This is Japan’s best cycling course, but is it fun for bicycling beginners too?

The Seto Inland Sea in Japan boasts a renowned cycling route known as the Shimanami Kaido, a 70-kilometer (43.5-mile) journey spanning seven islands between the towns of Imabari and Onomichi. However, while this popular choice for experienced cyclists may prompt inquiries about its suitability for beginners, cycling enthusiast Saya Togashi discovered that the Shimanami Kaido is indeed beginner-friendly.

Saya, residing in a largely rural area where public transportation is scarce, commutes daily by car. Despite her familiarity with riding a bike, she seldom engaged in it. Intrigued by the Shimanami Kaido's allure, she decided to explore its accessibility for novices. To her delight, official rental cycle depots along the route catered to this need.

There's no requirement to bring your own bike; simply pick one up at one of the 10 officially designated rental depots, such as the Imabari Itoyama Rental Cycle depot in Imabari.

Saya reserved a day pass for an electric-assist bike, costing 4,000 yen (US$25). Upon arrival, the rental staff readily adjusted the seat height to her preference and guided her towards the first segment of the route, the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge. The bridge, roughly a 10-minute ride from the rental depot, boasts a wide, flat path surrounded by high guardrails, effectively shielding cyclists from vehicular traffic and the sea below.

Although clouded skies persisted, the atmosphere remained pleasant, allowing Saya to appreciate the picturesque scenery unencumbered.

Throughout her excursion, Saya encountered not only breathtaking views but also the convenience of drop-off points at various depots, enabling her to combine cycling with alternative transportation if desired. Though she did pause at a designated rest area for a brief photo break, her overall experience proved enjoyable and stress-free.