ABOUT JAPAN BICYCLES

Bicycles are widely used in Japan by people of all age groups and social standings. Tourists will find that rental bicycles are available in many tourist destinations as an alternative means of getting around.

The most common bicycle type in Japan and at rental shops are simple bicycles for everyday use, called Mamachari ("mom's bicycle"). Mamachari are typically equipped with a basket and/or a child seat, a simple lock, a kickstand and just one gear. More advanced models with multiple gears or electric assistance are gradually becoming popular. Foldable bicycles, mountain bikes and road racing bicycles are rarely available for rent and on the streets are vastly outnumbered by the inexpensive mamachari.