0Explore the Setouchi Region of Japan by E-Bike
Cycle through Japan’s Setouchi region which includes the beautiful island of Shikoku on an exclusive pedal-assisted e-bike tour. Ride through the incredibly diverse and scenic landscapes with rarely a busy road in sight. Enjoy compact ride days with the assistance of your e-bike, allowing you to enjoy the daily destinations, food, hot spring baths and legendary hospitality of Japan to the fullest!
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Highlights
6
Itinerary idea in detail
Includes international flights from a choice of UK airports, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
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1
We’ll gather at 9:30 am at the outdoor dining area of the Green Hill Hotel in Onomichi, just a short walk from the train station. After a briefing about our trip, we’ll get set up with our e-bikes and stash our luggage in the van. Then, we’ll hop on a ferry over the harbor and kick off our adventure.
Once we leave the city behind, we’ll enjoy some fantastic riding through fields and countryside. Passing through a bamboo forest on a quiet road, we’ll reach the water’s edge of the first of many islands we’ll visit. Today marks the start of the Shimanami Kaido, a cycling route spanning seven islands over the next two days, with more in the distance.
Before lunch, we’ll tackle a few hills, but with the help of our e-bikes, they’ll be a breeze. Lunch will be Udon Tempura, a classic midday meal. Finally, we’ll arrive at Setoda, a small town on Ikuchi Island, where our cozy traditional Japanese inn awaits.
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2
After a hearty breakfast, we kick off today’s ride tackling a big hill, where the e-bikes show their strength, offering us a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea. We’ll pedal through citrus orchards, a major agricultural feature here.
Today’s journey takes us across five islands, traveling on dedicated bike paths integrated into massive span bridges. We’ll take scenic routes on each island, enjoying views of the water and inland landscapes. The final bridge offers the most breathtaking views.
Our ride concludes in Imabari, where we load the e-bikes onto the van and catch a rapid train to the lively city of Matsuyama. Enjoy the pleasant train ride with snacks and drinks as we zip through the scenery.
As the day winds down and you’ve freshened up, you can take a taxi or tram to visit Matsuyama Castle before we gather for dinner. Tonight, we’ll indulge in traditional Japanese cuisine and sample Japan’s famous drink – sake. You’ll taste a variety of sakes, from dry to sweet, and learn about its significance in Japanese culture. By the end of the evening, you’ll be a sake connoisseur, ready to pair it with your meals!
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3
Early in the morning, we’ll hop on another rapid train to get to the starting point of our next e-bike ride. What begins as an ordinary ride turns into a delightful journey as we leave town behind for quiet roads alongside a river. Moss-covered walls line the hillsides, adding to the charm. As we wind through the valley, you’ll find yourself enjoying the e-bike experience, especially as we climb through the hills.
Our destination is the small town of Yusuhara, home to a boutique hotel designed by the renowned architect, Kengo Kuma. You’ll find Kuma’s work scattered throughout the town, from another Onsen Retreat property to a bridge over a nearby stream, and his most significant contribution, the public library. This afternoon, you’ll have time to explore these sites and wander the charming streets of Yusuhara. Don’t miss the chance to soak in the Onsen—it’s a must-do experience here.
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4
In the morning, we’ll take a quick train ride to start our next e-bike adventure. It starts off simple but becomes wonderful as we leave town for peaceful roads along a river. Mossy walls line the hills, making the ride even more special. Riding through the valley, you’ll enjoy the e-bike journey, especially as we climb through the hills.
Our goal is Yusuhara, a small town with a boutique hotel designed by famous architect Kengo Kuma. Kuma’s work can be seen all around town, from another Onsen Retreat property to a bridge over a stream, and his most famous, the public library. You’ll have time to explore these spots and stroll around Yusuhara’s lovely streets this afternoon. And don’t forget to relax in the Onsen—it’s a must-do here.
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5
With a place like this, you won’t want to rush, so we start the day with a relaxed breakfast and more time for Onsen soaking. We set off late morning for our e-bike tour. The first part takes us along a quiet road by cliffs, with the deep blue ocean below and waves crashing against rocks. We then ride along a ridge with stunning views that might fill up your camera. The ride is enjoyable, with ups and downs all the way to our lunch spot back on the main island.
After lunch, we visit the Blue Dragon Temple, which is temple number 36 on the 88 Temple Pilgrimage Route. It’s a must-see, and you might even meet some pilgrims there.
