Guided Shikoku and Kyushu Bike Tour

Arrive in Osaka and ease into the rhythm of Japan with a touch of luxury. Settle into the Conrad Hilton, where sweeping skyline views and refined comfort create a warm welcome after your journey. The evening opens time to explore the lively streets of Dotonbori, filled with neon lights, bustling food stalls, and the aromas of local specialties.

Wander past riverside bridges, sample takoyaki, or simply enjoy the city’s energetic charm. Dinner awaits at the hotel, offering a relaxed close to your first night. This gentle start sets the stage for the cycling adventure that unfolds across Shikoku and Kyushu.

Note: Dinner has been reserved and confirmed at Atmos Dining, located on the 40th floor. The restaurant offers an Italian buffet, with mentioned drinks coffee, tea, and flavored water included. Other beverages will be served at additional charge. The reservation is at 19:00 hrs.

Please note that airport pickup is not included. If required, it must be pre-booked with us in advance.

Take the bullet train to Onomichi, a charming port city on the Seto Inland Sea. Upon arrival, meet your guide, complete your bike fitting, and attend a short briefing. In the afternoon, unwind at a traditional hot spring to ease any travel fatigue before checking into Hotel Cycle — a cyclist-friendly retreat that blends modern industrial design with comfort.

9:00 hrs: Our greeter will meet you in the hotel lobby to assist with the transfer to the train station. Since the train departs at 10:37 am and the group is large, we will leave early to ensure a smooth and timely arrival. Once we arrive, we will arrange multiple taxis for the group transfer to the hotel.

Afternoon / Arrival in Onomichi

13:00 hrs — Arrive at Onomichi U2 Hotel Cycle (hotel check-in: 15:00). Meet your cycling guide for a bike fit session followed by a short test ride until check-in time.

15:00 hrs — Check-in and settle into the hotel.

16:00 hrs — Meet the guides in the hotel lobby.

16:15–16:25 hrs — Transfer by taxi to Onomichi Plain Hot Springs – Poppo no Yu

Google Maps link

Poppo no Yu Info

16:30–17:30 hrs — Enjoy a 1-hour hot spring / onsen experience to relax after travel.

17:30–17:45 hrs — Return to the hotel by taxi.

18:00 hrs — Share dinner with your group, setting the tone for camaraderie and adventure. The day strikes a perfect balance of movement and rest, offering a first taste of Japan’s rich cycling culture. By nightfall, anticipation builds for the scenic rides ahead through coastal landscapes and across island bridges

Please note: For the Osaka–Onomichi bullet train, The group will split into smaller groups to secure extra luggage space. Station transfers are included, and train tickets will be provided in advance.”

Set off across the Shimanami Kaido, a spectacular route of bridges linking the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Lemon groves and fishing villages paint a lively picture of local life along the way. The Tatara Bridge and ferry crossings make the journey both scenic and unique.

The ride finishes in Setoda, a peaceful town on Ikuchijima. Stay at Azumi Setoda, where restored wooden architecture and tranquil gardens create a calm retreat. After a day of climbs and descents, unwind with refined island hospitality and a dinner rooted in Setoda’s local flavors.

Please note: Today’s ride includes short ferry crossings (up to 5 minutes).

Ride with GPS Route

Route Highlights

• Scenic Coastline: Long stretches of calm seaside riding with views of the Seto Inland Sea.
• Rolling Terrain: Moderate hills, with climbs and descents that are challenging but not extreme.
• Mixed Roads: Mostly smooth asphalt with some minor roads and natural paths for variety.

Begin in Setoda and cross into Shikoku, pedaling over the grand Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge toward Matsuyama. The ride offers rolling hills, coastline, and cultural sites like Oyamazumi Shrine along the way. Stop at parks or seaside viewpoints before continuing into the city. Finish at Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring, where soothing baths await.

The stay at Dogo Yamanote Garden Hagakure combines tradition and comfort, with kaiseki meals and warm hospitality. This stage feels both challenging and deeply rewarding, closing with relaxation in Matsuyama’s historic onsen district.

Ride With GPS Route

Route Highlights

Itoshima Park: At approximately 40.4 km into your ride, take a break at Itoshima Park, a scenic spot ideal for rest and refreshments.

