
Top 20 Best Motorcycle Roads in Japan

Best Motorcycle Roads in Japan
Japan’s road network is incredibly dense, so there’s no shortage of great riding options. But with so many roads to choose from, it can be tough to decide where to go—especially if your time is limited.
After riding over 30,000 km (18,600 miles) all over the country, we picked what we think is Japan’s top 20 best motorcycle roads.
The roads are listed geographically (from north to south). This is only a snapshot, so if you’re looking for even more great roads check our map here.

And if you have your own recommendations, let us know in the comments!
HOKKAIDŌ
1. Route 228 & 229


- Region: Hokkaidō
- Length: ~380km (235 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
Roads 228 and 229 are a fantastic introduction to Hokkaidō, winding along the island’s rugged southwestern coastline. As you ride, you’ll be treated to breathtaking ocean views, with the road hugging the edge of the water, passing through numerous tunnels, and weaving through quaint coastal towns.
Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop, rest, and enjoy some fresh seafood. Notable stops on the route include Matsumae Castle, the only castle of its kind on the island, Esashi Town, rich in history and culture, Cape Benkei with its dramatic cliffs, and Cape Kamui, offering stunning views of the surrounding sea and cliffs.
2. Shiretoko Pass


- Region: Hokkaidō
- Length: ~33 km (20 miles), without detours
- Tolls: N/A
This road is a must-do when you’re riding in Hokkaido. It cuts right through the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its untouched wilderness and incredible wildlife.
If you have the time, it’s definitely worth spending a few days here to explore some of the hiking trails, like the Shiretoko Five Lakes, cruises or even try a bit of off-road riding leading to Kamuiwakka hot spring waterfalls. The area’s natural beauty is something you don’t want to rush.
The weather on the pass can be unpredictable—clouds often roll in and obscure the amazing views. We didn’t have the best visibility when we were there, but even so, the experience of riding through such a wild and remote part of the world was something special.
TŌHOKU
3. Shimokita Peninsula


- Region: Tōhoku
- Length: approx. 113 km (70 miles) via 253 & 46
- Tolls: N/A
Route 338 runs between Ōma and Mutsu in Aomori Prefecture. It’s a stunning ride along the western side of the Shimokita Peninsula. The road is narrow with tight corners and provides incredible views of the rugged coastline from high up.
On the way you can visit Cape Ōma, the northernmost point of Honshū, where you may see Hokkaido on a clear day, and unique rock formation of Hotokegaura. If you make it to this part of Japan, you absolutely have to visit Osorezan Bodaiji Temple near Mutsu. It’s one of the most unique temples in Japan, located within a volcanic caldera and surrounded by barren landscapes, sulfuric hot springs, and a desolate lake.
Note: The bottom half of the road was closed when we were there in 2023, so you might need to take Route 253 and Route 46 as alternatives (as shown on the map).
4. Tatsudomari Line


- Region: Tōhoku
- Length: ~51 km (31 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
The Tatsudomari Line is an amazing coastal route that took some serious effort to complete due to the steep coastline and surrounding mountains. The road offers great views of the Sea of Japan and multiple twists for motorcycling fun.
Cape Tappi, the northernmost point of the Tsugaru Peninsula, is a significant spot where the underwater Seikan Tunnel connects mainland Japan with Hokkaido. At the southern end of this route, you can visit Takayama Inari Shrine to admire its multiple red torii gates.
5. Around Lake Towada


- Region: Tōhoku
- Length: ~60 km (37 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
Routes 102 and 103 around Lake Towada, the largest caldera lake on Honshū offer some of the most scenic rides in northern Japan. This area, part of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, is renowned for its natural beauty, especially during the autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold.
Along the way, be sure to stop at Towada Shrine, a historic site nestled in the forest near the lake, for a short walk and rest. The route also has several observation points with good views of the whole lake. A ride through Oirase Gorge is another highlight, where you can admire beautiful waterfalls and crystal-clear streams.
6. Hachimantai Aspite Line


