Bicycle Tour Through the Seto Inland's Sea's Scenic Islands

【Outline】

Cycle along one of the finest cycling routes in the world, acknowledged worldwide for its atmospheric beauty. Take in the gorgeous scenery of the Seto Inland Sea, lined with an impressive network of small islands in the distance. Here, a large, white bridge is among the site’s characteristic features; it is extraordinary in appearance, and famous around the world for its striking resemblance to a swan spreading its wings. At the heart of the island, you’ll find an 800m stretch of pure-white sand that melt into the vivid blue waters of the beach, in perfect harmony with the island’s contemporary art and a central attraction that will make your land excursions that much more memorable.

【Highlights】

• Travel through a scared place that prides itself on its beautiful cycling road.
• Take in the magnificent view of 727 islands, both large and small.
• Make the journey to one of the most recognizable beaches in the world, with views of the pure-white sand along the water's edge, together with contemporary art and the beautiful white bridge.
• This is an easy, flat cycling course that suits all ability levels.

【Schedule】

Meet at TABITASU→Rent a bicycle→Cycle→Return your bicycle→End of the tour

【Details】

Shimanami Kaido, the white bridge connecting the various islands, is known around the world to be a sacred place for cyclists. In fact, its greatest appeal is its beautiful cycling track, acknowledged as one of the most best sites on the Inland Sea to enjoy the region's scenery. From the calm waters and the breaking waves to the peaceful climate, the Inland Sea gives an impression of tranquility and unspoiled nature unlike any other. The small boats sailing in between the various islands will make your coastline cruise journey even more unforgettable. In addition, Shimanami Kaido is man-made yet in perfect harmony with the natural sea and islands. The bridge, shaped like a bird spreading its wings, is reminiscent of a swan flying down into the Seto Inland Sea.

The cycling tour starts from Ikuchishima Island. Ikuchishima Island is where a famous Japanese artist was born and raised, and it is famed for showcasing the artist’s work outside to complement the natural scenery. The biggest highlight is the 800m stretch of pure-white sand along the water's edge as well as its film festival held every summer. Further on, this plan will take you to the island’s peak from which you can descend with views of the sea. We will make sure that any requested stops en route to view the surrounding scenery will be handled safely. On your return, immerse yourself in the pure-white sands and calm waters that line the main islands, backed by the sensational sunset aflame in the sky, to make your land excursions that much more memorable. 

【Things to note】

• Time：6 hours and 10 minutes/person (including traveling/lunch)
• Meeting point：TABITASU [MAP]
  231-4 Setoda, Setoda-cho, Onomichi-city, Hiroshima prefecture, Japan 722-2411
• Access：
  To Setoda by boat:
  Approx. 40 mins from Onomichi Port or
  Approx. 35 mins from Mihara Port.
  Upon arrival, it is approx a 3 min walk from Setoda Port to the shop.
  If using the Shinkansen, Mihara Station is conveniently located next to the port.
• Language support：English
• Included：Guiding fees, bicycle rental
• Excluded：Food and drink, entrance fee, insurance
• Participation requirements ：
  Height : 140 cm and over / Weight : less than 100 kg (for rental bicycle)　
  
• Other things to note ：
  Drinking and biking is not allowed as it is against the law in Japan.
  Items to bring：Hat, beverage, towel sunscreen
  Dress code : Please refrain from joining the tour wearing skirt, high heels or sandals.
  

【Cancellation policy】

7 to 4 days before the tour date 40% of the tour price
3 to 2 days before the tour date 60% of the tour price
The day before the tour date, on the day of the tour 100% of the tour price
※Right after the online settlement is made, a cancellation fee of 10% will be incurred in case of cancellation.
※The cancellation fee includes handling charges.