While you can enjoy cycling in Ehime without knowing these, understanding them will make your experience even more enjoyable. Here are 5 key terms related to Ehime and cycling.

Blue Line

A hospitality line that guides cyclists clearly

The “Blue Line” drawn on Ehime’s roads might make you wonder, “What is this?” It’s a road guide specifically designed for cyclists, aimed at helping them travel safely and comfortably. In addition to the blue line, features like directional arrows and pictograms are used to enhance clarity. On Sashima Island along the Yumeshima Kaido in Kamijima Town, there’s a famous spot where the Blue Line makes a U-turn, known as a hidden gem among cyclists.

Cycle Train

Take your bike directly onto the train

The “Cycle Train” allows cyclists to bring their bikes directly onto trains without the hassle of disassembling and packing them into transport bags. In Europe, it’s common to have train cars specifically designed for bicycles, making it easy to travel with them. In Japan, JR Shikoku is conducting trial operations of the “Ehime-Shimanami Rinrin Train” as a mixed-use cycle train until Sunday, March 1, 2026. This service allows cyclists to bring their bikes onto certain local trains along the Yosan Line between Iyo-Saijo and Matsuyama Stations, providing convenient access to the Shimanami Kaido. Iyo Railway, which connects central Matsuyama to its suburbs, also offers a cycle train service available on weekends and holidays across its suburban train lines (excluding some stations).

Tandem Bicycle

Even more fun when two people pedal together

A tandem bicycle is designed for two riders, featuring seats and pedals arranged in a front-and-back configuration. This design allows people with visual impairments or those less confident in their physical abilities to enjoy cycling. Ehime Prefecture has been at the forefront of initiatives for tandem bicycles. In August 2010, it became the fourth region in Japan to permit tandem bicycles on public roads across the entire prefecture. Following this, other municipalities gradually adopted similar policies, and today tandem bicycles can be used on public roads nationwide. You can also rent tandem bicycles from the Shimanami Rental Cycle service, offering the joy of pedaling together.

Ehime Marugoto Cycling Road

The “Ehime Marugoto Cycling Road” (https://ehime-cycling.jp) refers to a collection of cycling routes across the entirety of Ehime Prefecture. With the Shimanami Kaido, which traverses the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, at its center, Ehime aspires to become a “cycling paradise” where everyone can connect with and enjoy cycling. The prefecture offers 11 courses for intermediate to advanced cyclists and 17 courses for families across its 20 cities and towns. Features like Blue Line road markers, rental cycle stations, and volunteer support systems are in place to guide and assist cyclists, enhancing Ehime’s standing as a cycling paradise.

Ehime Cycling Day

Cycling events held simultaneously across the prefecture

The second Sunday of November each year is designated as “Ehime Cycling Day,” established by the prefectural government in 2015 to encourage more people to appreciate and enjoy cycling. Events are held throughout the prefecture on and around this day, offering diverse activities such as cycling tours, bike workshops, e-bike trial sessions, painting experiences, and local gourmet feasts to welcome cyclists. Participating in these events allows for meaningful interactions with local communities, creating unforgettable memories. For more details, visit Notteru! Ehime.