Shikoku Island: Coastal Charm of Southwest Japan

Day 1: Onomichi -  Shimanami Kaido Route - Setoda, 26 mi. (42 km)
Day 2: Setoda - Matsuyama,, 40 mi. (65 km)
Day 3: Unomachi - Yusuhara, 39 mi. (63 km)
Day 4: Washi paper making &  Yusuhara loop ride, 16 mi. (25 km)
Day 5: Yusuhara - Kure Bay, 45 mi. (73 km)
Day 6: Kayaking & Kure loop ride, 32 mi. (51 km)
Day 7: Kure Bay - Kochi, 41 mi. (66 km)
Day 8: Kochi

Day 1: Onomichi - Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route - Setoda, 26 mi. (42 km)
The group will meet at 9:30 am at the Green Hill Hotel in the charming town of Onomichi, easily accessible by the renowned Shinkansen or Bullet Train from Kansai International Airport or Itami International Airport in Osaka. (Please note that the overnight in Onomichi is not included in the tour price.) At the start of the adventure, riders find themselves cycling in secluded bamboo forests but soon discover a breathtaking coastal route on the iconic Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route. The terrain is undulating but not overwhelming. An overnight stay is arranged in a welcoming Ryokan, where dinner awaits at a local eatery nearby.

Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Yubune Setoda

Day 2: Setoda - Matsuyama, 40 mi. (65 km)
The day begins with a leisurely coffee at a nearby bike cafe, setting the tone for the road ahead. First up, an ascent to the hilltop on Ikuchi Island, surrounded by citrus farms. Several bridges with breathtaking views of the Seto Sea and scattered islands are crossed, making the ride as scenic as it is invigorating.

Upon arrival in the town of Imabari, the completion of the Shimanami route and entrance onto Shikoku Island is officially marked. A one-hour train ride takes riders to Matsuyama, the largest city in the prefecture, characterized by vibrant orange trams navigating main streets and temples and castles adorning the surrounding hills.

Tonight's dinner venue offers a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine. While the food is a focal point, the true highlight lies in the tastings of Japan's renowned drink - sake. Participants have the opportunity to sample a variety of sakes, ranging from dry to sweet and everything in between. Insights into sake's unique place in Japanese history are shared, ensuring that by the end of the night, participants will be well-versed in choosing the perfect sake to accompany all future meals!

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinner
Accommodation: Candeo Hotel

Day 3: Unomachi - Yusuhara, 39 mi. (63 km)
A smoothly orchestrated one-hour train ride brings participants to the starting point of the inland ride. Following the Hijikawa River, serene roads that gracefully trace the contours of the valley are navigated. Upon reaching the headwaters, a climb out of the valley unfolds, leading to the enchanting village of Yusuhara.

This town has garnered international recognition, with acclaimed architect Kengo Kuma designing and sponsoring various buildings and public structures. For tonight's dinner, participants enjoy the intimate atmosphere of a small, neighborhood eatery.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinner
Accommodation: Marche Yusuhara

Day 4: Washi paper making & Yusuhara loop ride, 16 mi. (25 km)
The cycling leads participants to the homestead known as Kamikoya, where a local artisan has dedicated his life to mastering the art of Washi Papermaking. Within this family-run establishment, participants have the opportunity to participate in a papermaking workshop activity. With a mountainous backdrop behind Kamikoya and panoramic views of the valley below, this hands-on experience is truly one to cherish.

The return ride to Yusuhara is a descent, and you arrive in town by lunchtime. The afternoon is left free so that you to be explored!

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinner
Accommodation: Marche Yusuhara

Day 5: Yusuhara - Kure Bay, 45 mi. (73 km)
Leaving the mountain village behind, the Shimanto region is traversed to reach the Pacific Coast. The ride offers another wonderful day of lush green valleys, nearly deserted roads in excellent condition, and bubbling creeks and rivers. There is a sustained climb late morning that is particularly beautiful in the Fall, with autumn colors at the top which are visually stunning.

Lunch today is at a wellness retreat set by a raging river. You then push on along a plateau. After a final descent to complete the ride, the first glimpse of the Pacific Ocean is visible.

Tonight's accommodation is in a wonderful clifftop property. A dip in the excellent natural onsen to soak muscles is recommended. "Onsen" is a Japanese term for a hot spring or communal bathing facility of natural hot spring water, a traditional Japanese practice.

The view here expands over rocky outcrops towards the dark blue ocean landscape. A traditional meal is served tonight, and participants can retire to a comfortable Japanese futon-style room for a sound night’s sleep.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinner
Accommodation: Kuroshio Honjin

Day 6: Kayaking & Kure loop ride, 32 mi. (51 km)
Today's itinerary features a break from cycling, weather permitting. Join local kayaking enthusiasts who have scouted the sheltered coves and bays nearby. Expect to paddle rocky outcrops with a backdrop of distant mountains, and the possibility of encountering ocean life.

It is back on the bikes in the afternoon to pedal southward to Iwamoto Temple, the 37th stop on the Henro Pilgrimage route. Nestled on a wooded hillside outside the town of Kubokawa, this temple boasts ornate paintings on the ceiling of its main prayer hall. Continue onward towards the Shimanto River, a significant fishery and the largest river in the area. The return to lodging is via a different route, rounding off the day's exploration.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinner
Accommodation: Kuroshio Honjin

Day 7: Kure Bay - Kochi, 41 mi. (66 km)
Today you begin on a solitary road hugging the cliffs. The ocean crashes onto black rocks below, creating a mesmerizing scene. The sand's composition accentuates the blue hues of the water. The town of Susaki is passed through, and a climb up to a nature reserve along the ridge is made. With a perfect riding gradient and an abundance of birdlife, this stretch adds another layer of magnificence. A break for lunch near another of the 88 temples, known as the Blue Dragon, often frequented by pilgrims on their walking route.

The final stretch leads to Kochi, enjoying a pleasant descent and a ride along the river.

Tonight marks the last evening together, and a progressive dinner with some sampling is in order. Perhaps, the evening will be capped off with a visit to another sake bar (or two) as the final moments of the journey are savored.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, & dinner
Accommodation: Dormy Inn

Day 8: Kochi
Today marks the official end of the tour. Before onward travel, the group explores the old town and visits one of the twelve Japanese castles that have withstood the tests of fires, wars, and post-Japanese feudal upheavals. Erected in the early 17th century, this castle once served as the seat of the Yamauchi lords, governing the surrounding region. Designated as "important cultural properties," the castle buildings now house local treasures and historical objects.

Back to the hotel to refresh and get your belongings in order before the taxi ride to the train station at 5 pm. Here it’s time to say farewell to your fellow adventurers and guide. 

Perhaps you would like to extend your stay? See below for a post-tour extension suggestion.

Trip Extensions

You will be accommodated in 3 to 4-star hotels and traditional Ryokans. On each day’s details, the selected hotel is listed.

Bicycles

Touring Bicycle

Cannondale Quick 1 Disc

• Alloy frame
• Shimano 105 drivetrain
• 22-speed
• Cannondale Fitness Ergo Double Density saddle
• Schwalbe Lugano 700x32c tires
• Shimano hydraulic disc brake,

Electric Bicycle

Yamaha E-Bike

• Aluminum frame
• Shimano Sora trigger shifter
• 9 speed
• Yamaha 500Wh battery - 4 hour charge time
• Motor: 250W (Nominal), 500W (Max)
• Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brake
• Yamaha Path Plus Saddle

Road Bike

Cannondale Synapse Carbon Ultegra SE

• Carbon Frame & Fork
• 700c aluminum wheels
• Weight: 18.3 lbs