Shimanami Kaido: Spectacular Cycling Road Crossing the Seto Inland Sea

The "Shimanami Kaido (Nishiseto Expressway)" connecting Onomichi, Hiroshima and Imabari, Ehime connects Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Oshima, Hakatajima, and Oshima islands with 7 bridges over approximately 60 kilometers. The bicycle/pedestrian-exclusive road developed parallel to the expressway has been introduced by CNN and others as "one of the world's best cycling roads," known as a cycling sacred site.

Spectacular Views from Islands and Bridges

The biggest appeal of Shimanami Kaido is the spectacular Seto Inland Sea views from the bridges. Crossing distinctive bridges including the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge (approximately 4km total length — Japan's longest strait bridge) and Tatara Bridge (cable-stayed bridge), the multi-island beauty of the emerald green sea and scattered islands is savored.

Highlights of Each Island

"Kosanji Temple" on Ikuchijima, also called "the Nikko of the West," is a temple with magnificent architectural structures. "Oyamazumi Shrine" on Oshima is the head shrine of mountain, sea, and battle shrines nationwide, famous for its National Treasure weapon and armor collection.

How to Enjoy Cycling

Rental bicycles can be dropped off at "Shimanami Japan" stations on each island. Stopping at direct-sale stores for citrus fruits (Innoshima hassaku orange, Omishima mandarin) along the way is also one of the pleasures.

Access

5 minutes by ferry from Onomichi Station to Mukaishima. Buses also available from Imabari Station.