Oku Japan, known for its immersive cultural journeys and deep local connections, has unveiled two new self-guided active itineraries in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea region, offering travellers new ways to experience one of the country’s most scenic landscapes by foot and bicycle.
The new three-day Shimanami Kaidō Cycling: Island Hopping Adventure and six-day Seto Inland Sea: Hike and Bike itineraries combine coastal scenery, island culture, and local cuisine while showcasing the region’s renowned cycling infrastructure and island-hopping experiences. The Seto Inland Sea is widely regarded as one of Japan’s most beautiful waterways, with thousands of islands scattered between the main islands of Honshuū and Shikoku.
Shimanami Kaidō Cycling: Island-Hopping Adventure
For travellers seeking a shorter active escape – or looking to augment a longer Japan adventure – this new three-day cycling itinerary follows the iconic Shimanami Kaidō, one of Japan’s most celebrated cycling routes. The route links Honshū and Shikoku via a series of bridges that span islands across the Seto Island Sea, creating a unique island-hopping cycling experience.
“Cycling in this region is an unforgettable way to experience Japan’s island landscapes, connecting travellers with the scenery, communities, and culture of this remarkable region,” says Shinya Yamasaki, a member of Oku Japan’s product team. “Riding across the bridges that link the islands of Honshū and Shikoku offers constantly changing views of the coast and sea, while the accessibility of e-bikes allows more travellers to take on this incredible route. Whether cycling from Onomichi to Imabari or in reverse, the itinerary offers a true sense of adventure and achievement, supported by dedicated cycling paths and thoughtful infrastructure that make the experience both rewarding and enjoyable.”
A distinctive feature of the itinerary is its flexibility. Travellers can ride the route in either direction, making it an ideal complement to Oku Japan’s five-, eight-, and 10-day self-guided tours on Shikoku, cycling back to Honshū instead of taking a train, bus, or plane.
What’s more, daily luggage transfer is also included on this trip, making days in the saddle that much lighter.
Highlights:
- Ride island to island, in either direction, via e-bike
- Take in the stunning Kōsan-ji Temple
- Explore the port town of Onomichi
- Stay in traditional Japanese lodging on one of the islands of the Seto Inland Sea
Departures are available year-round. Priced from AU$1,730 per person.
Seto Inland Sea: Hike and Bike
Combining walking and cycling, this six-day self-guided journey explores the coastlines, islands, villages, and cultural sites of the Seto Inland Sea. Traveling 70 kilometres (43 miles) across six islands along the bridges that connect them, the itinerary alternates between scenic hikes and bike rides, discovering lesser-visited corners of western Japan while enjoying the flexibility of independent travel supported by Oku Japan’s detailed route materials and local expertise.
“Japan’s Seto Inland Sea region is a place where nature, history, culture, and spirituality are intertwined,” continues Yamasaki. “This itinerary brings travelers beyond the well-known highlights, from the forests of Mount Mitaki and the historic streets of Onomichi to the island landscapes of the Seto Inland Sea and pilgrimage routes of Shikoku. Each region offers its own story, and the combination of iconic sights, authentic local encounters, and meaningful connections with communities creates a truly memorable way to experience rural Japan.”
A highlight of the itinerary is the option to upgrade accommodations on one or both nights in Matsuyama (days 4 and 5) to Dōgo Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. This enhancement allows travelers to experience centuries of bathing tradition while staying in the heart of a historic onsen district.
Highlights:
- Ride an e-bike along the Shimanami Kaidō, island-hopping from Honshū to Shikoku
- Visit temples on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage route
- Hike up Mount Mitaki to see Mitaki-dera Temple and the views over the city of Hiroshima
- Explore the port town of Onomichi
Departures are recommended between March and November. Priced from AU$2,590 per person.
