The Shimanami Kaido is the finest cycling route in Japan and one of the best anywhere: a roughly 70-kilometre course running from Onomichi in Hiroshima across six islands of the Seto Inland Sea to Imabari in Shikoku. Uniquely, every bridge on the route carries a dedicated, separated cycle lane with gentle spiral approach ramps, so riders cross high above the sea in complete safety. Between the bridges the route rolls through fishing villages, citrus groves and quiet island roads, with a blue line painted on the tarmac guiding you the whole way. Bikes can be hired at either end and dropped off at terminals along the route.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Onomichi, Hiroshima to Imabari |
| Hours | Daylight riding; bike rental hours |
| Admission | Bike hire from ~¥2,000/day |
| Time needed | Full day (or two days) |
| Best time | Spring and autumn; avoid midsummer heat |
What to Do
- Dedicated cycle lanes on six soaring island bridges.
- A blue guide line painted the whole 70 km route.
- Fishing villages, citrus groves and quiet island roads.
- One-way hire with drop-off terminals along the way.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Onomichi at the mainland end.
- Pair with a Seto Inland Sea cruise for the view from the water.
- Read our Hiroshima overview .
Getting There
- By train: JR to Onomichi, where the route and rental terminals begin.
- Bike hire: rent at Onomichi and drop off at Imabari or points between.
Tips
You don’t have to ride the whole 70 kilometres — a popular option is to cycle two or three islands and return by bus or ferry, and e-bikes make the bridges effortless if you’re not a regular cyclist. Book rental bikes ahead in spring and autumn, start early to finish in daylight, and follow the blue line painted on the road rather than navigating by map.
