Beyond “Shimanami Kaido”: Diverse Routes Across Ehime

Editor Kyoko Goto

With a background in PR for an outdoor gear manufacturer, I’m now a reporter for a specialized cycling web media. I develop content to promote cycling as travel and sport. As an avid road cyclist, I’ve toured extensively in Japan and abroad.

Loved by cyclists across Japan as the nation’s “Cycling Sanctuary,” Ehime Prefecture is also one of the top destinations we recommend to anyone planning to explore Japan by bike. Surrounded by the stunning nature of the Shikoku region, Ehime offers everything a cycle tourist could ask for—from world-famous cycling routes and hidden scenic roads to relaxing hot springs and unforgettable local food. Let’s dive into what makes this region so special.

Access

• By air:From Haneda Airport (HND) to Matsuyama Airport (MYJ) /From Kansai International Airport (KIX) via Itami Airport (ITM) to Matsuyama Airport (MYJ)
  

• By sea:Ferry service from Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Gateway to “Shimanami Kaido”

The Shimanami Kaido is an expressway connecting Hiroshima (on Japan’s main island) to Ehime in Shikoku, with the city of Imabari serving as the western starting point. Stretching approximately 70 km, this spectacular route links a chain of islands across the Seto Inland Sea with a series of grand bridges.Praised by outlets like The New York Times and CNN as one of the world’s best cycling routes, the Shimanami Kaido captivates riders with its breathtaking ocean views, safe dedicated bike lanes, and cyclist-friendly infrastructure.

But the appeal goes beyond scenery. A clearly marked blue line guides cyclists along the entire route, and numerous rental terminals offer everything from cross bikes to e-bikes with one-way drop-off options. Rest areas known as “Cycle Oases” allow riders to relax and connect with the locals. On the islands, you can savor fresh citrus fruits, seafood, and the laid-back rhythm of island life.

More Than Just the Shimanami Kaido: Diverse Cycling Routes Across Ehime

Ehime’s cycling playground extends far beyond the coastal route. Venture inland and you’ll discover completely different challenges and landscapes.

• Mountain Routes:Around the Ishizuchi Mountain range—the highest in western Japan—you’ll find serious hill climbs that attract dedicated climbers. These dynamic routes with significant elevation gain offer the perfect testing ground for both fitness and skill. The panoramic views from the summit are a reward only those who conquer the climb can enjoy.
• Dramatic Coastlines:Ride along the rias-style coast of the Uwakai Sea or tackle the Sada Peninsula, the longest and narrowest peninsula in Japan. These coastal routes offer constantly changing terrain and spectacular sea views. Experience the charm of fishing villages and feast on freshly caught seafood for an authentic taste of rural Japan.
• History & Culture on Bicycle:Explore traditional townscapes such as Uchiko, or follow sections of the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage, visiting temples along the way. These routes uniquely blend cycling with Japan’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

World-Class Infrastructure and Warm Hospitality

As Japan’s “Cycling Kingdom,” Ehime has invested heavily in creating a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists.

• Well-Maintained Cycling Roads:Major routes feature bike-only lanes and clear signage, ensuring stress-free navigation.
• Cyclist-Friendly Accommodations & Dining:More hotels, ryokan, and restaurants welcome cyclists with secure bike storage, bike-friendly rooms, and even special menus tailored to riders.
• Relax at “Dogo Onsen”:After a long day on the bike, unwind in Dogo Onsen—Japan’s oldest hot spring with over 3,000 years of history. It’s the perfect place for recovery.
• Rich Local Cuisine:Known as the “Citrus Kingdom,” Ehime is famous for its wide variety of fresh fruits. Local specialties like “taimeshi”(sea bream rice) and “jakoten” (fried fish cake) offer the ideal way to refuel after a ride.

Plan Your Ride with “cycling-ehime.com”

When planning your cycling adventure in Ehime, the most valuable resource is the official multilingual website “cycling-ehime.com”—a platform designed specifically for international cyclists.

■ Find Your Perfect Route with the “Route Finder”

One of the site’s most useful features is the Route Finder.

• Advanced filters: Search by scenery (sea, mountains, towns), cultural experiences, food, difficulty level (beginner, intermediate, advanced), distance, elevation gain, and more.
• Detailed route information: Each route includes distance, estimated ride time, elevation profile, and high-quality photos.
• GPX downloads: You can download GPX data for every route, allowing you to import courses into your GPS device and ride with confidence.

This feature makes it easy to find routes that match your fitness level and interests, helping you plan your journey smoothly.

■ Discover Culture Along the Way

The site also highlights nearby attractions—historical landmarks, museums, scenic viewpoints, local cafés, and restaurants.

 You can plan rides that include cultural stops, festivals, or hands-on traditional craft experiences, turning your trip into much more than just cycling.

■ Essential Travel Information

”Cycling-ehime.com” is also an excellent source of highly practical information.

• Access:Detailed information on how to reach Ehime by air, train, bus, or ferry from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
• Bike Rentals:A comprehensive list of rental shops, available bike types, pricing, hours, and drop-off options.
• Accommodation Guide:Find cyclist-friendly lodging with secure bike storage and tool rentals.
• Emergency & Safety Information:Disaster updates and emergency contacts are also provided to ensure peace of mind.

For more information, visit the official Cycling Ehime website:

CYCLING EHIME