The Shimanami Kaido (しまなみ海道) is one of Japan’s most spectacular cycling routes, stretching about 70 kilometers (43 miles) across the scenic Seto Inland Sea. Connecting Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture with Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture, this route allows cyclists to travel across six islands and seven bridges, offering breathtaking sea views, charming fishing villages, and a perfect balance of nature, culture, and adventure.
A Bridge Between Islands and Cultures
Opened in 1999, the Shimanami Kaido is the first route in Japan to provide dedicated cycling lanes across long suspension bridges linking the islands of the Seto Inland Sea.
Each bridge has its own design and character — from the sleek Tatara Bridge, one of the world’s longest cable-stayed bridges, to the elegant Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge, a massive structure spanning the final stretch into Shikoku.
As you ride, you’ll pass through:
Mukaishima → Innoshima → Ikuchijima → Ōmishima → Hakatajima → Ōshima, before finally reaching Imabari.
Every island has unique attractions — from local art museums to traditional temples and scenic beaches — making the journey as much cultural as it is physical.
Cycling Experience
The Shimanami Kaido is widely regarded as Japan’s best cycling route, welcoming both beginners and professional riders.
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Distance: Approx. 70 km (one way)
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Time Required: 4–10 hours (depending on pace and stops)
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Difficulty: Moderate — the route is mostly flat, with gentle slopes on bridge approaches.
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Best Season: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) for mild weather and clear skies.
The route is well-marked with blue lines painted on the road, guiding cyclists safely from start to finish. Rest areas, bike racks, and scenic viewpoints are available along the way.
Bike Rentals and Services
Cyclists can rent and return bicycles at official rental terminals on both ends of the route and on each island.
Rental options include city bikes, cross bikes, road bikes, and e-bikes.
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Main Rental Terminals:
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Onomichi Port Terminal (Hiroshima side)
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Sunrise Itoyama (Imabari side)
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One-Way Rental: You can start in Onomichi and return your bike in Imabari (or vice versa).
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Luggage Delivery Service: Many hotels and transport companies offer same-day luggage transfers between Onomichi and Imabari.
For advanced cyclists, several local shops also rent carbon-frame road bikes and provide maintenance support.
Highlights Along the Way
Each island offers unique attractions worth stopping for:
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Ikuchijima – The Island of Art: Home to the Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art and Kōsanji Temple, famous for its intricate architecture inspired by ancient Kyoto temples.
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Ōmishima – Island of History: Visit Ōyamazumi Shrine, dedicated to Japan’s sea and warrior gods, where samurai armor and swords are displayed.
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Tatara Bridge Viewpoint: One of the most photographed spots, offering panoramic sea views and the perfect rest stop.
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Hakatajima Beaches: Quiet sandy shores ideal for swimming and relaxing.
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Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge: The grand finale — Japan’s longest suspension bridge series, offering dramatic sunset views over the Seto Inland Sea.
Accommodation & Food
There are plenty of lodging options along the route, ranging from seaside guesthouses and ryokan to modern hotels catering to cyclists. Many provide bike stands, repair tools, and laundry services.
Local food specialties to enjoy include:
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Setouchi Lemon dishes and citrus desserts
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Fresh seafood donburi (rice bowls)
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Imabari yakibuta tamago meshi (grilled pork and egg rice)
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Onomichi ramen — a flavorful soy-based noodle soup famous on the Hiroshima side
Events and Community
The Shimanami Kaido hosts annual cycling events such as the “Cycling Shimanami” festival, where the entire expressway is closed to cars and opened only to cyclists.
The local communities are extremely welcoming — many shops and cafés proudly display “Cyclists Welcome” signs, offering free water refills or discounts to riders.
How to Access
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From Hiroshima: Take the JR Sanyo Line to Onomichi Station (approx. 90 minutes).
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From Matsuyama: Take the JR Yosan Line to Imabari Station (approx. 60 minutes).
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Nearest Airports: Hiroshima Airport or Matsuyama Airport (both about 1 hour by train or bus).
You can begin cycling in either direction — Onomichi → Imabari (most popular) or Imabari → Onomichi.
Tips for Visitors
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Bring sun protection and enough water, especially in summer.
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Early morning departures offer calmer winds and less traffic.
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Check bridge tolls (small fees apply for bicycles, usually under ¥200 per bridge).
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If you’re not confident in completing the full route, consider cycling just one or two islands — ferries and buses connect each section.
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Don’t rush! The beauty of the Shimanami Kaido lies in stopping to explore local life and scenery.
Why You Should Go
The Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route isn’t just a cycling path — it’s a journey through Japan’s coastal paradise.
Where else can you cross seven bridges, discover six unique islands, taste fresh seafood, and watch the sun set over a sparkling inland sea — all in a single day?
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual traveler, riding the Shimanami Kaido is an unforgettable experience that perfectly combines nature, culture, and freedom.
It’s not just a road — it’s a path that connects people, places, and hearts across the sea.
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Official Website
https://shimanami-cycle.or.jp/cycling/en-02.html
Accommodation sites
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