Nagahama Beach: Around the 68.1 km mark, enjoy the picturesque views at Nagahama Beach, a perfect location to capture memories of your journey.

Please note: After about 50 km of cycling and passing through Imabari, traffic may increase. Our crew will be on hand to support you and ensure a safe, comfortable ride to your hotel in Matsuyama.

Ride a scenic inland loop through Uchiko and Ōzu, towns celebrated for their preserved streets and riverside charm. Expect rolling terrain with climbs that test stamina, balanced by peaceful countryside roads. Depending on preferences, explore heritage sites and shorten the ride with a transfer back.

The loop offers both pace and cultural flavor, making it memorable for seasoned riders. Return to the same hotel in Matsuyama, where restorative baths and regional cuisine bring the day to a close. The combination of effort, scenery, and history makes this stage a highlight of Shikoku.

Option 1 – Inland Route with Sightseeing

Cycle inland through Uchiko and Ōzu, with time to explore both towns. The ride covers approximately 50 km, after which our support vehicle will comfortably transfer you back to Matsuyama.

Ride With GPS Route

Option 2 – Full Ride to Matsuyama (Approx. 90 km) Complete the entire route by cycling all the way back to Matsuyama. This longer ride includes some city traffic but allows you to experience the full journey entirely by bike.

Route Highlights

Challenging Elevation: Over 1,200 m of climbs and descents make this loop ideal for riders looking for a demanding ride.

Mixed Surfaces: Mostly paved roads and bike paths, with a few short rough or unpaved sections that require caution.

Scenic Variety: Enjoy a diverse landscape of countryside, forested areas, and open roads—perfect for experienced riders seeking both pace and visual variety.

Please note: Please note: Some city sections may have traffic, including trucks and lorries. If you prefer the inland route through Uchiko and Ōzu, we can include sightseeing there. In that case, the ride will be adjusted to around 50 km, and after exploring Ōzu, our support vehicle will transfer you back to Matsuyama.

Cycle coastal and rural stretches toward Misaki Port, where the ferry crosses to Kyushu. The route is demanding, with steady climbs totaling over 1,600 meters, but sea views and quiet roads inspire determination. Aboard the ferry, relax and watch Shikoku fade as Kyushu approaches.

Arrive in Beppu, Japan’s hot spring capital, and settle into Hoshino Resorts Kai Beppu. A short spin in town refreshes the legs before dinner. Steam rising from the city’s onsens signals your arrival in a new chapter, with luxury, relaxation, and Kyushu’s cultural richness at your doorstep.

Option 1 – Full Ride (Approx. 85 km)

Cycle the entire 85 km route to Misaki Port. To catch the ferry on time (13:00 hrs), the ride will start early at around 6:00 AM. It’s a long and challenging day, but highly rewarding.

Ride With GPS Route

Option 2 – Shortened Ride

Choose a shorter ride with a later start and a shuttle transfer, allowing for a more relaxed pace before taking the ferry and transferring to Beppu.

After cycling, you will meet the Kyushu-based English-speaking guide, then take the ferry and continue towards Beppu.

Please note: The Misaki Port ferry departs at 13:00 and arrives in Beppu at 14:00. To ensure a smooth trip, we plan to finish the ride by 11:30 a.m. and reach Misaki Port without any hassle.

• Transfer by bus from the port to the hotel: 14:00–15:30 )

• Hotel check-in: 15:30–16:00.

• Bike fitting: 16:00–16:30.

• Short cycling session for the day.

• Dinner is scheduled between 17:30–19:30.

Route Overview

Challenging Climbs: Over 1,600 m of elevation gain make this a tough yet rewarding ride.

Steady Pace: An average speed of 16.5 km/h allows for steady riding while managing the climbs.

Surface Variety: Mostly paved roads, with some rough or unpaved stretches that require caution. Short, steep hills may require walking.

Scenic Mix: Enjoy coastal views, quiet countryside, and forested areas throughout the route.

Start among Beppu’s famous steam plumes before following coastal roads along the Seto Inland Sea. The ride is moderate, with gentle climbs, rolling flats, and breezy stretches near fishing villages. Shrines and stone Buddhas guide the path toward Kunisaki, a peninsula known for its spiritual heritage and peaceful atmosphere.

