"Bike and Savor: Shōdoshima's Cultural and Culinary Adventure"

Out line

From Kobe Port to the port of Sakate on Shōdoshima, passengers board the "AOI" Jumbo Ferry, the largest ferry serving the island. Floating in the serene sapphire waters of the Seto Inland Sea, Shōdoshima stands as a condensed version of Shikoku, boasting mountains, valleys, terraced rice fields, white sandy beaches, hidden art exhibitions, small-town streets, and its own version of the 88-Temple Shikoku Pilgrimage. Shōdoshima seamlessly integrates culture, history, art, and the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea into its charming scenery and laid-back small-town pace.

The new ferry, "AOI," takes advantage of spacious passenger rooms and incorporates four design motifs representing the island: olive, soy sauce, stone, and terraced fields. This design creates a luxurious and playful resort atmosphere.

During the approximately one-hour journey from departure, the "AOI" ferry passes through the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge. This world-class suspension bridge, with a total length of 4 km and a central span (distance between pillars) of 1991 m, can be observed from afar and up close. The ferry's unique privilege is the opportunity to closely observe the "back side" of the bridge (regularly spaced iron cross braces) when passing directly beneath it, making it the only ferry departing from and arriving at the Hanshin Port to navigate the Akashi Strait during daylight.

Upon arrival at Shōdoshima, participants can join a tour using e-bikes. The cycling route unfolds amid the captivating landscapes, showcasing mountains, valleys, rice fields, hidden art, and the 88-Temple Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Departing from the port, cyclists navigate small-town alleyways, visit temples, explore local noodle producers' workshops, and experience a soy sauce brewery maintaining traditions from centuries ago. The journey then leads into rolling mountain scenery, offering breathtaking views of the sparkling blue Seto Inland Sea.

Afterwards, participants return to the sandy coastline, savoring local flavors at an eatery before continuing along the coast to the shaded peak of a mountain adorned with an ancient shrine. The route concludes at a local sake brewery and bakery, offering a light snack, sake tasting, or a simple cup of coffee. This cycling adventure provides a fresh perspective on the astonishing beauty and richness of this Japanese region.