JAPAN HIROSHIMA 2025

24 October – 7 November 2025

Trip Overview

Our journey from Hiroshima to Kyoto will be an unforgettable experience, allowing us to explore some of Japan’s most fascinating and historic landscapes. Starting from Hiroshima, we will go through the history of this beautiful country and soon after, we’ll cycle through the Shimanami Kaido cycling network where the famous suspension bridges are located, including the renowned Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge, which is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world at over 4 kilometers long. We will then cross the island of Tokushima, renowned for its natural beauty, with breathtaking mountains, rivers, and fishing villages. Leaving Tokushima Island, we will then set our wheels on solid ground towards Nara, famous for being Japan’s first permanent capital, renowned for its ancient historical sites, parks, temples, and wild deer that roam freely through the streets. Finally, Kyoto awaits us for our last leg, where on bikes and in Kimono attire, we will try to spot the famous “Geishas.”

Cancellation policy

Refund and cancellation

Where, for whatever reason, one person is obliged to withdraw, the person must give written notice to Project Adventure Cycling.

Refund will be calculated with this penalty:

– In case of cancellation, an administration fee of 300 euros will be charged.
– Within 45 days from date of departure the penalty fare is 30% of the total cost of the trip.
– Within 30 days from departure the penalty fare is 40% of the total cost of the trip.
– Within 21 days from departure the penalty fare is 50% of the total cost of the trip.
– Within 14 days from departure the penalty fare is 75 % of the total cost of the trip.
– After this date no refund will be given.

There will be no refunds for those who do not show up at the start of the trip or withdraw during the course of the tour.
There will be no refunds for those who are unable to start or complete the tour due to a lack or inaccuracy of personal travel documents (i.e Visa or Passport).

The traveller understands that some destinations pose more of a risk than other destinations due to weather conditions, socio-political situations and the geography of the region. The traveller acknowledges that factors such as, but not limited to, weather conditions, landslides, floods, flight cancellations or delays, strikes, labour issues, power failures, restrictive governmental laws or regulations, riots, insurrection, war or other (hereinafter called “Force Majeure Event”) are not the fault of Project Adventure Cycling and may hinder, delay or even prevent the Traveller’s ability to make or complete the trip. The traveller acknowledges that the Project Adventure Cycling shall not be liable to the traveller for any delay or cancellation of the trip due to a Force Majeure Event. The traveler is neither entitled to a refund nor any other payment for damages from the Project Adventure Cycling in the event that the trip is cancelled or delayed due to a Force Majeure Event. Please note that we are never responsible for any airfare ticket expenses.

Included + Not Included

The price includes

Bike guides from PA Cycling (specific number of guides depends on the number of participants)
Transfer from Hiroshima airport to our Hotel (If arrival on the scheduled day)
2 night’s stay in Hotel in Hiroshima (breakfast and welcome dinner included)
All Overnights in Riokan and small guest houses
Dinner during all stages with beverage included
Two nights in the Kyoto
Transfer to the Kyoto Airport by train (on the scheduled day)
Travel insurance coverage
Support vehicle
Bike wash every day if needed
Laundry service where is possible

The price does not include

Airfare and baggage fees, bike equipment
Lunches and dinner where not expressly specified
Food during bike days except where specified
Excursions, extra activities
Additional costs in case of logistic changes (extra transfers etc.)
Anything not listed in “The price includes” section

THE TRACK

THE STAGES

25 October

Arrival in Hiroshima. Transfer to hotel. Bike preparation, briefing.

26 October

To test out the bikes, familiarize ourselves with the surroundings and (above all) to enjoy this incredible city, we’re going for a ride of about 40 kilometres, visiting the Atomic Dome and the Miyajima Island.
Then, we can do some sightseeing and purchase food—there are many places to buy supplies in the city.
Bike bags will be sent to our final destination in Kyoto, so please drop them off at this time.

27 October – STAGE 01

Hiroshima to Onomichi – 101 km | 1240 m

Departure from Hiroshima: Our adventure kicks off in the historic and vibrant city of Hiroshima, a place known for its profound significance in world history and its remarkable post-war reconstruction. As we set out, we’ll pass through Hiroshima’s bustling streets and serene landscapes, experiencing the blend of modern urban life and deep cultural heritage. From here, we make our way towards Onomichi, a charming coastal town renowned for its scenic beauty and rich cycling culture. Famous for its picturesque views of the Seto Inland Sea and the start of the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, Onomichi is a true haven for cycling enthusiasts. This leg of the journey offers a mix of culture, history, and nature, making it a must-visit for travelers who love both adventure and exploration.

