Chugoku Region Cycling Guide by RV

RV × Cycling: Touring Western Japan’s Scenic Routes

What You’ll Learn in This Article

• 5 spectacular cycling routes from Shimanami Kaido to Oku-Izumo in the Chugoku region
• RV camping × bicycle loading techniques
• Model routes & must-visit spots
• Pre-ride maintenance & safety equipment checklist

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Combining an RV with cycling opens the door to extraordinary adventures where freedom and exhilaration converge. Feel the sea breeze while riding the Shimanami Kaido, experience the thrill of cycling through the historic streets of Tomonoura, immerse yourself in the majestic nature of Mount Daisen, explore the tranquil mountain paths of Oku-Izumo, and enjoy the comfort of cycling through Tsuyama’s pastoral landscapes. These are precious experiences that can only be truly appreciated on a bicycle. With an RV, you can immediately rest your tired body and worry-free about transportation or luggage. This style allows your heart and body to unite with nature, offering encounters with a new version of yourself during your journey. This represents a new form of travel for the future. Today, we’ll introduce optimal cycling spots for RV visits, including Shimanami Kaido, Tomonoura, Mount Daisen, Oku-Izumo, and Tsuyama.

Benefits of RV Cycling Adventures
1	Flexible Itinerary RVs serve as mobile accommodations. You can stay wherever you like, allowing immediate rest after cycling. Example: After cycling mountain routes, stay on-site and move to different courses the next morning. Efficiently enjoy multiple routes without booking accommodations or worrying about transportation.	🏕️
2	Easy Bicycle Loading RVs can easily accommodate multiple bicycles. You can transport dirty bikes after cycling without worry. Example: Load the whole family’s bikes for weekend trips. After riding in the rain, simply store muddy bikes in the storage space hassle-free.	🚲
3	No Luggage Worries Ample storage for food, clothing, and repair tools. Enjoy cycling with minimal gear. Example: Even on long-distance rides, travel light. Keep spare clothing, tools, and snacks in the RV while cycling unencumbered.	🧳

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How can I safely load bicycles?

A1. Securely fasten bikes using rear hatch racks or rear carriers with anti-slip mats, and protect frames with bike bags for peace of mind.

Q2. What are the recommended cycling courses in the Chugoku region?

A2. We recommend these 5 courses: Shimanami Kaido, Mount Daisen Loop Cycling, Tomonoura Cycle, Tsuyama Cycling Road, and Oku-Izumo Hii River Cycling.

Q3. What maintenance should I check before riding?

A3. Don’t forget to check tire pressure, brake pad wear, chain lubrication, and safety equipment like lights and helmets.

1. World-Renowned Scenery! Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road

Highlights
Cycling through the islands floating in the Seto Inland Sea offers an unparalleled and special experience. On the bridges, you’ll feel the sea breeze while the tranquil sea and island landscapes below heal your heart. The sunset from Tatara Bridge is particularly spectacular, washing away the day’s fatigue. Each island offers different scenery, culture, and local cuisine. The lemon groves of Ikuchijima and Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima provide new discoveries throughout your cycling journey.

Route Overview

• Model Route：Onomichi City → Imabari City
  Distance：70km (one way)／Duration：4～6 hours
• Model Route（day trip）：Onomichi → via Mukaishima & Innoshima → Setoda area, Ikuchijima
  Distance：30km (one way)／Duration：3～4 hours
• Parking Spots：Shimanami Exchange Hall parking (Onomichi)／Sunrise Itoyama parking (Imabari)
• Caution：Reduce speed and ride carefully on bridges during windy conditions.

Scenic Rest Points

1. Tatara Shimanami Park（Ikuchijima, near Tatara Bridge）
   　A park at the foot of Tatara Bridge where you can rest while viewing the bridge up close. The seaside plaza offers tranquil wave sounds while enjoying the local specialty “Hakata Salt Soft Cream.”
2. Michi-no-Eki Omishima（Omishima）
   　A rest stop in central Omishima where you can savor the famous “Omishima Burger.” Nearby Oyamazumi Shrine offers history and culture. Benches overlooking the sea provide perfect refreshment spots.

Round trip course from Onomichi City to Ikuchijima Setoda

This course starts from Onomichi, passes through Mukaishima and Innoshima, and reaches the Setoda area of Ikuchijima. One way is about 30km, making a round trip of about 60km. It’s a manageable distance for beginners, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and tourist spots of the islands along the way.

