“Every year, I set myself a new challenge,” Café du Cycliste ambassador Alice Puech says. “Cycling is almost always part of it, not just as a means of travel, but as a tool for exploring, testing myself, and creating experiences. I like to keep moving, stringing together long days, and riding for extended periods, while remaining adaptable. Bikepacking adds an interesting constraint: carrying only what you need, without any unnecessary extras, and still remaining efficient.”

We sat down with her to ask her about her recent trip lightweight touring across Japan using our range of bikepacking bags.

On your trip you covered 1,200 kilometres from Tokyo to Fukuoka. Tell us about the planning involved.
 
The idea was simple: start in Tokyo and head south to Izumo. I had built a fairly precise initial plan after several weeks of research: general directions, mountain passes to avoid or prioritise, areas more interesting than others and, above all, identified points to hit (hotels, small restaurants). But once I was on the bike, everything changed. Every evening, I reviewed the route. I adjusted it based on the next day’s weather, the previous day’s profile and often recommendations I received along the way. For example, several times, locals advised me to completely change valleys or take a road I hadn’t seen, and these were often the best sections. I always had a fairly clear idea of my destination, but rarely the exact route to get there. It was this balance between preparation and adaptation that truly shaped the trip.

You’ve travelled through many very different landscapes. What are the weather conditions like in Japan at this time of year? Did you encounter any difficulties?

March is a demanding time in Japan. I had several days where I started out around 5°C, sometimes in a light rain, then temperatures rose to 15–18°C in the afternoon. This meant managing layers, and stopping and reorganising what you’re wearing sometimes several times in the same day. The wind was also a significant factor on some coastal sections, especially on the San’in coast. On some days, I stopped every couple of hours just to adjust what I was wearing. It’s not an ‘easy’ time of year, but it’s an interesting one. There are fewer people, and the landscapes are still very raw.

What were the reactions of the Japanese when they saw you traveling with your luggage?

Traveling by bike with bags always attracts a bit of attention, but in Japan, everything remains very discreet. One encounter that particularly struck me was with Jun, who I was put in touch with via a local Café du Cycliste ambassador. We rode together in Kyoto. He showed me roads I would never have found on my own, but above all, a different way of experiencing the places. Through him, I gained a deeper understanding of the history, the details, the transitions between neighbourhoods, the landscapes. It wasn’t just about the route, but about understanding. It’s the kind of encounter that truly transforms a trip; you no longer simply pass through a place, you begin to see it differently.

What moment of the trip left the biggest impression on you?

One of the most memorable moments was spending the evenings in the onsen (Japanese hot springs). After stages often around 100–120 kilometres, sometimes in the rain or cold, arriving, putting down the bike, and getting into a hot bath completely changes the state of your body. The fatigue disappears quite quickly, your legs relax, everything becomes calmer. It was often the first thing I did upon arrival, even before eating. It’s a very strong contrast to the rest of the day. You spend several hours in motion, then nothing. It’s simple, but very impactful. And it almost becomes a ritual.

Did cycling there change your perception of travel?

Yes. Japan demands a certain precision. The roads, the interactions, the environment, everything is very structured. On a bike, you have to constantly adjust, but without ever forcing anything. It makes the journey very intentional. You move forward, but with awareness.

Tell us about the Café du Cycliste bike bags. How did you pack your gear on your bike?

On this type of trip, bike bags are truly an integral part of the system. Everything had to be quickly accessible, without wasting time or energy. I organised my setup quite functionally:
• Saddle bag for clothing
• Frame bag for tools, battery, and bulkier gear
• Top tube and handlebar bags for items that needed to remain easily accessible (snacks, phone, gloves, windbreaker)

In Japan, with easy access to food (onigiri, convenience stores), I ended up carrying very little. What I particularly appreciated was their stability and ease of use. Even on rougher roads or when I was tired, nothing shifted and nothing became a hindrance. After a few days, you stop thinking about your gear, and that's exactly what you're looking for.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone who would like to do this trip or get into touring, and especially for women who want to embark on a solo adventure?

Prepare, but don't make everything too rigid. Having a solid foundation (itinerary, places to stay) allows for more freedom once you're on your bike. And above all, be willing to make adjustments. For women who want to travel alone, Japan is a very accessible destination. I never felt unsafe. The most important thing is to leave with a clear idea of what you want to experience; the rest will adapt.