Villa Kunisaki offers an intimate stay, with rustic interiors and local cuisine capturing the essence of the region. This stage feels lighter than previous days yet full of cultural depth, balancing cycling with reflection in one of Kyushu’s most soulful landscapes.

Ride With GPS Route

Route Highlights

Beppu Hot Spring Area: Begin in this culturally rich region, renowned for its thermal activity.

Scenic Coastal Roads: Enjoy stretches along the coastline, with refreshing sea breezes and open views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Countryside Villages: Pass through quiet settlements and farmlands, experiencing authentic rural life in Oita Prefecture.

Rolling Terrain: Moderate climbs totaling approximately 550 m provide variety without being overly demanding, though a few sections may challenge your legs.

Cultural Touches: Notice roadside shrines and statues as you approach Kunisaki, reflecting the area’s spiritual heritage.

Embark on the tour’s longest ride, spanning over 120 kilometers through the valleys and gorges of Yabakei. The day features tunnels, climbs, and descents that push endurance yet reward with stirring views and cultural touches along the way. Ancient temples and quiet villages enrich the journey. For those preferring a shorter distance, support transfers provide flexibility.

Arrive in Hita, a riverside town steeped in history and known for its hot springs. Hinano Sato Sanyokan welcomes with river views, traditional baths, and multi-course meals, making it a fitting end to a demanding day.

Ride With GPS Route

Route Highlights

Historic Temples & Sculptures: Pass by ancient temples and stone statues, reflecting the cultural depth of the peninsula.

Rural & Scenic Countryside: Cycle through quiet villages and lush farmland, enjoying peaceful rural scenery.

Mixed Terrain: Mostly paved roads, with some bike paths, minor roads, and short unpaved or walk-only sections for variety.

Rolling Elevation: Total climbs and descents of approximately 1,700 m provide a rewarding challenge with moderate gradients.

Please note: Today’s ride will cover a challenging 121 km. The first hill is especially demanding, and there will be limited opportunities for breaks. The route also includes several tunnels. Our crew will provide safety instructions and guidance to ensure safe passage. Please be aware that there are no dedicated cycling lanes; however, the city sections will be short.

Depart Hita along rural backroads before gradually approaching the urban energy of Fukuoka. The first half offers peaceful farmland and scenic countryside, easing the rhythm of the ride. Closer to the city, traffic grows, but the sense of achievement builds with each kilometer. Riders can complete the full distance or shorten the route if preferred.

Finish triumphantly at the Ritz Carlton, where modern luxury and Hakata’s vibrant energy provide a celebratory finale. Toast the journey and savor the closing evening, reflecting on the challenges and beauty of Shikoku and Kyushu.

Full Ride – (Approx. 90 km, Hotel to Hotel) Cycle the entire route all the way to your hotel in Fukuoka, including sections through city traffic. Our crew will provide close support throughout the ride.

Ride With GPS Route

Recommended – Shortened Ride (Approx. 50 km)

After approximately 50 km, our guides will stop at a shrine. From this point, we recommend ending the ride due to heavy traffic and reduced enjoyment, with transfers arranged to the hotel. Guests may continue cycling if they wish, but it is not recommended.

Route Highlights

Historical Sites: Ride past landmarks and cultural sites that showcase the region’s rich heritage.

Rural Countryside: Cycle through tranquil villages and lush farmlands, enjoying the peaceful rural lifestyle.

Mixed Terrain: Mostly paved roads, with bike paths and brief unpaved sections for variety and added interest.

Please note: After about 50 km of cycling, the route enters Fukuoka city, where heavy traffic can be expected. You may choose to continue the ride hotel-to-hotel or conclude after 60 km, depending on your preference. The route also includes tunnels, and our crew will provide safety instructions and support to ensure a safe ride.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before preparing for departure. With no scheduled rides, the morning offers freedom for a final walk through Fukuoka’s lively streets or a pause overlooking Hakata Bay. Transfers to the airport make onward travel simple.

The trip ends with memories of ferries, bridges, onsens, and timeless countryside roads. This closing chapter balances calm with gratitude, offering a gentle farewell after a cycling adventure rich in culture, challenge, and unforgettable landscapes.

Transfer to Fukuoka Airport

• Flight: Peach Aviation MM 154, Fukuoka (FUK) → Osaka (KIX)
• Departure: 12:40 hrs, Arrival: 13:55 hrs