Shimanami Kaido Setouchi Tour
2021 Tour Dates
Mar 29-Apr 5
Nov 24-Dec 1 ⭐
2022 Tour Dates
Mar 22-29
Nov 23-30
2023 Tour Dates
Mar 21-28
Nov 22-29
Spring Blooms
Fall Colors
⭐ Guaranteed Trip
Difficulty
Level 2 out of 5
Daily Distance: 30-80km
Daily Elevation: 100-800m
See FAQ for Route Levels
Accommodations
Premium Ryokan Hotels
Futon Japanese Beds
Public Hot-Spring Onsen Bath
Learn more about the ryokan experience
Regions
Hiroshima Prefecture
Ehime Prefecture
Shimanami Kaido
Tobishima Kaido
Takehara
Shikoku
Dogo Onsen
Price
$5,650 USD
+ $1,000 USD Single Supplement
+ $750 USD e-Bike Rental
The Setouchi Sea region of Japan is steeped in ancient and modern Japanese history. Some of the most unique aspects of Japanese culture and tradition live here, including the Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage, the Shimanami Kaido, and the ancient Izumo Taisha Shrine.
Since time immemorial, this has been an area of immense historical and political importance. It is also home to the Japan’s historical naval bases, which led to the tragic dropping of the first atomic bomb. Rebuilt upon a vision for a peaceful future, cities like Onomichi and Matsuyama couple their historic machinami (or townscape) with progressive modern culture. The small islands that pepper the sea between Ehime and Hiroshima have become home to some of the most beautiful cafes and bicycle vistas in the world. We’ll explore many of these unique places by way of the Shimanami Kaido, Japan’s much-loved bike route!
Traverse islands on roads and bridges built just for cycling. Relax at a historical seaside onsen. Watch the sun descend behind the mountains in the distance. Experience the Shimanami Kaido, a bright blue path of bike lanes and bridges built across the islands of the Setouchi Sea. Explore the mountains of Ehime, and the famous shrine in the water at Miyajima. Enjoy exquisite meals prepared just for you. We cannot wait for you to soak in the beauty of this often unexplored region!
Itinerary
Your BTJ guides will be ready to meet you at the front of Onomichi Station. After introductions and bike fits, we are off on our scenic ride across the first island of the Shimanami Kaido. Trace the shoreline and explore hidden roads off the beaten path. We’ll enjoy a delicious lunch by the harbor before we take to the hills and climb up to our ryokan perched atop the hills behind town. When you’re ready, meet up with our guides for a beautiful traditional dinner and our first toast to a great week ahead!
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Shimanami Kaido Setouchi Map
- Fully-serviced road bike or hybrid bike, with helmet and accessories. Please inquire in advance if you would like an e-bike (Electric Bike Rental: $550 USD)
- Two BTJ Expert Guides, who will be your cultural ambassadors and road navigators during your cycling experience.
- All accommodations: traditional Japanese Ryokan Hotels.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and all snacks/hydration throughout the tour. - Luggage delivery.
- Support and gear vehicle.