- Region: Tōhoku
- Length: ~37 km (23 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
The Hachimantai Aspite Line is one of Japan’s most famous roads and a must-do ride. It takes you through volcanic landscapes on the borders of Iwate and Akita prefectures, crossing over the peak of Mount Hachimantai.
Along the way, you can spot the Matsuo Mine Ruins, the remains of what was once a large sulfur mine. Other attractions include the Hachimantai Summit Resthouse for panoramic views, Goshogake Onsen for a relaxing bath, and the mysterious Dragon Eye Pond, which appears in late spring as the ice melts and forms a pattern resembling a dragon’s eye.
The road is usually open from mid-April to early November, depending on the weather, and is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.
Next to the Hachimantai Aspite Line is the Hachimantai Jukai Line, known for its beautiful ride through a forest of hardwood trees, connecting Matsukawa Onsen to Mikaeri Pass.
7. Zao-Echo Line


- Region: Tōhoku
- Length: ~35 km (22 miles)
- Tolls: None. ¥390 per motorcycle for Zao High Line
The Zao Echo Line is a stunning mountain road that connects Miyagi and Yamagata Prefectures in the Tōhoku Region. Winding through the highlands, it reaches an elevation of about 1,600 meters (5,250 feet), offering breathtaking views over the dramatic volcanic terrain, with steaming vents and rugged peaks.
Near the summit, you can take a small detour along the Zao High Line (a tolled road at ¥390 per motorcycle) to visit the Okama Crater, a striking crater lake known for its vivid blue and green hues.
The road is particularly famous for its “snow corridor” (Shimanosawa Point), visible from late April to mid-May, where towering walls of snow line the sides of the road, creating a surreal riding experience.
The road is closed during winter time from early November to late April.
8. Bandai-Azuma Skyline


- Region: Tōhoku
- Length: ~28 km (17 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
The Bandai-Azuma Skyline, often called the “road that runs above the clouds,” is a breathtaking mountain road in Fukushima Prefecture. It’s considered one of the best motorcycle routes in the Tōhoku region, and for good reason.
The road winds through a mix of lush forests and volcanic landscapes, gradually climbing to an altitude of 1,622 meters (5,322 feet). Up here, you’re treated to sweeping views that stretch as far as the eye can see, making you feel like you’re riding through the sky.
Jōdodaira Rest House near the summit ( parking fee ¥200 per motorcycle) is a good stop for exploring the area a bit including the Azuma-Kofuji Volcano, the Jōdodaira Plateau or the nearby hiking trails.
The road is closed during the winter months, from mid-November to mid-April, because of heavy snowfall.
CHŪBU
9. Shiga-Kusatsu Road


- Region: Chūbu & Kantō
- Length: approx. 33 km (20 miles)
- Tolls: None
- Road No: Route 292
- POI: Yubatake Onsen, Yugama, Yumiike pond, Mt. Shirane
The Shiga-Kusatsu Road is extremly popular with local motorcylists, and righly so. It’s a spectacular mountain route that connects Gunma and Nagano Prefectures. It links the popular ski resort area of Shiga Kōgen with the historic hot spring town of Kusatsu. At its highest point, the Shiga-Kusatsu Road reaches an elevation of 2,172 meters (7,126 feet), making it the highest public road in Japan, and offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The road is particularly famous for the sight of Mount Shirane, an active volcano with a striking turquoise crater lake, which you can view from the road.
The road is closed during the winter months, typically from late November to mid-April, due to heavy snowfall.
10. Venus Line


- Region: Chūbu
- Length: ~62 km (38 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
The Venus Line is an amazing mountain route in Nagano Prefecture, renowned for its captivating panoramas, pristine lakes, lush forests, and charming villages. Stretching from Chino City to Utsukushigahara, this road winds through highland areas and peaks at an impressive 1,954 meters (6,411 feet). Just make sure you pick a clear day for your ride; the clouds have a way of sneaking in and hiding the views.
The road has its own website in English where you can learn more about things to se along the way like Shirakaba Lake, Kurumayama Plateau, Utsukushigahara Highland and more.
If you’re starting your journey from Tokyo, the Venus Line is one of the easiest top-tier roads to access, together with the famous routes around Mount Fuji.
The road is closed from November to April due to heavy snowfall.
11. Ashinoko & Hakone Skylines


