Japan: The Shimanami Experience - Ride Connect Celebrate | 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: Today is ours to shape. One option is to ferry to Okunoshima, also known as Rabbit Island, home to hundreds of friendly rabbits and haunting WWII-era ruins that feel like a set from a movie. Alternatively, if we have the energy, we can ride to Iwagi on the Yumeshima Kaido, an ultra-rural, car-light island route with quiet coves and spectacular sea views. 0 or 19 miles ±500’.

Day 7: We cycle across the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge today, Japan’s longest suspension bridge, for a jaw-dropping view of  the swirling Seto Sea. The ride features coastal paths, rustic fishing villages, and lively roadside stations where we’ll pause for snacks and sightseeing. Arrive in Japan’s famous hot spring city of Matsuyama and settle in for a two-night stay. 45 miles ±755’.

Day 8: Today is a chance to relax and explore at your own pace. Take a chairlift to the imposing Matsuyama Castle, one of the last original feudal castles in Japan. Visit the atmospheric Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring bathhouse, or go shopping for renowned Imabari towels and pearls in the city’s grand department stores. A light spin around town is optional. 10 miles ±100’.

Day 9: Today’s ride takes us back to Imabari, offering one more chance to soak in views from the bridges and small towns we passed earlier in the week. With a relaxed pace, we should have time to prepare for tomorrow’s spectacular group ride. 35 miles ±492’.

Day 10: It’s here! Join thousands of cyclists from around the world in the Cycling Shimanami 2026 event. Roads are closed to cars, locals cheer from sidewalks waving flags, and photographers line the route. We’ll ride the 44-mile course back to Onomichi, experiencing the Shimanami Kaido like never before. The energy is contagious, the scenery spectacular, and the camaraderie unforgettable. 44 miles ±1476’.

Day 11: Our final day of cycling takes us to Abuto Kanon, a stunning cliffside shrine dedicated to women’s health, strength, and safety. A meaningful place to reflect on the journey. Then, choose your final adventure: visit the picture-perfect fishing village of Tomonoura or ride the quiet island loops of Tajima and Yokoshima. Our farewell dinner tonight will celebrate new friendships and unforgettable experiences. 44 miles ±1476’.

Day 12: 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.