Setouchi By Design 2027
Discover the Seto Inland Sea through the lens of
design, architecture, art and place.
This unique and exciting cycling adventure explores the creative heart of Japan's Setouchi region.
From the historic and traditional villages nestled into the streets of Tomonoura and Kurashiki to the
world-renowned art island of Naoshima, we'll ride through rice fields, along quiet coastal roads and hidden
island backways, tackling rewarding climbs and discovering places few visitors ever see. Along the way, we'll ride the lesser known sections of the legendary Shimanami Kaido, one of the world's most celebrated cycling routes.
Staying in beautifully designed accommodation that blends the best of tradition with modern, we'll uncover
the stories behind the places that have transformed Setouchi into one of Japan's most exciting cycling and creative destinations. Blending adventure, culture, architecture and a little secret local knowledge and connection, this is an unforgettable journey through one of Japan's most inspiring regions.
About the tour....
Setouchi Inland Sea Circuit
Hiroshima, Okayama, Kagawa and Ehime Prefectures
11 days, 10 nights
19th April - 29th April
Dates may shift a little due to availability of accommodation
Costs TBC...we're working on it!
Single share attracts an extra cost and single rooms may not be available at all locations
Specialized Vado SL flat bar e-Bike included in tour cost
DESTINATION
DURATION
WHEN
COST
BIKES
Tour Highlights
• Cycle the spectacular islands and coastal roads of the Seto Inland Sea
• Discover world-renowned architecture, contemporary art and innovative design projects
• Explore beautifully restored heritage buildings and inspiring examples of adaptive reuse
• Learn how local communities are revitalising towns and islands through thoughtful placemaking
• Meet artisans, makers and creative entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of the region
• Visit hidden galleries, workshops and creative spaces rarely found by independent travellers
• Experience authentic Japanese hospitality in carefully selected locally owned accommodation
• Wander charming laneways, historic ports and atmospheric waterfront communities
• Enjoy unforgettable regional cuisine showcasing the flavours of Setouchi
• Travel with an experienced guide who has spent years building local friendships and connections
• Discover the stories behind the places, people and projects transforming the region
• Ride quiet roads through some of Japan's most beautiful coastal and island landscapes
• Gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, craftsmanship and community life
• Experience the Setouchi region beyond the guidebooks, through local eyes
Daily Itinerary...
Day 1 - Onomichi
Arrive in Japan and ease into the journey with a walk through Onomichi's atmospheric hillside laneways, temples and hidden pathways before a relaxed welcome dinner overlooking the waterfront.
Day 2 - Onomichi to Tomonoura
Cycle quiet coastal roads to the beautifully preserved port town of Tomonoura, visiting the dramatic clifftop temple of Abuto Kannon along the way and stay in stunning revived machiya house.
Distance: 50km approx, Elev: 600mt
Day 3 - Tomonoura to Kurashiki
Morning exploration of Kurashiki's historic canal district, where beautifully preserved merchant buildings, artisan shops and galleries tell the story of old Japan. This is the heart of designer demin in Japan.
Distance: 50km Elev: 400mt
Day 4 - Kurashiki to Tamano
Ride through the gentle countryside of Okayama as we make our way to Tamano, gateway to Japan's celebrated art islands. A treat in store as we stay at the incredible keirin race track in a revived hotel.
Distance: 45km Elev: 250mt
Day 5 - Naoshima
Explore the celebrated art island of Naoshima, where contemporary art, architecture and nature converge. Experience iconic works by Tadao Ando, Yayoi Kusama and Lee Ufan.
Distance: 25km plus walking
Day 6 - Naoshima to Saijo
From Uno port we ravel by ferry and train through the Setouchi region to Saijo, a town renowned for its crystal-clear spring water and views of sacred Mount Ishizuchi. Stay in a Kengo Kuma designed zero waste hotel.
Transfer day, minimal riding today.
Day 7 - Saijo and Ishizuchi Ropeway
Cycle to the foothills of Japan's highest mountain in western Japan, Mount Ishizuchi, ride the ropeway and experience the pure spring waters that have shaped life in Saijo for centuries.
Distance: 60km Elev: 700mt
Day 8 - Saijo to Omishima
From Saijo it's time to reach the Shimanami and experience the islands by bike, crossing spectacular bridges and coastal landscapes as we ride to Omishima and our waterfront accommodation.
Distance: 75km Elev:550mt
Day 9 - Ikuchijima
Time for a loop ride...enjoy the quiet of Omishima and explore amazing Oyamazumi jinja and a visit to the Toyo Ito small museum. It's a day to go a little slower enjoy island life.
Distance: 40km Elev: 450mt
Day 10 - Setoda to Onomichi
A final ride through the islands, including a climb to Shirataki and a visit to beautiful Iwashi, before returning to Onomichi for a farewell celebration and a stay in one of the region's designer-led revitalisation projects.
Distance 37km Elev: 350mt
Day 11 - Checkout
After breakfast, bid farewell to new friends and unforgettable memories as your Setouchi journey comes to an end.
NOTES
Distances are approximate at this stage as we work through the itinerary and plot out the finer details. Itinerary is subject to change.
How difficult is this tour?
You must be comofortable riding at a pace of around 24 - 26kmphr on the flat for extended periods. Regular riding pre-tour will help you prepare.
Distances each day average around 50km, with the longest ride being 75km. There are many bridges to cross so expect some uphill...you can do it!
Luggage is transferred daily by our support team. You just need to carry with you daily what you need on the ride: camera, phone, rain jacket and snacks.
We do not travel with a dedicated support vehicle. However, a support car can be arranged with just a phone call on a 'user-pays' basis if required.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
• An exclusive tour jersey
• Accommodation at minimum 4 star
• All transfers between locations
• Luggage transfers between hotels
• Dinners where mentioned, all breakfasts
• Bicycle hire of Specialized e-bike
• Road bikes available upon consultation
• Japanese speaking guide
• Traditonal wagashi workshop
• Final dinner (beverages not included)
• Route maps and daily ride guide
• Rider pack including special 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 purchased during the tour
• Alcohol, refreshments, lunches
• Travel insurance...this is mandatory for all riders
• 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!
NOW TAKING PLACE HOLDING BOOKINGS
We know our tours are popular...we've been met with unprecedented demand!
So if you'd like to secure a place on our Setouchi By Design Tour 2027 then head over
to the booking site. We'll hold your place and give you 14 days AFTER final costs are announced to decide if you'll join us on your deep dive into art, design, architecture and culture by bicycle...but be quick, places are sure to go fast!
We make a visit to the amazing 4.2km Kurushima Kaikyo bridge...a cyclists dream!