The ride to Kochi city is enjoyable and passes quickly. We’ll ride along the coast, through a deserted bamboo forest, and then climb a hill with views over the city. Kochi is lively with plenty of food options, bars, and nightlife—a great change after a few nights in the countryside.
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6
This morning, we take a short 45-minute car ride out of the city into the hills. Once on our bikes, we’ll start with a relatively flat and winding 10km ride along the river. Then, we tackle a big 20km hill climb, but don’t worry—the e-bike’s pedal-assist power makes it doable for everyone. If it’s a clear day, the views from the top are breathtaking, and we might even catch a glimpse of Mt. Ishizuchi, the island’s tallest mountain. After that, get ready for a long downhill ride into the stunning Iya Valley. You’ll know when we’ve reached the valley because the water of the Iya River is a mesmerizing aqua color, thanks to the limestone in the surrounding hills and the light-colored silt in the riverbed.
Following the winding road along the river, we’ll have plenty of opportunities for pictures. Eventually, we’ll arrive at a large, comfortable Onsen Retreat-style property where we can enjoy a delicious meal and a relaxing soak.
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7
Today, we take our time in the valley. At 9 am, we check out and enjoy an early lunch before hopping on our e-bikes for the final 30km ride. It’s a fantastic 30km journey along a quiet road that twists and turns along the river and valley contours. Even on a regular bike, you wouldn’t need to pedal much here. As we leave the valley, there’s a nice steep hill, but don’t worry—the e-bike will make it easy. We’ll reach the small town of Awa Ikeda, where we’ve arranged an Onsen for you to shower, pack up, and then catch a train to one of Kyoto’s many wonderful destinations. Happy travels!
Accommodation options
While the itinerary price reflects the suggested accommodation, Audley trips are 100% tailor-made, and a specialist can help you select the option best suited to your tastes and budget.
Booking Policy
- 6 nights in comfortable accommodation selected for high standards & local flavor
- 6x Breakfasts, 7x Lunches, 5x Dinners
- Healthy snacks & water during cycling
- Expert local guide
- Quality well-serviced bikes and helmet for riding
- Grasshopper souvenir jersey and water bottle that are yours to keep
- Comfortable van for support and transfers
- All tickets and entry costs included in the itinerary
We'll help plan your trip based on you like and want to do. We know a lot about the place you're gomg. so we can give you good advice. WIIether you're into history, food, or culture, ue'll make sure your trip is just right for you. With us. your travel will be easy and fun!
We carefully choose our expert guides and travel concierges to make sure you have an authentic experience. They're passionate about their work and will bring your destination to life with care and enthusiasm.
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It is easy to customize your Highlights of Vietnam tours with us
What our clients say about us
Eriberto P
16 March 2024 ★★★★★We had an amazing time with Flipside! The easy riders were fantastic and made us feel so safe over the 3 days. The food and home stays were lovely over the trip and there were plenty of stops along the way. The evenings were so much fun with the group and easy riders! Everyone was so accommodating and friendly and made the experience unforgettable. We cannot wait to come again and highly recommend Flipside
Jeremy
28 April 2024 ★★★★★Flip side honestly exceeded my expectations! Of course the views of Ha Giang were amazing but the staff were absolutely incredible and the easy riders were amazing! I felt so safe on the back of Truong’s bike the whole time. We had a small group of 6 people, 4 of us with easy riders and my boyfriend and our friend drove themselves. The drivers were steady and kept a good, safe pace for the guys riding (we saw and heard how fast the other tour’s went and how many injuries they have). Every night was super fun and our riders had such a laugh with us. Flip side take you off the beaten track and we saw some amazing views and swam in some gorgeous waterfalls that we hiked down too, it was so special. The main highlight was day 4, where we met Thiên and Truong’s families. We had the best day wild swimming with them, swimming inside a hidden cave, and drinking too much happy water while teaching everyone Scottish country dancing. Special thanks to Duc Anh, Thiên and especially Truong. Amazing people that made the four days so special!!! Flip side really feels like a family and social enterprise and really supports the staff & the villages in the mountains, it was amazing to see and hear about from a tour company! 10/10
Steven
23 April 2024 ★★★★★I had a good time and I am Glad, that I decided me to book this tour I can recommed it, it was nice and uncomplicated to book We had a really good time
Naad
16 April 2024 ★★★★★We just returned from a 14 day trip to Vietnam with FLIPSIDE. The trip was perfect, thanks to Mr. Kevin and his team, who took care of every detail of the organization and were attentive throughout, ensuring that our experience was excellent. They even provided us with tips on some great hotels in Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City. During our trip, we visited Hanoi, Halong Bay (two night by boat, highly recommended for a full experience), did the Ha Giang Loop for 4 days, explored Hoi An and went on a 3-day bike tour in the Mekong Delta. The guides spoke good English and took excellent care of us in each city: Tony in Hanoi and Halong Bay, Nghia in Ha Giang and Tom in the Mekong Delta, all of whom helped us enjoy the journey more. Vietnam is a wonderful country with delicious food and the people are charming. I absolutely recommend it. Many thanks to Mr. Kevin and Flipside Adventure Travel for their excellent work.
