In this Taste of Japan bike tour, we’ll meet at Onomichi, an old commercial port city in Hiroshima Prefecture that will jumpstart our two-day journey on the Shimanami Kaido. We’ll follow the distinct blue bike lane southbound, crossing bridge after bridge towards Imabari, a city in Ehime Prefecture known for its shipbuilding and maritime industry facilities. On our way, we’ll explore the small islands scattered across the Setouchi Sea and visit the unique places that make this bike route so famous – and stunningly beautiful.

After crossing the world’s longest suspension bridge, we’ll stay one night at Imabari before hopping on a bus to Hiroshima. Take in the two-day reprieve from the bicycles as we visit the iconic vermillion torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine at Miyajima. We’ll board a tram to the top of the sacred Mt. Misen and take a short hike around for some gorgeous views. The next day, guests can use their free time to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and A-Bomb Dome for a somber historical reflection.

We’ll commence the second half of our trip by making our way to Yuda Onsen in Yamaguchi Prefecture then hopping back on the saddle to Hagi in Shimane Prefecture. An exploratory stop at Akiyoshidai National Park, known for unique limestone pinnacles dotting the landscape, will break up our longest ride of the tour.

From Hagi’s castle town district, we’ll head to Tsuwano where you’ll have options for sake sampling and a leisurely walk through historic Japanese townscapes or hiking through the hundreds of bright red torii gates leading up a mountainous path to Taikodani Inari Shrine.