
(Dinner & Accommodations, Onomichi)
You'll start at the Eki-mae port and take a short 15-minute ferry ride across the strait to Mukaishima and begin your ride (fee is 110 yen/1 USD to be paid on the boat). Today's cycle route will be on the Shimanami Kaido covering 19 miles. It's the major road in the area and you'll find all road signs easily accessible. Although not a great distance, be prepared that today's cycle will have a few steep inclines, and you may find it necessary to dismount and walk up some of the steeper hills. Along the way you will cross Mukaishima, Innoshima and Ikuchi Islands. There's plenty of time to detour and head to points of interest around each of the islands. Be sure to take a look at Murakami Suigun Castle on Innoshima Island, a museum that tells the history of the once powerful Murakami clan, who ruled the waterways of the Seto Inland Sea. Setoda town located on Ikuchijima Island, is home to the strange, but enchanting Kosanji Temple.
Your final destination today is Omishima Island, and after checking into the Chaume Ryokan, dinner is included in tonight's stay.
(Breakfast, Dinner & Accommodations, Omishima Island)
Upon arrival in Matsuyama, make your way to your ryokan. After checking in, you can relax or explore on your own. Matsuyama's most popular attraction is its historic castle, which remains one of the few "original" castles remaining in Japan. Another option is a visit to Dogo Onsen, the oldest bath house in Japan. The warm waters are guaranteed to soothe your aching muscles after your two long days of cycling!
(Breakfast & Accommodations, Matsuyama)
(Breakfast, Matsuyama)