Shimanami Kaido Cycle Route
The Shimanami Kaido cycle route is one of the most beautiful and popular cycle routes in Japan. It stretches about 70 kilometres, linking the Shikoku and Honshu islands via a series of spectacular suspension bridges across the Seto Inland Sea.
This cycle path is truly unique, offering cyclists an amazing way to explore the natural beauty of the islands and surrounding waters. Along the way, cyclists can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains and Japanese countryside.
The Shimanami Kaido cycle path is well maintained and offers excellent service for cyclists. There are several bicycle rentals available near the starting stations, so there is no need to bring a bicycle with you. In addition, there are rest areas along the route with toilets, picnic areas and refreshment points where you can enjoy the delicious fresh fish dishes of the area.
The beauty of the Shimanami Kaido cycle path also lies in the many cultural attractions that can be visited along the route. There are historic temples and shrines overlooking the sea, such as Kosanji Temple and Hakatajima Shrine, which offer cyclists the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese spirituality while enjoying the picturesque scenery.
One of the highlights of Shimanami Kaido is the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge. Crossing it by bicycle is an exciting and rewarding experience while admiring the breathtaking view of the ocean below and the surrounding nature.
The Shimanami Kaido Cycling Trail is suitable for cyclists of all experience levels. The route is well signposted and offers bike lanes separated from car traffic, providing a safe environment for two-wheelers. In addition, there are several bike rental options, including electric bikes, making the route more accessible to all.
You can complete the entire cycle path in one day, or you can take more time and enjoy the attractions along the route. There are also various accommodation options along the route, including traditional Japanese ryokan and modern hotels.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Bicycle hire
There are two bicycle rental services.
The regular rental service is cheaper, with a daily price of 2000 Yen. A deposit of 1100 Yen is also required, which will be returned unless the bike is left at a terminal on a different island. In addition to the classic mountain bike, different types of bicycles can be rented (some places may have a limited choice), from tandem bikes (3000 Yen per day) to electric bikes (2500 Yen per day). These bikes must be returned to the place where they were picked up. A helmet and lock are also included in the fee. If you make an advance reservation, we recommend that you opt for a cross bike and avoid a classic bike, which only has three gears. Reservations can be made online at this address, although they are not compulsory, but highly recommended, especially during the high season and weekends.
The Giant rental service has two shops, one at the Imabari station and one at the Onomichi station. Prices are higher and range from 4000 to 15000 Yen per day, but the bicycles are of a higher standard than regular rental. Only road bikes can be returned to the other shop, requires advance booking and incurs an additional charge of 3300 Yen. Reservations can be made online at this address.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
Abbigliamento e regole di comportamento
Get comfortable clothing. Recommended are cycling shorts (given the many kilometres to cover) and a jersey. Jeans, flip-flops and other unsuitable clothing should be avoided.
As the cycle path runs along normal roads, remember to obey the highway code and keep to the left (as in England, for example). On descents, moderate your speed.
Beware of access ramps to bridges, which are often shared with mopeds up to 125cc.
The cycle route is well signposted with a blue line on the asphalt, where the turns and kilometres to Imabari and Onomichi are also indicated.
If you decide to take detours, I recommend having a GPS system (Garmin or smartphone) with you.
In case of difficulty, you can take one of the ferries that connect the various islands, or call the Wakka cycle-taxi service (official website). In case of more serious emergencies, you can call the police on 110 or the ambulance on 119.
Photo by Japanforeveryone.com
How to get to Shimanami Kaido
Onomichi
Onomichi can be reached by JR train from Okayama or Fukuyama Shinkansen stations (if arriving from Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka) or from Mihara station (if arriving from Hiroshima), although the latter is less well served by fast trains.
From Onomichi station you can choose to take one of the two ferries that connect it to Mukaishima Island. The price is 60 or 110 Yen (add 10 Yen if you have already rented a bicycle).
Imabari
Imabari is connected by the Ltd. Express Shiokaze to Okayama which takes just over 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Fukuyama which takes 1 hour 30 minutes and costs 2600 Yen.
Transport
Ferries
The islands are connected by several ferry lines and there are several bus lines (useful for returning to the starting point).
You can find the routes and timetables at this site.