Sures M
3 April 2024 ★★★★★The flipside Ha Giang loop tour was a absolutely incredible experience which left us both completely speechless until now! Diving into the heart of the loop and being given a real experience of the life in which the local people live here was truly amazing. The company puts real emphasis into helping local communities within the loop. You are able to make donations, if you wish, to local families in need and the experience visiting the family really does change your perspective on things. Furthermore, you are taken off the main tracks and see parts of the loop no one else does. However, you still see the incredible scenery and pass through the loops most popular tracks so don’t miss out in incredible views. The easy riders ensure you make plenty of stops for delicious coffee/drinks and have the chance to take plenty of photos and videos to capture the moment! Me & my girlfriend had Ǎn and Dukang (I hope I’ve spelt that correctly) as our easy riders and they were genuinely amazing people. You connect with them over the three/four days and make a real friendship with them! They’re fantastic drivers and go above & beyond to make sure you have a brilliant time. Food was delicious and we never felt hungry as there was so much! The homestays were great too, couples on our tour were given private rooms when possible (which was both nights for us). The flipside team do an amazing job and deserve the most recognition possible! I hope one day to return & do the loop again. It was truly amazing. Thank you to everyone at Flipside, with particular thanks to Ǎn & Dukang! Legends!!
Stolecki G
10 April 2024 ★★★★★We just completed a 26 day tour of Vietnam: Hanoi, Ha Giang Loop Tour by motorbike, Halong Bay cruise, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh, Cu Chi tunnels, Mekong cycle tour. We arrived by boat in the Cambodian capital and from there, we went to Siem Reap to visit the temples of Angkor. Finally, we traveled to Bangkok, visiting the city's temples, floating markets and parks. We were met for all the transfers, including 4 internal flights, a boat transfer and the cruise. Everything was perfectly organized by Kevin. All tour guides were excellent and very attentive, and the drivers and vehicles were also great. Despite choosing budget hotels, they were good quality. We felt safe and secure throughout the trip. The only accommodation that felt a bit out of place was the one in Bangkok. Flipside Adventure Travel is an agency we highly recommend as they organize tailored tours with half board, diverse activities and at a reasonable price. This experience was particularly special as it was our first trip to Asia.
Armer S
12 June 2024 ★★★★★Flipside Adventure Travel organized a fabulous 3-week trip for us to Vietnam and Cambodia. We visited Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, traveled by boat on the Mekong River with a bike tour and explored Saigon, Hoi An, Halong Bay and the Ha Giang Loop. A choice was perfectly offered in different hotels and accommodations, allowing everyone to manage their desires and budget. Our travel consultant, Stephen was always ready to answer us on WhatsApp when we needed it. We were really taken care of! Also, when bad weather made us cancel our scuba diving, Stephen quickly found us another plan. The guides were nice and spoke English well; the drivers were good and we loved our trip. Highly recommend Flipside Adventure Travel!
Vernola S
18 January 2024 ★★★★★Our trip to Vietnam was fantastic, one of the best I've ever had. Flipside Adventure Travel was very well organized throughout. We were fortunate to have a wonderful guide, Tony, who was incredibly helpful, kind and patient. The group of fellow travelers were also great. They ranged in age from about 30 to 50 years old and were easy to get along with and friendly. We always made stops at clean restrooms, dined at wonderful restaurants, and stayed in excellent hotels. The itinerary struck a good balance between sightseeing, shopping, downtime, group activities, communal meals, and individual dining choices. I particularly enjoyed visiting Halong Bay, Ha Giang Loop, Saigon, Mekong Delta, Hoi An, trying Vietnamese cuisine, watching water puppetry and more. I would definitely travel with them again and highly recommend this company.
