A Japan For All Seasons

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A Cyclist’s Guide To Gujo and Beyond

Gujo is a cycling paradise: narrow lanes along riverbanks flanked with cherry trees, deserted forest roads along mountain streams, quaint hamlets, verdant rice paddies, ancient shrines, friendly locals. It even boasts some excellent coffee roasters, an award-winning craft brewery, Japan’s first absynthe distillery, and its very own gelateria. Gujo is located in the center of Japan’s heartland, about an hour and a half north of Nagoya by car, and an hour southwest of Takayama. The principal city is called Gujo Hachiman - a small Edo-period castle town where three rivers converge to form a natural moat. The castle has been restored and gazes down proudly from its hilltop, and much of the traditional architecture, including the hundred-year-old machiya townhouse where I live, is still in tact. The layout, with its labyrinth of narrow streets and bridges, also remains largely unchanged. Known as “little Kyoto,” it is famous for its scenery, the purity of its bountiful water, and for the exuberance of its obon dances which continue through July and August. Hachiman is an excellent place to stay and refresh while embarking on day trips, or overnight excursions, into the neighboring villages, hamlets, and forests.

On this page I will be introducing several cycling routes - road, gravel, and MTB - as well as some local attractions, including activities, accommodations, hot springs, cafes, bars, and the delicious local cuisine.

Please feel free to message me with any questions or inquiries.