Hiroshima Country Cycling Tour and Sushi Making Experience

Hiroshima Country Cycling Tour and Sushi Making Experience: A Delightful Blend of Nature and Cuisine

If you’re seeking a way to experience Hiroshima beyond its well-known historical sites, this Hiroshima Country Cycling Tour and Sushi Making Experience offers a charming escape into rural Japan paired with a hands-on culinary activity. This four-hour adventure combines effortless e-bike riding through scenic landscapes with a chance to learn the art of sushi-making at a traditional farmhouse—it’s authentic, fun, and surprisingly rich in local insights.

One aspect that really catches the eye is the stunning views of the Japanese countryside from atop Kakeyama, and the opportunity to see hidden rural communities far from the tourist crowds. The sushi-making session, guided by a local instructor, is another standout, allowing you to engage directly with Japanese culinary culture in a relaxed setting.

A word of caution: since this tour involves cycling, you’ll need to be comfortable riding a bike, and the total trip does require a roundtrip highway bus fare of ¥3,560. Plus, if you’re craving a full stomach, you’ll want to budget extra for the sushi lunch (around ¥2,000). But for anyone eager to combine gentle outdoor activity with culture, this experience offers genuine value and memorable moments.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love outdoor experiences, enjoy culinary activities, and want a slow-paced day connecting with local life in Hiroshima’s countryside.

Key Points

• Effortless cycling through scenic rural landscapes with high-quality e-bikes makes for a relaxed adventure.
• Unique stops at Kakeyama, Doitaya, and Oasa provide glimpses of untouched Japanese countryside away from tourist spots.
• Hands-on sushi-making offers an authentic taste of local culinary traditions.
• The tour’s small group size (max 8 travelers) fosters a personal, engaging atmosphere.
• Includes bike rental, helmet, water stations, and accident insurance—great value for the price.
• Not included: transportation to/from Hiroshima and the sushi lunch, so budget accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Hiroshima Country Cycling Tour and Sushi Making Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at the Oasa I.C. Bus Stop at 10:00 am, with the ride lasting approximately four hours. This includes all the stops and the sushi-making session. The relatively short duration makes it a perfect morning or early afternoon activity, allowing you to combine it with other sightseeing later in the day. The small group size (up to 8 people) means you’ll get personalized attention, and the mobile ticket option adds convenience.

The Cycling Route: Scenic and Serene

We loved the ease of riding the high-quality e-bikes—they make tackling the sometimes hilly terrain a breeze. Even if you’ve never ridden an e-bike before, the powerful and stable bikes instill confidence, letting you relax and enjoy the sights.

The first stop is Kakeyama, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Oasa and its mountainous surroundings. Our review sources mention that the views from the top are particularly impressive due to the rugged terrain. Visitors have praised this stop for its beauty and peacefulness, despite being rarely visited by locals, which adds a sense of exclusivity to the experience.

Next, the journey takes you to Doitaya, a charming farming community. You’ll cycle past rice paddies, streams, and traditional houses, feeling like stepping into rural Japan’s heart. This stop is especially appreciated by those interested in agriculture and local lifestyles. One reviewer notes that it offers a fun and authentic glimpse into countryside living, making it more than just a sightseeing ride.

Finally, the route proceeds to Oasa, a quiet town where historic buildings hint at its former prosperity. The street is now calm, but some shops still operate, providing opportunities to interact with locals and learn about their passions. This stop adds a layer of cultural depth that many riders find rewarding.

The Sushi-Making Experience: Interactive and Delicious

Unlike traditional farm-to-table options, this tour includes a hands-on sushi-making lesson in a traditional farmhouse. Guided by a local instructor, you’ll craft beautiful sushi rolls using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re a novice or experienced sushi lover, the activity is designed to be fun and engaging for all skill levels.

Guests have expressed that the interactive nature of the class makes it more memorable than just eating sushi at a restaurant. One reviewer mentioned, “It was fascinating to learn about the artistry behind sushi and actually make it myself.” The setting’s rustic charm enhances the experience, making it a perfect way to connect with Japanese culinary traditions.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $70.95 per person, which covers bike rental, helmets, water refills, accident insurance, and a guide. The additional costs include the transportation fare (~¥3,560 round trip) and the sushi lunch (~¥2,000). When broken down, this offers considerable value—access to private rural sites, a guided culinary activity, and the convenience of high-quality bikes—all in four hours.

Vegan options are available if requested three days in advance, emphasizing the tour’s flexibility. Participants must be able to ride independently and stand at least 140cm tall, making it accessible for most travelers in good health.

What to Keep in Mind

While the adventure is largely outdoors and casual, weather can influence the experience. The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. Be sure to bring your own water bottle, as refill stations are provided along the route.

The roundtrip bus fare to Oasa is an extra expense, so plan accordingly. Also, if you’re tight on time, note that this is a morning activity—allowing the rest of the afternoon for other sightseeing.

Conclusions

This Hiroshima Country Cycling and Sushi Making Tour offers a compelling blend of scenic riding and culinary culture. The effortless e-bike ride through quiet countryside and the chance to see rarely visited sites like Kakeyama provide a peaceful, authentic taste of rural Japan. The sushi-making workshop adds a memorable, interactive element that makes this experience more than just a sightseeing tour.

For travelers who love outdoor activities combined with culture, this tour delivers both in spades. It’s especially suitable for those who want a slow-paced, relaxed day that balances nature, local life, and culinary arts. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the inclusions provide excellent value.

While the costs for transportation and lunch are additional, the overall package offers a rich, authentic glimpse of Hiroshima’s countryside and culinary traditions—perfect for those seeking a meaningful, off-the-beaten-path experience.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive a helmet, use of a high-quality e-bike, access to water refill stations, accident insurance, and a guide. The tour covers all the cycling and sightseeing stops, plus the sushi-making class.

What is not included?
The roundtrip highway bus fare (~¥3,560) and the sushi lunch (~¥2,000) are separate costs. You’ll need to budget for these if you wish to participate in the full experience.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your own water bottle for refills, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for cycling. If you have dietary preferences, note that vegan options are available if booked three days in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum height requirement is 140cm, and participants should be able to ride a bike on their own. It’s best for children who meet these criteria and are comfortable with outdoor activities.

How hard is the cycling?
The e-bikes make riding easy, even over hills. The tour is designed for relaxed riding, so no intense physical effort is required—just a willingness to pedal and enjoy the scenery.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

How long does the sushi-making session last?
The entire tour and activity last about four hours, including the stops and the sushi workshop.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.

This tour provides an excellent opportunity to slow down, enjoy Japan’s beautiful countryside, and learn something new in the kitchen—all within a comfortable, small-group setting. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast, a foodie, or someone simply eager to see a different side of Hiroshima, this experience offers genuine, memorable moments.