Shikoku

Shikoku provides a rare window into ancient Japan. Here away from the crowds, we cycle along ancient Samurai paths that wind over mountain passes and along crystal clear mountain streams.

Life appears to stand still in these remote valleys as we ride through old villages on narrow roads built for horses, where old gabled roof rural houses stand sentinel to the passing of time. The riding is smooth hot mix bitumen, mostly on secondary roads that see little traffic.

En route the sweet chanting of pilgrims, our fellow travellers on this island of Buddhist devotion, can be heard as we pass temples and pagodas. In Shikoku, those looking for enlightenment in the modern world walk the ancient paths once trodden by the great Buddhist saint, Kobo Daishi. Here the ohenro or pilgrims smile and wave as they visit the 88 temples of "the Daishi" in their pursuit of spiritual awakening.

Our ride takes us from the spectacular Iya Gorge, the deepest gorge in Japan, with its thatch roof houses and old vine bridges, to the spectacular summit of Mt. Ishizuchi, Shikoku and Western Japan's highest mountain.We explore the Pacific coast with its beautiful beaches and relaxed coastal lifestyle before travelling along Japan's last great pure river, the Shimanto.Each night we stay in superb Japanese Inns where you can relax in a hot tub or on some nights, soothe your bones in a hot spring bath before enjoying your Japanese feast.