Book excerpt: Award-winning author Steven Herrick journeys from Fukuoka to Sapporo in Japan - an inspiring 2000 kilometre cycling adventure. Accompanied by his wife, Cathie and their two hardy bicycles christened Bruce and Lila, this is an entertaining trek through the cultural and gastronomic heart of Japan. The author cycles up mountains covered in bamboo forests, along back roads surrounded by rice paddies and through the major cities of one of Asia's more intriguing and mystifying countries, sampling the delights from sashimi to sushi, udon to oden and bento to beef steak. Away from the cafes, convenience stores and restaurants, the author tries to make sense of a society addicted to overwork while enjoying a long soak in a public bath; an industrial powerhouse who re-energised the motor vehicle while remaining devoted to the bicycle and country of progress and change that still values the kimono and sumo. 'Bento, bicycles and bathhouses' is a bicycle adventure, a gastronomic safari and an entertaining ramble through the culture and landscape of Japan. Reviews for other Steven Herrick books in the EuroVelo Cycling Series: 'Simply put, I loved this book!' Amazon.co.uk review 'Honest, humble and entertaining whilst being seriously informative.' Amazon.com review 'I read this on my busy commute to work. It was a beautiful escape from being stuffed on a tube in central London. Im going to take up cycling now as a result.' Amazon.co.uk review 'Inspirational book for any middle aged men (or women) contemplating a mid life crisis on 2 wheels.' Amazon.co.uk review 'Really enjoyed this book, which is a witty, fast-paced trek across France.' Amazon.co.uk review 'If you enjoy cycling at any level, read this book. You will not be disappointed.' Amazon.co.uk review 'I laughed from start to finish. I could smell the French countryside... First class reading thoroughly entertaining and not a downside in it. J'taime.' Amazon.com review 'A great read and made me want to fly off to France and begin my own food filled cycle adventure.' Amazon.com review 'A pleasant, gentle stroll through France written in an amusing but engaging Australian manner & perspective.' Amazon.co.uk review