Included: An experienced English-speaking cycling guide with extensive local knowledge of the area 6-day guided cycling tour in Shikoku, Japan Support van with snacks and hydration Luggage transfers Accommodation for 5 nights in quality Japanese inns and hotels* All meals from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 6 (excluding dinner on Day 2), detailed in the itinerary Helmet Cross/hybrid bike rental (Giant, Specialized, and Marin bikes) Bike maintenance if needed Transportation during the adventure Add-ons (available to add at checkout): Single occupancy room Bike rental upgrade (aluminium road bike, carbon road bike, or e-bike) Not included: Flights to Japan & airport transfers Accommodations prior to and after the tour Dinner on Day 2 Mandatory i nsurance — available to add at checkout Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

For this cycling tour in Shikoku, Japan, you need to have a very good level of fitness . You can expect 50-85 km (30-50 miles) of cycling per day , often in steep terrain, for 6 consecutive days. This is a trip meant for frequent cyclists who don’t hate hills—you can find day-by-day distances and elevation gains in the itinerary, but the most you’ll climb within a day is 1,500 m (4,920 ft) . There are a few climbs with the steepest gradient being 13%. The average gradient of the climbs is 5-7%. For more bike adventures in Japan, click here !

What is the accommodation like?

You will spend 5 nights in a mixture of Japanese inns and business hotels . Your guiding company has handpicked the accommodation using their extensive knowledge of the area. Sea views, mountain inns, hot springs (onsen) resorts —they’ve got everything covered, allowing you to experience the best that this area has to offer! The price of the tour is based on a shared twin room. However, if you’d like to have a room to yourself, you can add the single supplement to your booking upon checkout! Please note that it may not always be possible to meet all requests for single rooms.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s what you’ll need for your daily outings: Comfortable riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material Sneakers or sport shoes Breathable outside layer or jacket Sunglasses Plenty of water, water bottle or hydration bladder Daypack with snacks Biking gloves are optional but recommended Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season—layers are best. Make sure to also bring some comfy clothes for evenings and free time.

This guided cycling tour in Shikoku, Japan covers the cost of rental cross/hybrid bikes and helmets —your guide uses Giant, Specialized, and Marin bikes. If you’d prefer to rent an e-bike or a road bike (carbon or aluminum) at an additional cost , you can add it to your trip at checkout. Alternatively, if you bring your own bike, you can send it to the guided (this can be done at an airport if you are travelling to Japan) and they will bring it to the start of the tour. They can then send it back to you (or send it to your departure airport for you to pick up if you are travelling to Japan). Let us know upon checkout!

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: The usual client-to-guide ratio is 6:1 . It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants. Solo travelers are welcome —they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee. Cycling in Shikoku can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Is a single occupancy room available?

The price for this hidden Japan tour is based on twin-share rooms , but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee . You can add it to your booking at checkout. Solo travelers are welcome —they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.

Getting there and meeting location

Onomichi, the starting point of the tour, is 30 minutes from Fukuyama, 90 minutes from Hiroshima, and 70 minutes from Okayama. To get to Onomichi, most people fly into Tokyo International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) . From there, you can either take a shuttle or a train to Onomichi, or take a flight to the Hiroshima Airport. From there, you can hop on a bus in the direction of Fukuyama and transfer to the “Flower Liner” bus at the Takasaka bus stop to reach Onomichi Station. You will meet your guide at Onomichi Station in the morning of Day 1, meaning that you have to fly in at least a day earlier (and arrange accommodation accordingly).

Safety measures and insurance

Insurance is mandatory for this tour. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

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Cycling along the celebrated Shimanami Kaido between Honshu and Shikoku.

SHIKOKU | JAPAN

Cycling Tour of Hidden Japan on Shikoku Island

Top Choice

6 days | Moderate | 4.94

From $2,950 ()

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Cycling in Japan reveals a side of the country few ever see—quiet islands, sacred valleys, ancient shrines, and everyday life unfolding far from the city rush. Over 6 days and 250 miles in Shikoku, we’ll follow mountain roads to Shinto temples, roll along coastal paths guarded by traditional castles, and cross a world-famous expressway linking five islands over the Seto Inland Sea. Each day brings encounters with regional culture and cuisine, from seafood markets to steaming bowls of udon, along with stays in character-filled inns and hot-spring retreats that reflect the spirit of their surroundings. Guided by local experts, this journey blends rich traditions, heartfelt hospitality, and unforgettable cycling through Japan’s hidden corners.

