Essence of Shikoku Bike Tour

shikoku Matsuyama Castle

Overview

From the iconic cycling in Shimanami Kaido to the historic city of Matsuyama and beyond, this Shikoku bike tour offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of Shikoku. Shikoku may be the smallest of Japan's four major islands, but it is a cycling lover's paradise. Shikoku is where you head to when you're looking for the best biking routes, the best preserved castles, the best sake and the best udon noodles in all of Japan. Add to it all vibrant local festivals, lively local markets selling fresh farm produce and local crafts, and some of the most pristine scenery in Japan, and Shikoku emerges as a destination you don't want to miss.

Start

Shimanami Kaido | 13:00 hrs

Finish

Konpira

Lodging

casual

Level

moderate to challenging

Avg. dist. cycled

60km/36mi

Group size

Min. 4, Max. 12

Fly-In

HIJ

Fly-Out

TAK

Highlights

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Cycling Shimanami Kaido

Shimanami Kaido is, quite simply, one of the most breathtaking coastal bike routes in the world. This is a 70-km biking track that passes through six islands in the Seto Inland Sea. On offer are gorgeous ocean views, winding roads through forest-covered mountains, sweet-smelling orchards of oranges and lemons, and the chance to savor a variety of specialty juices and citrus products along the way.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

DayPlacecasual Inns or similarMealsDistanceActivity
DAY 1OnomichiGreen HillsD
DAY 2Shimanami KaidoMinsyuku NagomaB,D65km / 40micycling
DAY 3MatsuyamaDogo HakuroB,D55km / 34micycling
DAY 4Shikoku KarstHoshifuru Village TenguB,D85km / 53micycling
DAY 5KochiDormy InnB,L95km / 59micycling
DAY 6IyaHotel KazurabashiB,D80km / 50micycling
DAY 7KonpiraShikishimakanB,D50km / 31micycling
DAY 8DepartureB

Detailed Itinerary

Itinerary Image

Day 1: Onomichi

Nestled in the heart of Hiroshima Prefecture, Onomichi is a picturesque coastal town known for its historic temples, sloping streets, and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. As we meet at our hotel in Onomichi at 5:00 PM, prepare to immerse yourself in the charm of this quaint town. Following an introductory meeting and bike fitting, we relish a delightful welcome dinner in one of Onomichi's inviting eateries.

Meals: D
Accommodation: Green Hills
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Day 2: Shimanami Kaido

Today we set out on a cycling adventure along the renowned Shimanami Kaido, traversing five islands to witness breathtaking panoramas and delve into the rich cultural tapestry of the Seto Inland Sea. The Shimanami Kaido, a cycling route spanning several kilometers, is a remarkable journey connecting Japan's Honshu and Shikoku islands through a series of breathtaking bridges and picturesque landscapes.

Our accommodation awaits in a simple Japanese hotel, offering captivating views of the Seto Inland Sea on one side, and the imposing Mt. Ishizuchi on the other. Considered one of Japan's 7 sacred mountains, the 1,982 m (6,503 ft) high mountain is the highest mountain in Shikoku, and an important pilgrimage site in both Buddhism and Shintoism.

The surrounding area is a part of the Ishizuchi Quasi-National Park, characterized by forest-covered hills. We are now out in the rugged countryside of Japan, and our hotel is the only accommodation available in this area.

Japan【Day2】Onomichi - Ooshima Island.png

Meals: B,D
Cycling Distance: 65km / 40mi
Accommodation: Minsyuku Nagoma
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Day 3: Matsuyama

Today we conclude our ride through the scenic Shimanami Kaido and pedal along the coast to the culturally rich Matsuyama, the capital of Ehime Prefecture. As we cycle through the city, admire landmarks like the iconic Matsuyama Castle en route to our hotel in the Dogo area. In the evening, immerse yourself in the renowned Dogo Onsen, savoring a local delicacy, tai meshi, and a glass of regional sake.

Japan【Day3】Ooshima Island - Matsuyama 55km.png

Meals: B,D
Cycling Distance: 55km / 34mi
Accommodation: Dogo Hakuro

Day 4: Shikoku Karst

Today, we ride out into a unique and picturesque geographic marvel - the Tengu Highlands, also known as the Shikoku Karst.

