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Experience the best of Shikoku in Japan on this fully guided 8-day bike and kayak adventure, combining the world-renowned Shimanami Kaido bike route with portions of the sacred Shikoku pilgrimage, offering a perfect blend of activity and discovery. Pedal through tranquil seaside towns, visit ancient castles, and explore sacred shrines along the way. Kayak through serene coves, immersing yourself in Japan’s natural beauty, and unwind in traditional onsens for the ultimate relaxation. This carefully crafted experience highlights the best of Shikoku’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, balancing adventure with moments of zen.
Begin your journey in the beautiful port town of Onomichi, where a ferry will spirit you away to the famed Shimanami Kaido. From there, you will cycle through whispering bamboo forests and along pristine coastal paths, culminating in ...
Begin your journey in the beautiful port town of Onomichi, where a ferry will spirit you away to the famed Shimanami Kaido. From there, you will cycle through whispering bamboo forests and along pristine coastal paths, culminating in a breathtaking crossing of the stunning Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge to Shikoku Island. After exploring the historic city of Matsuyama, you’ll pedal into the cloud-kissed town of Yusuhara, the architectural haven and hometown of the celebrated Kengo Kuma. Immerse yourself in tradition as you learn the delicate art of Washi paper-making at Kanikoya, creating your own timeless masterpiece. Your path then winds along the magnificent Pacific Coast through Shimato, where you can kayak in crystalline waters for a glimpse of vibrant ocean life, find serenity at the ancient Iwamoto Temple, and enjoy a gentle cruise down the majestic Shimanto River. Journey through the charming fishing town of Susaki, ascending to a secluded nature reserve before pausing for reflection at the tranquil Blue Dragon Temple. Finally, coast into the lively city of Kochi and, should time permit, visit its historic castle, a proud monument to Japan's feudal past, before your grand adventure concludes in the timeless elegance of Kyoto.
This package includes 7 nights of accommodation in a mix of hotels and traditional Japanese ryokans and inns on a twin share basis, each handpicked for its unique location, design, taste, and commitment to cleanliness. To honour an authentic Japanese experience, your stays at ryokans feature shared bathroom facilities, offering a traditional and communal atmosphere. With all specified meals, transfers, and your bicycle and helmet included, you can ride in absolute comfort, guided by our experienced team of local professionals.
Spirit away through Japan's heartland, where sacred shrines and ancient castles await your discovery by bike and kayak. Let the serene coves of Shikoku and the legendary Shimanami Kaido awaken your spirit.
This itinerary can be converted into a private tour with the option to upgrade to luxury or boutique accommodations. Contact us for a bespoke itinerary and quote.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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Approx. 42 km (26 miles), 3-5 hours biking
Konnichiwa, welcome to Japan! We begin this adventure in the charming little town of Onomichi, easily accessible from Osaka or Kyoto using the shinkansen (bullet train). Your tour leader, a local expert and total legend, will be there to welcome you, along with the other guests, whom you’ll get to know well over the next 8 days.
It’s time to get this show on the road. We’ll get you set up on your bike, ensuring you’re safe, comfortable, and confident. Join the ferry that’ll take us to the start of the world-famous Shinmanami Kaido route. We’ll clear the small ferry port town, then the ride kicks off properly with a tranquil pedal through bamboo forests that are straight out of a zen daydream, followed by a coastal route with just enough to make us feel like we’ve earned those epic views.
Enjoy a delicious lunch — Onomichi-style ramen? Sashimi straight from the Seto Inland Sea? Either way, it’ll be something fresh and seasonal!
Mount your bikes as we roll into our first destination, a quaint town originally built on salt production. After a day of exploring, check into our Ryokan for a cozy night. Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that allow you to experience what it's like to live in a Japanese home. Your particular accommodation, Yunube Setoda, is a relatively new establishment, opened in 2021 by the founder of Aman Resorts. It fuses modern, minimalist designs with traditional touches, giving you the best of both worlds.
