MTB Japan: Three
Decades of Developing Minakami’s Trail Network

Founded in 1996 by Nathan (Benny) Bennett, MTB Japan was established during the early stages of Japan’s commercial mountain biking industry. Reflecting on the company’s origins, Benny noted that organized mountain bike tours were virtually non-existent in the late 1990s. He recognized a major opportunity in Japan’s mountainous topography and the underutilized infrastructure of post-bubble-era ski resorts, which offered built-in access to steep terrain. Over the past three decades, the company has contributed to shifting the local biking landscape from logging and forestry roads to professionally designed flow trails, securing operational support and recognition from local municipalities in the process.

Establishing Minakami as an Adventure Base

MTB Japan operates out of Minakami in Gunma Prefecture, a region situated approximately 70 minutes from Tokyo via high-speed rail. Benny describes Minakami as an “adventure capital” defined by a rich “multi-sport ecosystem” that supports white-water rafting, canyoning, and winter sports alongside mountain biking. The local geography features and is renowned for its amazing mountain loam, significant vertical elevation drops, and natural halfpipe formations, providing terrain suitable for diverse trail configurations.

Guiding Operations and Regional Integration

The company’s guiding operations reflect a philosophy of weaving local culture directly into the riding experience. Programs such as “The Ronin Ride” serve as a primary example, utilizing e-bikes to navigate historic routes and seamlessly connect active sport with regional heritage. Guided groups are led by staff fluent in both English and Japanese, bridging communication for international travelers and local communities. To accommodate multi-day visitors, the business offers lodging options through its New Zealand-style Kiwi cottages, typically pairing rides with access to local volcanic hot springs (onsen).

Developing the Trails: A Hands-On Approach

Beyond guiding, Benny plays a pivotal role in the physical development and maintenance of the trail network itself. Leveraging three decades of local expertise, he and his team personally curate and groom a diverse range of trails, from raw, challenging backcountry descents to meticulously shaped flow sections. This hands-on involvement ensures that the trails are not only sustainable but also reflect the unique character of Minakami’s topography. By directly managing the trail maintenance, the team is able to preserve the integrity of the natural terrain while adapting sections for various skill levels, ensuring a high-quality riding experience for all visitors.

E-Bike Integration and Access Expansion

In recent years, the integration of specialized electric mountain bikes—specifically models like the Specialized Levo SL—has altered backcountry access. MTB Japan offers half-day, full-day, and multi-day e-bike itineraries. The motorized assist reduces physical barriers, allowing beginners and day-trippers from urban centers to reach higher-elevation alpine ridges without relying on traditional vehicle shuttles or requiring high levels of endurance.

Future Infrastructure Projects

While public institutional support for mountain biking in Japan remains less structured than in some international markets, Benny’s direct outlook for expanding local trail infrastructure centers on a specific three-point plan for Minakami:

1. Dedicated MTB Park: A newly completed, operational facility designed for structured trail riding.
2. Community Pump Track: An in-town skill center intended to serve as a social and training hub for local residents and visitors.
3. Free Trail Trial Program: An introductory initiative providing novice riders and locals supervised access to trail riding.

Together, these projects aim to build a progressive local rider pipeline, establishing Minakami as a sustainable destination for mountain biking in Japan.