28 October – STAGE 02

Onomichi – Imabari – 680,5 km | 590 m

We will depart from our hotel and embark on an unforgettable journey to a cyclist’s paradise: the renowned Shimanami Kaido. This spectacular cycling route spans across the Seto Inland Sea, connecting the islands with a series of breathtaking suspension bridges.

As we traverse each island, we’ll experience the sensation of ‘flying’ over the azure waters, enjoying panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. The route offers not only smooth paths perfect for cycling but also the chance to explore the unique charm of each island, from quaint fishing villages to hidden beaches.

Our destination is the mainland city of Imabari, where we’ll conclude this exhilarating ride, having crossed the stunning Shimanami bridges and islands—a journey that is as thrilling as it is scenic.

29 October – STAGE 03

Imabari – Yawatahama – 126 km | 1270 m

After giving both our legs and minds a well-deserved rest, it’s time to take on the first challenge of the mountains. This marks the beginning of one of the most scenic uphill stages of the journey, as we climb through lush, rolling landscapes and wind our way toward the peaks.

The ascent offers breathtaking views of the countryside, with every turn revealing new vistas that blend the natural beauty of Japan’s inland mountains with glimpses of the distant coastline. At the summit, the sense of achievement is matched only by the stunning panorama awaiting us. From here, we’ll begin our descent into the charming coastal town of Yawatahama, a peaceful haven known for its harbor and laid-back atmosphere, offering the perfect setting to relax after a rewarding day of cycling.

30 October – STAGE 04

Yawatahama – Shimanto – 108 km | 1330 m

Today, we embark on a challenging yet rewarding ride from Yawatahama to Shimanto, covering a distance of 108 kilometers. This stage will test our endurance, as we’ll tackle a total elevation gain of 1,330 meters. Along the way, we’ll pedal through diverse landscapes, from coastal roads that hug the shoreline to the rolling hills and forested areas of the inland countryside. The climb will be demanding, but the journey will offer incredible views and a true sense of adventure. As we push ourselves through the ascents and long stretches, the natural beauty of the region will serve as our motivation. By the end of the day, we’ll arrive in Shimanto, a town famed for its pristine river, where we can unwind and reflect on the day’s achievements.

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31 October – STAGE 05

Shimanto – Nakatosa – 78 km | 1090 m

Today offers a more relaxed pace compared to the previous day’s challenging ride, though it still promises an exciting adventure. We’ll be cycling from Shimanto to Nakatosa, covering a scenic 78-kilometer stretch along the beautiful coastline. The route will take us past picturesque seaside views, with the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific Ocean on one side and lush, green landscapes on the other. While the ride is shorter, we’ll still be tackling 1,090 meters of climbing, offering some rewarding ascents that lead to stunning coastal vistas. The fresh sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing against the shore will make this stage a refreshing and enjoyable experience. By the time we reach Nakatosa, a tranquil fishing town, we’ll have had a fulfilling day of cycling, with plenty of time to relax and take in the charm of the region.

1 November – STAGE 06

Nakatosa – Kochi – 60,5 km | 560 m

Compared to the last two stages, today’s ride will feel much more relaxed, offering a chance to recover while still enjoying the journey. We’ll be pedaling a more moderate 60.5 kilometers, with an elevation gain of 560 meters—making it a gentler day in terms of both distance and climbing. The route takes us from the peaceful town of Nakatosa to the lively city of Kochi, known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. As we ride through the coastal and rural landscapes, the milder climbs will allow us to appreciate the surroundings without the intense effort of previous days.

This stage provides the perfect balance between physical activity and a more leisurely pace, giving us time to take in the beauty of the region while still progressing on our adventure. By the time we arrive in Kochi, we’ll have plenty of energy left to explore the city’s cultural landmarks and perhaps sample some of its famous local cuisine.

2 November – STAGE 07

Kochi – Mima – 125 km | 1300 m

After a couple of more relaxed stages, it’s time to take on a new challenge as we return to the mountains. This marks the beginning of one of the most demanding yet rewarding legs of our journey—a long stage that will push our endurance but reward us with absolutely breathtaking scenery. Today, we’ll be covering the distance between Kochi and Mima, a route that will take us through dramatic landscapes filled with towering peaks, dense forests, and winding mountain roads. As we ascend, the climbs will test our strength and determination, but each turn will unveil stunning vistas, from panoramic views of the valleys below to pristine rivers and hidden villages nestled in the hills.

