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Highlights
Embark on an unforgettable journey through hidden Shikoku gems with e-bikes
Explore hidden gems of Shikoku by e-bike and houseboat, away from tourist crowds.
Cycle through scenic satoyama villages and experience Japan's breathtaking landscapes.
Indulge in local specialties, cuisine, and sake, immersing in unique Japanese culture.
Encounter diverse wildlife while riding through beautiful mountain forests and valleys.
This tour offers an exclusive opportunity to explore the hidden treasures of Japan’s Shikoku, a region often overlooked by international travelers. By combining e-bike excursions and serene houseboat experiences, guests delve into the heart of Japanese culture and nature on this private, guided adventure. From the charming satoyama villages to the majestic mountains, pristine rivers, and quaint architecture, each day promises a new adventure filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural immersion.
Throughout the journey, indulged in authentic Japanese flavors, sampling local delicacies, cuisine, and sake, while fostering meaningful connections with the welcoming locals. From the exhilarating rides along the iconic Shimanami Kaido and UFO Line to the tranquil exploration of the Niyodo River Valley, every moment is tailored to provide an unforgettable experience.
The tour culminates with a vibrant farewell party at the renowned Hirome Market, encapsulating the essence of Kochi's gastronomic delights and leaving travelers with lasting memories of their enchanting journey through Shikoku. The wonders and best kept secrets of Shikoku are yours to discovery. Book your adventure in Japan and experience the magic for yourself!
This tour offers an exclusive opportunity to explore the hidden treasures of Japan’s Shikoku, a region often overlooked by international travelers. By combining e-bike excursions and serene houseboat experiences, guests delve into the heart of Japanese culture and nature on this private, guided adventure. From the charming satoyama villages to the majestic mountains, pristine rivers, and quaint architecture, each day promises a new adventure filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural immersion.
Throughout the journey, indulged in authentic Japanese flavors, sampling local delicacies, cuisine, and sake, while fostering meaningful connections with the welcoming locals. From the exhilarating rides along the iconic Shimanami Kaido and UFO Line to the tranquil exploration of the Niyodo River Valley, every moment is tailored to provide an unforgettable experience.
The tour culminates with a vibrant farewell party at the renowned Hirome Market, encapsulating the essence of Kochi's gastronomic delights and leaving travelers with lasting memories of their enchanting journey through Shikoku. The wonders and best kept secrets of Shikoku are yours to discovery. Book your adventure in Japan and experience the magic for yourself!
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Shikoku Island Discovery Cycling Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Meet at Onomichi Station
Explore the rich history of the Old City and its timeless landmarks, before joining a festive welcome party this evening in Onomichi.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Onomichi
Distance: None
Meals: Dinner
Day 2 Shimanami Road Ride
Shimanami is the most famous cycling road in Japan, and today it’s yours to discover! This 70 km road moves from island to island with a magnificent view of the Seto Inland Sea. On this road, you will pass through lemon groves, sip freshly squeezed lemonade and visit a museum dedicated to the pirates who once ruled this area of the sea, making the most of the Shimanami Kaido.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Imabari
Distance: 60km
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 3 Shikoku Mountains Ride
Climb 700m above sea level on a thrilling mountain ride as you experience and exciting adventure on two wheels today. On arrival, check in early at your hot spring hotel, then soak those muscles and enjoy a relaxing evening in Ino-cho.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ino-cho
Distance: 53km
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 4 UFO Line Ride
Today’s route weaves along the ridges at elevations of 1,300 to 1,700 meters, and is popular as a cycling course with a spectacular view that leads all the way to the sky. On a clear day, you can see not only the Ishizuchi Mountains, but also the Pacific Ocea! In spring, visitors can enjoy azaleas and rhododendrons, in summer, fresh greenery, and in autumn, magnificent foliage.
Enjoy a restful evening at the lodge Shirasa with a spectacular view this evening.
Overnight Location: Mountain Lodge Shirasa
Distance: 31km
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 5 Beautiful Mountain Forest Ride
Today’s route runs along the beautiful mountains on an undulating, pleasant route through forest and countryside. Today’s ride brings with it a great opportunity to spot wildlife, so keep those eyes peeled!
Overnight Location: Green Park Hodono Lodge
Distance: 58km
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 6 Niyodo River Valley
One of the clearest streams in Japan, famous as the “Niyodo Blue.” It is so beautiful and clear that it consistently ranks at the top in water quality nationwide, and shines with a turquoise blue or emerald green color. While riding along this river, visitors will trek through the canyon, ride on a houseboat and enjoy sweets made from the region’s famous Japanese tea.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Ino
Distance: 31km
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 7 Reach the Pacific Ocean and City Ride
Ride along magnificent scenery that changes from green to blue as you cross the Shikoku Mountains and reach the Pacific Ocean. The final stop on the journey is the town of Kochi, famous in Japan for its gastronomy.
On your last night, you will toast at the famous Hirome Market, where all the delicacies of Kochi are gathered.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Kochi
Distance: 44km
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 8 Final Day and Departure
A tour through the castles and the city center of Kochi is the icing on the cake to this epic Japanese adventure.
Afterwards, you’ll be taken to the train station or airport to depart for onwards travels following a heartfelt goodbye!
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Shikoku Island Discovery Cycling Tour Price and Dates
This guided tour is always run as a private tour for your group only.- Group of 4-8: from JPY562500*
Accommodation on Shikoku Island Discovery Cycling Tour
This tour is based in hotels and a mountain lodge. Hotels on this trip are 3 and 4-star and offer modern conveniences that can make this trip more pleasant.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.
What’s Included in the Shikoku Island Discovery Cycling Tour?
Meals
7 breakfasts and 6 dinners are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included. Accommodations before or after the tour are not included but can be added as a supplement.
Transportation during the Tour
Transport for you and your luggage is included in the tour. This does not include your flights but you will be picked up from the airport and transferred at no additional cost.
Also included
- English-speaking guide
- Excursions mentioned in the itinerary
- All activity fees
- E-Bike rental
Not included
- Flights
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Visits not mentioned and personal expenses
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Optional activities or excursions
- How hard is the Shikoku Island Discovery Cycling Tour?
- Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?
- Are meals included on the Shikoku Island Discovery Cycling Tour?
- Do I need insurance?
- How do I get to Onomichi to start this tour?
- Is the Shikoku Island Discovery Cycling Tour in English?
- Where does the Shikoku Island Discovery Cycling Tour end?
- Can I bring my own bike?
- Do I need special vaccines to travel to Japan?
- Are there any travel restrictions for Japan?
We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. This tour is moderately challenging due to varied terrains and elevations, ranging from mountainous roads to coastal paths. However, the scenic views and cultural experiences make it rewarding for adventurous travelers.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
7 breakfasts and 6 dinners are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your travel insurance.
Fly to major airports in Japan, such as Tokyo's Narita or Haneda, Osaka's Kansai, or Hiroshima Airport. From there, you can take a train or bus to Onomichi Station where you will be greeted and from where you’ll be transferred to the starting point of the tour.
Yes, the tour guide is English-speaking.
The tour ends in Kochi.
Yes. If you bring your own bike, it should be a road bike suitable for the demands of the tour.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
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