Japan’s cycling culture is one of the best on Earth. From its unique architecture to its lenient bike laws, it’s a cyclist’s paradise!
One of the coolest things I noticed while visiting Japan in 2014 and 2018 was its strong bicycle culture. For a nation with one of the highest life expectancy rates in the world, it wasn’t surprising to see citizens all over the country pedaling away on bicycles. Here are my five reasons why you’ll love exploring Japan on a push bike!
1. Bicycle laws
If you’re a cyclist living in a Western country like Australia (as I do), you may find some of the country’s bike laws quite a hindrance. In Japan, you’ll find a more relaxed experience with lenient laws that don’t even require you to wear a helmet! There’s nothing better than cycling on the open roads with the wind breezing through your hair (or head if you’re bald!).
2. Accommodating roads
When cycling through the cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, I couldn’t help but notice how smoothly the wheels turned on the road. Where I’m from, cycling is a highly strenuous mode of transport that leaves you sweaty, breathless, and exhausted. Cycling in Japan feels no more strenuous than walking, as there is no friction to slow you down. The smooth Japanese roads are free of bumps, debris, and rubbish, and you will rarely come across a steep hill.
3. Bike shops
Just about every city in Japan, rural or suburban, offers a plethora of bicycle shops to purchase or rent a bike. They can be as cheap as 1000 JPY a day and they also offer hourly rates to suit your circumstances as needed. Popular franchises even let you pick up your bike from one store and return it to a different store.
4. Bike designs
Japan’s bikes are by far more comfortable than those you’ll find in the West. The seat and handlebars are positioned to maximize comfort while you ride. Unlike the bikes I’ve ridden in Australia, Japan’s bikes promote good posture and efficient riding. You’ll also find their bikes highly convenient with large baskets built-in to carry your stuff e.g. bags, groceries, belongings, etc.
5. Convenience stores and vending machines
On that note, the sheer prevalence of combinis and vending machines makes Japan’s cycling culture that much more blissful. You can freely ride across the country without worrying about where you’ll get your next feed thanks to 24/7 convenience stores. Even if you are riding in the countryside, you’ll find plenty of vending machines along the way to keep you hydrated and energized!
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!