ABOUT SHOGUN
Hi! We’re James and Amar, lifelong friends, motorbike enthusiasts, and Japan-obsessed!
We created Shogun Motorbike Adventures because we want to share our love for Japan with you, on the best way to get around - 2 wheels! Our fascination with Japan's rich culture, history and traditions began nearly 20 years ago thanks to a pivotal experience as high school exchange students. Since then, we’ve been unable to stay away - returning time and time again and getting to know its hidden gems and most awe-inspiring sights.
Our story
Amar is the motorbike brains behind Shogun. A software engineer by trade, his true passion is motorbike touring. He fell in love with the lifestyle when he put his career on hold to ride a classic Royal Enfield up and down India, including exploring the challenging routes of the Himalayas. Amar loves nothing more than the freedom of being on a motorbike, leaving the troubles of everyday life in the rearview mirror as the road opens up ahead of him.
James, now a lawyer, was once a professional musician and an English teacher in Tokyo. He loves Japanese culture and the conveniences and quirks of everyday life in Japan. When he’s not arguing in court, you’ll find James seeking out hole-in-the-wall bars in Tokyo where he can meet locals and swap stories. Catch James in the support vehicle on your tour, and be sure to ask him about the time he acted in a Japanese TV drama!
WHY RIDE
WITH US?
Picture riding against the stunning backdrop of Mt. Fuji, enhancing the thrill of the journey. Visualise navigating ancient mountain roads, steeped in history, where samurai once roamed. Imagine cruising through vast rice fields, escaping the daily grind, each mile bringing freedom and discovery. Motorbiking offers an intimate yet expansive travel experience, allowing for a deeper connection with Japan's culture. This unique blend of adventure and immersion inspired our motorbike tours. Our aim is to share the enriching, multi-dimensional experience of Japan, letting you feel, experience, and connect with its beauty and culture.
OUR
MISSION
one EPIC ride at a time!
Why follow the crowd when you can blaze your own trail? We navigate beyond the well-trodden tourist routes to unveil an authentic Japan. From the awe-inspiring silhouette of Mt Fuji to Tokyo’s bustling streets, each tour is not only a voyage through the diverse realms of a unique culture, but also through its winding roads and postcard landscapes that make every twist and turn on a motorbike a source of joy. This is why, every tour echoes our slogan... ’Ride Explore Immerse’.
The shogun promise
We are obsessed with Japan and are devoted to sharing our passion, knowledge and experience with you. Our goal is that you finish your tour not only having had an amazing motorbike riding experience, but that you also feel you’ve explored and immersed yourself in Japan beyond the bike.
We strive to deliver excellence. Going on an adventure like this isn’t cheap. We understand you’ve worked hard for your money and you want to make sure you invest it wisely. We’re committed to offering you the best experience on 2 wheels that money can buy!
We hand-select quality, comfortable and unique accommodations, including traditional style ryokans, that allow you to experience authentic Japan in comfort and style.
We don’t want you having to ride heavy bikes laden with all your luggage. From day 1 our support vehicle will carry your luggage from one hotel room to the next so you can focus on riding some of the best roads in the world.
Shogun’s crew are not just experts in Japan's landscapes and hidden gems; they are passionate storytellers eager to share their deep understanding of the country's rich history and culture. With their expertise, you'll not only traverse breathtaking routes on two wheels but also gain insights into Japan's traditions and modern quirks. We ensure your journey isn't just about riding; it's a journey enriched with knowledge and unforgettable experiences that go beyond the ordinary tour.
We recognise that some people are put off by “organised” tours as they don’t want to all ride in a line from one place to the next, never going off the route to explore what is over a crest or down a valley. We’ve designed our adventures so the rider can explore by themselves if they choose to, safe in the knowledge that we are there to help. On most days we offer a choice of routes or activities, and if we finish the riding day early we’ll often organise a ride to a temple or a night out together. These aren’t compulsory but are options for you to experience and enjoy Japan your way if you wish.
