At a Glance
Route: Hiroshima - Miyajima Island - Shimanami Kaido Cycling - Hiroshima
Experience Japan's spectacular island and culture by bike and by kayak. Cycle the world famous Shimanami Kaido route and paddle the Seto Inland Sea. Your adventure is enhanced by boutique accommodation, refined dinning and professional tour services. The tour is escorted by an English speaking tour coordinator and local guides, offering a high level of comfort and convenience.
Your trip starts from Hiroshima, which is easily accessed by train or flight from all major cities of Japan. You will enjoy a self guided walk to the summit of Misen Mountain on Miyajima Island, one of the most scenic spots in Japan, and has long been regarded as an Island of the Gods on the beautiful Seto Inland Sea. You'll stay on ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- Around transportation tickets (ferries, trains) connecting to Hiroshima Station
- 3x breakfasts, 3x dinners
- Guided full day Miyajima & Itsukushima Shrine Sea Kayaking
- Supported 2 days cycling from Onomichi to Imabari
- Bicycle rental with helmet and insurance
- Kayak hire including kayak, paddle & life jacket
- Support vehicle accompany during the cycling trip for luggage transportation, bike return service or bike fixing service
- 3 nights handpicked authentic Japanese ryokan, on a twin share basis (single supplement is available at additional expense)
Itinerary
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Walking distance: Misen Mountain Hike, approx. 3 km, 1.5 - 2 hours Arrive at Hiroshima station at your own arrangement. Upon arrival at the station, our local representative will meet and greet you at the station, and then transfer you to Miyajima by private car and ferry. Explore the beautiful island at leisure and stay in a traditional Japanese Ryokan. Miyajima Island, one of the most scenic spots in Japan, has long been regarded as an Island of Gods on the beautiful Seto Inland Sea. The whole of Miyajima is a sacred place regarded as an object of worship, where Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage site, is located. Itsukushima Shrine has more than 1400 years of history and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The current main building constructed by Taira no Kiyomori about 800 years ago faithfully inherited the "shinden-zukuri" style (Heian imperial style). The large red gateway rising out of the ocean is the eighth gate. Optional Self guided hike to the summit of Misen Mountain via The Daishoin Route. Misen, the highest mountain on Miyajima island is more than 535 meters above sea level. Explore the 'Virgin Forest Misen' on foot, be enchanting by the beauty of the natural forest, rugged landscapes of giant rocks, and the dotted islands floating on the Seto Inland Sea below. There are more than 2,000 stone steps to the summit. Along the stairs is a row of spinning sutras that lead up to the main hall. It is believed that anyone who spins these sutras will be blessed. At the sixth marking stone near Satomiya Mura, there is a spot to view the Torii so beautiful that you can feel a sense of accomplishment. You could also spot wild deers wandering around the island or resting along the walking paths. Miyajima is a romantic place, best enjoyed by staying overnight at one of the island's ryokans. While there are usually many day tourists, in the evening the area becomes much quieter and more peaceful. After the hike, your guide will drop you off at your luxurious accommodation - Miyajima Grand Hotel Arimoto, which has been in operation on the land of Miyajima since the early Edo period. Experience the traditions of Japan at the century old retreat. A traditional multi-course dinner featuring seafood and local ingredients are served at the dining room. Room Style: Japanese Style Bed Type: Futon Bath: Ensuite Toilet: Ensuite Western style |
Iwaso
Dinner |
Today's activity can start at 09:30 or 13:00. Meet the instructor on the shores of mainland Hiroshima for an introductory lesson. Return ferry tickets from Miyajima Island are included. The kayaking trip will give you a new perspective on the island and views of Miyajima and the famous shrine that few people ever get to see. Then set off for a paddle across the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy the views of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. Paddle out to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Itsukushima Shrine, watching as the details of its impressive torii gate begin to appear as the kayak approaches. Admire the vermilion gate up close, enjoying a different point of view from what most tourists get to see. Continue around the shoreline of Miyajima, seeing its charming old town with towering Mt. Misen in the background. Find a quiet stretch of beach and go ashore for a short break before paddling back to the meeting point. Say farewell to the instructor and journey back to Hiroshima for a well-deserved rest. The kayaking is fully guided and all levels are welcome. Return to your ryokan and enjoy dinners with the island all lighted up. Room Style: Japanese Style Bed Type: Futon Bath: Ensuite Toilet: Ensuite Western style |