Miho

Adventure Highlights

This is authentic Japan: A genuine, non–cookie-cutter journey through villages, valleys, hot springs, and everyday life in Shikoku
Ride the Shimanami Kaido: We'll cycle Japan’s most iconic bike route across five islands and soaring bridges over the Seto Inland Sea
Soulful, peaceful stays: Overnight in traditional inns, hot-spring retreats, and scenic coastal hotels chosen for charm & quality

Duration

6 days

Season

March through November

Group size

Up to 12 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Spend 6 days cycling in search of authentic Japan in Shikoku, the country's smallest major island. Start off by traversing the scenic expressway of Shimanami Kaido and cross tens of miles each day witnessing the clash of nature, tradition, and modernity in Japanese cities, villages, sacred places, and unspoiled wilderness. Join a tour laced with traditional cuisine, quality lodging, and, of course, great cycling under the supervision of your expert local guide.

Day 1: Konnichiwa!

Shimanami Bridge, part of Shimanami Kaido, crossed during the Shikoku cycling trip.

Make your way to Onomichi Station in the morning—accessible by bullet train and close to Hiroshima Airport. Our guided adventure starts with cycling over the world-famous Shimanami Kaido—a 37-mile expressway open for bikes connecting the biggest Japanese island of Honshu to the smallest of the main four islands—Shikoku. We’ll cover 5 islands and bridges, relish the scenic landscapes, and experience the culture of the Seto Inland Sea. Lodging on Day 1 is a Japanese hotel in a stunning location nestled by the shoreline.

Meals: Lunch and dinner
Cycling: 67 km (41.6 mi)
Elevation gain: 500 m (1,640 ft)
Accommodation: Japanese hotel

Day 2: Shimanami Kaido to Matsuyama

After finishing the Shimanami Kaido route, we will head down the coast to the historic city of Matsuyama, the capital of the prefecture of Ehime. Cycling through the city, we’ll be able to view an impressive 17th-century Japanese castle. We continue cycling towards our hotel in the Dogo area. Wander about the Dogo Onsen area famous for its traditional hot springs. You’ll have ample time to explore the city, and you can go to one of the restaurants for dinner (at your own arrangement).

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Cycling: 63 km (39.1 mi)
Elevation gain: 800 m (2,625 ft)
Accommodation: Business hotel

Day 3: Matsayuma to Nakatsu Gorge

Cycling on Day 3 starts along the streets of Matsuyama, before heading out of the city and climbing up the mountains following stunning roads surrounded by unspoiled nature. We will ycle along a meandering river before reaching a remote gorge—inside of which is a hot spring hotel where we will stay for the night!

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 75 km (46.6 mi)
Elevation gain: 1,200 m (3,940 ft)
Accommodation: Japanese hot spring hotel

Day 4: Nakatsu Gorge to Kochi city

People dresses in traditional kimono posing for a photo before tea ceremony

Let’s start our day with an optional morning walk inside the spectacular Nakatsu Gorge. Later, we will cycle out of the mountains following one of Japan’s most celebrated rivers. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can go for impromptu wild swimming to cool off! We will reach the city of Kochi and visit a famous street food market offering fresh seafood before heading to our accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 66 km (41 mi)
Elevation gain: 500 m (1,640 ft)
Accommodation: Business hotel

Day 5: Kochi to the Iya Valley

Beautiful landscapes of the Iya Valley seen during the cycling trip on Shikoku, Japan.

We’ll leave the city and make our way into the forested Iya Valley. We will first have to face a challenging climb and later get rewarded with views of beautiful landscapes with gorges, crystal-clear rivers, and traditional thatch-roofed houses. Cycling down the valley, you’ll be surrounded by terraced rice fields. Then we’ll stop pedaling and walk across the famous vine bridges before heading. We continue cycling through the valley and reach our accommodation—a traditional Japanese inn with a funicular railway connecting it with a riverside hot spring.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Cycling: 80 km (49.7 mi)
Elevation gain: 1,500 m (4,920 ft)
Accommodation: Japanese hot spring hotel

Day 6: Iya Valley to the Konpira Shrine

The final day begins with cycling out of the Iya Valley following the beautiful Yoshino River. After a final climb, we will arrive at the celebrated Konpira Shrine! After exploring the shrine, celebrate with a drink and relax while you reflect on the past six days! You will later board a train to your airport and say goodbye to Japan or continue touring on your own.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Cycling: 57 km (35.4 mi)
Elevation gain: 750 m (2,460 ft)

Photo gallery

People cycling along the coast with big palm trees decorating the path

A traditional Japanese restaurant visited during the cycling trip on Shikoku.

Adventure, packed to go

Cycling Tour of Hidden Japan on Shikoku Island

Adventure Brochure

Brochure and video trailer

Download the trip brochure and cinematic trailer—everything you need to plan, share, or start dreaming.

