0An Immersive Cycle Tour of the Shikoku Region of Southwest Japan
Bike tour through a land of ancient castles, Shinto Shrines and Buddhist monasteries, where traditional culture and etiquette blends effortlessly with contemporary modern design. An island of unimaginable natural beauty, epic coastal rides, verdant river valleys and remote villages. Our newly revised flagship tour of Japan, the ultimate guided bike tour through the Land of the Rising Sun – Stunning Shikoku.
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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
Today, we gather in the charming town of Onomichi, easily accessible by train from Osaka or Kyoto via the famous Shinkansen (Bullet Train). Soon after our meeting, we’ll board a ferry to kickstart our journey along the renowned Shimanami Kaido route.
Our adventure begins with a leisurely ride through peaceful bamboo forests, transitioning to a picturesque coastal path. The terrain offers enough elevation to amplify the scenic views without leaving us overly tired.
For our first night, we’ll rest in a quaint Ryokan in a town historically linked to salt production. Dinner awaits at a nearby local eatery, conveniently close for us to don our Yukatas—comfortable, traditional gowns provided in our rooms.
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2
We kick off our day with a coffee stop at a nearby bike café, gearing up for the road ahead. Our journey starts with a climb to the hilltop of Ikuchi Island, passing by its renowned citrus farms. Crossing several bridges, we’re treated to breathtaking vistas of the Seto Sea, with islands dotting the horizon.
Arriving in Imabari marks the completion of the Shimanami route and our entry into Shikoku. Riding through Ehima and Kochi prefectures, we’ll hop on a train bound for Matsuyama, the largest city in the area. Here, vibrant orange trams traverse the streets while temples and castles grace the hillsides.
After settling into our modern hotel, you can opt to explore Matsuyama Castle before we head to tonight’s dinner venue for a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine. While the food is a highlight, the real treat awaits with sake tastings. From dry to sweet, you’ll sample a variety of Japan’s famed drink, learning about its rich history. By the end of the evening, you’ll be well-equipped to select the perfect sake to accompany your meals.
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3
We kick off early to avoid traffic, embarking on another smooth one-hour train ride to the delightful starting point of our first inland journey. Following the serene Hijikawa River, we’ll pedal along tranquil roads tracing the curves of the valley. As we ascend towards its source, we’ll emerge from the valley and arrive at the picturesque village of Yusuhara.
This charming village has gained international acclaim thanks to architect Kengo Kuma, who designed and supported several of its buildings and public structures. Expect to find a meticulously kept village with warm-hearted locals and a public library rivaling those in major cities. Dinner tonight awaits at a cozy neighborhood eatery.
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4
This morning, we pedal up to Kamikoya, a homestead where Rogier has dedicated his life to mastering the art of Washi Paper making. At his family-run workshops, we’ll have the chance to join in. With a backdrop of mountains and sweeping valley views, this hands-on experience is truly special.
After crafting our paper, the family will dry it for us to collect later. Alongside, we’ll delve into the history of Washi Paper and its significance in ancient Japan.
The ride back to Yusuhara is downhill, offering a leisurely journey back in time for lunch. The afternoon is yours to explore, unwind, or perhaps visit the library until we reconvene for dinner at a nearby small eatery by the hotel.
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5
It’s time to bid farewell to our mountain village and journey through the scenic Shimanto region to reach the Pacific Coast. Today’s ride promises lush green valleys, quiet roads in great condition, and picturesque creeks and rivers. A notable highlight is a gradual climb in the late morning, especially breathtaking in the fall with vibrant autumn hues at the summit.
For lunch, we’ll stop at a wellness retreat nestled beside a lively river, refueling before continuing along a plateau. A thrilling descent awaits, offering your first glimpse of the vast Pacific Ocean.
Upon arrival at our clifftop property, indulge in a rejuvenating soak in the natural onsen to soothe tired muscles. From this vantage point, admire the rugged coastline against the deep blue ocean backdrop. A traditional dinner awaits, followed by a restful night’s sleep in comfortable Japanese futon-style rooms.
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6
Today, weather permitting, we have some off-the-bike activities planned as we move from our hotel to join local kayaking enthusiasts. They’ve scoped out sheltered coves and bays nearby, guiding us to the best spots to admire the landscape from the water. Expect rocky formations, distant mountains, and with luck, glimpses of ocean life.
After a morning of paddling and a quick bite, we hop back on our bikes and head south to visit Iwamoto Temple, the 37th stop on the Henro Pilgrimage route. Nestled on a wooded hillside near Kubokawa, the temple boasts intricate paintings on its main prayer hall ceiling. Our journey continues to the Shimanto River, a vital fishery and the largest river in the region, before we return to our accommodation via a new route.
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7
Today’s ride will leave a lasting impression, lingering in your memory even after our tour ends. We begin on a secluded road that clings to the cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the ocean crashing against black rocks below. The sand’s composition intensifies the water’s blue hue, prompting photo stops aplenty.
As we pass through Susaki, we enter another awe-inspiring stretch, ascending to a nature reserve along the ridge. With a perfect riding gradient and an abundance of birdlife, this section adds to the already remarkable journey.
Our lunch spot near the Blue Dragon Temple, one of the 88 temples, often brings encounters with pilgrims on their walking route. Riding into Kochi, we enjoy a pleasant descent and a riverside cruise through the city’s central area, culminating in the vibrant food and dining district.
As tonight marks our last together, a progressive dinner with grazing is on the agenda, perhaps accompanied by visits to one (or two) more Sake bars as the evening unfolds.
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8
Today, take a leisurely morning stroll exploring the old town, perhaps visiting one of the twelve Japanese castles that have withstood fires, wars, and other challenges of the post-feudal era. Dating back to the early 17th century, this castle was once the seat of the Yamauchi lords, rulers of the region. Now designated as “important cultural properties,” the castle houses local treasures and historical artifacts, representing an era of peace.
Return to the hotel to freshen up and pack before heading to the train station by taxi. Here, bid farewell to your fellow adventurers and guide. Once goodbyes are exchanged, your guide will help you board the train for a pleasant four-hour journey to Kyoto, where you’ll continue your adventure independently.
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
- 7 nights in comfortable accommodation selected for high standards & local flavor
- 7x Breakfasts, 8x Lunches, 7x Dinners
- Healthy snacks & water during cycling
- Knowledgable 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.
We design our luxury trips with responsible travel principles in mind. This means we prioritize experiences that benefit both you and the planet.
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.
