The Level Up English Podcast #349 Cycling the Shimanami Kaido (Casual English Chat)
Nov 5, 2025
Join a captivating journey through the Shimanami Kaido cycling trail in Japan! Experience the highs and hilarious lows of travel, from finding a guest house with no shower to cultural bathhouse norms. Discover the joys of conversing in Japanese with locals and the challenges of navigating language barriers. Enjoy delicious meals from supermarkets and quirky curry chains. Reflect on emotional visits to Hiroshima and the beauty of quieter towns. Through it all, gain insights on building confidence in language learning and the art of travel.
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Shimanami Kaido Bike Loop
- Michael describes cycling the 80km Shimanami Kaido over two relaxed days.
- He rode city bikes, enjoyed clear turquoise water, and found the route beginner-friendly.
Begin In Offbeat Towns
- Start trips in lesser-known towns to meet friendlier locals and avoid tourist fatigue.
- Random towns often offer more genuine cultural exchanges than famous tourist spots.
Guest House, Onsen Surprise
- Michael stayed in a guest house with no in-room shower and received free onsen tickets.
- He felt uncomfortable with communal nudity, left, and cleaned himself in a sink instead.
