Japan: Island Hopping the Shimanami Kaido | Bike Tour

Day 1: Nestled on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea, the port town of Onomichi charms with its mix of temples, narrow hillside paths, and stunning water views. After checking into our starting hotel, we’ll gather for introductions and a welcome. We’ll enjoy our first taste of Japanese hospitality at dinner together and then get a good night’s rest— our adventure begins tomorrow!

Day 2: Today, we get our e-bikes delivered and fitted before hopping on a 10-minute ferry across the Onomichi Strait to Mukaishima Island. We’ll warm up with a scenic loop around Mukaishima and Iwashi, two charming islands linked by quiet coastal roads. We’ll stop to visit a beachside shrine with a striking red torii gate standing in the sea. We’ll sample artisan ice cream and marvel at the peaceful views and cliffside vistas. Dinner tonight is on your own – perhaps some famous Onomichi ramen? 23 miles ±755’.

Day 3: We officially begin the Shimanami Kaido today, cycling from Onomichi to Setoda via Shiratakiyama, a viewpoint lined with hundreds of stone kami (gods) statues. The climb is optional but offers one of the most breathtaking panoramas of the island chain.

We’ll ride along the “flower line,” with stops to enjoy daifuku confections and a refreshing scoop of yuzu gelato. Tonight’s lodging features an onsen, a traditional Japanese bathhouse for a rejuvenating soak. 31 miles ±1477’.

Day 4: This morning, we ferry to Sagishima, a serene, off-the-beaten-path island known for citrus groves and an amazing bakery. We'll enjoy a picnic lunch on a quiet beach with the sounds of waves as our backdrop. 

Afterward, we return to Setoda with the option to ride a loop of Koneshima or simply to unwind in the onsen. Don’t miss browsing Via Shimanami, a boutique cycling shop with some of the best jerseys in Japan. 18 miles ±262’.

Day 5: Today, we take the scenic “inoshishi path” (wild boar trail) through wooded backroads to reach Omishima. Along the way, we’ll stop at the Tatara Cyclist Sanctuary for shopping, lunch, and stunning photo ops under the Tatara Bridge. Highlights include a visit to the revered Oyamazumi Shrine, where sea gods are said to protect travelers, and a museum of samurai armor awaits. Tonight, we enjoy a traditional barbecue featuring seasonal local produce under the stars. 26 miles ±765’.

Day 6: We begin with a stunning ride across the 2.5 mile Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, Japan’s longest suspension bridge offering unforgettable views of the swirling Seto Sea below. Those up for a challenge can tackle the optional 1.8-mile climb to Kirosan Observatory, one of the most dramatic viewpoints on the entire Kaido. 

After soaking in the views, we’ll descend toward Imabari, with stops in small villages to snack and take in the scenery. We’ll toast the day with gourmet pizza from a beloved Aussie-Japanese fusion spot. 37 miles ±2297’ (including the optional climb.)

Day 7: Our last big ride begins with a ferry to Ikina Port, gateway to the Yumeshima Kaido a quieter, rural route some consider even more beautiful than the Shimanami. We’ll wind through sleepy island hamlets, citrus farms, and scenic seacoasts before riding to Innoshima. We’ll stop to pay respects at the Ooyama Bicycle Shrine before heading to Onomichi for a farewell dinner when we’ll celebrate our unforgettable memories with our new friends. 40 miles ±721’.

Day 8: Savor a final Japanese breakfast, grab any last souvenirs, and take time for goodbye hugs before heading off to your next destination. Whether it’s onward travel in Japan or the journey home, we’ll send you on your way with full hearts and wheels still spinning from the experience. 0 miles.