Following a day of cycling around Osaka, dinner was at a local bar called 極楽たこ望. Takoyaki was first created in Osaka around 1935 by a street vendor, so it seemed appropriate for us to be enjoying the style of food. As there was five of us, I was impressed there was table inside this small bar we all could squeeze around.

One of the delights in travelling with Japanese people is not having to read the menu with google translate even though we’re always willing to give it a go, and allowing others to choose. This is the added benefit when you are able to eat anything.

The first dish was otoshi, always served as a seat charge in a bar (generally) which was fish and tofu. Next up was fish served carpaccio, european style. The first style was your traditional take on the dish, with the second a curry flavour (amazing!!), the third was garlic and herbs, and the last was in a soup based dish…. the food was really enjoyable, and made more so as it was shared with company.

The ferry didn’t leave the port until 10pm, so we left Imabari at around 4:30. It was still pretty light… as we cycled our way through the back streets. For Japan this was pretty traditional, as it involved rice paddies, a mix of traditional old style houses and modern ones from 20+ years ago.

It was great until it got dark, and stated to rain lightly (many the forecast was not exactly what we were expecting- but it wasn’t too bad). Nothing more annoying than riding in the darkness, light rain (also involved riding through farmland) and seeing a car coming towards you. This was rather surprising given the frequency this occurred and what was around us. Fun times but we made it! Hooray.

The intent of this journey was to go from A to B, and the ship was a great option for us, instead of the usual train back from Imabari. The ship is used for transporting goods and people – and is very well organised. There is a restaurant for dinner and morning breakfast. There are ample food machines and comfy seats throughout. It’s quite impressive.

I was super tired (must of been the cycling) so managed to stay awake long enough to eat ice cream. The ship docks at 6am but you don’t have to get off until 9am, enabling you to not feel so rushed in getting up. It was pretty good option if you are riding the Shimanami Kaido and you have some time to spare in your itinerary, and what to have a different experience from the Shinkansen.