On Day 4, we took a ferry from Imabari to Okamura Island. The course starts on the seaside of Tobishima-Kaido and Oomishima. Shimanami Coastal Route has limited traffic and is friendly to beginners, but the serenity of this area is exceptional and delightful to cyclists. You will encounter mildly elevated areas which will help spice up the experience. 4 ferries travel between Imabari and Okamura per day. The Taiwan-Japan Cultural exchange Cycling in Shimanami Coastal Route chartered a ferry, but if you were to travel by regular means of transport, there would be a need to stop over thrice- Konaga Port to Akashi Port, Akashi to Tenman Port, Tenman Port to Miyaura. Make sure to get there on time!
The sea of Mitarai district in Ooshimageshima has been known and prospered for its favorable currents and wind since the Edo Period, leaving a traditional townscape. In Year Heisei 6 (1994) this county was selected as a Traditional Architectures Preservation District. Make sure to bike slowly, as the lanes are narrow.
Strikingly, amongst the members of the Taiwan-Japan Cultural exchange Cycling in Shimanami Coastal Route; the most energetic were the ladies. The roads were maintained well, and slopes were generous enough for beginners and women to enjoy. Mountainside routes can be included to create a course to suit more advanced cyclists.
Ooyakazumi Shrine worships the god of battle, where weapons of Samurai from the age of provincial wars are dedicated. National treasures, Important cultural assets and 40% of Japanese armors are preserved here. The shrine held a ritual praying for Taiwan-Japan Cultural exchange Cycling in Shimanami Coastal Route members' safety. We received a lucky charm sticker to put on our helmets, which is the most popular choice amongst cyclists.
Traveling clockwise around Oomishima, there is need to climb a hill just before reaching Munakata Port. With King Liu leading at the forefront, the other members follow to complete the last challenge. "We had heard that the ending would be tough, but after completing the course, it wasn't that hard." Even beginners would be able to complete this hill climb with a 34 x 25T gear.
