Expert-level Adventures, Heart of Hokkaido Ride
2026
Last updated : 2026
Ride your own bike through Daisetsuzan National Park on some of the world’s safest, most comfortable roads
This premium cycling itinerary is a focused grand loop through the heart of Hokkaido, designed for dedicated riders who seek to immerse themselves in the island’s most iconic landscapes. Starting and ending in the sanctuary of Furano, this journey transforms the central highlands into a personal arena, challenging you to conquer legendary passes and vast wilderness. This is a high-end odyssey where the road serves as a bridge between the rolling pastoral hills of Biei and the rugged, volcanic soul of the Daisetsuzan range.
The adventure ignites on Day 1 as we pedal out of Furano, traversing the undulating patchwork vistas of Biei toward Higashikawa. This 61km opening leg is the perfect introduction to the crisp northern air and the rhythmic flow of the road. The intensity rises on Day 2 as we push 81km toward the towering cliffs of Sounkyo Onsen. Climbing into the volcanic heart of the mountains, the day concludes with a well-earned soak in thermal waters, preparing your muscles for the formidable alpine challenges ahead.
Days 3 and 4 are the “Queen Stages,” demanding every ounce of your endurance. You will face the legendary Mikuni Toge Pass—the highest provincial road in Hokkaido—on a grueling 102km journey. From the summit’s iconic red bridge, you will witness an endless sea of forest that defines the scale of this island. This is followed by a 104km push over the Karikachi Toge Pass, gaining 1,646m as we transition toward the serene waters of Lake Kanayama. These back-to-back mountain stages are the ultimate test of grit.
The circle closes on Day 5 with a return to Furano for a quintessential “Uchiage” party. At a local izakaya, we toast to our collective triumph over a feast of regional delicacies, staying overnight to fully savor the success. Your journey concludes on Day 6 in Furano, leaving you with the profound satisfaction of having conquered Hokkaido’s most challenging loop.
Itinerary:
The journey ignites with a ride through the undulating patchwork hills of Biei from Furano. After a technical briefing and final bike checks, we navigate scenic backroads toward the craft-centric town of Higashikawa. This stage serves as an essential warm-up, allowing you to tune your rhythm to the crisp Hokkaido air while soaking in the expansive alpine views.
Overnight in Higashikawa
Leave the plains behind and push deep into the Daisetsuzan National Park. The route follows the river valley, gradually climbing toward the towering basalt cliffs of Sounkyo Gorge. The day concludes at a traditional onsen resort, where a sulfur-rich soak provides the strategic recovery needed for the mountain passes ahead.
Overnight in Sounkyo onsen
Prepare for the expedition’s most iconic ascent: Mikuni Toge, the highest provincial road in Hokkaido. This grueling climb rewards you with a breathtaking view from the red bridge over a sea of virgin forest. After conquering the summit, enjoy a long, exhilarating descent toward the quiet woods of Nukabira Onsen.
Overnight in Nukabira onsen
A second consecutive “century ride” takes us over the Karikachi Toge Pass. This stage tests your endurance with significant elevation gains as we transition from the Tokachi plains back toward the central mountains. We finish the day at the serene Lake Kanayama, reflecting on the miles conquered by its tranquil, alpine shores.
Overnight in lake Kanayama
The final leg is a triumphant return to our starting point in Furano. After a crisp morning ride through lavender-scented valleys, we stow our gear and head downtown for the “Uchiage” party. We celebrate our shared grit at a local izakaya, sharing stories of the passes over a feast of regional soul food.
Overnight in Furano
Our expedition concludes after a final breakfast together in Furano. Whether you are heading to the airport or continuing your journey, you leave with the profound satisfaction of having completed Hokkaido’s most challenging cycling loop.
