Recommended courses for boats and bicycles
Explore the best of popular tourist areas
This route takes in the popular spots of Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, Usagi Island, Setoda Town, and Tatara Bridge, which are difficult to cover in one day due to their location. Utilizing Kitaura Port, which does not have a regular ferry route, you can fully enjoy the Shimanami Kaido within a limited itinerary
For group travel
Shimanami Kaido
Route map
Cycling information
| Distance | Approximately 36km (travel time approximately 4-5 hours) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | For beginners |
| Things to note | There are two mountain passes along the coastline of Omishima, and if you can make it over these two passes, the rest of the route is flat and safe. |
A magnificent bridge that connects them with the islands scattered across the beautiful sea.
The beauty of the Shimanami Kaido is a blend of rich nature and people's lives, giving us time to relax.
We read the scenery of the Shimanami Kaido as "Shimanami Scenes."
Imabari to Oshima
Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge Bay
Kurushima Strait is one of Japan's three strongest tidal currents. This treacherous stretch of ocean, with currents reaching 10 knots (approximately 18 km/h), is known to sailors worldwide as a key maritime traffic point, with 500 ships passing through it daily. The world's first triple suspension bridge, collectively known as the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, is a highlight of the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido! The view of the endless expanse of azure sky and sea, the silhouettes of distant islands and island villages nestled below, boats large and small bravely tackling the swirling currents, and cyclists tracing straight wakes on the bridge. The world-renowned Kurushima Strait - a 4.1-km stretch that blends seamlessly with the dynamic scenery
Oshima
Shimoda Water Port (Oshima)
This was once the gateway to Oshima, where ferries and other services traveled between the island and Imabari Port in about 20 minutes. Even today, this area is an essential part of any trip to Oshima, offering a close-up view of the magnificent Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge. After refilling your supplies at the Yoshiumi Ikiikikan Roadside Station, set off on a boat trip to Hakata Island (Kumaguchi Port)!
Okunoshima
Okunoshima Cycling
Okunoshima, known as the rabbit island, is a popular destination for tourists from both Japan and overseas. The island that was "erased from maps" before the war has now been designated as part of the Seto Inland Sea National Park and is now a vacation village. Since general vehicles are prohibited on the island, the approximately 4km circumference is perfect for cycling! The 360-degree views of the Seto Inland Islands, the townscape of Honshu, and the passing ships change shape with every curve, adding variety to the scenery of Okunoshima. You'll be greeted by approximately 600 "islanders," which will make your heart leap
