A Time Tunnel of 250 Million Years: A Cross-Bike Exploration Tour through Minamisanriku’s Ancient Strata


Highlighting valuable fossils dating back 250 million years to the Triassic period—including the Utatsusaurus hataii, discovered in the Utatsu district of Minamisanriku and recognized as one of the oldest of its kind in the world—this program is ideal for those with a spirit of curiosity and exploration.

Thanks to the mobility of cross-bikes, you can do more than simply take in the scenery. Accompanied by a guide who explains the area’s geological history, you can explore the ancient geological processes that shaped this land beneath the sea millions of years ago.

Connecting the Earth’s deep history with the vibrant nature and everyday life of the local community, this is an immersive adventure travel experience that engages all five senses.


ItineraryMorning Course Example (Afternoon courses are also available.)
09:00 — Meeting, briefing, and cross-bike fitting
09:30 — Departure. Cycling begins toward fossil sites and natural fields guided by an expert
10:00 — Arrival at the field. Guided commentary on ancient strata and fossils, exploration of local history, and a hands-on fossil hunting experience
11:15 — Enjoy a refreshing ride along the coastline on cross-bikes
12:00 — Arrival at the goal and dismissal
Cost1 Guest (Solo Private):¥32,000
2 Guests:¥22,000(Price per Person)¥44,000(Total Group Price)
3 Guests:¥18,000(Price per Person)¥54,000(Total Group Price)
4 Guests:¥16,000(Price per Person)¥64,000(Total Group Price)
What’s Included・Rental Fee (Cross Bike, Helmet, Cycling Gloves)
・Fossil hunting experience Fee
・Tour Guide Fee
・Handling fee
*Interpreter guide fee is not included.
If you require an interpreter, an additional fee of ¥25,000(per group) will apply.
Duration3 hours
Booking DeadlineRequests for reservations for this experience must be made at least 4 weeks in advance. 
Experience AvailabilityMarch–November
ParticipantsFrom 1 to 4 guests
Meeting LocationMinamisanriku Hamaré Utatsu
100-4 Isatomae, Utatsu, Minamisanriku, Motoyoshi district, Miyagi 988-0453
Google Maps
Important notes・Bicycles do not have baskets. If you have personal belongings, please bring a backpack. (Shoulder bags are not recommended as they may shift while riding and cause you to fall.)
・Please wear clothes and shoes suitable for exercising. Bringing a portable jacket, such as a windbreaker, is recommended. Avoid wide-skirted dresses or pants as they can get caught in the chain. High heels and sandals are also not recommended due to the risk of injury.
・Please bring your own drinks for hydration while riding. You may also want to bring sunglasses or a camera if needed.
・Cross bikes, helmets, and cycling gloves are provided as rentals.
・Due to bicycle sizing regulations, this activity is only available for participants who are at least 140 cm tall.

Booking & Inquiries


You can send a booking inquiry using the form below. Once we receive your request, we will check availability with our partners and send you an email regarding whether your booking can be accepted.
*Please note that submitting this form does not guarantee availability or confirm your reservation.

・For Travelers Contact Form
・For Organizations Contact Form
・Minamisanriku Tourism Association Booking Site

Cancelation policy

Our cancelation policy for this experience is below. Percentages represent the non-refundable portion of your experience fee.

Up to 8 days before the tour dateFree (No cancellation fee)
7 to 2 days before the tour date20% of the program fee
1 day before the tour date (Eve of the tour)40% of the program fee
On the day of the tour (Prior to start)50% of the program fee
No-show or cancellation after the start of the tour100% of the program fee

Hosted By


Minamisanriku Tourism Association

Enjoying a refreshing cross-bike ride along the beautiful coastline to the ancient fossil sites of Minamisanriku

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