Kansai · Shirakawa-go Cherry Blossom

A 5-day Kansai loop via Mt Hiei and Ibuki to Shirakawa-go — including a ride along Chirihama, Japan's drivable beach.

Key destinations

• Kansai
• Mt Hiei
• Mt Ibuki
• Lake Biwa
• Shirakawa-go
• Kenrokuen

Highlights

• Mt Hiei / Mt Ibuki passes
• Chirihama beach drive
• Shirakawa-go World Heritage village
• Kenrokuen Garden
• Ricoland

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1

   Osaka Arrival – Bike Collection, Ōtsu

   Assemble at RENTAL819 KIX around 16:30, collect bikes, and make a stop at Ricoland on the way to the hotel in Ōtsu.

2. 2

   Day 2

   Hiei-zan – Lake Biwa – Kaiduōsaki Cherry Blossoms – Echizen Coast, Awara Onsen

   Climb the Hiei-zan Driveway, then cruise Lake Biwa's metasequoia avenue to the famous Kaizuōsaki cherry blossom belt. Ride the Echizen coast before unwinding at an Awara onsen inn.

3. 3

   Day 3

   Japan Automobile Museum – Kenroku-en – Chirihama Beach Road, Tonami

   Morning at the Japan Automobile Museum, then the exquisite Kenroku-en garden. The afternoon highlight is riding directly on the sand at Chirihama Beach Drive before checking in at Tonami.

4. 4

   Day 4

   Shirakawa-gō World Heritage Village – Miboro Lake, Ōgaki

   Ascend the castle lookout for a bird's-eye view, then explore the thatched-roof gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawa-gō. Scenic ride along Miboro Lake before arriving in Ōgaki.

5. 5

   Day 5

   Ibuki-yama Driveway – Nara – Bike Return, KIX

   Morning mountain ride on the Ibuki-yama Driveway, then a relaxing stroll among the deer at Nara Park. Return bikes to RENTAL819 KIX and disperse around 17:00.