Ride,Eat and Learn!! Japan cycling tour for foodies
Shimanami & 5 castles to Kyoto
Oceanic Shimanami Kaido and historical Sasayama Kaido. Explore five castles in western Japan. Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s best.
9 days / 8 nights
2024 Tours
Fall
Oct12-20(soldout)
Nov8-16(soldout)
2025 Tours
Spring
Mar20-Apr25 (Available)
May25-Jun15 (Availabe)
Fall
Oct1-Nov20 (Available)
Difficulty
Level 2 out of 3
Daily Distance:
50-70km(Ave)
Daily Elevation:
600-850m(Ave)
Accommodations
Traditional Ryokan
with Futon bed
Western-style
business hotel
<Shimanami Kaido>
Onomichi
Ikuchijima
Imabari
Himeji
<Sasayama Kaido>
Takeda
Kaibara
Sasayama
Kameoka
Kyoto
about the trip
This cycling tour connects the Shimanami Kaido, a sea road, and the Sasayama Kaido, a historical mountain road, with local trains and the Shinkansen bullet train along the way. The tour takes you to five different castles in western Japan and around the ancient capital of Kyoto, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, nature, history, and of course delectable food in Japan. Once out of the saddle, you will walk through castles, hike to the top of mountains, and visit museums filled with cultural and artistic treasures. You’ll feast on farm-fresh produce from western Japan and try unusual local dishes.
trip highlights
Cycle along the famous blue bicycle path of the Shimanami Kaido, cross picturesque bridges, and go island hopping in the Seto Inland Sea.
Ride the Shinkansen bullet train on the Shimanami Kaido sea road, and experience Japan’s railroad system through the mountainous terrain of Honshu.
Enjoy hot springs unique to Japan, try on kimonos, and observe local farming practices.
Stay at traditional ryokans steeped in history and experience Japanese omotenashi hospitality.
Enjoy freshly caught fish and farm products from the Seto Inland Sea, taste classic Japanese cuisine, and try tantalizing local dishes.
Visit five castles of historic importance, including some that are national treasures, to experience history and culture.
In Kyoto, visit shrines, temples, and majestic monuments and enjoy a unique urban experience.
food highlights
Cycling level and suitability
Support vehicle (SAG van): A support vehicle will accompany all Taste of Japan Bike Tours. Each van is equipped with mechanic’s tools for fixing equipment, and will carry your suitcase, additional baggage, and hydration tanks. If any cyclists are unable to continue the tour, the van will transport them to the various stops.
For non-cycling companions: For groups with many non-cyclists, a separate vehicle can be arranged for an additional fee. A dedicated driver will accompany the non-cycling guests in a private vehicle, and we can make arrangements to satisfy the wishes of the non-cycling participants for sightseeing, shopping, and other activities.
total cycling distance
about 195km
distance/day
about 40km
climbing/day
about 450m
•Level 2: A slightly more challenging course that many cyclists would consider the ideal cycling experience. Light to moderate cycling (four to six hours per day, or 40 to 80 km) with sightseeing, local snacks, and activities, of course.
An excellent tour and introduction to the culture and tradition of Japan. I really enjoyed the onsen at the ryokan after a day of cycling. Then, enjoying a great traditional meal and some sake dressed in your yukata with friends. Truly a Samurai experience!
Verne