- Region: Chūbu
- Length: ~15 km (9 miles)
- Tolls: Ashinoko Skyline ¥300, the Hakone Skyline ¥260 per motorcycle
The Ashinoko and Hakone Skylines are two scenic roads that offer some of the most breathtaking close-up views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi. For the best experience, we recommend beginning in Hakone and heading towards Gotemba. At Nagao Pass, you can either circle back to Hakone or continue your journey to Gotemba.
These roads are dotted with multiple observation points, perfect for capturing stunning photos and enjoying an unobstructed view of Fuji-san. Our favorite stop was Mikuni Pass, where the sunset views were unmatched. Be sure to ride on a clear day for the best visibility and the most spectacular scenery.
Both skylines are tolled, with the Ashinoko Skyline costing ¥300 per motorcycle and the Hakone Skyline at ¥260 per motorcycle.
12. West Izu Skyline


- Region: Chūbu
- Length: ~15 km (9 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
The Izu Peninsula is a popular destination for motorcyclists, thanks to its proximity to Tokyo and its mix of coastal and mountain roads. It’s also one of the best areas to enjoy views of Mt. Fuji from a distance, making it an ideal choice if your time in Japan is limited.
While the Izu Skyline is the most famous road on the peninsula—a tolled route (¥580 per motorcycle) best ridden from the bottom toward Hakone, we prefered West Izu Skyline (Nishi-Izu Skyline). This route is shorter and toll-free, but is less busy and has much better scenery with clear views of Mt.Fuji in the backdrop.
13. Chirihama Nagisa Driveway


- Region: Chūbu
- Length: approx. 6 km (4 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
If there’s a beach you can ride on, it almost always earns a spot on our Top Roads list. The Chirihama-Nagisa Driveway in Ishikawa Prefecture is the only beach in Japan where you can drive directly on the sand. While the route is short, it offers a truly unique experience with sand that’s as firm as concrete. Riding at sunset is particularly magical, with the sun sinking into the Sea of Japan, casting incredible light and unforgettable views.
The road is open year-round, but it’s smart to check local conditions beforehand, as it can occasionally close due to high tides or storms.
SHIKOKU
14. UFO Line


- Region: Shikoku
- Length: ~26 km (16 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
The UFO Line is one of the most iconic motorcycle routes in Shikoku, and for good reason. Just reaching the start of the road via Route 12 or Route 40 is an adventure in itself, with winding roads and incredible views to warm you up for what’s to come. But it’s the UFO Line that steals the show, running along the ridge of the Ishizuchi Mountain range and offering breathtaking panoramic vistas. This fully paved route reaches up to 1,700 meters, making it the highest road in Shikoku. Its elevation brings quickly changing weather and temperatures, so gear up accordingly.
Check the weather forecast before heading out, as Japanese mountains are often shrouded in thick clouds that can block the views. On our first ride along the UFO Line, we found ourselves battling cold rain and dense mist, barely able to see the road ahead. But a couple of hours later, the clouds began to lift, revealing glimpses of the stunning scenery that makes this road legendary. On a clear, sunny day, it must be nothing short of breathtaking.
The road is closed in wintertime from late November to early April.
15. Tsurugi Super Rindo


- Region: Shikoku
- Length: ~88 km (55 miles)
- Tolls: N/A
Tsurugi Super Rindo in Shikoku is probably the most famous off-road route in all of Japan, and a dream destination for local ADV riders. Like many “rindo” (forest roads) across the country, it was originally built to provide access to remote logging sites. These days, it’s more popular with adventure seekers, and for good reason—it also holds the title of the longest gravel road in Japan.
The road itself is mostly gravel, with plenty of corners to keep you on your toes. You’ll encounter occasional rough patches where landslides or rockfalls have been cleared, and it can get muddy, especially after heavy rain. There are several narrow stretches without railings—most of which were destroyed by nature over time and never replaced.
Your efforts are rewarded (if the weather plays along) with breathtaking views over the surrounding valleys and mountains. On clear days, the scenery is absolutely magical, with layers of ridges stretching into the distance and some of the most stunning cloud formations we’ve come across on any of our journeys.
The road or parts of it are often closed due to landslides and rockfall. Check the current openings at this website.
CHŪGOKU
16. Mount Daisen


