Welcome to the Escape Summit Takayama.
You’ve arrived in the heart of the Japanese Alps—where ancient roads climb into the clouds, quiet villages hide between the mountains, and every turn reveals something worth chasing. Over the next few days, we’ll ride hard, eat beautifully, explore deeply and share the kind of moments that stay with you long after the final descent.
The bikes are ready. The mountains are waiting.
Your Shinkansen Group
Each rider will be assigned to KODAMA, HIKARI, or NOZOMI based on the tempo and pace indicated in their rider profile. Inspired by Japan’s legendary bullet trains, our three ride groups create a smooth rhythm for every day. We’ll use these groups throughout the trip to coordinate breakfast seating, ride departures, guide support, route variations, luggage instructions, and daily communications.
KODAMA is designed for steady-paced riders, from a social or recovery pace of approximately 12–14 mph / 19–22 km/h to an endurance pace of 15–17 mph / 24–27 km/h.
HIKARI is intended for intermediate riders who typically ride at a tempo pace of approximately 17–19 mph / 27–30 km/h.
NOZOMI is for advanced riders, ranging from a fast pace of approximately 19–21 mph / 30–34 km/h to a race pace of 22+ mph / 35+ km/h.
KODAMA will generally depart first in the morning, followed by HIKARI and then NOZOMI. This creates a smoother experience for every pace while reducing the number of riders leaving at once.
These ranges are approximate and will vary with terrain and conditions. Your group is simply an operational identifier and may be adjusted during the trip when appropriate.
Breakfast and departure times are assigned to each group. Because dining-room capacity is limited, please arrive only during your designated breakfast seating.
Group Sizes
• KODAMA: 19 riders • HIKARI: 18 riders • NOZOMI: 22 riders
STG 1 - AUG - 24
11am to 4:30pm
Service Course - Hotel Wood & FamilyMart
Our mechanics will be available to help unpack and assemble your bike. Pumps, tools and an experienced helping hand will be ready whenever you need them.
Time TBD
Takayama Shakedown Spin
Route Snapshot
Distance: 40.4 km / 25.1 miles
Elevation gain: 702 m / 2,303 ft
Elevation loss: 704 m / 2,310 ft
Maximum grade: 16.3%
Maximum descent: –12.1%
Estimated riding time: 2 hours, 18 minutes
This is a relatively short but punchy route, with substantial climbing for the distance and at least one very steep section. I’d describe it as a challenging 40 km ride with sustained climbing and short, steep pitches.
Lunch-On Own
3:00pm
Hotel Wood Arrival & Check-In
Collect your room key at reception, then stop by the Escape Welcome Desk to check in and receive your day bag, cycling kit and a few special goodies.
5:30pm
Tonight in Takayama
Tonight, we’ll gather in the Hotel Wood lobby at 5:30 p.m. From there, we’ll take a short walk through Takayama to ONDO for a welcome drink and introduction to the Summit.
Afterward, we’ll walk together to Aji no Yohei for a traditional set-menu dinner featuring Takayama’s legendary Hida beef—celebrated for its exceptional marbling, tenderness and rich flavor. Vegetarian guests will enjoy a seasonal, locally inspired menu, with discreet place cards helping the restaurant team deliver the correct dishes.
5:45pm
Welcome Gathering at ONDO
Welcome drink and introduction to the Summit.
Address: 48 Shimoninomachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0842
7:15pm
Taste of Takayama
Aji No Yohei Hida Beef Restaurant
Address: 7 Kami-Ninomachi, Takayama-Shi, Gifu 506-0845
STG 2 - AUG - 2 5
DINING - TIME 7:00 PM - MATSUKI SUSHI
Address: 1 Chome-40 Sowamachi, Takayama, Gifu 506-0007, Japan
*10-MINUTE WALK
A Set Menu WithSUSHI With Alcohol & All Drinks Included
Vegetarian guests will receive a specially prepared set menu featuring seasonal, locally sourced vegetarian dishes.
STG 3 - AUG - 2 6
NORIKURA – PASSHUNTER
Route Snapshot
Distance: 159.2 km / 98.9 miles
Elevation gain: 4,118 m / 13,511 ft
Elevation loss: 4,118 m / 13,511 ft
Maximum grade: 16.7%
Maximum descent: –16.0%
Estimated riding time: 10 hours, 17 minutes
This is a true Passhunter epic—nearly 100 miles with more than 13,500 feet of climbing. Expect a long, demanding mountain day featuring sustained ascents, steep pitches and technical descents. Strong fitness, disciplined pacing and careful fueling will be essential.
DINING - TIME 6 : 3 0 PM