Dinner is a short walk away. We’ll tuck into delicious seasonal local fare and, of course, try to commit everyone’s name to memory. The adventure continues tomorrow, but for now, kick off your trainers and dive into some well-earned slumber.
Approx. 59 km (37 miles), 4-6 hours biking
Enjoy a cup of coffee, jump on your bikes, and pedal to Ikuchi Island. A little climb to the hilltop will reward us with vistas that make you want to hang a hammock and live here forever. We’ll glide over a series of bridges with panoramic views of the Seto Sea, dotted with islands stretching as far as the eye can see.
The lunch setting today is right by the ocean. Dig into some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted while your tour leader shares the story of the pirates who once called this spot their hideout. We head back to our bikes, crossing the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, the second-longest suspension bridge in the world. Stretching a whopping 2.5 miles (4 km). Coasting into Imabari, we’ve officially crossed the Shinmanami Kaido. On Shikoku Island, the vibe shifts. The pace is a little slower, the streets a little quieter, and time feels like it’s in no rush at all.
We join a train ride to Matsuyama, just an hour away. As we step out of the station, we are greeted by a burst of colour from the iconic orange trams and the sight of temples and castles peeking out from the hills. It’s like old-school Japan meets modern city, and it’s impossible not to appreciate the contrast.
We head to Cadeo Hotel Matsuyama Okaido, our home for the rest of the day. Nestled in the vibrant Okaido shopping district, offering easy access to major city attractions. Once we check into our hotel, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Unwind in the onsen or enjoy an ice-cold Asahi. On the menu tonight is a lip-smacking traditional Japanese feast. After which we’ll indulge in sake tasting. From dry to sweet and everything in between, after tonight, you’ll know exactly what to order with all your meals.
Approx 67 km (42 miles), 4-6 hours biking
Rise and shine! We make an early start to avoid the traffic and catch the train to our very first inland ride. Picture this: quiet roads following the Hijikawa River, with striking trees and the freshest, most forestry air. It’s peaceful, serene, and totally Japan – but hold on to your handlebars, because once we hit the headwaters, we climb out of the valley and roll into the charming village of Yusuhara. World-renowned architect Kengo Kuma fell in love with Yusuhara and made it his canvas. His distinctive style blends seamlessly with the surroundings, using wood and natural materials to create spaces that feel part of nature rather than just placed in it.
We cycle past cozy houses with veggie gardens, tiny shrines tucked between trees, and an unmistakable smell of wood and earth. It’s hard not to feel like we’re in some secret little pocket of Japan that only a lucky few get to experience. The vibe is relaxed, hospitable, and enchanting. The people here are as warm as the sun on your face, and the town feels like it comes straight out of a fairytale.
Settle in at Kumo Uno Annex Hotel, Marche Yusuhara, your tranquil boutique hotel. The structure itself is art, designed by the famous architect Kengo Kuma, and is renowned for its unique design that creates a forest-like atmosphere in the city.
Tonight, we savour dinner at a small local eatery. The menus change with the seasons and locations, but you might find dishes like hoto noodles (Japan’s answer to veggie-packed stew), grilled river fish, rustic soba, or tangy tsukemono (pickled veggies).
Approx 25 km (16 miles), 2-3 hours biking
Our morning activity is paper making. Cycle up to Kamikoya, the homestead where a man named Rogeri has dedicated his life to mastering the ancient art of Washi paper-making. Set against a gorgeous backdrop and scenic valley, we chat about how Washi wasn’t just paper — it was the backbone of imperial Japan’s business deals, secret letters, and fancy scrolls. Once you’ve made your masterpiece, the family will let it cure, and it’ll be on its way home with you by the end of the tour.
The afternoon is yours to do as you please. Soak in the local onsen, explore the nearby library (highly recommended), or round up with your fellow travellers for a friendly game of Rummy!
