What Is the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido?
The Setouchi Shimanami Kaido is a scenic route made up of an expressway stretching about 60 km, connecting Onomichi (Hiroshima) to Imabari (Ehime) via seven bridges across six islands in the Seto Inland Sea.
Its official name is the “Nishiseto Expressway,” and since opening in 1999, it has drawn attention from Japan and abroad as one of the Seto Inland Sea’s signature sightseeing routes.
Known as a “cyclists’ sanctuary,” the Shimanami Kaido is especially popular with riders and travelers worldwide because you can enjoy the Seto Inland Sea’s stunning island-dotted seascape by bicycle, on foot, or by car.
It has even been featured by CNN as one of the world’s most incredible cycling routes.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the Shimanami Kaido’s highlights, cycling tips, and the unique charms of each island.
Top Things to See on the Shimanami Kaido
1. One of the World’s Best Cycling Routes
The Shimanami Kaido is famous as a highly acclaimed cycling route in Japan and beyond.
A blue guidance line (the “Blue Line”) is painted on the road, making it easy and reassuring for beginners to follow the route without getting lost.
Recommended Tips
- Total cycling distance: The bicycle/pedestrian route is about 70 km (Onomichi–Imabari). It’s longer than the expressway (about 60 km) because it goes via local roads on the islands.
- Bike rentals: You can rent a bike at terminals near Onomichi Station, Imabari Station, and island terminals, and one-way drop-off is also available.
- Scenic viewpoints: The panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea from the bridges—looking down over countless islands—are truly breathtaking.
With plenty of stop-offs on each island, it’s also a great idea to take your time and enjoy a relaxed 1-night, 2-day cycling trip with breaks along the way.
For beginners, 8–10 hours is a common estimate, but short “mini rides” on just one section are also very popular.
2. Highlights on Each Island
Mukai-shima (Mukaishima)
The first island you reach from Onomichi, Mukai-shima offers peaceful scenery and pleasant coastal roads.
It’s just a few minutes away by ferry across the Onomichi Channel, making it an easy, casual gateway to the Shimanami Kaido.
- Takami-yama Observatory: A lookout point with wide-open views over the Seto Inland Sea’s islands from the 283 m summit.
Inno-shima (Innoshima)
Known as a shipbuilding island, Innoshima has well-developed cycling paths that make it comfortable to ride.
- Innoshima Suigun Castle: A themed museum where you can learn about the Murakami “pirates” (naval clans), with displays including armor and historical documents.
Ikuchi-jima (Ikuchijima)
Home to Setoda lemons, Ikuchi-jima is known for its citrus culture, and the island is also dotted with art installations.
- Ikuo Hirayama Museum of Art: A museum showcasing works by Ikuchi-jima–born world-renowned Japanese painter Ikuo Hirayama.
- Lemon sweets: Lemon cake and gelato made with Setoda lemons are must-try local specialties.
Ōmi-shima (Omishima)
Often called the “Island of Gods,” Ōmi-shima is one of the Shimanami Kaido’s most culturally rich islands, with a strong sense of history and tradition.
- Ōyamazumi Shrine (Ōyamazumi-jinja): A venerable shrine sometimes described as the “chief guardian shrine of Japan,” and regarded as the head shrine of Ōyamazumi and Mishima shrines nationwide.
- It houses many valuable arms and armor, which you can view at the treasure hall.
Hakata-jima (Hakatajima)
Famous nationwide as the home of “Hakata no Shio” salt, Hakata-jima is also known for its beautiful beaches.
- Hakata Beach: Lively in summer as a swimming beach, with white sand and crystal-clear water.
Ō-shima (Oshima)
The final island closest to Imabari, Ō-shima sits at the base of the iconic Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge (Kurushima Kaikyō Ōhashi), a symbol of the Shimanami Kaido.
- Kirosan Observatory (Kirosan Tenbōdai): One of the best viewpoints on the route, offering sweeping views of the Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge and the Seto Inland Sea from 307 m elevation.
- On clear days, you can even see Mt. Ishizuchi in Shikoku, and the sunset views are especially unforgettable.
