Heritage Escape in Japan
A ride through Japan’s best-kept secret on the sacred and untamed roads of Shikoku
In partnership with
This road cycling journey through Shikoku offers a perfect blend of pristine nature, rich cultural heritage, and delicious local flavors, providing a one-of-a-kind experience on Japan’s most spiritual island. We'll journey through the lively streets of Tokyo, immerse ourselves in the tranquility of Shikoku, and conclude with a tour of Osaka, Japan’s culinary capital.
Tradition & Spirituality
Kick things off with a tea ceremony in a 100-year-old teahouse and step into the tranquil beauty of Ritsurin Gardens, one of Japan’s top four historical gardens. Immerse yourself in Japan’s deep traditions with an overnight stay at Zentsu-ji Temple—one of the country’s most sacred Buddhist sites and a sacred site along the 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage route. Experience the peaceful rhythm of temple life, dining on traditional Shojin Ryori before waking up before dawn to join the 6 AM morning prayer service with the monks. From there, roll out onto quiet countryside roads, where rice paddies, hidden shrines, and age-old customs shape the landscape.
Nature & Adventure
Ride through the lush, untamed forests of Iya Valley, pedalling along quiet country roads winding rivers. Cross legendary vine bridges that have connected mountain villages for centuries and soak in a mountainside onsen, before descending toward the rugged Pacific coastline. From misty mountain passes to sun-drenched fishing villages and dramatic ocean cliffs, the ever-changing backdrop makes every ride unforgettable.
Culture & Local Flavours
This trip is all about diving deep into Japanese traditions. Explore historic fishing villages and get a taste of Kochi’s coastal life at Hirome Ichiba Market, where you’ll feast on delicious fresh seafood. Try your hand at handmade soba noodle making and craft your own Washi paper souvenir, mastering a craft passed down for centuries. Each stay is carefully selected—from Buddhist temples and mountain lodges to boutique retreats by the sea, offering a deep dive into authentic Japanese hospitality.
Highlights
Your Itinerary
Day -1: Sat Nov 8 - Welcome to Japan
Airport transfer from Tokyo Airport
Arrive late in Tokyo and settle in for your first night in Japan.
Day 0: Sun Nov 9 - Discover Tokyo like a Local
City tour with a local guide
Begin your adventure with a guided day tour of Tokyo. Explore the city’s highlights, from bustling streets to peaceful parks, led by a local guide. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner.
Day 1: Mon Nov 10 - Tranquil Beginnings & Temple Stay
Flight from Tokyo to Takamatsu. 68km / 826m
Start your adventure in Takamatsu, home to one of Japan's top four gardens, Ritsurin Gardens. Stroll through these stunning landscapes, and enjoy tea in a century-old tea house. Then, ride on to Zentsu-ji, a 1200-year-old Buddhist temple, where you will spend the night experiencing the peaceful temple life and traditional Shojin Buddhist cuisine. Prepare for an early evening, as you’ll participate in the 6:00 am morning prayer service the next day.
Day 2: Tue Nov 11 - Ocean Views & Mountain Adventures
69km / 1,600m
After the morning prayer service, explore the temple before cycling to the Shonai Peninsula, where breathtaking ocean views await. Visit Takaya Shinto Shrine, then head to the mountains and the picturesque Iya Valley. Known for its ancient vine bridges, this scenic town offers an opportunity to relax in natural hot springs.
Day 3: Wed Nov 12 - Scenic Routes & Soba Making
73km / 1,500m
Today, you’ll enjoy a scenic ride to Sameura Dam, with a special stop to try your hand at making Soba noodles. Experience the traditions of Shikoku while staying at the Samura Sou hotel, offering an authentic and peaceful retreat.
Day 4: Thu Nov 13 - Downhill to the Coast
105km / 2,020m
Take a thrilling downhill ride from the mountains to the coastal town of Kochi, once a major whaling port. Visit Hirome Ichiba market to taste the freshest fish. Then, ride along the southern coastline to Suzaki, another fishing town where you can enjoy local delicacies. Tonight, stay at Kuroshio Honjin, a Pacific ocean-view retreat offering both indoor and outdoor baths for a soothing end to your day.
