remind travelers they can join us for one of Japan’s most unique cycling itineraries.
It’s an opportunity to explore the architecture of Tokyo, the culture of Kyoto and the gorgeous Seto Inland Sea of Onomichi, all by cycle. With the help of our amazing experts Brad, Chad, Lianca and Yuji, we created the first cycling tour that lets you explore Japan’s art and culture on two wheels!
The itinerary is here: https://asiaarttours.com/tours/art-on-two-wheels/
To help explain the tour we wanted to speak to the guides themselves! Below you can find our chat with Lianca on Japan, what cycling has taught her, and what amazing experiences you’ll be able to have in Kyoto with her and Asia Art Tours!
AAT: Where are you from and what brought you to Japan?
As with most of my life, I accidentally ended up here. My friend really wanted to travel to Japan from South Africa and, in a weird twist of fate, I was selected in place of him to come live his dream.
AAT: What’s the cycling culture of Japan like and how does it differ from your home countries?
In South Africa we mostly do mountain biking inside of mountain biking parks. It’s a laborious task packing and unpacking your bike into the car and then driving to the park. It almost feels like you spend more time in the car than on the bike. In Japan I just jump on and go for a ride up the mountain right next to my house.
AAT: How did you personally become interested in cycling and do you have any particular philosophy or reasons why you recommend cycling to travelers?
My dad was a cyclist, and because of that, every guy I ever dated. I have been cycling all my life but really became passionate about it in Japan because of the ease and convenience. Cycling is my sport of choice because I don’t have to stick to anyone’s schedule and it gets me places.
AAT:What different viewpoint or experiences do you think people have when cycling in Tokyo & Kyoto that isn’t possible any other way?
In Japan you are never alone! If you have a serious crash in the mountains, it won’t be too long before someone stumbles upon you. It’s also good for people who suck at planning as there is food and water everywhere. That being said, you can get lost in the nature here for hours by yourself. There are tons of little remote paths to explore and the country is super safe.
AAT: Can you give one example of Japanese art or culture that you personally feel connected to or inspired by?
The traditional Japanese aesthetic is quite beautiful (the modern stuff not always that much). The best thing for me is accidentally stumbling onto a remote temple, where they still bring offerings to the gods or a secluded valley with manicured rice paddies. Japanese people take tremendous pride in what they do, however menial, and they always adhere to the rubric of executing the task. It is fascinating to end up in the middle of nowhere and still find people being respectful and methodical. If I was stuck in the inaccessible countryside, I would turn into a degenerate (or even more so).
AAT: Lastly, what would you say is the number 1 reason a traveler should come to Japan to cycle on this tour?
Japan is a weird wonderful place, but not in any of the ways that you would expect or any of the ways the media hypes on about. It is the subtleties of Japan that make it magical. When you travel here you will experience something truly unique and wonderful everyday.
The itinerary is here: https://asiaarttours.com/tours/art-on-two-wheels
For more information feel free to contact us directly by email, Matt@asiaarttours.com