The Ultimate Japanese Touring Circuit: Kansai to Kyushu
The BMW R 1200 GS LC is ideally suited for conquering the spectacular southern route from Kansai through Shikoku and into Kyushu.
Starting in the historical heart of Kansai (Osaka or Kyoto), the journey begins by traversing the engineering marvels that span the Seto Inland Sea. The R 1200 GS eats up the miles across the Shimanami Kaidō, a series of bridges and islands connecting Honshu to Shikoku.
On Shikoku, the adventure truly begins:
Roads: The GS effortlessly handles the serpentine mountain roads of the Iya Valley, navigating the deep gorges and remote villages.
Scenery: The journey traces the rugged coastline of Kochi Prefecture and ventures onto the high plateau of the Shikoku Karst, demanding the use of the bike's advanced suspension and riding modes.
The tour then continues via ferry from Shikoku to Kyushu, where the roads reach their legendary zenith:
Riding Paradise: The route cuts through the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Aso Highlands in Kumamoto. Here, the low-end torque of the Boxer engine is perfect for the steep climbs and winding tarmac of the Aso Panorama Line, offering views of the caldera's lush green carpet.
Final Destination: The trip culminates in the historic city of Nagasaki or the relaxing steam vents of Beppu Onsen, proving the BMW R 1200 GS LC's unmatched ability to deliver a supreme touring experience across Japan's most geographically diverse and thrilling motorcycling regions.
| 1-4 Days | 5-7 Days | 7 Days (1 Week) | 1 Month | Insurance Rate | Maximum Deductable |
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| ¥22500/day | ¥21500/day | ¥19500/day | ¥16500/day | ¥2000/day | ¥500000 |
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At Bike Rental Japan, our English-speaking owners and staff are committed to ensuring your total satisfaction in a safe, English-friendly environment, guaranteeing you are 100% informed and understand the entire process.
Upon arrival at your allotted time slot at our rental shop, you will be greeted by one of our staff members. They will finalize any outstanding details from your online booking and complete the rental contract to get you on the bike as quickly as possible.
At this stage, we will:
We will happily answer any questions you may have about the terms, conditions, or the bike itself, and we can provide personalized route recommendations. You will also receive and confirm Bike Rental Japan’s emergency contact numbers before setting off on your adventure.
This process can take as little as 10 minutes. However, if additional details need to be finalized—such as gear fitting, adjustments, route guidance, or hints n tips about riding Japan — it may take longer. We aim to get you on your adventure as fast as possible, so please plan accordingly.
Returning the Bike
When you return the bike, unless we have prepared a self-drop-off procedure, we will meet you at your allotted time slot. We love hearing about your adventure! After a final inspection, if everything is in order, you are free to go. If you need to travel back, the train station is just minutes away, making it easy to continue your journey or return to Osaka with a life time of unforgettable memories. Please don't forget to leave us a Google review, as we love hearing about our customers' experiences and checking your photos. this greatly helps us improve and show customers what awaits the adventure.
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Road Use in Japan
This site has an amazing amount of information about all aspects of driving in Japan, a must read if this is your first time motoring here.
Currency Conversion
All rates found on our website are in Japanese Yen (JPY). XE currency conversion is an easy to use website that can be used to convert our rates to your local currency.
Motorcycle Trip Packing List
We expect you’ve been planning this for a long time and have it covered, but please do take a look at this list just to make sure nothing has slipped your mind.
JNTO-Destination Kansai
Kansai and the surrounding areas are an amazing, beautiful and interesting place. We have made up some great tours however there is always much more to see that have nothing to do with bikes so please have a look and ride there anyway!
Japan Guide-Osaka
Osaka is a unique, lively and interesting city with plenty to offer, more than we can tell anyone so please check here for yourself.
Osaka Weather
Japan has one of the most variable climates in the world with a possible 50°c difference between summer and winter, with a rainy and typhoon season. This site can help you plan your trip for your preferred weather.
The 2015 BMW R 1200 GS LC (Liquid-Cooled) has the following key specifications:
Engine and Performance
Engine Type: Air/liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, flat twin engine (Boxer) with Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC).
Displacement: 1,170 cc.
Max. Output: 125 hp (92 kW) at 7,750 rpm.
Max. Torque: 125 Nm (92 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm.
Transmission: 6-speed manual.
Final Drive: Shaft drive.
Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Chassis and Dimensions
Unladen Weight (Wet): 238 kg (525 lbs).
Fuel Capacity: 20 Liters (5.3 US gal).
Seat Height (Standard): 850 mm / 870 mm (adjustable).
Front Suspension: BMW Motorrad Telelever with 190 mm travel.
Rear Suspension: BMW Motorrad Paralever with 200 mm travel.
Brakes: Dual $\emptyset 305 \text{ mm}$ front discs and a single $\emptyset 276 \text{ mm}$ rear disc, both with BMW Motorrad Integral ABS.
Tires: Front: 120/70 R 19; Rear: 170/60 R 17.
Luggage
Our bikes come fitted with luggage as shown in the respective photo. If you do not see luggage attached to the bike in the photos, please ask us about available options. Note that some smaller bikes or off-road models have limited luggage capacity.
Accessories
Smartphone Holder: Quad Lock-compatible phone mounts are included. (We do have some regular mounts, but they are not guaranteed to be in stock.) Please bring your own Quad Lock or compatible case or sticker mount.
USB Power Outlet: USB power outlets are provided to charge your phone. Please bring your own USB charging cable.
ETC Machine: ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) machines are installed for highway travel in Japan; however, you can also pay tolls by credit card or cash. Please note: ETC card rental is not available from this store.
Safety and Support
Emergency Roadside Kit: Includes a security lock, an emergency puncture repair kit with a pump, and contact numbers for 24-hour emergency support.
Complementary Luggage Storage: We offer secure storage for any luggage you would like to leave behind while on your rental.
Fuel
A Full Tank of Gas: All of our bikes come with a full tank of gas so you can hit the road right away without any stops.
Please Note
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