Riding both Japan trips with RAID cycling this year was a blast! Japan is an amazing country to explore by bike with beautiful and very quiet roads in stunning scenery. Rice paddies, pine forest, waterfalls and beautiful temples and shrines are mixed with coastal rides through small fishing villages. On every ride there is time to quickly explore hidden gems. Accommodation is a mixture of nice hotels and Japanese ryokans, adding to the experience. RAID's staff is amazing, providing for freshly cooked meals on the road, daily servicing and cleaning of bikes and road captains that are not only passionate about Japan but also very knowledgeable. And they are fun to be around too!

I discovered many years ago that traveling with a bike is the best way to visit a country. One can move fast enough to really see what a place has to offer, but not so quickly as to miss the detail, sights, smells, and sounds. I have taken about twenty cycling trips over the years but the RAID Japan Alps trip is the only one I have repeated. I did the trip seven years ago and had always intended to do it again. It did not disappoint. For the serious, but non-competitive cyclist, Brad Sauber has succeeded in crafting routes and a company culture within RAID that completely satisfies. Each day was sufficiently challenging but the van was always close by to provide support and carry needed clothes and food. In a country of nearly 125 million people, we rarely encountered any traffic. And the accommodations each night were varied and comfortable. We were in Japan while a typhon struck the islands south of us. Although we got plenty wet, the team of Brad, Yoichi, Jumbo, and Yuki was always ready to modify the day’s schedule if the need had arisen. Fortunately, we were able to complete the entire route as planned. I have nothing but good things to say about my experience in Japan. If you are considering a bicycle adventure, RAID Cycling should be on the short list.

Cycling Japan Alps with RAID was an experience that combined breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff was nothing short of exceptional - friendly, helpful and very professional. I felt spoiled with their attention to not only taking care of me but also my bike. The landscapes in Japan are incredibly diverse. From lush rice fields and tranquil coastal views to majestic mountains and vibrant cityscapes, each day brought new sights to behold. The cycling routes were well-planned, allowing us to explore the areas with the focus of off the beaten path roads. The traffic was surprisingly light, and drivers were courteous, making for a relaxed cycling experience. The accommodations were another pleasant surprise. I loved staying in the traditional ryokans and taking advantage of the very relaxing onsens. The meals were a feast for the senses, showcasing the best of Japanese cuisine. Moreover, the people of Japan were incredibly friendly and helpful. Despite the language barrier, I found that a smile and a few simple gestures went a long way. RIAD Cycling went above and beyond to provide a truly unforgettable time.