OVERVIEW

Explore the scenic expanses of Lake Biwa, one of the worlds' oldest lakes at nearly 4 million years old. Take to the saddle of your collapsible bike and cycle for 6 hours around the fresh water lake, along a flat course. Learn about the relationship between man and lake and the endemic species for which this vast expanse of water is home.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Meet your guide for the day at Kyoto station and make the 10 minute ride by local train to Lake Biwa.

The largest freshwater lake inJapan, the lake was most likely named after the Japanese stringed instrument biwa, whose shape resembles the lake. The entire lake is now designated as a protected Quasi-National Park.

On arrival at Lake Biwa we meet our support car, who will also deliver our means of transport around Lake Biwa, collapsible bikes.

Japan is the world's biggest market for collapsible bikes, popular particularly in urban areas where space is at a premium. Riders need to be able to store their bicycles in small areas at home or at the office. And if one intends to bring your bicycle on the train or subway, a folding bicycle is a must.

Our route today takes us 33.6km, from the southern edge of the lake to the northern edge, and takes around 6 hours. It is a flat course and we will be riding at a slow pace, taking lots of breaks to take in the beautiful lake views.

You may choose to stop along the way to visit the Biwako Museum, which explores the relationship between lakes and people, focusing on Lake Biwa and the changes that have occurred during its long history. The museum houses one of the largest freshwater aquariums in Japan, displaying many of the endemic species from the lake. The museum has a large research wing employing 30 research scientists and is also a fish breeding and conservation center.

There are several restaurants we can stop for lunch along the way, of if it is a sunny day there is always the option of a picnic on the lake shore.

At the end of the ride, we collapse our bikes to store in the support vehicle and return to Kyoto by train.

PRICING: in JPY per person

Rates are valid until 31 December 2012

Our services include:

• Meals as mentioned (B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner).
• English speaking guide
• Accident insurance
• Collapsible Bike Hire
• Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance

Our services do not include:

• Other meals than mentioned
• Other services than mentioned
• International and Domestic Flights
• Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature
• Travel insurance