Australian Paul Salisbury takes on the challenge of a 2,000-meter peak in Nagano Prefecture. The Japan Alps mountain pass provides breathtaking views to inspire him onward and upward. Off the bike, Salisbury experiences traditions such as the harvesting of wasabi plants in pristine waters and the making of baskets from wild bamboo. All in all, he travels 300 kilometers across the verdant ridges and valleys of Nagano, finding new encounters around every bend.

Come along on a 550-kilometer bike ride through the grand scenery of Japan's northernmost prefecture. The city of Hakodate offers a mix of cultural influences from east and west. Down the road, a fishing village keeps busy in summertime with kombu kelp drying. The trip includes stops at a dairy farm and a watermelon patch, evidence of the close connection between the people and the land. As we'll see, Hokkaido is a place where nature takes its course.

This trip will take you to the westernmost part of the island of Honshu, Yamaguchi Prefecture that is surrounded on 3 sides by the sea. Our rider will enjoy cycling along a beautiful coastline. On the road, he will meet a family that has grown Japanese pears in the orchard for generations. Finally, he'll visit Hagi City, the old castle town that has a historical atmosphere. You'll experience its unique culture born in the samurai society.