Day 5: Fri Nov 14 - Cycling through the Hills
84km / 1,770m
Enjoy a day of cycling through scenic hills and forests, ending in Yusuhara, a village nestled in the Shikoku mountains. Stay at Hotel Marche, a boutique hotel designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, offering a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views.
Day 6: Sat Nov 15 - Paper-Making & Hot Springs
88km / 1,830m
Cycle through the countryside to Kamikoya, where you’ll meet Rogier, a master of the ancient art of Washi paper-making. Learn how this paper was integral to Japan’s history before creating your own piece of Washi as a unique souvenir. In the afternoon, transfer by train to Dogo Onsen, a famous hot spring town in Matsuyama.
Day 7: Sun Nov 16 - Temple Walk & Culinary Tour
Shinkansen to Osaka
After a private van transfer to Onomichi, enjoy a leisurely walk through the temples and taste the famous Onomichi ramen. Then, take the famous Shinkansen (high-speed train) to Osaka, Japan's food capital. Explore the vibrant food scene on a guided food tour before settling in for a restful night at a hotel in Osaka.
Day 8: Mon Nov 17 - Farewell Japan
Airport transfer from Osaka
After a fulfilling journey through Shikoku’s heritage and landscapes, it’s time to return home. Take with you memories of Japan's cultural treasures and breathtaking nature.
Your Guides
Norman and Reiko are long-time residents of Shikoku. Norman, a 40 year cyclist, former Ironman triathlete and restaurant owner, found it incredibly easy to fall in love with Japan decades ago as he’s both a foodie and a cyclist. Norman sold his restaurant business 4 years ago to follow his passion and start as a cycling guide with his own company.
Reiko comes from a radically different background – she grew up in a family fish business. Her hosting skills come from her yen (strong craving) for exploring and sharing the beauty of Shikoku’s landscapes with visitors. Reiko is a cyclist and also a licenced bike mechanic. They’re both excited to provide an unforgettable experience of Shikoku!
Your Experience
Included
Private guide in Tokyo to discover the city like a local
6 days of guided road cycling on scenic, off-the-beaten-path routes through mountains, forests, and coastal roads of Shikoku
All meals during the 6 day tour of Shikoku
10 night accommodation in twin occupancy with a combination of authentic accommodations, including a Buddhist temple, mountain lodges, boutique hotels, and coastal retreats
Overnight stay at Zentsu-ji Temple, including a traditional Buddhist Shojin Ryori dinner and 6 AM morning prayer service
Tea ceremony in a 100-year-old teahouse in Takamatsu
Natural hot springs (onsen) in Iya Valley and Kuroshio Honjin with ocean and mountain views
Soba noodle-making experience, the art of Japan’s famous buckwheat noodles
Hands-on Washi paper-making workshop, discovering an ancient Japanese craft
Local culinary experiences, from fresh deep-sea fish at Kochi’s vibrant markets to handmade noodles and regional specialties
Ride through historic villages and stunning landscapes, from misty forests to dramatic ocean cliffs
Private food tour in Osaka
Entrance to all attractions
Baggage transfers so you can ride light and enjoy the journey
All ground transport (including private van transfer, Shinkansen train transfer)
Internal flight (Tokyo - Takamatsu)
Tokyo airport transfer on the way in and Osaka airport transfer on the way out
GPX files and cycling routes
Photos and videos for you to keep memories of the trip
Not included
Lunch and dinners outside of 6-day cycling tour in Shikoku - we will eat together at a local restaurant each evening
Road bike rental (available from CAD$ 300 for the 6 days)
All other flights
Travel insurance (personal travel insurance is mandatory)
Registration
Early Bird:
CAD$ 5,200 pp in twin occupancy
(until May 31, 2025)
Regular:
CAD$ 5,500 pp in twin occupancy
Single hotel room supplement (on availability): CAD$300 pp
Booking deadline: 31 August 2025
Taxes included. Spots limited.
To sign up or ask questions, please complete the form below and we will get in touch with you for next steps.