Shimanami Kaido Explorer MAY 2026
Our Shimanami experiences are a winner...everyone wants to go!
Woven across a string of emerald islands floating in a sapphire sea, this legendary route is a must for any cyclist with a sense of adventure. As one of Japan’s National Cycling Routes, the Shimanami Kaido offers more than just a path—it invites you into a storybook of winding roads, sweeping bridges, sun-drenched citrus groves, and quiet fishing villages where the day’s catch becomes your next unforgettable meal. It’s an island-hopping paradise, inside the magic of Japan’s Seto Inland Sea.
It's not just a ride...it's island magic on two wheels!
In 2026 we've teamed up with WomanTours USA
In 2026 we've teamed up with the amazing WomanTours USA to bring you some women only tours.
It' what we do best and takes us back to our roots of supporting women in a judgement free environment,
catering to different abilities and supporting your adventure. We can't wait for the cross cultural experience.
So go on, head to their website for bookings on the Shimanami Explorer 2026!
Arrive Onomichi
DAY 1
Check into your hotel and take a wander around the gorgeous seaside port of Onomichi. Tonight we have a beautiful Welcome Dinner organised to kick things off...get ready for the adventure to start!
Mukaishima and Iwashi
DAY 2
Catch the ferry from Onomichi to Mukaishima and do a circuit of Mukaishima and Iwashijima. Both islands are small and picturesque and off the first taste of cycling on the Shimanami. Breathtaking shrines on the beach, small farms close to the shore and lookout points definitely worthy of photos. On the return trip we’ll visit our favourite ice cream shop Tsubuta Sank for some local flavour goodness.
Distance: 30km, 200mt elevation
Onomichi to Setoda
DAY 3
We leave the U2 Cycle Hotel and start on our first day on the Shimanami Kaido. We will head to beautiful Setoda via Shiratakiyama...the legendary ‘impossible’ climb of the Shimanami. We will have a support car on hand because the views and the shrine at the top are spectacular. Over 700 ‘kami’ (gods) statues line the mountain top as a sentry. It is like entering the realm of the gods and really a breathtaking experience! We then cycle on to Tatara Cyclist Sanctuary for some lunch before stopping in at our accommodation. Don’t eat too much, the barbecue dinner is sublime.
Distance: 45km, 214mt elevation
Sagishima Picnic
DAY 4
The very cute island of Sagishima is always a day to take things slow. With our bakery goods in hand we'll find the best possible spot with gorgeous views to have a picnic on the beach. It's a sleep little island, bamboo groves, small hills, a magnificent sakura hill in the right season and locals that stop and wave and love a chat.
Distance: 30km, 80mt elevation
Setoda to Omishima
DAY 5
We take the fun and and forested 'innoshishi path' and do a loop of the north of Omishima. You'll be drenched in the aroma of citrus groves, watch the fishing boats head to their favourite catch spots and maybe even see a pirate ruin. Oyamazumi jinja is an absolutely magnificent shrine and if you can manage a few laps of the 700 year old camphor tree the gods might grant your wishes.
Distance: 42km, 233mt elevation
Arrive Onomichi
DAY 6
We'll cross the incredible 4.2km Kurushima Kaikyo bridge towards Imabari. It really is an Instaworthy architectural spectacular and the most fun bridge to ride across. From there we take the gorgeous seaside route to Imabari for a night in Ehime Prefecture. A stop at Sunrise Itoyama and the Imabari Towel shop is a must for the best souvenirs.
Distance: 60km, 700mt elevation
DAY 7
Arrive Onomichi
From Imabari we take the ferry to Ikina Port on the Yumeshima Kaido. Ikina is a cute little island with loads of fishing and quaint houses...a sleepy hollow. From Ikina we can cross to Innoshima back onto the Shimanami Kaido and then start making our return leg back to Onomichi. But not before we stop at the Ooyama jinja bicycle shrine. For a fee, the monk will bless your bikes, it’s a fun place to stop.
Distance: 33km,176mt elevation
Arrive Onomichi
Our last chance to say goodbye before you head off on your next adventure. We can't wait to see you again.
DAY 8
We use and recommend Specialized bikes. Our bikes for the tour are Specialized Vado SL flat bar e-bikes when possible.
The food at Wakka is a true delight...fresh produce sourced locally. In the evening it is their legendary barbecue.
We take the less travelled routes...take the hills!
The Yumeshima Kaido is remote and beautiful, combining short climbs with seaside views
Part of our course takes us acrss the Shimanami to some very special locations, including Oyamazumi jinja with the 2,600 year old camphor tree
We find the best spots for lunch!
Our accommodation provides the best views of sunset and sunrise across the Tatara bridge
We make a visit to the amazing 4.2km Kurushima Kaikyo bridge...a cyclists dream!
We can't resist...every time we have to get silly at the sculpture!
Time to check out and say goodbye...we'll misss you. Today you are on your own to take on your next adventure!
WHAT'S INCLUDED
• An exclusive tour jersey
• Accommodation at minimum 4 star
• All transfers between locations
• Luggage transfers between hotels
• Dinners where listed, all breakfasts
• Bicycle hire of Specialized e-bike
• Japanese speaking guide with local knowledge
• Support vehicle in Setouchi area*
• Final dinner with drinks at U2 Cycle Hotel
• Route maps and daily ride guide
• Rider pack including folding backpack, other goodies
* Support vehicle is available at all times, however is user pays on the day
NOT INCLUDED
• Airfares and transfers to/from start/finish
• Lodging before and after tour
• Personal items during the tour
• Alcohol, refreshments, lunches
• Travel insurance...this is mandatory
• Dinner and lunches not listed in schedule
• Other cycling kit required for tour
• Luggage storage
• Cycling computers and mounts
We are always happy to assist you to work out the best way to arrive at your destination, how to book shinkansen and advise on which routes/transfers are the easiest. We are local experts!
