Hiroshima & the Shimanami Kaido

OVERALL ATMOSPHERE:

The Shimanami Kaido was the most incredible experience ever. 70km over the gorgeous Seto Inland Sea. Follow the clearly marked lines and enjoy the ride. Bring sunscreen and a camera. It's beautiful the whole way through. Many people can cycle the whole route in one day, but I preferred an easy-going pace and planned to split the route into 2 halves.

LODGING:

I stayed at the Ikidane Hostel, which was exactly half-way through the cycle route for ¥5400 a night. There was also a bike drop-off location and a bus stop here which worked to my advantage because my cycle got cut short here.

TRANSPORTATION:

I took the earliest bus from Hiroshima to Imabari (the starting point of my cycle) for ¥3700. I then took a taxi to the start of the cycle trail after dropping off my luggage for delivery. I recommend using this service. You drop your luggage off in the AM and it will be delivered to your accommodation by the evening. I rented my bike for ¥1000 a day

FOOD:

I was told to try the ramen in Onomichi but I didn't get a chance! 

PLACES TO VISIT: 

This Google Map has an extensive list of restaurants, bike rental stations, bathrooms, viewpoints, and guesthouses along the route. I honestly did not stop due to starting my cycle late (noon) and rushing to get to my checkpoint before sundown. I stopped at various viewpoints and 7/11 for snacks.