Family bike tours provide an excellent opportunity to discover new places while creating unforgettable memories together. Asia, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultures, is an ideal region for family-friendly cycling adventures.
In this post, we will highlight three fantastic countries—Japan, Vietnam, and Taiwan—where you can enjoy a family bike tour with your children. We’ll cover the best regions to explore, optimal travel times, family-friendly accommodations, and delicious local foods that kids will love.
1. Japan: Shimanami Kaido
Ideal Region to Explore: The Shimanami Kaido, a scenic 70-kilometer cycling route, links Honshu with Shikoku. Families will enjoy cycling across charming islands, taking in breathtaking sea views, quaint villages, and enjoying stops at parks and beaches.
Optimal Travel Time: Spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) is the best time to visit, offering mild weather and the beauty of cherry blossoms or stunning fall colors.
Recommended Family-Friendly Accommodations:
- Setoda Private Hostel: Located on one of the islands along the Shimanami Kaido, this welcoming hostel offers family rooms and easy access to the cycling route.
- Onomichi U2 Hotel Cycle: A bicycle-friendly hotel in Onomichi, the starting point for the Shimanami Kaido, providing bike rentals, storage, and spacious family rooms.
Local Foods to Enjoy (and Avoid):
- Must-Try: Kid-friendly options include Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), Onigiri (rice balls), and Udon noodles.
- Avoid: Some sushi varieties, especially those with raw fish, may not be suitable for younger children. Instead, stick to cooked options like tamago (sweet omelet) or shrimp tempura sushi.
2. Vietnam: Mekong Delta
Ideal Region to Explore: The Mekong Delta features flat terrain and tranquil rural roads, perfect for family biking. Experience traditional Vietnamese life with visits to floating markets, fruit orchards, and peaceful villages.
Optimal Travel Time: The dry season, from December to April, is the best time for a bike tour in Vietnam, with cooler weather and lower rainfall.
Recommended Family-Friendly Accommodations:
- Mekong Lodge Resort: This eco-friendly resort features family bungalows, a swimming pool, and organized delta tours, making it a great base for your biking adventures.
- Victoria Can Tho Resort: Situated in the heart of the Mekong Delta, this resort offers spacious accommodations, a kid-friendly pool, and numerous activities for children.
Local Foods to Enjoy (and Avoid):
- Must-Try: Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), and tropical fruits like mango and dragon fruit are delicious and suitable for kids.
- Avoid: Some street food, especially those with unusual spices or ingredients, may be too adventurous for young palates. Stick to familiar dishes such as fried rice or grilled chicken.
3. Taiwan: Sun Moon Lake
Ideal Region to Explore: Sun Moon Lake in central Taiwan offers a beautiful landscape surrounded by mountains and forests. The well-maintained 30-kilometer cycling route around the lake is perfect for family cycling, with many spots for picnics or swimming breaks.
Optimal Travel Time: The best time to visit is during autumn (September to November) for cooler weather and stunning views, while spring (March to May) is also a good choice.
Recommended Family-Friendly Accommodations:
- Fleur de Chine Hotel: A luxurious hotel offering breathtaking views of Sun Moon Lake, spacious family rooms, a kids’ club, and an outdoor pool.
- Lealea Garden Hotel: This budget-friendly option provides family-friendly amenities, including bike rentals and convenient access to the lake’s cycling paths.
Local Foods to Enjoy (and Avoid):
- Must-Try: Beef noodle soup, steamed buns, and shaved ice desserts are favorites among kids. Taiwan’s night markets are a great place to find kid-friendly snacks like fried chicken and sweet potato balls.
- Avoid: Stinky tofu is a popular street food, but its strong odor may be off-putting to children.
Conclusion
Japan, Vietnam, and Taiwan offer unique and enriching experiences for family bike tours. Whether cycling through Japan’s islands, enjoying the lush Mekong Delta in Vietnam, or exploring the scenic routes around Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan, these countries feature safe and enjoyable biking paths for families. With proper planning—selecting the right times to visit, choosing family-friendly accommodations, and trying delicious local cuisine—you will surely create lasting memories on your family cycling adventure in Asia.
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