Playground of the Gods - Hokkaido Self-guided Cycling Tour Itinerary
This Hokkaido self-guided cycling itinerary takes you through the heart of Hokkaido’s most scenic riding, following quiet roads around Daisetsuzan National Park, often called the Playground of the Gods. Over several days, you’ll ride through rolling farmland, river valleys, mountain passes, and small towns, with time to stop for local food, photos, and hot-spring soaks along the way. The route is carefully designed to balance great riding with comfort, giving you the freedom to explore independently while knowing each day’s journey has been thoughtfully planned.
Check out the price as well as what’s included in this Hokkaido self-guided cycling tour from here. And learn more about our self-guided cycling tours from here.
Day 1 - Furano to Biei: Flower Fields & Mountain Views
Cycle through the flower fields and undulating hills from Furano to Biei whilst admiring the backdrop of the spectacular Daisetsuzan mountain range. Opportunities to drop by galleries, farms and picturesque cafes. Conquer the climb to Hokkaido’s highest peak, Asahidake, where natural hot springs and top-class cuisine await.
Day 2 - Alpine View Transitions & Cultural Stops
Take the morning ropeway up the mountain to enjoy sweeping views and alpine flowers. Cruise downhill to the crafts and photography town of Higashikawa. Try a cultural experience in Hokkaido’s second biggest city of Asahikawa before going out on the town.
Day 3 - River Valley Routes Toward Sounkyo
Meander along the cycle paths next to the Ishikari River, the longest in Hokkaido. Follow its course back up into the Daisetsuzan National Park to the source, the hot spring resort of Sounkyo Gorge. Another wonderful Japanese inn awaits underneath the looming peak of Kurodake, the second-highest in Hokkaido.
Day 4 - Daisetsuzan to Nukabira: Mountain Foothills & Waterfalls
Continue skirting the foothills of the Daisetsuzan range, passing waterfalls, dams and mountain passes. Snake down to the town of Nukabira, nestled in the valley, where yet another top-class hot spring hotel and dinner await your arrival.
Day 5 - Towards Lake Kanayama: Plains & Lakeside Beauty
Cross the mountain pass before cruising down into the Tokachi Plains, home to rippling rice fields and verdant crops. Cycle through the valley and then over the last mountain pass (we promise!) and descend to the shores of Lake Kanayama for some peace and natural beauty.
Day 6 - Completing the Loop Back to Furano
Finish up the loop by heading back to our base in Furano - pat yourself on the back as you’ve successfully circumnavigated the Daisetsuzan National Park or “Playground of the Gods” in the local Ainu language. It certainly promises to be an out of this world experience!