Ever wondered what it's like to experience Japan through scenic cycle routes? Riding through Onomichi to Honshu to Shikoku along the Shimanami Kaido cycling trail will make one realize that the journey is as mesmerizing as the destination. Ready to embark on this journey? Here’s an itinerary for 4 days and 3 nights in the cycle route — find out what one can expect from and must do on the biking trails of Onomichi, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Imabari, and Matsuyama.

 

Day 1: Onomichi City (Old Temple Walk, Senkoji Observation Platform, Onomichi City Museum Of Art, and Motion Picture Museum)

 

 

The Shimanami Kaido cycle route starts in Onomichi City in Honshu, along the train station from the Hiroshima side. But there’s no need to hop on a bike right away. Starting from the West Seto Onomichi Interchange, you can easily stroll through the Old Temple Walk which goes across Senkoji Park. Aside from the many beautiful temples you’ll pass by through the walk, make sure to visit the Senkoji Observation Platform which is in the middle of the Temple Walk. You can enter it for free! The deck offers an amazing view of the park, as well as most of Onomichi. 

 

The Onomichi City Museum Of Art and the Motion Picture Museum are also within the trail of the Temple Walk. These locations are perfect for learning about the city’s artistic achievements.

 

 

The area is also famous for lemons harvested from nearby islands. So make sure you stop by one of the cafes and restaurants in the area to have a taste of dishes and drinks that are infused with the fruit. Lemon-themed bikes are available to rent too. 

 

At the end of the trail, you can head over to the Onomichi Port Cycling Terminal near Onomichi Station. Here, you can rent a bike to get you started on your journey to Ikuchijima, which roughly takes 40 minutes through the Shinamami Bicycle Route. You can settle for the night on the quaint island. 

 

Day 2: Ikuchijima City (Tawarasaki Fort, Kojouji Temple, and Kousanji Temple)

 

 

Ikuchijima is an island that can be explored on a day trip, but a cycle route means you get to take in the sights more leisurely. First, make your way to the Tawarasaki Fort, which is a historical site built by the Ikuchi family as part of the force of the Geiyo Islands. Aside from the beautiful architecture complementing the location’s history, it’s also surrounded by lush greens that will surely reinvigorate your senses.  

 

Next, head over to Kojouji Temple and witness the marvel of the three-story pagoda that decorates the site. The pagoda’s red color contrasting against the surrounding flora is a picturesque view that you shouldn’t miss when passing through this route. 

 

There’s also the Kousanji Temple, which was created by Osaka businessman Kozo Kousanji as an homage to his mother. The temple features the Kousanji family’s vast art collection made open to the public in 1953. 

 

 

Before wrapping up your day, make a stop at Miraishin No Oka, also known as The Hill Of Hope. Similar to Iloilo’s Stairway To Heaven, this location represents harmony and positive aspirations for the future. It’s created by sculptor Itto Kuetani from white marble and is simply majestic against a lush green backdrop. 

 

Done sightseeing? Restart your cycling tour and start making your way to Omishima to spend the night. 

 

Day 3: Omishima City and Imabari City (Toyo Ito Museum of Architecture, Tokoro Museum Omishima, Ken Iwata Mother and Child Museum)

 

 

Omishima and Imabari are filled with a lot of arts and cultural experiences. There’s the Toyo Ito Museum of Architecture, which features the work of the famed architect it was named after. The Tokoro Museum Omishima, on the other hand, is perfect for those who love contemporary sculptures. There’s also the Ken Iwata Mother and Child outdoor museum which also features various artworks and installations. 

 

Day 4: Matsuyama City (Matsuyama Castle, Ishiteji, Sairinji, Joruriji, and Dogo Onsen) 

 

 

Wrap up the trip by going through the Imabari-Dogo Hamakaze Sea Route to Matsuyama. This city is the capital of Ehime and is known for being a pilgrimage hub. Some of the most popular temples to visit are Ishiteji, Sairinji, and Joruriji. 

 

At the heart of the city is Matsuyama Castle, which is a popular cherry blossom viewing site. Its beautiful fortress and the surrounding greens are as breathtaking as sakuras any time of year. 

Matsuyama is also home to one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, Dogo Onsen. This bathhouse served as an inspiration for Hayao Miyazaki’s famous animated film Spirited Away and has also hosted the Imperial Family several times. It’s a great way to end your cycling journey before you venture onto your next destination.