Nestled some seven hours west of Tokyo lays Japan's remarkable Seto Inland Sea. Separating the islands of Honshū, Shikoku, and Kyūshū, the sea is circled by smooth, marked roads which provide cyclists with kilometre after kilometre of stunning vistas.

Cyclist magazine, accompanied by photographer Beardy McBeard, travelled to Seto to explore the snaking collection of roadways, bridges and climbs, as well as the region's incredible cycling-oriented hospitality.

Photos: Beardy McBeard / Cyclist

"A smattering of cherry blossoms signals the season's shift from winter to spring... We're blown away by just how much  this means to the local prefectures."

Discover the cycling wonderland that is the Seto Inland Sea in the July issue of Cyclist, and subscribe here.