Painting the different sides of Setouchi

Peddling into paradise

When Arnav Ranganathan, a cyclist from the United States, arrived in Shodoshima he had already finished the 70-kilometer Shimanami Kaido-an epic biking route in Japan that connects the main island of Honshu to the island of Shikoku.

"Ever since I heard about the trail I knew I wanted to do it, because in every aspect it sounds like a cycling paradise," Ranganathan says, unable to hide his excitement.

Flanked by the sea and mountains, and offering a topography that has just the right amount of undulation-as well as its gentle sunshine, spectacular view and historic attractions-the Setouchi region is regarded as Mecca for cyclists from around the world.

The Shimanami Kaido is a set of seven bridges that cross the Seto Inland Sea connecting six islands. Riders can cycle the whole course or opt to just complete small sections and take a boat or a bus to another destination.

Compared with Shimanami Kaido, Ranganathan regards the cycling course on Shodoshima as just a relaxing stretch for amateurs, but he was still impressed by the olive tree-covered island and its mysterious places of Buddhist pilgrimage.

"The Olive Park of Shodoshima is a common destination for cyclists. It is located up on a hill, where you can lie back on the grass and revel in the view of the sea and sky," Ranganathan adds.

"It was an awesome ride," he concludes, "I finished the course in two days, taking a few breaks for pictures and to enjoy the local cuisine. It was definitely the highlight of my visit to Japan."

WANG XU in Setouchi, Okayama