Meet Hudson: The Crimson Navigator
Model: Honda CB400X (Grand Prix Red)
If you want a bike that stands out against the deep emerald forests of Shikoku and leads the way with absolute confidence, meet Hudson. While the grey and white bikes in our fleet are masters of blending in, Hudson is the bold explorer. Dressed in Honda’s iconic Grand Prix Red, he is the high-visibility, high-reliability partner designed to guide you through the heart of Southern Japan’s most dramatic terrain.
The Master of the "Momiji" Gorges
Japan is famous for its autumn colors, but even in the height of summer, the deep shaded valleys of the Iya Gorge can be dark and mysterious.
The Hudson Experience: On narrow, cliffside roads where the limestone cliffs turn the light grey, Hudson’s vibrant red fairings make him a beacon of safety. He’s easy for your riding buddies to follow and easy for oncoming local traffic to spot. He is the "safety-first" choice that doesn't sacrifice a single bit of style.
Sprinting the "UFO Line" (Kamegamori)
The UFO Line is a 1,700-meter ridgeline road that feels like riding across the spine of a dragon.
The Hudson Experience: On this narrow, high-altitude sky road, you want a bike that feels eager but predictable. Hudson’s parallel-twin engine provides a smooth, rhythmic climb. Because he’s a 400cc machine, he has the perfect power-to-weight ratio for these technical peaks—giving you all the "grunt" you need for the ascent without ever feeling like he’s trying to run away from you.
Heritage Explorer: Fukiya & Bizen
Deep in the mountains of Okayama, you’ll find Fukiya Furusato Village, famous for its copper-red "Bengara" earthen walls and roof tiles.
The Hudson Experience: Rolling into a historic village like Fukiya on a red bike is a cinematic experience. Hudson matches the local architecture perfectly. His compact size and quiet engine mean you can navigate the 400-year-old red-tiled streets with total respect for the locals, stopping easily to grab a photo of the bike against the matching heritage buildings.
Precision on the "Chinkabashi" Bridges
Crossing the rail-less Shimanto River bridges is a mental game—you need a bike that goes exactly where you point it.
The Hudson Experience: Hudson is a total confidence-builder. His upright "Command Post" riding position gives you a clear view of the bridge edges, and his balanced chassis means you can make tiny adjustments with just a nudge of your knees. He makes the most famous "scary" bridges in Japan feel like a fun afternoon stroll.
Why Choose Hudson?
Hudson is for the methodical traveler. He is for the rider who wants a bike that’s easy to handle but has a bold, commanding personality. He is famously reliable, incredibly easy on fuel, and looks better in a mountain-top selfie than just about anything else on the road. Whether it’s your first time in Japan or your tenth, Hudson is standing by, fueled up and ready to navigate.
The valley is calling and Hudson is ready to lead. Shall we head out?
Please check detailed rental requirements below.
| Daily |
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| Same Day + Store Access |
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| Multi Day Rental |
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| Insurance Coverage |
Your rental includes the legally required Japanese insurance coverage:
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| Excess & Liability |
ERI Eligibility:
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| Mileage Policy |
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| Tax |
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| Who We Are |
At Motorcycle Rental Japan, we are English speakers and owners. Our goal is to ensure total customer satisfaction in a safe, English-speaking environment so you are 100% informed, confident, and understand every detail of your rental. |
| Check-In & Setup |
Upon arrival at our shop, you will be greeted by our staff to finalize your booking details and complete the rental contract. To get you on the road quickly and safely, we will:
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| Departure Prep |
We are happy to answer any questions about the terms, the motorcycle, or provide route recommendations. Before setting off, you will receive and confirm our emergency contact numbers. Timeframe: This process can take as little as 10 minutes. However, if you need gear fitting, adjustments, or detailed route guidance, it may take longer. We want to get you on your adventure as fast as possible, so please plan accordingly. |
| The Return |
We love hearing about your adventure! After a quick final inspection, if everything is in order, you are free to go.
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| Luggage |
Our motorcycles come fitted with luggage as shown in the photos. If you do not see luggage attached in the motorcycle photos, please ask us for options. *Note: Some smaller or off-road models have limited luggage capacity.* |
| Navigation & Power |
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| ETC & Highway |
The motorcycle is equipped with an ETC Machine for highway travel in Japan. Important: ETC Card rental is not available from this store location. You can pay highway tolls via Credit Card or Cash at the toll gates. |
| Safety & Support |
Includes a security lock, emergency puncture repair kit with pump, and contact numbers for 24-hour emergency support. |
| Storage & Fuel |
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| Restrictions |
Please Note: To protect the vehicle condition, we do not allow tank bags or third-party soft luggage to be fitted to the motorcycles. |
| License & ID |
You must present a valid Japanese Driver’s License with a Valid International Driving Permit (IDP). Please see HERE for full license requirements. Required Documents: We will need to take copies of your Credit Card and your Passport (or Resident Card) upon arrival. |
| Riding Experience |
Riders must have more than one year of riding experience on a motorcycle of similar size/weight to the one you intend to rent. |
| Age Requirement |
Riders must be 20 years of age or older. |
| Policies |
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for a detailed list of our rental requirements and policies. |
| Trip Planning |
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| Destination Info |
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