National Road 195

National Route 195 is one of Shikoku’s lesser-known but highly rewarding cycling roads, running between Tokushima and Kōchi through the interior mountains of the island. For cyclists, the route offers a quieter alternative to the heavily trafficked coastal highways, with long stretches of forested valleys, clear rivers, small rural communities, and relatively light vehicle traffic.

The road roughly follows the Naka River on the Tokushima side and the Minobe River on the Kochi side through parts of Naka before climbing deeper into the mountains toward the prefectural border. Riders can expect continuous elevation changes rather than a single major pass, making the route physically demanding despite moderate overall gradients. Narrow sections, occasional tunnels, and limited shoulder space require caution, but traffic volumes are generally extremely low.

One of the defining characteristics of Route 195 is its remoteness. Convenience stores and restaurants become sparse in the mountain sections, so carrying sufficient food and water is important. Weather conditions can also change rapidly, especially during the rainy season or after typhoons, when landslides and temporary road closures are possible.

For touring cyclists, Route 195 provides a strong contrast to urban Japan. Cedar forests, river gorges, suspension bridges, and traditional villages dominate much of the scenery, and the route connects well with several areas associated with the Shikoku Ohenro pilgrimage. Many riders consider it one of the most atmospheric inland cycling roads in Shikoku, particularly for those seeking quieter roads and extended mountain riding.

The Route

The West end (Kochi Side) can get a bit more traffic, Route 217 is a great low traffic alternative

Eating and Sleeping

There are some campsites and a hotel (onsen) about 30km from the Tokushima end but otherwise there is nowhere to stay so cyclists should plan to do the entire route during one day.

There are a few convience stores along the road but they have short hours (closing at 6PM or so) and days where they don’t open at all so cyclists should carry all the food they think they will need for the entire route before they start.

Getting there and away

Tokushima

It’s not a far ride from Tokushima Station but the nearest station on the East side is Hanoura Station on the Mugi Line which has trains approximately every half hour from Tokushima Station

Kochi