Shimanami
Japan Award
In 2026, Tina was honoured to receive a Certificate of Commendation from the Shimanami Japan Directorate and the Mayor of Onomichi, recognising her contribution to promoting tourism in the Shimanami region.
Presented during a ceremony in Onomichi, the award came as a complete surprise. Promoting the area was never something Tina consciously set out to do—it has simply been the result of her deep love for this special corner of Japan and her passion for sharing it with others.
To be recognised by the community and region she cares so deeply about was both humbling and incredibly meaningful.
Hiroshima Inbound Tourism Award
In 2025, Tina McCarthy was honoured to receive the Grand Prize from the Hiroshima Inbound Tourism Association in recognition of her contribution to promoting cycle tourism in the Hiroshima and Shimanami regions.
The award came as a complete surprise. Tina has never consciously set out to promote the area—it has simply been a natural extension of her passion for cycling, her deep connection to the region and her desire to share the places, people and experiences she loves with others. Over the years, countless riders have discovered this remarkable part of Japan through her tours and recommendations.
To be recognised by a place she considers her second home was both humbling and deeply meaningful.