The Shimanami Kaido is Japan's most famous cycling route – 60km of purpose-built track follow the expressway connecting Japan's main island of Honshu and the island of Shikoku. Traversing six small islands via a series of impressive bridges, the scenic Shimanami Kaido attracts cycle-enthusiasts from across the world to the once sleepy coastal town of Onomichi, marking the starting point of the route.
Widely acknowledged as the most spectacular cycling route in Japan, the Shimanami Kaido should be on any cycle-enthusiast's bucket list. Crossing the Seto Inland Sea, the full 80km route has 14 rental terminals along the way where cyclists can easily pick up bikes and drop them off again.
Running parallel to the Shimanami Kaido road, a network of paths and bridges solely service cyclists and pedestrians meaning you won't have to worry about squeezing alongside main-road traffic. Breath-taking seascapes at every turn offer endless photo opportunities and numerous campsites and inns mean you'll never be stuck for somewhere to stay.
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