Mountain Biking in Japan

Mar 21, 2021

Mountain Biking in Japan

Being such a mountainous country, Japan is a fantastic place to go mountain biking. There are excellent spots at which you can hop on a bike and fly down a trail right across the land. Whether you are into downhill, dirt jumps, freeride or cross country, a beginner (like me), or a seasoned pro, you can find somewhere to meet your thrill.

Of course, there are loads of trails around the place, but here are a few ideas to not only get you started but also where you can meet people who share your passion – and who will perhaps share with you their favorite, lesser-known spots.

Fujimi Panorama

Fujimi Panorama is first on our list as it is Japan’s largest bike field. The gondola goes right up to the summit (1,780m), from where you can see the Yatsugatake Mountains and Mt. Fuji. The Fujimi Panorama MTB Park has a variety of downhill courses for beginners as well as advanced riders.

There are many bikes and accessories for rental, and the park is open from April 27 to November 4.

Where: 6666-703 Fujimi, Suwa District (map)
Website: www.fujimipanorama.com

Hakuba Iwatake

This was where I learned to mountain bike, and it is great for first-timers. However, as it was once home to two of Japan’s biggest MTB events, it is also perfect for more advanced riders, with various courses, such as the Downhill Course from the summit area and the Cross Country Course through which you cruise through the forest. The latter is one of the longest park trails in Japan.

Full rental gear is available, and the park opens around April 28.

Where: Nagano, Kitaazumi District, Hakuba, Hokujo, Iwatake (map)
Website: www.nsd-hakuba.jp

Fujiten

Just 90 minutes from the capital, Fujiten is the go-to park for riders based in Tokyo. It has runs that provide beautiful views of Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, and the course producers have the lofty aim of making the park the ‘Whistler of Japan.’

I’ve not been myself, but friends who go there commend it for the declines’ speed, though they say it’s not necessarily a place for first-timers. Rental available.

Where: Yamanashi, Minamitsuru District, Narusawa, Mt. Fuji 8545-1 (map)
Website: summer.fujiten.net

Fukui Izumi

I love Fukui Izumi, which is great as it’s pretty close to where I live in Nagoya. It’s very much a rough and ready MTB park – there is no gondola, so you are ferried up to the top in the back of a truck, so expect a bumpy ride.

It is great for beginners, like myself, but we were also joined by professional riders, which illustrates how good the course is. Rental gear is pretty limited, so if you don’t have your own bike/accessories, it’s a good idea to let them know well in advance.

Where: 27 Asahimaesaka, Ono, Fukui 912-0201 (map)
Website: fukuiizumi.com

Yamabushi

Yamabushi trail tours are guided rides through the stunning forests of the Izu Peninsula. There are a number of courses – from the child-friendly ‘easy ride’ up to the terrifying (for me) epic ride.

Starting at the top, where you can look out over the devastating coastline, Yamabushi was founded by avid biker Junichiro Matsumoto in 2013 and is one of the most unique and active ways to explore the Izu Peninsula. Places on the tours are limited, and it pays to book up well in advance.

Where: 379-2 Matsuzaki, Kamo-gun Matsuzakicho Kamo District, Shizuoka 410-3624 (map)
Website: yamabushi-trail-tour.com

Nozawa Onsen

In Nagano Prefecture, Nozawa Onsen is best known for its fantastic ski resort and onsen. However, from mid-June to late August, the trails are opened up for mountain biking. There are four courses to ride, catering for all levels, plus a grassy area for children as young as two years old to get to grips with bike riding.

Rental bikes are available, though they are predominantly small or medium, so if you are on the tall side, it would be best to bring your own. If you want to stay overnight, it is possible to camp near the top of the mountain, away from the summer humidity, or you can visit one of the nearby hotels.

Here’s a tip: like the guys in the above video, try contacting nearby bike shops and see if someone is willing to guide you around the trails that only the locals know about!

Where: Nagoya Onsen Snow Resort, 7653 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano (map)
Website: en.nozawaski.com/summer

Hakuba Evergreen Outboard Center

If you are relatively new to mountain biking and want to learn the required skills in a (relatively) controlled environment, Evergreen Outboard Center may be the place for you. They have numerous tours available, including child-friendly trails, and there are even lessons that will help you brush up on your skills.

Working out of the aforementioned Iwatake Mountain Bike Park, they also have great downhill tours that will give you an excellent introduction to the park. Plus, for you freeride fans, they can also take you on a tour of the out-country. Multi-day customized tours are also available if you really want to see what the region has to offer.

Where: 4377, Hokujo, Hakuba, Kitaazumi District, Nagano (map)
Website: evergreen-hakuba.com/mountain-biking

If you are interested in mountain biking in Japan and want to meet like-minded people, check out the Mountain Bike Gaijin Facebook group. They are a good bunch, and hopefully, I’ll see you (probably flying past me) on the trails!

Image: Mark Guthrie (Own Work)