Shimanami Kaido: One of the World's Finest Cycling Roads Crossing the Islands of the Seto Inland Sea

The Shimanami Kaido (Nishiseto Expressway), connecting Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture and Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture, is an about 70-kilometer sea road linking islands of the Seto Inland Sea, Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima, and Oshima, with beautiful bridges. With dedicated bicycle and pedestrian paths laid out, and the chance to savor the spectacular Seto Inland Sea while crossing the islands by bike, it is admired by cyclists worldwide as a cyclists' sacred site.

Highlights

The greatest appeal of the Shimanami Kaido is being able to cross the Seto Inland Sea by bicycle. This route linking Honshu and Shikoku has dedicated bicycle and pedestrian paths, letting you cycle safely without worrying about cars. The view of the blue sea and green islands looked down upon from atop the giant suspension and cable-stayed bridges is exceptional. The bridges themselves are highlights too, such as the Tatara Bridge, one of the world's longest cable-stayed bridges, and the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, made of three suspension bridges.

Distinctive spots dot the islands along the way. Kosanji Temple on Ikuchijima is known for halls and pagodas modeled on National Treasure architecture and for its marble garden, the Hill of Hope. Kojoji Temple, also on Ikuchijima, has a National Treasure three-story pagoda. Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima is the head shrine of all Yamazumi and Mishima shrines nationwide and is famous for its collection of armor designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Local specialties such as fresh island seafood and sweets made with Seto Inland Sea lemons are another pleasure.

Seasonal Enjoyment

For cycling, the best seasons are spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November), when the climate is mild and the scenery beautiful. In summer, take care against the heat and stay hydrated, and in winter, prepare well against the cold. Ikuchijima and Innoshima are also known as citrus islands, and stopping at direct-sale shops for lemons and hassaku oranges is a pleasure.

Access and Basic Information

The base on the Honshu side is Onomichi Station on the JR Sanyo Main Line, and on the Shikoku side, Imabari Station on the JR Yosan Line. From Onomichi, the standard start is to cross to Mukaishima by ferry and begin cycling. Riding the full roughly 70 kilometers suits the fit, but short courses touring only some islands, or combinations with local buses, are also possible. Rental-cycle stations such as Shimanami Japan allow one-way drop-off, so beginners can take it on with ease. The recommended route is marked with a blue guide line called the Blue Line, so you can ride without getting lost.

Practical Travel Notes

To ride the whole route in one day, an early morning start according to your stamina is reassuring. For beginners and families, short courses touring only some islands such as Ikuchijima and Omishima are recommended. There are uphill sections toward the bridge entrances, but dedicated bicycle ramps are provided. Do not forget to wear a helmet and to prepare for flat tires, along with drinks and sun protection. Budget a few thousand yen adding meals and temple admissions to the rental fee. Checking drop-off fees and return locations in advance is reassuring.

A Word of Advice

Setting a comfortable distance is the trick to truly enjoying the Shimanami Kaido. At the scenic points on the bridges, stop often to savor the view. The weather can change suddenly, so carrying rain gear or a jacket is reassuring.

📚 Sources

The information in this article is organized from tourism details on the Shimanami Kaido published by route municipalities such as the city of Onomichi and their tourism associations, along with public guidance on the cycling route and the highlights of each island. Information on rental bicycles and crossing the bridges can be checked through the operators' official information. Fees, hours, and access may change, so please always confirm with official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About half a day for cycling part of the route, or a full day or more to travel the whole way.
• What to bring: Prepare cash for bicycle rental and food, and do not forget sun protection, water, and easy-to-move clothing.
• Getting around: Check the rental pickup and drop-off points and the bridge route in advance when planning.
• Suggested route: Starting from the Onomichi side, proceed while stopping at each island's viewpoints, shrines, temples, and specialty spots.
• A note on safety: When cycling, follow traffic rules and plan a comfortable distance.