Distance: 45 Miles / 72.98 Km

Elevation: 3234 ft / 986 meters

Highlights: Coming directly out of Yanokuchi station, bike in hand, this trip will take you climbing the famous Irohazaka, which became the stage of a host of famous Japanese anime. Although you may have seen this winding road before, the impressive trail looks worse than it is. For the ride to the foot of Lake Shiroyama, we are exploring a route less populated and away from the city traffic. This ride will have you climbing and descending, packed with one final climb to the lake. Weather permitting, this route also shows off a stunning view, not just the lake, but the Sky Tree in the distance. After this final climb, take a breather at the observatory and immerse yourself in nature. Just down from Lake Shiroyama you’ll most likely cross paths with Masayuki at his favourite cafe, enjoying a croissant and coffee with a few mates. To make your way back to Yanokuchi station, follow the trail route through Onekan and onto Yanokuchi.

Distance: 57 Miles / 92 Km

Elevation: 2680 ft / 817 meters

Highlights: For our next ride, we’re heading north on the Tama River that runs just near Yanokuchi. Our cycling road continues, however this time a little more populated with pedestrians, as long as you keep a steady pace and pay attention to your surroundings, you’ll have a good time. Once you leave the Tama River and begin along the Onita River, you’ll notice a sudden change in scenery. Vastly unpopulated, say goodbye to the Tokyo traffic and pedestrians, and say hello to tree-laden narrow streets, making you forget where you are. Travel along the back road beyond Musashiitsukaichi Station to avoid the Hinohara Highway to prolong your time within the trees. You’ll know it’s almost lunch time when you cross Akikawa and approach what looks like an abandoned Elementary School. Don’t be fooled, this is your lunch destination. Once you’ve refuelled, continue along through the forest until you reach a big hill, it looks worse than it is says Masayuki. Once you’ve reached the top of your climb, you’ll find “Kiridooshi” surrounded by mountainous walls covered in moss on both sides. Once you’ve made your way through this forest road past the walls of moss, finish your ride back along the Asakawa Cycling Road all the way home.

Distance: 67 Miles / 108 Km

Elevation: 4790 ft / 1460 meters

We will be taking the Asakawa Cycling Road for our next trip to Hachioji. We recommend leaving in the early morning, mainly to avoid traffic and pedestrians - plus if it’s a nice day, you’ll catch a glimpse at the national treasure which is Mt. Fuji. Leaving from Asakawa Cycling Road, climbing Odarumi Pass starts close to Takao Station. The peak of the pass is an intimidating 7.6km, however the slope is only a 3.2% so as long as you keep a steady pace, you can even bring your less experienced mates along and they’ll still be able to get through it. If the incline hasn’t quite got to you, we suggest riding up a little further beyond the peak of the pass to get that money shot of Mt. Fuji. Be careful once you venture off the Odarumi Pass, this road tends to get quite congested with traffic, and the trucks can be a bit sketchy. Keep following this road to treat yourself for lunch at Masayuki’s favourite Chinese restaurant. Ramen and dumplings are highly recommended. Once you’ve eaten and you’re ready to mosey on home, duck off the busy road and back into the mountains for some climbing action. You’ll be free from the traffic so this is a nice route to take your time with. If you get used to climbing, change off from the Odarumi Pass to the Wada pass for more of a challenge. 

Distance: 36.6 Miles / 59 Km

Elevation: 3818 ft / 1164 meters

This one is for the gravel riders! The Ura Ome Kaido ride takes us to Lake Okutama and back, showing off Tokyo’s skyline and around looping roads. Once you arrive to the lake, take the opportunity to sit and enjoy your lunch. The perfect setting to relax and immerse yourself in nature. On the way back there is a great craft beer store near Okutama Station. Make sure you’ve packed your sacoche and frame bag to take your goodies home with you. If you’re after a bit of fun on your way home, you can always jump in the river for a quick cool-down. The locals love it and recommend having a frolic in the water on a midsummer ride.