Model Route

1. Onomichi City：Starting point. Rental bicycles are also available.
2. Mukaishima：Access via ferry across Onomichi Channel.
3. Innoshima：Cross Innoshima Bridge and traverse the island.
4. Ikuchijima Setoda：Features tourist attractions like Hirayama Ikuo Museum and Kosanji Temple.

Duration：About 3～4 hours one way (including sightseeing and breaks)

Points：If time allows, further exploration of Ikuchijima is recommended. After sightseeing in Setoda, return to Onomichi via the same route.

Accommodation options for overnight stays

Accommodations that allow bicycles in rooms or offer front desk storage

Along the Shimanami Kaido, there are numerous accommodations providing cyclist-friendly services. Here are some recommendations:

1. Imabari City Area

• JR Clement Inn Imabari：Bicycles can be brought to rooms when stored in rinko bags.
• Imabari Kokusai Hotel：Allows bicycles in guest rooms and provides cyclist-friendly services.

2. Onomichi City Area

• Hotel Cycle：A unique hotel where you can check in while still on your bicycle, allowing bikes in guest rooms.
• Anago-no-nedoko：A guesthouse in Onomichi’s old town area that accommodates bicycle storage.

3. Ikuchijima Area

• Shimayadoya NEST：Located near Setoda Port, this room-rental guesthouse allows bicycle storage.

Important Notes

• Some accommodations may have conditions for bicycle storage. We recommend contacting each facility in advance.
• Shimanami Kaido is a popular cycling destination, so accommodations can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Early booking is advisable.

Use this information to fully enjoy your Shimanami Kaido cycling experience.

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2. Four Seasons at Mount Daisen Loop Cycling: A Journey of Natural Beauty and Adventure

Highlights
Luxurious time cycling through Mount Daisen’s four seasonal landscapes. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer lush greenery, autumn stunning foliage, and winter snow scenes – each season offers different expressions. Forest paths provide pleasant tree fragrances and cool breezes, with breathtaking views especially from Kagikake Pass. Routes against the majestic Mount Daisen backdrop offer exhilarating unity with nature. At Masumizu Highland, you can interact with grazing cattle while pastoral scenery soothes the soul.

Route Overview

• Model Route：Daisenji Parking → Mount Daisen Loop Road Circuit
• Distance：30km／Duration：2～3 hours
• Parking Spot：Daisenji Parking
• Caution：Mountain roads have many uphill sections, so take breaks without overexertion.

Scenic Rest Points

1. Kagikake Pass Observatory
   　A spectacular viewpoint overlooking Mount Daisen’s magnificent form. Autumn foliage season showcases stunning red and yellow mountain ranges. The observatory includes parking for bike breaks.
2. Masumizu Highland
   　A highland area with vast grasslands and grazing cattle. Observation decks offer views of the Japan Sea and Yumigahama Peninsula, with luxurious Mount Daisen backdrop scenery on clear days.

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3. Feel the Edo Period Port Town! Tomonoura Cycling

Highlights
Cycling through “Tomonoura,” a port town from the Edo period, creates a sensation of traveling back in time. Riding through historic streetscapes against the tranquil Seto Inland Sea backdrop feels like melting into history. The view of Sensui Island from Fukuzenji Taichoro provides soul-cleansing spectacular scenery. Each alley brings new discoveries, with cafes and souvenir shops offering pleasant breaks. This special experience fuses tourism and cycling.

Route Overview

• Model Route: Tomonoura Tourist Parking → Tomonoura Circuit → Fukuyama Port
• Distance：15km／Duration：1.5～2 hours
• Parking Spot：Tomonoura Tourist Parking
• Caution：Prioritize pedestrians and maintain safety in narrow town streets.

Scenic Rest Points

1. Sensui Island Viewpoint (ferry from Tomonoura Port)
   　Take the ferry to Sensui Island for exploration viewpoints. Panoramic views of the tranquil Seto Inland Sea and Tomonoura port town. Pleasant wind-feeling breaks.
2. Fukuzenji Taichoro (Tomonoura)
   　Historic temple in Tomonoura with spectacular views from Taichoro. Registered as Japan Heritage, beautiful scenery overlooks Sensui Island across the sea. Recommend relaxing on tatami mats.

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4. Natural Beauty Along Yoshii River! Tsuyama Cycling Road

Highlights
Roads along the clear Yoshii River stream combine pleasant winds and babbling brooks, creating a natural embrace sensation. Spring brings blooming cherry tree lines, autumn adds colorful foliage, offering seasonal discoveries. Tsuyama Castle ruins provide historical weight with exquisite stone wall and nature contrasts. This route offers relaxing river-side breaks, suitable for beginners.

