Nestled in the serene Nagano Alps, the Orchard Cycling Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s agricultural heritage. Gliding through picturesque orchards on e-bikes, participants can indulge in a delightful blend of scenic beauty and culinary delights. From savoring seasonal fruits and regional specialties to enjoying a picnic lunch under the shade of apple trees, this tour promises an immersive experience that celebrates the rich flavors and tranquil landscapes of the Japanese Alps. With expert guidance and a friendly atmosphere, the Orchard Cycling Tour invites adventurous travelers to uncover the hidden gems that make this part of the world truly extraordinary.
Key Points
- This cycling tour offers a captivating journey through Nagano’s scenic orchard town, allowing visitors to experience the region’s natural beauty and agricultural heritage.
- Participants can enjoy guided e-bike rides, sampling local delicacies like apple pork sausage, and engaging with farmers to learn about fruit cultivation processes.
- The tour includes a gourmet picnic lunch under apple trees, providing a serene and immersive experience amidst the stunning Nagano Alps.
- With a comprehensive equipment and service package, the tour caters to beginners and is suitable for all levels of cycling experience.
- The tour’s pricing, starting at €160.90 per person, and flexible cancellation policy make it an accessible and convenient option for exploring the region’s unique offerings.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Orchard Cycling Tour offers adventurous visitors a delightful opportunity to explore the picturesque orchards of Nagano Alps.
Priced from €160.90 per person, this private group tour lasts 4.5 hours and is available in both English and Japanese.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or opt for the convenient reserve now & pay later option.
The tour’s highlights include visiting local farms, sampling delectable regional delicacies, and indulging in a picnic lunch under the shade of apple trees – an idyllic experience suitable for beginners comfortable with light exercise.
Itinerary Highlights
Commencing from the Matsukawa Tourist Center, the Orchard Cycling Tour takes adventurous participants on a delightful 12-kilometer journey through the picturesque orchards of the Nagano Alps.
Along the way, cyclists will visit Sampa Farm, Shirota Orchards, and Mashino Wine, where they’ll sample local delicacies, learn about fruit cultivation, and enjoy stunning scenic views.
The highlight of the tour is the picnic lunch in Fruits Garden Kitazawa, where guests can savor a gourmet meal under the shade of apple trees.
The total elevation change of 369 meters makes this tour suitable for beginners comfortable with light exercise, ensuring an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Experience and Activities
Guided by expert cyclists, participants embark on a delightful e-bike ride through the picturesque orchard town, seeing the serene atmosphere.
Along the way, they sample local delicacies like the mouthwatering apple pork sausage and indulge in a variety of fresh fruits.
The tour also provides opportunities to engage with knowledgeable local farmers, who share insights into the intricate process of fruit cultivation.
The highlight of the experience is the picnic lunch under the shade of an apple tree, where guests savor a gourmet meal amidst the stunning natural surroundings of the Nagano Alps.
Inclusions and Equipment
As part of the immersive Orchard Cycling Tour experience, the tour company provides participants with all the necessary equipment and inclusions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Riders can expect the use of high-quality e-bikes and sturdy helmets, along with practical accessories like gloves to enhance the cycling experience.
The tour also includes a delightful picnic lunch featuring local delicacies such as apple pork sausage and a selection of freshly picked fruits. Thirsty participants can refresh themselves with sparkling apple juice.
Plus, the tour offers comprehensive insurance coverage, giving travelers peace of mind as they explore the picturesque orchards.
Purchases can also be made at the various farm shops along the way.
Preparation and Recommendations
The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located just 10 minutes by taxi from both the JR Ina-ojima station and the Matsukawa highway bus stop, making it easily accessible for participants.
Riders are encouraged to come prepared with comfortable shoes, at least 500ml of water, suitable clothing, a small towel, and a raincoat for light rain. A backpack is recommended over a handbag for hands-free cycling.
It’s important to note that participants must know how to ride a bike, and children under 12 years old aren’t suitable for this tour.
With the proper preparation, riders can fully enjoy the scenic orchard cycling experience.
Cycling Through Scenic Orchards
Riders embark on a captivating journey through Nagano’s picturesque orchard town, where the air is filled with the sweet aroma of ripening fruits.
The guided e-bike tour winds through verdant landscapes, allowing visitors to effortlessly explore the area’s orchards and vineyards. Along the way, they’ll stop at Sampa Farm to sample local delicacies, and Shirota Orchards for a fruit tasting.
The highlight is a relaxing picnic under the shade of apple trees, where guests indulge in a gourmet meal and sparkling apple juice while admiring the stunning Nagano Alps.
This immersive experience offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure, culinary exploration, and culture.
Sampling Local Delicacies
Consistently, the tour’s stops at local farms and orchards allow visitors to sample an array of tantalizing regional delicacies. At the Shirota Orchards, guests indulge in a fruit tasting extravaganza, savoring the sweetness of freshly picked apples, pears, and plums. The Mashino Wine tasting offers a chance to toast with sparkling apple juice, complementing the breathtaking scenic views. The highlight, however, is the picnic lunch under the apple trees at Fruits Garden Kitazawa, where a gourmet spread of local specialties, including apple pork sausage, is served.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Pork Sausage | Locally made, featuring the perfect blend of savory and sweet | €3.50 |
| Fruit Tasting | Sampling of apples, pears, and plums straight from the orchard | €2.00 |
| Sparkling Apple Juice | Refreshing, lightly carbonated, and made from the region’s finest apples | €2.75 |
| Picnic Lunch | Gourmet meal featuring local ingredients and flavors | €12.90 |
Picnic Lunch in the Alps
A highlight of the Orchard Cycling Tour is the picnic lunch at Fruits Garden Kitazawa, where guests gather beneath the boughs of apple trees to savor a gourmet spread showcasing the region’s finest produce and flavors.
Prepared with care by local chefs, the picnic features an array of seasonal delights, from juicy apples and pears plucked straight from the orchards to regional specialties like apple pork sausage.
As cyclists refuel amid the tranquil alpine scenery, they’re encouraged to engage with the farmers, learning about the art of fruit cultivation that has defined this picturesque landscape for generations.
It’s a truly immersive experience that allows visitors to connect with the land and its people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The tour is not recommended for families with young children, as the minimum age is 12 years old. However, it’s an excellent cycling experience for adults and older kids who are comfortable with light exercise in a scenic orchard setting.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?
The tour is a private group experience, so the maximum group size is not specified. The tour can accommodate a flexible number of participants to ensure a personalized and enjoyable cycling adventure through the scenic Nagano Alps.
Can the Tour Be Rescheduled Due to Inclement Weather?
The tour can be rescheduled due to inclement weather, as it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Participants can easily reschedule to enjoy the picturesque cycling experience on a different day.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?
The tour offers flexible meal options to accommodate dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be arranged upon request. Participants are encouraged to specify any dietary restrictions when booking to ensure an enjoyable and tailored experience.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Bicycles Instead of the Provided E-Bikes?
Participants can bring their own bicycles instead of the provided e-bikes. However, the tour is designed around the e-bike experience, and using one is highly recommended to fully enjoy the scenic ride through the orchards.
Recap
The Orchard Cycling Tour in the Nagano Alps offers a truly immersive experience, blending the beauty of the region’s orchards with the flavors of its rich agricultural heritage. From the serene e-bike ride to the delectable tastings and picnic under the apple trees, this tour provides a delightful way to discover the charms of the Nagano countryside. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking a unique and memorable outdoor adventure.