Download now

Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Miho

Born and raised in Shikoku, Miho is passionate about showcasing her home. She has a deep love for the area, often cycling along mountain roads, wild camping by the Seto Inland Sea, and running local marathons. Dedicated to providing exceptional service, she takes pride in the tours she creates and enjoys hearing positive feedback from guests. Miho holds licenses in Domestic Travel Business Administration and Domestic Tour Management.

5.00

Sam

Originally from the United Kingdom, Sam has called Shikoku home for nine years and has a deep love for exploring rural Japan. Understanding the magic of these landscapes firsthand, he is eager for others to experience the same. He also runs marathons—just not as fast as Miho.

What others say about this adventure

4.94 (36 reviews)

HAROLD K O.

|October 2025

The places we saw and the routes we took were just simply spectacular!!!! This was definitely the back roads experience. I have so many great memories and can’t wait to share them.

Sharon T.

|October 2025

This was everything and more than I had hoped for. Nature, Culture & Adventure … the caption on the riding jersey really sums it up! Well done to the Hidden Japan Travel team.

Reginald v.

|October 2025

Was one of best rides I've done!

Show all reviews

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced English-speaking cycling guide with extensive local knowledge of the area
  - 6-day guided cycling tour in Shikoku, Japan
  - Support van with snacks and hydration
  - Luggage transfers
  - Accommodation for 5 nights in quality Japanese inns and hotels*
  - All meals from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 6 (excluding dinner on Day 2), detailed in the itinerary
  - Helmet
  - Cross/hybrid bike rental (Giant, Specialized, and Marin bikes)
  - Bike maintenance if needed
  - Transportation during the adventure
Add-ons (available to add at checkout):
- - Single occupancy room
  - Bike rental upgrade (aluminium road bike, carbon road bike, or e-bike)
Not included:
- - Flights to Japan & airport transfers
  - Accommodations prior to and after the tour
  - Dinner on Day 2
  - Mandatory insurance — available to add at checkout
  - Guide gratuities — optional
For this cycling tour in Shikoku, Japan, you need to have a very good level of fitness. You can expect 50-85 km (30-50 miles) of cycling per day, often in steep terrain, for 6 consecutive days.

This is a trip meant for frequent cyclists who don’t hate hills—you can find day-by-day distances and elevation gains in the itinerary, but the most you’ll climb within a day is 1,500 m (4,920 ft). There are a few climbs with the steepest gradient being 13%. The average gradient of the climbs is 5-7%.

For more bike adventures in Japan, click here!
You will spend 5 nights in a mixture of Japanese inns and business hotels. Your guiding company has handpicked the accommodation using their extensive knowledge of the area. Sea views, mountain inns, hot springs (onsen) resorts—they’ve got everything covered, allowing you to experience the best that this area has to offer!

The price of the tour is based on a shared twin room. However, if you’d like to have a room to yourself, you can add the single supplement to your booking upon checkout! Please note that it may not always be possible to meet all requests for single rooms.
Here’s what you’ll need for your daily outings:
- - Comfortable riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material
  - Sneakers or sport shoes
  - Breathable outside layer or jacket
  - Sunglasses
  - Plenty of water, water bottle or hydration bladder
  - Daypack with snacks
  - Biking gloves are optional but recommended
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season—layers are best. Make sure to also bring some comfy clothes for evenings and free time.
This guided cycling tour in Shikoku, Japan covers the cost of rental cross/hybrid bikes and helmets—your guide uses Giant, Specialized, and Marin bikes.

If you’d prefer to rent an e-bike or a road bike (carbon or aluminum) at an additional cost, you can add it to your trip at checkout.

Alternatively, if you bring your own bike, you can send it to the guided (this can be done at an airport if you are travelling to Japan) and they will bring it to the start of the tour. They can then send it back to you (or send it to your departure airport for you to pick up if you are travelling to Japan). Let us know upon checkout!
Group sizes and prices:
- - The usual client-to-guide ratio is 6:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants.
  - Solo travelers are welcome—they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.
Cycling in Shikoku can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this hidden Japan tour is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

Solo travelers are welcome—they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee.
Onomichi, the starting point of the tour, is 30 minutes from Fukuyama, 90 minutes from Hiroshima, and 70 minutes from Okayama. To get to Onomichi, most people fly into Tokyo International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT).

From there, you can either take a shuttle or a train to Onomichi, or take a flight to the Hiroshima Airport. From there, you can hop on a bus in the direction of Fukuyama and transfer to the “Flower Liner” bus at the Takasaka bus stop to reach Onomichi Station.

You will meet your guide at Onomichi Station in the morning of Day 1, meaning that you have to fly in at least a day earlier (and arrange accommodation accordingly).
Insurance is mandatory for this tour. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Deposits

Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

Basic
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Super Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If cancelled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.