Shimanami Kaidō Cycling

The tour starts in Onomichi. You stroll around this fascinating town, with its hillside alleys lined with ancient temples, and its nostalgic arcades. You stay at Onomichi U2, a dockside warehouse converted into a chic boutique hotel for cyclists. Dinner (not included), is at the hotel or a local restaurant of your choice.

You send your luggage on to tonight’s accommodation. After breakfast (included), you pick up your bike and cycle the first half of the Shimanami Kaidō, visiting the Innoshima Suigun Castle to learn about the region’s pirate heritage. You also stop at Ōyamazumi Shrine with its ancient trees and its huge collection of antique weapons and armour. You stay the night at Wakka, a glampsite on Ōmishima Island. Dinner (included) is served at the accommodation.

You send your luggage on to Imabari. After breakfast (included), you cycle the second half of the Shimanami Kaidō. On Ōshima Island, you take a fast boat out into the racing currents and whirlpools of the Inland Sea, and cycle up to Mt. Kirō to admire the amazing view of the Kurushima Straits Bridge and Imabari city. Then you cycle to Imabari Station where you pick up your luggage and take the train to Matsuyama. You stay at Dōgo Hakuro, a modern hotel with hot spring baths. Dinner (not included), is at a local restaurant.

After breakfast (included), you explore Dōgo and take the tram to Matsuyama Castle. Then you travel from Matsuyama to your next destination.