[Ehime] A recommended cycling route through the town of Ainan

Ainan Town is a small town with a population of approximately 18,000, located at the southernmost tip of Ehime Prefecture in Shikoku. There are no train lines, and it takes about two and a half hours to get there from the nearest Matsuyama Airport, making it one of the towns furthest from Tokyo, the capital of Japan. Despite this, Ainan Town has many tourist spots that even Japanese people don't know about.

This article introduces a model cycling course around the little-known, secluded hot spring "Yamade Ikoi no Sato Onsen" in Ainan Town and its surroundings. The course introduced here is a short course of about 13 km, making it relatively easy even for beginners.

• Table of Contents
• Enjoy the scenic beauty of Ainan Town with a cycling tour | Where can I rent a bicycle?
• Japanese traffic rules you should know before you depart
• Explore the city's tourist attractions by bicycle!
• Explore the town of Ainan on an e-bike!

Enjoy the scenic beauty of Ainan Town with a cycling tour | Where can I rent a bicycle?

Bicycles can be rented at the Ainan Town Tourism Association , located within the Minami-Rec Misato Park. For long rides or climbing steep hills, an e-bike is recommended.

Let's follow the rules and enjoy safe and fun cycling!

Operating hours: 9:00-17:00
Regular bicycles: 500 yen, electric-assist bicycles: 1,000 yen, e-bikes: 4 hours/1,000 yen, 8 hours/2,000 yen

Ainan Town Tourism Association Official Website

Japanese traffic rules you should know before you depart

To enjoy cycling safely and responsibly, you must follow traffic rules. The following are some basic rules.

1. Principles and exceptions of roadway driving

The general rule is to ride on the roadway : ride on the left side. On roads with separate sidewalks and roadways, ride on the left edge of the roadway.

2. Rules at intersections

Obeying traffic signals and stop signs : At intersections with traffic lights, follow the signals.

3. Obligation to drive safely

Lights at night : At night, headlights and taillights (or reflectors) must be turned on.

Prohibition of drunk driving : You must not drive while under the influence of alcohol.

4. Prohibited matters

Prohibition of carrying two people (passengers exceeding the capacity) : As a general rule, carrying two people is prohibited. Also, you must not drive two or more vehicles side by side. Violation of safe driving obligations : Driving while holding an umbrella, using a mobile phone, or wearing headphones or other devices that prevent you from hearing surrounding sounds is prohibited.

Explore the city's tourist attractions by bicycle!

10:00 Departure from Ainan Town Tourism Association

Now, let's embark on a cycling trip through this town nestled between the blue sea and lush mountains.
First, we'll head to Kanjizai-ji Temple, the 40th temple on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.
Enjoying the sight of waterfowl playing, we proceed along the promenade beside the Sozu River. Turning left at Kan'ei Bridge and passing through the old temple town, we arrive at the main gate. We park our bicycles in the parking lot and head into the temple grounds.

10:10 Kanjizaiji Temple, the 40th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage

This renowned temple is said to have been founded in 807 by Kobo Daishi (Kukai) at the request of Emperor Heizei. It has continued to attract worshippers throughout its long history. Kanjizaiji Temple is known as the "back entrance" of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and as the first temple on the Ehime Prefecture side, it is an important temple that marks a significant milestone for pilgrims.
The main gate (Nio-mon), constructed entirely of zelkova wood, stands approximately 7 meters tall and is a magnificent sight that is a must-see.

Next, we'll head to Kajiwara Confectionery. We'll return to Kan'ei Bridge and continue along the promenade.

10:50 Arrived at Kajiwara Confectionery.

This long-established Japanese confectionery shop boasts a history of over 100 years. Their signature product, **"Moshio Daifuku"**, is an exquisite treat made with seaweed salt produced from Sargassum seaweed grown in Ainan Town kneaded into the bean paste, then wrapped in soft mochi rice cake and fresh cream. The subtle saltiness enhances the sweetness, resulting in an elegant and refreshing flavor.

Next, we'll head to the "Market Cafeteria" for lunch.
When crossing the national highway, please be sure to use the pedestrian crossing.
There is a tunnel along the way, so be sure to turn on your lights while driving. Once you exit the tunnel, the scent of the sea will suddenly fill the air.

11:30 Arrived at the market cafeteria.

This popular restaurant is located on the grounds of the Ainan Fisheries Cooperative's Fukaura headquarters. They use fresh fish that is landed every morning. The menu includes many dishes such as sashimi set meals using local fish like Ainan bonito, sea bream, yellowfin tuna, and yellowtail, as well as seared bonito and sea bream rice bowls.
"Ainan Biya Katsuo" is an exceptionally fresh delicacy that can only be enjoyed in Ainan Town.
*The menu may change depending on the day's catch.

After lunch, we'll head to the scenic Hito Pass. We'll retrace our steps, turn left up the hill, and go through another tunnel.

13:00 Arrived at Hito Pass

The tranquil ria coastline offers breathtaking scenery all to yourself, as if you've stepped into a painting. Enjoy a flat, seaside ride while feeling the sea breeze, and finally, a gentle climb up the Hito Pass. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top will enhance the overall satisfaction of your journey.

13:10 Arrived at Mishou MIC

Along the national highway is "Michi-no-Eki Misho MIC," a roadside station selling local specialties. Cool down with soft-serve ice cream and sherbet made with "Ainan Gold," a Kawachi Bankan orange that is a specialty of Ainan Town. They also have a wide selection of other local specialties, such as fresh seafood from the Uwa Sea and citrus fruits.

14:00 Arrived at Ainan Town Tourism Association

The atmosphere and the scent of the sea, unlike anything you'll find in the city, will soothe your daily fatigue. If you have time, be sure to visit other tourist attractions as well!

Explore the town of Ainan on an e-bike!

The course introduced here allows you to enjoy the pristine scenery that you won't find in the city, as well as the beliefs of Japan. If you want to see the original landscape of Japan, be healed by Japan's nature, or visit places that even Japanese people don't know about, then please enjoy cycling in Ainan Town!

Learn more about Ainan Town