Onomichi and Shimanami Kaido

The Shimanami Kaido is a 70-kilometer island-hopping route of bridges and islands that connects Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture with Imabari in Ehime Prefecture across the Seto Inland Sea. It is widely regarded as one of the world's great cycling routes, and the view from each bridge — looking down on the scattered green islands in the shimmering blue sea — is breathtaking at any speed.

Highlights

Onomic itself is a beloved hillside port town full of character: narrow alleys, ancient temples, vintage shotengai shopping arcades, and the famous "Cat's Alley" where dozens of cats hold court among antique shops and cafés. The town has deep associations with novelist Shiga Naoya and director Obayashi Nobuhiko, and its artistic atmosphere is unique among Japanese cities. On the Shimanami Kaido, each of the six main islands has its own character: Mukaishima's citrus orchants, Innoshima's hydrangeas and pirate castle, Ikuchijima's stunning Kosan-ji Temple, and Oshima's seafood. The Kurushima Whirlpools near Imabari are a dramatic natural phenomenon.

Getting There & Tips

- Onomichi: direct Shinkansen connection via Shin-Onomichi Station on the Sanyo Shinkansen. - Bicycle rental available at Onomichi Station; drop-off at Imabari or any island along the route. - Full cycling course: approximately 1–2 days. Day trips covering the first few islands are also popular. - Pedestrians and cyclists cross all bridges for free or minimal fees. - Local bus service connects all islands if you prefer not to cycle.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November) offer ideal cycling conditions with mild temperatures and vivid seasonal colors. Cycling in early summer offers lush green islands with the blue sea. July–August can be very hot and humid for cycling, though the sea is beautiful. The Onomichi town temples and Cat's Alley are enjoyable year-round.