By the time we reach Mima, we’ll have conquered a truly epic ride, with memories of the breathtaking scenery as a well-earned reward.

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3 November – STAGE 08

Mima – Hashimoto – 80 km | 260 m

Our journey is far from over, but today marks a significant transition as we leave the island of Shikoku behind and head toward the historical heart of Japan. The landscape begins to change, and with it, the atmosphere becomes more steeped in tradition. As we cycle from Mima to Hashimoto, we’ll move from the rugged, natural beauty of Shikoku to paths that feel more ancient, as if we’re traveling through the pages of Japan’s rich cultural history. Along the way, we’ll start to hear the melodic chanting of Buddhist monks, a spiritual reminder of the sacred heritage that surrounds us.

The route will lead us to a ferry crossing, where we’ll glide across the sea, leaving behind the island’s modern tranquility and arriving on the mainland, where history feels alive in every step and pedal stroke. From there, we’ll continue cycling toward Hashimoto, passing temples, shrines, and traditional landscapes that offer glimpses into Japan’s spiritual past, making this leg of the journey both serene and deeply meaningful.

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4 November – STAGE 09

Hashimoto – Nara – 80 km | 380 m

On the ninth stage of our adventure, we’ll be cycling from Hashimoto to Ikaruga, a stage that offers a relatively gentle ride compared to previous days. With an elevation gain of only 380 meters, the climbs will be mild, allowing us to enjoy the ride without the intense physical demands of mountain stages. Covering 80 kilometers, this stage adds a manageable distance to our journey, giving our legs a bit of a break while still moving us forward. As we pedal through this region, we’ll be passing through areas rich in history and tradition, including ancient temples and serene countryside.

The road to Ikaruga, a town known for its cultural significance and proximity to the famous Horyu-ji Temple—one of Japan’s oldest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—will be filled with moments of reflection and beauty. This stage is an opportunity to slow down, soak in the peaceful surroundings, and appreciate the blend of nature and history that defines this part of Japan.

5 November – STAGE 10

Nara – Kyoto – 68,6 km | 170 m

This is it—our final stage. After an unforgettable adventure filled with challenges, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences, the end is within sight. Today’s ride is a relatively easy one, covering 68.6 kilometers with a gentle climb of just 170 meters, allowing us to enjoy a relaxed and reflective pace as we near the finish. We’ll be cycling from the historic town of Ikaruga toward Kyoto, one of Japan’s most iconic and ancient cities. Along the way, the landscape will slowly shift from the quiet, rural roads to the outskirts of Kyoto, where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.

As we approach this grand city—once the capital of Japan and still a center of culture, art, and history—we’ll pass temples, shrines, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the famous Kyoto gardens. The sense of accomplishment will grow with each pedal stroke, knowing that we are concluding a remarkable journey in a city that has been at the heart of Japan’s story for over a thousand years. Crossing into Kyoto, we will have not only completed our cycling adventure but also experienced a deeper connection to Japan’s spirit and history. We’ll pass through Nara City, home to the awe-inspiring Todai-ji Temple, the renowned Great Buddha, and its charming free-roaming deer.

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6 November

Day off at Kyoto

There are many things to do in Kyoto on this “day off” besides resting and packing everything for the day of departure.

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7 November

Transfer to airport

YOUR GUIDE

Willy Mulonia

Founder & President

Willy Mulonia, expert lonely traveler and cyclist for more than 30 years. He made several solo expeditions, but the most important is without a doubt the 28,640 bike trip from Ushuaia (Patagonia) to Prudhoe Bay (Alaska). He raced in the Crocodile Trophy (Australia) in ’98 and the famous Iditarod Trail Invitational (ITI) in Alaska in 1999, 2000, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022 & 2023, winning the 2025 edition, as well as many other mountain bike stage races all over the world. In 2003 he founded the bike travel agency Progetto Avventura, now renamed Project Adventure Cycling. In 2010, with the help of all the team of PA-Cycling he created the Mongolia Bike Challenge, one of the most important MTB stage race in the world. Today you can find him guiding most the tour offered by Project Adventure Cycling.

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