3. Scenic Bridge Hopping
The Shimanami Kaido features seven bridges, each with its own distinct structure and appeal.
Some of the most famous include:
- Tatara Bridge (Tatara Ōhashi): A beautiful cable-stayed bridge linking Ikuchi-jima and Ōmi-shima, located near Tatara Shimanami Park, where you’ll also find the “Cyclists’ Sanctuary” monument.
- Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge (Kurushima Kaikyō Ōhashi): The iconic symbol of the route, a spectacular three-span suspension bridge with a total length of about 4 km.
The calm Seto Inland Sea scenery and island views from the bridges are the kind of once-in-a-lifetime vistas you’ll never forget.
Best Experiences on the Shimanami Kaido
Cycling Experience
Shimanami Kaido cycling is beginner-friendly and easy to enjoy.
With rentals like electric-assist bikes, e-bikes, and kids’ bikes, it’s also a great option for family trips.
Bicycle tolls on the bridges vary depending on the section and the system in place.
Taste Local Island Food
Each island offers delicious local specialties.
- Setoda lemons: From lemon dishes to sweets, you’ll find plenty to try—lemonade and even lemon ramen are popular.
- Hakata salt soft-serve ice cream: A signature dessert with a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness.
- Seafood: Enjoy fresh Seto Inland Sea seafood like sashimi and tai-meshi (sea bream rice).
Relax in Hot Springs
After cycling, unwind at onsen facilities on the islands and soothe tired muscles.
Ōmi-shima’s “Mare Gracia Ōmi-shima,” in particular, is popular for its onsen with views over the Seto Inland Sea.
How to Get to the Shimanami Kaido
From the Hiroshima side (Onomichi)
- Train: Get off at JR Sanyō Main Line “Onomichi Station.” There is a bike rental terminal in front of the station.
- Shinkansen: From JR “Shin-Onomichi Station,” take a bus for about 15 minutes, or take a local train from “Fukuyama Station” for about 20 minutes.
- Car: From the Sanyō Expressway “Onomichi IC,” go via “Nishiseto Onomichi IC” to enter the Shimanami Kaido.
From the Ehime side (Imabari)
- Train: Get off at JR Yosan Line “Imabari Station.” There is a bike rental terminal in front of the station.
- Car: From the Matsuyama Expressway “Imabari IC,” access the Shimanami Kaido.
Practical Travel Info
Bike Rental Information
The Shimanami Kaido has 10 public bike rental terminals, and whether one-way drop-off is available depends on the bike type.
- Fees: Cross bikes and city bikes are about 3,000 yen/day for adults; electric-assist bikes are 4,000 yen/day; e-bikes are 8,000 yen/day, and more—prices vary by bike type.
- Reservations: In peak seasons, booking ahead is recommended.
What to Bring
- Comfortable clothing: Sportswear and padded cycling shorts are recommended.
- Water bottle: You can restock at convenience stores and vending machines, but they can be sparse in some areas, so bringing your own is reassuring.
- Sunscreen and a hat: Coastal routes get strong sun, so UV protection is important.
- Camera: With so many scenic viewpoints, don’t forget to take photos.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (late March to May) and autumn (October to mid-November) offer mild weather and are ideal for cycling.
Summer brings the most vivid sea colors, but you’ll need heat protection.
Winter is quieter and a hidden gem, but strong winds are possible, so dress warmly.
Etiquette & Safety Tips
When cycling the Shimanami Kaido, keep to the left, maintain ample distance, and ride safely.
Downhill sections from the bridges to local roads can be steep, so take care not to go too fast.
Helmet use is recommended, and rentals may be available depending on the service.
Summary
The Setouchi Shimanami Kaido is one of Japan’s top destinations for cycling and driving, where you can enjoy beautiful islands and spectacular bridges across the Seto Inland Sea.
From beginner-friendly cycling routes to island-by-island highlights and memorable local food, it offers something for everyone.
Easy to access from both Hiroshima and Ehime, it’s a soothing journey through the Seto Inland Sea’s calm scenery—an experience you won’t want to miss.
Create unforgettable memories on the Shimanami Kaido.
