Shikoku ยท Cycling

Shimanami Kaido

โฑ 2-3 hours cycling + ferry/train ๐Ÿ“ 70 km ๐Ÿ’ด Free (bike rental extra) Difficulty: Medium

Overview

A 70-km expressway connecting Honshu and Shikoku across six islands, with a dedicated cycling lane. You can rent a bicycle in Onomichi, cycle across six bridges, and drop it off in Imabari. The Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge is the world's longest suspension bridge structure. JR trains connect both ends.

Best Seat

N/A โ€” cycling route

Best Time

Spring or autumn for mild weather

Route Map

Station-by-Station

Onomichi

Starting point. Rent bicycles at the terminal near Onomichi Station.

Mukaishima

First island. Short ferry from Onomichi.

Innoshima

Second island. Historic pirate castle ruins.

Ikuchijima

Third island. Known for citrus groves and Kosanji Temple.

Omishima

Fourth island. Home to Oyamazumi Shrine.

Hakatajima

Fifth island. Smallest of the six.

Oshima

Sixth island. Final island before Shikoku.

Imabari

End point in Shikoku. Famous for towel production.

Practical Tips

๐Ÿ’ก Tips: Rent electric assist bikes for the inclines. The sunset views from the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge are spectacular. Allow a full day with stops.

๐ŸŽซ Reservation: Not required. Bike rental shops may be busy on weekends.

๐Ÿ“… Seasonal Notes: Best March-May and September-November. Avoid midsummer heat.

Scenic Highlights

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