Trains, Ferries & E-Bikes

The words ‘island paradise’ usually conjure an image of palm trees and sandy beaches. However on the picturesque island of Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, there are definitely trees growing right down to the water line. But they are lemons, oranges, figs and peaches, not coconuts!

To ride the famous Shimanami Kaido, all you have to do is arrive on one of the island towns, and you will find dedicated bicycle rental stores eager to help you get started. You can change batteries on route, and pick up and leave bicycles at any of the outlets. It’s too easy. Or you can bring your own bike on the trains or ferries, which are very welcoming of cyclists.

The route winds across spectacular bridges, along sea walls, and through orchard after orchard. What could be better than stopping at a farm gate, and picking up a refreshing, ice cold bottle of fresh juice…the ideal tonic during a hot day’s pedalling.

Luggage transfers are all part of the deal in Japan. You simply check out in the morning, and you will find your luggage waiting for you at your next stop at the end of the day.

Stephanie’s began their trip in Tokyo, grabbing a bento box, and boarding the Shinkansen south for the four hour journey past Mt Fuji, past Kyoto, and almost to Hiroshima. Transferring to a local line, a lovely journey along the edge of the Seto Sea brings you to Imabari. This small city features a spectacular castle built in 1609, complete with an imposing moat that connects to the sea.

Each day of cycling takes you further, exploring the charming beauty of this little island: temples and sumari artifacts, fishing villages, islands as far as the eye can see, massive ship yards, freighters and ferries moving through the narrow island passages, and endless productive orchards and farms. Using a self guided app, you can choose how far, or how little you cycle each day. Your main job at the end of the day is to call into one of the many convenient cycle stations, and change your bicycle battery.