Planning a custom trip means every itinerary is a little different - and that's the point. We don't use fixed
packages because every traveler, group size, destination, and level of support is unique. That said, we understand
that you probably want at least a sense of what to expect before getting started.
We're happy to talk through your ideas and provide a no-obligation estimate once we know the
general outline of your trip. Our goal is to make rural Japan accessible, affordable, and deeply memorable - and we'll always try to match your budget where possible.
What Affects the Price
Number of Participants
We don't have a flat per-person rate. Families and small groups are easier to price affordably,
since logistics and guiding can be shared. Solo travelers, couples, and groups of three are
also very welcome - we'll do our best to make something work without compromising on experience.
Type of Accommodation
We usually choose small, family-run inns or farmstays - warm, welcoming places that reflect
the feel of the region. These are rarely "luxury" in the hotel sense, but offer something richer:
simple, delicious meals and genuine hospitality. If you're looking for high-end ryokan, we can arrange those too, though
they will affect the total cost.
Location & Duration
The total price depends on where the trip takes place, how far it is from our base in Northern Nagano, and how many
days you're traveling. Longer trips often have a lower daily cost than short ones, especially
if we're traveling far to meet you.
Time of Year & Advance Notice
Spring and autumn are peak seasons, and last-minute bookings can be tough. Giving us more time to plan helps us find the best accommodation and keep costs down.
Level of Support
We also understand that not everyone wants (or needs) the same level of company or support. Some people enjoy having
a guide by their side for meals and downtime, while others prefer more personal space. We're happy to adjust
accordingly - whether that means joining you throughout the day or giving you room to explore and regroup at key
points. These preferences don't always make a huge difference in price, but they help us plan a trip that feels just
right for you - both in experience and in budget.
We offer different levels of involvement to suit your comfort and budget:
- Fully Guided
We're with you the whole way - riding or walking alongside you, staying in the same inn, and sharing meals
together. We guide at your pace, helping with check-ins, interpreting, and navigating local spots. Depending
on group size or pace differences, we may occasionally split to accommodate different routes (like easy vs.
hard options), but we're always close and reconnect throughout the day.
- Semi-Guided
You ride and explore independently, but our support vehicle follows just behind the scenes - meeting you
throughout the day and always within a few minutes' reach. We are there to handle logistics like luggage
transfers, check-ins, and join you for museums and activities. Meals and evening time can be more private or
shared, depending on your preference and budget. It's a balance between freedom and support, with us never
far away.
- Self-Guided with Minimal Support
You're free to travel at your own pace, using our detailed maps and GPS routes, with all accommodations
arranged in advance. While the trip is self-guided, we stay close enough to assist when needed - including
moving bikes and luggage between far-apart regions. This allows you to shift locations mid-trip, like
spending a day in Nagano and the next on the Japan Sea coast, without being tied to a continuous cycling
route.
- Fully Self-Guided
We plan your route and assist with bookings, and you handle the trip on your own. We're available by phone
and can track your location in case of any issues. (See our Self Guided page for details)
Want an Estimate?
All of this will be clarified during the estimate process, so we can make sure we're on the same page - both in
terms of expectations and cost. It's important to us that there are no surprises, and that you know exactly what's
included and how things will work throughout the trip.
We can give you a ballpark once we know the rough outline - for example, the base price for a 3-day with no on-location support self-guided itinerary for two in Nagano might be around ¥35,000-¥40,000 / person (bikes + itinerary, not including accommodation).
The inn prices can start from 7,000 ~ 15,000 / night with meals, and go as high as is available depending on the
location.