Approx 73 km (45 miles), 4-6 hours biking
This morning, bid farewell to our mountain paradise. Back on our bikes, we make our way to the Pacific Coast, pedalling through the Shimanto region. The valleys are lush, the roads are blissfully empty, and the creeks and rivers bubble like nature’s own soundtrack.
After a late-morning climb, we have a wellness retreat for lunch, set along a raging mountain river with tasty food, scenic views, and great company! Following that, we are back on our bikes rolling into our clifftop paradise, and reaping the fruits of our labour as we are treated to our first glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. We arrive at the Kuroshio Honjin, also known as the “Inn of Bonito”, a renowned hot spring in and where we’ll be spending the next two nights. Hop into the inn’s natural onsen to soak the day away with views of rocky outcrops and a sea that stretches on forever.
Tonight we relish a Kaiseki feast. Fresh, seasonal goodness, plated like art, and served as a multi-course dining experience. Then, kick off your trainers, curl up on your futon, and settle in for some night’s rest.
Approx 49 km (30 miles), 3-5 hours biking
This morning, grab a cup of coffee and let’s get moving. If the weather is favourable, we take a break from the bikes (for a little while) and head out for a morning of kayaking. We paddle through sheltered coves, surrounded by rocky outcrops and mountains in the distance — if you get lucky, we might spot some ocean life, perhaps dolphins and sea turtles.
We pause to grab a bite before getting back on our bikes for a loop ride. Next up: Iwamoto Temple. This temple is number 37 on the iconic Shikoku Pilgrimage. What makes it so special? Besides being part of a centuries-old spiritual journey, it’s also a head-turner, literally. The ceiling is decked out with 575 paintings, from serene Buddhist imagery to Marilyn Monroe (shocker, we know). We coast down to the Shimanto River, where life moves at a very slow pace. After soaking in the serenity, we pedal back to our hilltop oasis, leaving you with the afternoon to do whatever feels right. Take a dip in the indoor pool, unwind in the sauna, or curl up with your favorite novel.
Come dinnertime, it’s another love affair with Susaki’s finest. Depending on what’s fresh and seasonal, you might be tucking into grilled mackerel with a cozy bowl of miso soup, or sharing a bubbling hot pot of sukiyaki. Pair it all with a chilled glass of umeshu (plum wine) or a refreshing glass of Melon soda, and you have a great feast.
Today, we ride cliffside roads with the ocean smashing into black rocks below. It’s the kind of view that makes you forget how to breathe. Expect awe-inspiring moments, and pit stops to let your jaw catch up with your eyes.
Riding through Susaki, we climb our way up (not as daunting as it sounds) to a nature reserve that’s a birdwatcher’s dream. For lunch, we make a pit stop at the Blue Dragon temple, one of the 88 pilgrimage spots on Shikoku. We rub met pilgrims, soak in the serenity, and nibble on some seriously delicious bites. Refuel and recharged, we coast into Kochi with a blissful downhill ride along the river. We roll right into the heart of the food and dining district, where things are about to get mouthwatering good. Settle into your accommodation, the Dormy Inn, an esteemed, 3-star hotel seated next to the Obiyamachi shopping street and a short walk from the famous Sunday Market.
Tonight’s the grand finale — our last supper together. This right here is why we are often referred to as food tours on bikes. We hop from one delicious bite to the next, sampling small plates, snacks, and maybe just a bit too much sake.
Savour a last breakfast before your final adventure, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey. Hit snooze or join us for one last optional stroll to one of the 12 surviving Japanese castles — a fortress that’s weathered fires, wars, and centuries of history. Built in the early 1600s, it was home to the powerful Yamauchi lords.
Then, say sayonara to your tour leader and cycling crew, they’ll see you off as you hop on the train for the journey to Kyoto.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
- The departure point is Onomichi. You tour starts with a pickup at 9.30 a.m at 9-1 Higashigoshocho, Onomichi, Hiroshima, 722-0036
- The finish point is Kyoto. Your tour ends at Kyoto at 3 p.m.
