Japan E-Bike Tour: Beyond the Shimanami Kaido

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: Today, we ride from Onomichi toward Omishima, following the Flower Line bike trail to Shiratakiyama. This sacred mountaintop is home to more than 700 stone Buddhas created more than 1,000 years ago. When Christianity was outlawed in Japan, it’s believed that hidden Christians found this place so holy that they secretly carved crosses into some of the Buddhas overlooking the sea and prayed here.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility and sweeping views from the summit before heading to our lodging for the next two nights. Dinner will be a traditional barbecue featuring the local produce. 28 miles ±1187’.

Day 4: We begin the day 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 Shimanami Kaido. 46 miles ±2493’

Day 5: Today we head toward Munakata Port, passing the distinctive Toyo Ito Museum along the way and then boarding a ferry to Osakikamijima.

When we first discovered this island, we wondered why more people didn’t visit. Life moves slowly here among old wooden buildings, abandoned factories from another era, and quiet fishing communities. It offers a glimpse into a side of Japan that few visitors ever experience.

This evening, relax in an outdoor onsen (traditional Japanese bath) overlooking the sea before enjoying a multi-course kaiseki dinner. Traditionally prepared with seasonal ingredients, the meal is a cultural feast for all the senses. 31 miles ±1131’.

Day 6: After a loop around sleepy Osakikamijima island, we’ll ferry back to the mainland to visit the old town of Takehara. Explore its historic streets, browse local craft shops, discover antique kimonos, and enjoy lunch at your leisure before returning to the island. 

Back at the hotel, another opportunity awaits to soak in the outdoor spring-fed onsen overlooking the sea. 26 miles ±656’.

Day 7: After ferrying back to Munakata Port, we ride toward Setoda, one of the most beloved stops along the Shimanami Kaido. Guests often say they wish they had more time here, and today you'll understand why.

Spend the afternoon wandering this peaceful town at your own pace. Enjoy an espresso while watching ferries come and go from the harbor, browse a shop featuring cycling gear unique to the Shimanami Kaido, and visit the colorful and slightly quirky Kosanji Temple.

Dinner tonight is a local favorite: Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki served at a small, family-run restaurant. 19 miles ±1148.

Day 8: Our final touring day begins with a special cultural experience. Under the guidance of Takata-san, whose family has been making traditional wagashi sweets for more than 400 years, we'll learn the art of crafting these beautiful seasonal confections.

The experience concludes with a mini tea ceremony as Takata-san carefully prepares matcha and shares the rituals that have accompanied Japanese tea culture for centuries. Following the hands-on workshop, we bike back to Onomichi for our final celebration together. 22 miles ±1160’.

Day 9: 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.