The Shimanami Kaido Sightseeing Tour by E-bike offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning coastal landscape connecting Japan’s Honshu and Shikoku islands. Gliding effortlessly on electric-assisted bicycles, adventurers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, charming fishing villages, and historic temples. With a support car and breaks for local cuisine, this eco-friendly tour caters to cyclists of all skill levels seeking to discover the natural beauty along the 60-km route. But there’s more to this unique experience than meets the eye.
Good To Know
- An e-bike tour along the 60-km Shimanami Kaido route, providing a seamless and effortless way to explore the stunning island scenery.
- Stops at scenic viewpoints, including the iconic Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge, allowing cyclists to immerse in the natural beauty.
- Suitable for cyclists of all skill levels, with a support car available for downhill sections to enhance comfort and safety.
- Opportunities to visit charming fishing villages, historic temples, and sample local cuisine along the route.
- Not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Tour Highlights
While cycling along the Shimanami Kaido route, travelers can marvel at the stunning island scenery and bridges that span the Seto Inland Sea.
The e-bike tour allows visitors to effortlessly cover the 60-km coastal route, passing through a series of beautifully engineered bridges and scenic islands.
Cyclists can stop at various viewpoints to appreciate the breathtaking vistas, including the iconic Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge, one of the world’s longest suspension bridges.
With a support car for downhill sections, the tour provides a comfortable and worry-free experience for cyclists of all skill levels to enjoy the natural beauty of the Shimanami Kaido.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Imabari.
Exploring the Shimanami Kaido
The Shimanami Kaido e-bike tour offers cyclists an exceptional opportunity to explore this renowned coastal route.
Connecting Honshu and Shikoku islands, the Shimanami Kaido features breathtaking scenery, including stunning bridges, small islands, and serene seascapes.
Riders can easily navigate the well-maintained paths and marvel at the serene surroundings.
Along the way, they’ll encounter charming fishing villages, historic temples, and opportunities to sample local cuisine.
With an electric-assisted bike and a support vehicle for downhill segments, participants can focus on soaking in the scenic beauty without straining themselves.
This guided tour provides a seamless and immersive experience of the Shimanami Kaido.
E-bike Riding Experience
An electric-assisted bicycle, or e-bike, provides a seamless and effortless way for participants to navigate the Shimanami Kaido during this guided tour.
The power-assisted pedaling makes climbing hills a breeze, allowing riders to focus on the stunning coastal scenery. The tour’s support car is on hand during downhill sections, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Riders can also take breaks to recharge with included lunch and drinks.
The e-bike tour offers:
- Hassle-free cycling through picturesque islands
- Breathtaking ocean and bridge views
- Convenient support for challenging terrain
- Opportunities to rest and refuel
- An eco-friendly and sustainable mode of transportation
Scenic Viewpoints Along the Route
Numerous scenic viewpoints dot the Shimanami Kaido route, offering cyclists panoramic vistas of the sparkling Seto Inland Sea and the iconic suspension bridges that connect the islands.
One particularly breathtaking spot is the Kirosan Observatory, which provides sweeping views of the Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge.
Cyclists can also stop at the Shimanami Park in Onomichi for a closer look at the Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge.
Another highlight is the Kosanji Temple, situated on the slopes of Mount Shiroyanagi, affording visitors stunning perspectives of the coastline and nearby islands.
These scenic overlooks allow cyclists to pause and fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Shimanami Kaido.
Lunch and Refreshments
As cyclists make their way along the Shimanami Kaido route, they’ll find convenient opportunities to refuel and rehydrate. Lunch and drinks are available at the start and lunch locations, providing a chance to rest and enjoy local cuisine.
The tour includes:
- Delectable, freshly-prepared meals showcasing regional specialties
- Refreshing beverages to quench thirst and reenergize
- Comfortable seating areas to relax and recharge
- Friendly staff to ensure a pleasant dining experience
- Scenic views to complement the culinary delights
These stops offer a welcome respite, allowing participants to refuel and refocus before continuing their cycling adventure.
Health and Safety Considerations
The Shimanami Kaido E-bike Tour prioritizes participant safety and health. The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical conditions. A moderate physical fitness level is required. Infants must sit on laps. The tour is located near public transportation, providing accessibility options.
| Health & Safety Restrictions | Details |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Accessibility | Not wheelchair accessible |
| Physical Fitness Level | Moderate fitness level required |
| Medical Conditions | Not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues |
| Pregnant Travelers | Not recommended for pregnant travelers |
| Infants | Infants must sit on laps |
| Proximity to Transport | Near public transportation |
Meeting and End Point
The meeting point for the Shimanami Kaido E-bike Tour is Sunrise Itoyama, located at 2-chōme-8-1 Sunabachō, Imabari, Ehime 794-0001, Japan.
The tour begins promptly at 10:30 am, and participants return to the same meeting point at the end of the experience. This convenient location allows for a seamless start and finish, ensuring a hassle-free day.
- Ample parking available on-site for all participants
- Close proximity to public transportation options
- Picturesque setting with views of the Seto Inland Sea
- Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating areas for pre-tour preparations
- Easy access to nearby amenities, such as restrooms and refreshment stations
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Travelers can easily book their Shimanami Kaido E-bike Tour through the provider’s website or by contacting their customer service team.
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour offers a ‘Reserve Now and Pay Later’ option, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment.
Plus, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy – travelers can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts for a full refund. This ensures travelers have the freedom to adjust their plans if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Bike Instead of an E-Bike?
It’s generally not possible to bring your own bike on this tour. The tour includes the rental of an e-bike, which is necessary for the route and support services provided. Bringing your own bike would not be compatible with the tour setup.
Are Helmets Provided or Do I Need to Bring My Own?
Helmets are typically provided for bike tours, but it’s always a good idea to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may require you to bring your own helmet for safety reasons.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions or guidelines. Photography can enhance the experience, but participants should be mindful of their surroundings and not disrupt the tour.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
The minimum age requirement for participants is not specified in the tour overview. However, it notes that infants must sit on laps, suggesting the tour may accommodate children, though the exact minimum age is unclear.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Want to Explore More?
Customers can’t extend the tour duration, as the itinerary is fixed. However, they might be able to explore more during the scheduled tour time or arrange a private tour with the operator for a longer experience.
The Sum Up
The Shimanami Kaido Sightseeing Tour by E-bike is an unforgettable way to explore Japan’s breathtaking coastal landscape. With electric-assisted bikes, travelers can easily navigate the 60-km route, stopping to admire scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and sample local cuisine. Supported by a dedicated team, this tour caters to cyclists of all skill levels, offering a comfortable and eco-friendly adventure through the stunning Seto Inland Sea region.