Shimanami Kaido

しまなみ海道

A 70-kilometer cycling route connecting Honshu and Shikoku across scenic islands with minimal traffic and stunning Seto Inland Sea views. It's become one of Japan's most famous and rewarding bicycle tours for both casual and serious cyclists.

Things to do

• Cycle the full Shimanami Kaido route — Ride all 70 kilometers across ten bridges connecting Honshu to Shikoku, passing through Omishima, Ikuchijima, Innoshima, and Mukaijima islands.
• Visit Omishima Sunset Park — Stop at this scenic viewpoint on Omishima island to watch the sunset over the Seto Inland Sea and rest between cycling segments.
• Explore Ikuchijima's art museums — Visit the contemporary art museums scattered across Ikuchijima, including installations in old buildings that blend modern art with island heritage.
• Tour a citrus orchard — Visit one of the many family-run mandarin orange and lemon farms on the islands to pick fruit seasonally or learn about local cultivation methods.
• Visit Innoshima Shrine — Pay respects at this historic Shinto shrine perched on Innoshima island, accessible by a short walk with views of the inland sea.
• Rent a bike from local shops — Use one of the well-marked rental stations at the Onomichi or Imabari terminals offering regular bicycles, e-bikes, and tandem options.
• Kayak or paddleboard in calm waters — Several islands offer water sports rentals to explore sheltered bays and coves around the route at a slower pace.

Food to try

• Ikuchijima lemon — Sample the region's famous fresh lemons, used in local desserts, drinks, and as a preserved condiment sold at shops throughout the islands.
• Takokaraage (octopus tempura) — Enjoy tender fried local octopus caught from the Seto Inland Sea, often served at small restaurants near the cycling route.
• Onomichi ramen — Try this light, soy-based local ramen style from Onomichi at the starting point, known for a broth featuring small sardines and lard.
• Grilled island seafood — Dine on fresh-caught sea bream, sea urchin, and other sashimi-grade fish grilled over charcoal at waterfront restaurants on Omishima and Innoshima.
• Shimanami citrus soft serve — Stop at roadside shops for creamy soft-serve ice cream flavored with local lemon, mandarin orange, or yuzu.

Local customs & good to know

• Start early to avoid heat and crowds — Begin cycling in the early morning, especially in summer, as afternoons become hot and the route attracts tourist groups by midday.
• Respect the bicycle infrastructure — The route is designed with separated cycling paths; stay in designated lanes and follow traffic signals to maintain safety and local harmony.
• Support small island businesses — Stop at local cafes, farms, and family-run restaurants rather than chain convenience stores to sustain island communities that maintain the route.
• Observe quiet hours on residential island roads — Keep noise levels low when passing through village areas, especially early morning and evening, as residents live closely along the cycling paths.