Karsts or limestone mountains are rare in Japan, In fact, there are only 3 locations in all of Japan where karsts are found, and Tengu is one of them. Karsts are otherwise mostly found in Europe, and the landscape today looks like a slice of Italy in the middle of Japanese wilderness.

The Tengu highland is an elevated plateau reaching upto 1,500 m (4,921 ft) above sea level, with the peaks of the Ishizuchi mountain range we rode past still visible in the backdrop. On a clear day, we can even see the shimmering blue of the Pacific Ocean in the distance.

Our route leads us into the mountains through challenging roads, so be prepared for a bit of a climb. As we ascend, the cycling path meanders alongside a scenic river, offering picturesque views all around. Also called the "road in the sky", because the clouds above appear close enough to touch, this road is considered among Japan's 100 most beautiful roads.

Our accommodation for the night awaits in a magnificent hotel situated in Shikoku Karst, providing magnificent views amid nature's tranquility. On nights when the sky is clear, you can see the night sky lit up with thousands of sparkling stars. In fact, views of the night sky from here are among the finest in all of Japan.

Japan-【Day4】Matsuyama - Tengu .png

Meals: B,D
Cycling Distance: 85km / 53mi

Day 5: Kochi

Today is a beautiful and fun-filled day of cycling. Early on, we stop at the picturesque Nakatsu Gorge, which rises above the Nakatsu river. During fall, the bright orange and red foliage of the forests covering the surrounding hills contrast gently with the soft blue of the river waters, making for a mesmerizing sight.

We then ride over the beautiful Niyodo river, one of the clearest in all of Japan. The river's water have a slight turquoise tinge, owing to the minerals it carries down as it flows from Mt. Ishizuchi. As a result, it is also referred to as Niyodo Blue.

There are lush, forested hills on either side of the river, making for a picture-postcard view.

A characteristic feature of several Japanese rivers, especially in the countryside, are their submersible bridges, called chinkabashi in Japanese. These are flat concrete bridges without balustrades built very close to the water level so that they submerge without offering resistance when the water rises in the rainy season. Since we're riding in the dry season, we get to enjoy the pleasant views without any worries!

We stop for a barbecue-style lunch along the way and interact with friendly locals.

And after an exciting day of biking, we arrive in the vibrant city of Kochi and explore a well-known street food market, indulging in the local culinary delights.

Kochi is especially famous for its sake, or Japanese rice wine, thanks to the abundance of clear waters in its vicinity, and its excellent bonito fish, called "katsuo" in Japanese. Katsuo no takati is a must-try on any visit to Kochi.

Japan【Day5】Tengu - Kochi 95km.png

Meals: B,L
Cycling Distance: 95km / 59mi
Accommodation: Dormy Inn
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Day 6: Iya

Today we ascend into the renowned Iya Valley, characterized by steep mountainous slopes and deep gorges. We conquer a challenging climb that unveils breathtaking landscapes, then descend through the valley, enveloped by terraced rice fields, and take a stroll across the famed vine bridges of the Heike warriors.

We experience the night in a traditional Japanese inn, an accommodation that embodies stunning authenticity.

Japan【Day6】Kochi - Iya 80km.png

Meals: B,D
Cycling Distance: 80km / 50mi
Accommodation: Hotel Kazurabashi
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Day 7: Konpira

On the concluding day of our adventure, we travel out of the enchanting Iya Valley along the scenic Yoshino River. Following a final ascent, we reach the renowned Konpira Shrine (also called Kotohira), a popular locale and the pinnacle of our journey.

The shrine is dedicated to patron saint of sailors and seafarers in the traditional Japanese Shinto religion. It is reached by ascending over 1,300 steps. If we have the legs for it, we should climb all the way up, for the views are definitely worth the climb.

the town of Kotohira is famous for its Udon noodles, and trying out the local Udon noodles is a must-do.

Japan-【Day7】Iya - Kotohira .png

Meals: B,D
Cycling Distance: 50km / 31mi
Accommodation: Shikishimakan

Day 8: Departure

Travel further as per your onward travel plans. Nearby train stations provide connections to the bullet train, or for those traveling by air, Takamatsu Airport is located an hour and half's drive away. Alternatively, you can take the train to either Takamatsu or Okayama.

