The Shimanami Kaido is a 70-kilometer series of bridges and island roads connecting Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture to Imabari in Ehime Prefecture across the Seto Inland Sea. Designated one of the world’s top cycling routes, it strings together six islands — Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima, and Oshima — with sweeping sea views, citrus groves, and Shinto shrines above calm blue water.
Route Overview
The full route runs 70 km one-way (Onomichi to Imabari or reverse). Most cyclists complete it in one long day (8–10 hours, intermediate fitness) or two relaxed days with an overnight on Ikuchijima or Omishima. The route uses dedicated blue cycling lanes on the bridge approaches and quiet island roads between bridges. Elevation is moderate — the bridge approaches climb 30–60 m — with long flat stretches on each island.
- Onomichi — departure point; hillside port city with narrow alleys, temples, and the famous Cat Alley. Reach by JR San’yo Line from Hiroshima (70 min) or Osaka (2.5 hrs).
- Innoshima — known for suigun (pirate) castle and hydrangea festival (June).
- Ikuchijima — Kosanji temple (ornate architecture), lemon orchards, Hirayama Ikuo museum. Popular overnight stop.
- Omishima — Oyamazumi Shrine (Japan’s oldest maritime shrine) holds one of the most significant collections of samurai armor in the country.
- Hakatajima — quieter island; local seafood restaurants and cycling-specific rest areas.
- Oshima — longest island; Kirosan Observatory for panoramic Seto views.
- Imabari — endpoint; denim town, Imabari Castle, towel manufacturing museum. JR Yosan Line connects to Matsuyama (40 min).
Renting a Bicycle
The Shimanami Cycle rental network operates terminals at Onomichi, each island, and Imabari — allowing one-way rentals (return the bike at either end). Rental types: mama-chari (city bike, ¥500/day), cross bike (¥1,500/day), e-bike (¥2,500–3,000/day). E-bikes are strongly recommended for those with limited cycling experience. Reserve online in advance for peak season (April–May, September–October).
Several tour operators in Onomichi and Imabari offer guided multi-day rides including accommodation and luggage transfer.
Best Time to Ride
- Spring (late March–May) — mild temperatures, cherry blossoms on the islands, lemon harvest ending. Peak season; book accommodation early.
- Autumn (September–November) — clear skies, cooler riding, persimmon harvest, autumn color on hillsides.
- Summer (July–August) — hot and humid; start early, carry plenty of water. Sunset rides from Kirosan are spectacular.
- Winter (December–February) — quiet, affordable, often sunny. Cold morning temperatures; dress in layers.
Food and Rest Stops
Each island has at least one cycle oasis rest station with water, toilets, bike tools, and local snack stands. Try: tarako (spicy cod roe) on Innoshima, fresh lemon cakes and lemon-flavored ramen on Ikuchijima, raw octopus and citrus ice cream on Omishima. Most island restaurants serve Seto Inland Sea seafood — bream (tai), octopus, and oysters.
Practical Tips
Carry cash — many island shops are cash-only. Cycling helmets are provided with rentals (required for children, strongly recommended for all). The Shimanami Kaido app (available in English) shows real-time cycling conditions, rest stops, and bridge closure alerts. Toll fees for cyclists crossing bridges are collected at the approach ramps (¥50–200 per bridge, total ~¥500 one-way).