Shimanami Kaido: Cycling Across the Seto Inland Sea
How to ride the Shimanami Kaido from Onomichi to Imabari: the route, bike hire, the islands, how long it takes and where to stay.
Quick answer
- What it is: a road and cycle route linking Honshu and Shikoku across six islands.
- Length: about 70 kilometres from Onomichi in Hiroshima to Imabari in Ehime.
- Famous for: its separate bike lanes on the bridges and calm sea views.
- Time needed: one long day by bike, or two relaxed days.
- Best time: spring and autumn, when it is not too hot.
- Map: Open Shimanami Kaido in Google Maps
The Shimanami Kaido is one of the world's great bike rides. It crosses the island-dotted Seto Inland Sea on soaring bridges, with a blue line painted on the road to guide you.
Why the Shimanami Kaido is a wonder
Six islands are joined by bridges, including the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, a chain of three long suspension spans. Cyclists ride on their own paths, high above the water.
Between bridges, the route runs along quiet roads past citrus groves, fishing harbours and small temples.
Riding it your way
You can hire a bike at one end and drop it off at the other, or at terminals along the way. Electric bikes make the climbs up to each bridge easy.
Many riders stop for a night on Ikuchijima or Omishima to break the trip and enjoy the islands.
Highlights along the way
| Stop | What you see | Island |
|---|---|---|
| Onomichi | A hillside temple town and the start | Honshu |
| Kosan-ji | A colourful temple and marble hill | Ikuchijima |
| Setoda | Lemon groves and seaside cafes | Ikuchijima |
| Oyamazumi Shrine | An ancient shrine and armour museum | Omishima |
| Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge | Three linked suspension bridges | near Imabari |
When to go
- April and May: mild weather and spring blossom.
- October and November: clear skies and cool air.
- Summer: hot and humid, so start early.
- Winter: cold winds on the bridges, but quiet roads.
Our tip: Follow the blue line painted on the road. It marks the recommended route all the way, and distance markers show how far you have left.
Getting there
- To Onomichi: about 20 minutes by train from Fukuyama on the shinkansen line.
- To Imabari: about 2 hours by train from Matsuyama, or a bus from Hiroshima.
- Going back: highway buses and ferries link the ends if you only ride one way.
Riding safely
- Keep to the left and use the bike paths on the bridges.
- Wear a helmet. They are available with most rental bikes.
- Carry water and sun protection, as shops can be far apart.
- Check bike rental times and drop-off points before you set out.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Shimanami Kaido?
About 70 kilometres.
How long does it take to cycle?
About 6 to 8 hours of riding, or two days with stops.
Can beginners ride it?
Yes. The route is mostly flat, with gentle climbs to the bridges, and electric bikes help.
Can you rent bikes one way?
Yes. Many rental terminals allow drop-off at the other end.
Sapporo Snow Festival
Enormous snow sculptures lining a city park in the heart of Hokkaido's winter.
We check this guide regularly. Prices, hours and rules in Japan can change, so confirm with the official sources below before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.