Meals: B
Accommodation:

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Map

Dates and Prices

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From US $300

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From US $250



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Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

trip leader

Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

shuttle

A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

refreshments

Refreshments and mineral water while cycling.

entrance

Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.

Exclusions

Airport pickup and drop

We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Gratuity

Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival:

To travel from Tokyo to Onomichi (Day 1) via train, here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Take the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) from Tokyo to Fukuyama:
  • Board the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Fukuyama Station. This is the most direct route.
  • Duration: Around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on whether you take a Nozomi, Hikari, or Kodama train.
  • Nozomi is the fastest but not covered by the JR Pass. Hikari and Kodama trains are slower but are JR Pass eligible.
  1. From Fukuyama Station, transfer to a local train on the JR Sanyo Line.
  • Duration: Around 20–25 minutes to Onomichi Station.
  • Arrival at Onomichi:

Once you arrive at Onomichi Station, you are in the heart of the city, close to the scenic Seto Inland Sea and famous for cycling routes like the Shimanami Kaido.

Departure:

To travel from Kotohira to Tokyo and Kyoto, here's how you can do it by train:

  1. Kotohira to Tokyo:

Step 1: Take the JR Dosan Line or Kotohira Line to Okayama:

  • From Kotohira Station, take a local train on the JR Dosan Line (if you are using the JR Pass) or the Kotohira Line to Okayama Station.
  • Duration: Around 60 to 80 minutes, depending on the specific train.

Step 2: Take the Shinkansen from Okayama to Tokyo:

  • From Okayama Station, board the Sanyo Shinkansen to Tokyo. You can take the Nozomi (fastest), Hikari, or Kodama trains. Note that Nozomi is not covered by the JR Pass.
  • Duration: Around 4–5 hours to Tokyo Station, depending on the train type.
  1. Kotohira to Kyoto:

Step 1: Take the JR Dosan Line or Kotohira Line to Okayama:

  • Follow the same route as mentioned above to Okayama Station.
  • Duration: Around 60 to 80 minutes.

Step 2: Take the Shinkansen from Okayama to Kyoto: -From Okayama Station, take the Sanyo Shinkansen to Kyoto Station. The journey is much shorter compared to Tokyo. -Duration: Around 1 hour.

Summary: Kotohira to Tokyo: About 5–6 hours total. Kotohira to Kyoto: About 2–3 hours total.

Both trips involve transferring at Okayama Station, where you can catch the Shinkansen for direct access to Tokyo or Kyoto.

Bikes

When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

Bike Image

Yamaha CROSSCORE RC or similar

ebike

Available at a surcharge

Bike Image

Specialized Diverge E5 or similar

gravel

Included in your trip price

What to Expect

On hotels in Japan:

Most of the hotels in Japan offer a mix of Japanese inns (Ryokans) and Western-style rooms. It is important to note that room assignments are subject to availability and beyond our control.

Japan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, and two quintessential elements of this heritage are onsen and ryokans. Onsen refers to natural hot springs, which hold cultural, historical, and spiritual significance for the Japanese people. Ryokans, on the other hand, are traditional Japanese inns that offer a unique and immersive experience into the country's customs and way of life. Together, onsen and ryokans provide travelers with an opportunity to indulge in relaxation, rejuvenation, and a deep connection with Japan's past.

The combination of onsen and ryokans creates a unique travel experience that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Japan. Guests at ryokans often have access to private or communal onsen baths, allowing you to soak in the therapeutic waters while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.

Japanese-style rooms offer a unique local experience and are quite popular. They add a distinctive cultural touch to the tour. In Japan, taking public onsen hot spring in the hotel is so popular, so even nice beautiful hotels most time has rooms only with toilet.

Hence, for hotels lacking en suite bathrooms, guests are expected to utilize the communal bathing facilities. Furthermore, depending on the hotel style, when double rooms are requested, we may only be able to secure twin rooms.

Weather

The best time for cycling in Shikoku is typically during the spring (mid-March to early-June) and autumn (mid-September to mid-November) months when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the scenery is vibrant with blooming flowers or colorful foliage. Avoiding the hot and humid summer months is advisable for a more comfortable cycling experience. The summer months (July and August) are doable if you are used to heat and humidity.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Good

April

Best

May

Best

June

Mixed

July

Mixed

August

Mixed

September

Good

October

Best

November

Good

December

Offseason

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

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