Shikoku's climate varies across the seasons, offering unique experiences year-round. In spring, temperatures average around 15°C, perfect for cycling the Shimanami Kaido or walking along the Pilgrimage route surrounded by cherry blossoms. Summer is warm and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, making coastal areas and shaded forest trails great options to explore. Autumn brings cooler temperatures ranging from 18-22°C and clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities and longer journeys. Winters are mild, with temperatures between 5-10°C and little to no snow along the coastal areas, providing a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for travellers.
In Japan, we’re in for a smooth ride as almost all the roads are paved. We’ll mostly cycle along smaller roads and quiet country routes. Over eight days, you'll cover roughly 237 mi (382 km) in total — with daily rides ranging from a breezy 16 mi (25 km) warm-up to a scenic 47 mi (75 km) spin. Expect some longer stretches and uphill climbs (up to 4,291 ft (1,308 m)), meaning you’ll need a good level of fitness if you’re on a standard bike. Longer rides and/or more challenging terrain. E-bikes advised for casual riders.
This tour's difficulty is rated 4 out of 5.
Level 1: This tour is Riding Level 1, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 15 mi (24 km) per day — and usually no more than around 25 mi (40 km) — with plenty of breaks along the way. The pace is leisurely, and the roads are mostly flat.
Level 2: This tour is Riding Level 2, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 25 mi (40 km) per day — and usually no more than around 35 mi (56 km) — with regular snack stops and photo breaks along the way. Roads are mostly flat, with occasional short climbs.
Level 3: This tour is Riding Level 3, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 30 mi (48 km) per day — and usually no more than around 45 mi (72 km) — with occasional breaks to soak up the sights. The terrain is more varied, with some uphill climbs, so you’ll need to be generally fit if you’re on a standard bike.
Level 4: This tour is Riding Level 4, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 40 mi (64 km) per day — and usually no more than 55 mi (88 km) — with occasional breaks to recharge. Expect some longer stretches and demanding uphill climbs (up to 5000 ft (1,524 m) a day), meaning you’ll need a good level of fitness if you’re on a standard bike.
Level 5: This tour is Riding Level 5, which means you can expect to cycle at least 40 mi (64 km) per day, and sometimes up to 60 mi (97 km) in a day. Expect long stretches and more demanding uphill climbs in mountainous areas, with occasional breaks to admire the view. On a standard bike, you’ll need to be up for a challenge!
Bikes: On this tour, you’ll be riding a Cannondale CX3, or Cannondale Trail Neo2 e-bike.
Helmet: Don't worry about squeezing your helmet into your suitcase. We've got clean, disinfected helmets waiting with your bike.
Handlebar bag: To carry all your essentials.
E-bikes: Additional fee. E-bikes are available to boost your pedal power
Accommodation: Our accommodations are the ultimate havens. Beds that feel like sinking into whipped cream, spaces to chill and s-t-r-e-t-c-h out those limbs, and the promise of a dip or soak in most locations to wash away the day. In cities, expect charming 3-4 star properties. Off the beaten path, we select the best places available — cleanliness is non-negotiable, and you'll always have the comfort of air conditioning and a private bathroom. Here’s three iconic types of accommodations in Japan that make it more than just a destination.
Food: If you plan your vacations around food, then you’ll be happy to hear that we’re basically food tours on bikes (not as messy as it sounds). In Japan, the food is fresh and seasonal. You might find hot bowls of Onomichi ramen that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about noodles, fresh-off-the-boat seafood, and tempura so crispy you’ll be crunching with joy. Toss in a few sips of sake, a side of pickled veggies, and you’ve got yourself a feast fit for an emperor (or... just a very happy bike tourer). Got any dietary requirements? Let us know, and we’ll make sure your taste buds are as happy as your wheels!
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.