A wonderful experience. I felt immersed in rural Japan, far away from the mainstream tourist hotspots. The route was mostly quiet rural roads with great scenery and interesting visits to points of interest along the way. Some amazing historic hotels and onsens and a variety of good Japanese food. The riding is described as “challenging”, and it was, but it was handled professionally, I always felt safe, and it was well paced. I never felt under pressure to go faster. My wife hired one of the carbon road bikes, which was in excellent condition, and used her own saddle. I took my own bike, which is more difficult logistically and it required a lot of planning. Everyone in the group of 9 finished the tour. For context, we are fit 70 year olds.