- Region: Chūgoku
- Length: approx. 30 km (19 miles)
- Tolls: None
- Road No: Route 45
- POI: Kagikaketoge Pass
Route 45 around Mount Daisen was a big surprise for us. Having never visited this region before, we didn’t know what to expect, but the ride turned out to be spectacular. The road offers stunning views of Mount Daisen, which stands at 1,729 meters (5,673 feet), making it the highest peak in the Chūgoku region.
As the road winds through lush forests, alongside crystal-clear streams, and past traditional Japanese villages, we found ourselves constantly amazed by the scenery. One of the highlights was a magnificent (and somewhat eerie) bridge, surrounded by breathtaking views—especially in autumn when the leaves burst into vibrant reds and oranges.
If you have extra time, consider extending your ride onto Route 114, the Hiruzen Daisen Skyline. This adjacent route cuts through the heart of Daisen Oki National Park, making it a perfect addition to your journey.
KYŪSHŪ
17. Yamanami Highway


- Region: Kyūshū
- Length: approx. 25 km (15 miles)
- Tolls: None
- Road No: Route 11
- POI: views of Mount Yufu, Iwashita Collection
Route 11 in Kyūshū, known as the Yamanami Highway, runs from Beppu to Aso and offers one of the most scenic drives in the region. If you have the time, the entire road is definitely worth exploring, as it takes you through stunning mountain scenery right into the heart of Aso-Kujū National Park.
The section between Beppu and Yufuin will long stay in our memories, not just for its great curves but also for the stunning sunset over Mount Yufu that we experienced at the top. Once you reach Yufuin, don’t miss the chance to visit the Iwashita Collection, a retro museum with an impressive array of motorcycles from around the world, and very kind owner.
18. Milk Road


- Region: Kyūshū
- Length: 50 km (31 miles)
- Tolls: None
- Road No: Route 339, 12, 45
- POI: observation points with views over Mt. Aso and Aso caldera
The Milk Road in Kyūshū runs along the ridge of the Aso Caldera, offering breathtaking panoramas of lush grasslands, expansive farmland, and the dramatic peaks of Mount Aso, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. It’s hard to imagine that this serene landscape was once the epicenter of a massive volcanic explosion.
The road’s elevation gives you a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding landscapes, with the horizon stretching out in all directions. Several observation points, like the Aso Skyline Observatory and Daikanbō Lookout, are perfect spots to stop and soak in the stunning views.
If time allows, take a detour to explore Mount Aso itself via the Asosan Kōen Toll Road (¥400 per motorcycle), where you can get an up-close look at the active volcanic crater.
19. Koshiki Islands


- Region: Kyūshū
- Length: 60 km (37 miles)
- Tolls: None. Ferry cost two-way, adult + one bike under 750cc: ¥8,210
- Road No: 348, 352, 351, 349
- POI: multiple observation points
Far from the beaten path, the Koshiki Islands offer amazing rides through impressive bridges that connect the archipelago’s three inhabited islands. As you navigate along overgrown forest roads and beside stunning rocky coastlines, the journey across these bridges provides a unique island-hopping experience, with breathtaking views of azure waters and rugged landscapes.
To reach the Koshiki Islands, you can take a ferry from Ichikikushikino to either Sato or Nagahama—advance booking is required.
20. Yakushima


- Region: Kyūshū
- Length: 150 km (93 miles) around the island with key spots
- Tolls: None. See ferry costs below.
- Road No: 77, 594, 592, 78
- POI: Shiratani Unsui Gorge, Yakusugi Land, West Coastal Road
Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an island off the southern coast of Kyūshū, and it was by far one of the biggest highlights of our trip in Japan. The mystical cedar forests, moss-covered rocks, and ancient trees that blanket the island are said to have inspired the Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke. For us, that was reason enough to visit, and Yakushima did not disappoint. Even if you’re not familiar with the movie, a trip to this island is an unforgettable experience. The beautiful, twisty forest roads and coastal routes, often occupied by curious monkeys, make for a unique ride.
Yakushima is the kind of place where you’ll want to spend a few days—hiking through its ancient forests near Shiratani Unsuikyō, riding along scenic routes, visiting the legendary Jōmon Sugi, one of the oldest trees in the world, and taking in the island’s stunning waterfalls.
To reach Yakushima with your motorcycle, you’ll need to take the Yakushima 2 Ferry from Kagoshima. Since spots for motorcycles are limited, it’s important to book in advance.
The prices are:
- One adult, second-class: ¥10,000 round trip
- Motorcycle 125cc or less: ¥1,800 one way
- Motorcycle under 750cc: ¥2,700 one way
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