Shimanto Rin-Rin Cycle

The Shimanto Rin Rin bicycle rental system makes exploring one of the most beautiful sections of the Shimanto River a breeze. Mountain bikes with 26 inch wheels can be picked up and dropped off at any of the 7 rental cycle terminals along the approximately 40 km long route which follows the wide curves of the crystal clear river.

The route offers stunning views of the river, passing by 6 of the Shimanto River’s picturesque chinkabashi submersible bridges.

The cycle terminals are at the following locations (Shimanto Rin Rin Cycle Terminal Map)

① Shimanto City Tourism Association (Nakamura Station)
② New Royal Hotel Shimanto
③ Shimanto Canoe and Camp Village Kawarakko
④ Shimanto Gakusha
⑤ Shimanto River Station Canoe House
⑥ Michi-no-Eki Yotte Nishi-Tosa
⑦ JR Ekawasaki Station

The approximately 10 km ride from the center of Shimanto City (starting at Shimanto City Tourism Association office next to Nakamura Station or the New Royal Hotel Shimanto) to Sada Chinkabashi is recommended for beginners. Look out for the cute coffee truck that is often parked near the bridge and consider taking a ride on the Yakatabune Sakoya available nearby.

Riding a further 10 km upriver to the Kawarakko rental cycle terminal takes you past Misato Chinkabashi near the departure point of Shimanto-no-Ao Yakatabune traditional pleasure boat tours and Takase Chinkabashi from near where Nattoku Yakatabune traditional pleasure boat tours depart.

For those seeking more adventure along the route, the Kawarakko, Shimanto Gakusha and Shimanto River Station Canoe House cycle terminals all offer kayaking and other river activities.

If you start your ride from Ekawasaki Station, you are heading downstream all the way to Shimanto City. There are some inclines, but it is generally easier-going than cycling in the other direction. Ekawasaki Station can be accessed from Kubokawa Station on the Yodo Rail Line, which offers fantastic views of the upper reaches of the Shimanto River.