IwasoBreakfast, Dinner |
Cycling distance: approx. 40 km Enjoy breakfast and take in the majestic views of of five-story pagoda and Senjokaku of Itsukushima Shrine. Start early and travel by ferry to the mainland and then bullet train to Onomichi (Ferry & train tickets included). Pick up a rental bicycle at the Onomichi rental spot and board the nearby ferry to start the cycling course. Today you will embark on the world famous Shimanami Kaido cycling route, cycling 40 km across the Seto Inland Sea from Onomichi to Omishima. Beginning your cycling journey on Honshu in Onomichi, ride across the six islands of Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima and Oshima, before terminating on Shikoku in Imabari. Along the way, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea and the islands' small towns. The bicycle route is well marked and maintained, and diverges from the expressway on the islands. The blue line painted on the road indicates distances and ensures cyclists are following the correct path. The ramps leading up to the bridges were built at small inclines with cyclists in mind. The entire route can be comfortably completed in a day by intermediate cyclists. There are local points of interest, such as small temples, dotted along the entire route, and cyclists will find there are many chances to stop and get a glimpse of the local, rural life. Your ride is accompanied by a supporting vehicle which will transfer your main luggages and provide you all services needed along the ride. Fujimien is a traditional Japanese inn with a retro, Showa period style on the coast of Omishima island. There is an inner bath made of a general hall, take a leisurely bath time from the glass-covered window and look over the garden. Enjoy kaiseki cuisine made with naturally raised seafood unique to the Seto Inland Sea.. Room Style: Japanese Style Bed Type: Futon Bath: Ensuite Toilet: Ensuite Western style |
Fujimien RyokanBreakfast, Dinner |
Cycling distance: approx. 40 km Continue Shimanami Kaido cycling course and ride across Hakatajima and Oshima, before terminating on Shikoku in Imabari. Reach Imabari Station to drop-off the bicycles and travel back to Hiroshima Station by train. Imabari Station to Hiroshima Station: 3h. Train tickets included. |
NoneBreakfastDates & Prices
Daily departure on request. Group discount is available for 4 or people. Please contact us for group bookings.
More Info
- The departure point is Hiroshima Station
- The finishing point is Hiroshima Station
How to travel between Hiroshima and Osaka
By train: take Sanyo Shinkansen Line, Sakura or Hikari from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima Station about 1.5 hours.
By highway bus: Multiple daytime and overnight highway buses serve Osaka and Hiroshima on a daily basis about 6 hours.
Day 1: Self guided Misen Mountain hike, approx. 3 km, 1.5 - 2 hours
Day 2: Guided Miyajima & Itsukushima Shrine Sea Kayaking full day
Day 3: Guided cycling from Onomichi to Omishima, approx. 40 km
Day 4: Guided cycling from Omishima to Imabari, approx. 40 km
Japan's weather and climate features four distinct seasons.
Spring is from March to May. It's perhaps one of the very best times to visit Japan as temperatures are pleasantly warm without being too hot, with daytime temperatures ranging between 21°C to 26°C. The country is ablaze with beautiful white and pink cherry blossom and plenty festivals to enjoy.
Summer is from June to August and the country experiences a three to four-week rainy season. It is hot and humid during this time and temperatures are often in the high 30’s. If you plan on visiting Japan during the summer weather, northern areas such as Hokkaido or the mountains of Tohoku or Chubu are the most comfortable places to escape the heat.
Autumn is from September to November and is characterised by light breezes and cooler temperatures of around 8-10°C. It is also a wonderful time to visit Japan. The country turns into a haven of red and scarlet leaves which contrast strikingly against the deep blue clear skies and almost as impressive as the stunning cherry blossoms.
Winter is from December to February. It is a magical time to visit as the landscape is turned white with snow. It's the perfect time to go skiing or check out the hot springs, especially venture to the ski slopes of Hokkaido or Nagano. It's Okinawa is a great place to visit during the winter as it is not quite as cold as the rest of Japan’s weather.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