Route Overview

• Model Route: Tsuyama City General Park → Along Yoshii River → Tsuyama Castle Ruins
• Distance：25km／Duration：2～3 hours
• Parking Spot：Kume General Culture Sports Park
• Caution：Prepare insect repellent for riverside bugs.

Scenic Rest Points

1. Tsuyama Castle Ruins（Kakuzan Park）
   　Beautiful stone walls and lush park grounds, enjoying cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage. Park benches offer luxurious scenic time feeling river breezes.
2. Michi-no-Eki Kume-no-Sato
   　Unique roadside station featuring giant “Ζ Gundam statue.” Well-maintained benches and plazas for Yoshii River views. Local ingredient light meals recommended.

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5. Mythological Landscape Tour! Oku-Izumo Hii River Cycling

Route Overview

Highlights
Cycling along the Hii River, said to be the stage of Izumo mythology, evokes mystical atmospheres. Quiet rural scenery along Hii River and the massive Oku-Izumo Orochi Loop bridge offer extraordinary experiences. Local warmth and Yumura Onsen foot bath healing enhance travel pleasures. The entire route flows with tranquil air, providing heart and body refreshment. Experience the harmony of nature and culture.

• Model Route: Michi-no-Eki Oku-Izumo Orochi Loop → Along Hii River → Hot Spring Facilities
• Distance：40km／Duration：3～4 hours
• Parking Spot：Michi-no-Eki Oku-Izumo Orochi Loop
• Caution：Use brakes frequently on downhills, maintain moderate speed for safety.

Scenic Rest Points

1. Oku-Izumo Orochi Loop Observatory
   　Observatory overlooking the giant loop bridge with beautiful Hii River and surrounding forest scenery. Stop during cycling to feel nature while relaxing.
2. Hinokami Onsen Foot Bath Spot
   　Hot spring facility foot bath corner along Hii River. Heal cycling-tired feet while enjoying babbling streams and surrounding rural landscapes. Bathing facilities available for complete refreshment.

Essential Points for Comfortable Enjoyment

4 Essential Points for Enjoyable Cycling
🔄	Adjust Plans According to Distance Set turnaround points on long-distance routes and adjust distance to match your fitness level. Target 20-30km for beginners, 40-60km for intermediate riders. When feeling tired, don’t hesitate to cut trips shorter than planned. Recording distances with smartphone cycling apps helps plan future rides.
🗺️	Check Routes in Advance Some courses have narrow roads or mixed pedestrian areas requiring extra caution. Check route maps before departure, identifying dangerous spots and restricted sections. For first-time routes, use GPS navigation or cycling map apps to track location while riding. Note confusing intersections beforehand for peace of mind.
🚰	Know Refuel Points Pre-checking rest areas and vending machine locations provides security. Identify convenience stores, roadside stations, and parks with toilet/rest facilities every 10-15km intervals. Summer hydration is especially important, so carry backup water and take frequent breaks. Some areas have few vending machines, so confirm multiple refuel points for long distances.
🅿️	Confirm Bicycle Parking at Tourist Sites Research safe bicycle parking locations at tourist destinations in advance. Popular tourist spots may have full bike parking. Check multiple parking options when possible. Without public bike parking, use designated areas at tourist facilities or nearby cafes with bike racks. For expensive bikes, bring sturdy locks and park in high-traffic areas.

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【Summary】RV Adventures Where Nature and Freedom Converge: Unforgettable Bicycle Journeys

Combining RVs with bicycles isn’t just transportation or activity – it’s a special experience liberating the heart and discovering new landscapes and emotions. Shimanami Kaido’s magnificent seascapes, Tomonoura’s atmospheric historic streets, Mount Daisen’s powerful nature, Oku-Izumo’s serene mountains, and Tsuyama’s pastoral scenery can only reveal their true charm when explored by bicycle. Furthermore, RVs dramatically enhance travel comfort and freedom, enabling personal-paced enjoyment. Using this article as reference, load your RV with bicycles for your next trip and experience this new travel style through Western Japan’s scenic spots. The exhilaration of riding with free winds will surely create unforgettable memories. Also explore RV bicycle loading methods and essential items to expand your imagination.

Chugoku Region StarWatching Guide by RV What You'll Learn from This Article ...

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Raychell(レイチェル) 20インチ 折りたたみ自転車 FB-206R シマノ6段変速 フロントLEDライト付 カーキ