[spicytuna]

That sounds like an awesome tour. I've done several bicycle tours in western Canada but our roads and facilities are tour-friendly. The shoulders are fairly wide and well maintained, there are many rest stops and campgrounds along the way, etc.

I'd imagine the roads are narrow and steep in Japan but I was wondering how friendly Japan was in regards to random camping. Of course staying in a Ryokan each night would be great but it could get pricey.

Yes, I've been into alpine for quite a while but I'm on an extended break due to some rock climbing injuries. However, one of my plans is to do a winter ascent of Mt. Fuji next November. Anything to beat those summer crowds! Hahaha!