A Shimanami trip with a cycle ship
Demonstration experiment conducted to develop a shipping route between Onomichi (Hiroshima) and Imabari (Ehime) -
Onomichi and Imabari to be connected by sea for the first time in 26 years.
In October, we will be conducting a pilot project connecting Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture to Imabari in Ehime Prefecture by ferry, limited to weekends and public holidays.
Since we will be operating a "cycle ship" capable of carrying bicycles, this service will enhance the travel schedules of cyclists and can be enjoyed not only by cyclists but also by anyone who wants to enjoy a sea voyage or travel between islands by boat.
In addition, in October, we will be holding a "Setouchi Stamp Rally" using the "WESTER app" at stores on Ikuchijima and Omishima islands,
issuing coupons that can be used at participating stores.
The Onomichi-Imabari route was discontinued as a regular service in 1999, but since the opening of the Shimanami Kaido, it has become recognized as a mecca for cyclists, and the
number of tourists has increased. Consequently, there has been a growing demand for improved ferry services, leading to the implementation of this project.
Shimanami Tourism Link Project
Two companies, Setouchi Cruising Co., Ltd. (Onomichi City Passenger Ship Operator) and Shimanami Co., Ltd. (Imabari City Passenger Ship Operator),
will operate cycle ships (passenger ships capable of carrying bicycles).
Both companies will operate their respective cycle ships, connecting Onomichi and Imabari by using Setoda Port on Ikuchijima Island and Iguchi Port on Omishima Island as transfer ports.
(Please see below for port calls and sailing schedules.)
demonstration project: 9 days on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays in October 2025.
October 4th (Sat), 5th (Sun), 11th (Sat), 12th (Sun), 13th (Mon), 18th (Sat), 19th (Sun), 25th (Sat), 26th (Sun)
Shimanami Cruising Pass
| Price including tax (per person) | Onomichi Station Pier - Imabari Port | Onomichi Station Pier - Omishimaiguchi Port | Ikuchijima Setoda Port to Imabari Port | Ikuguchishima Setoda Port - Omishima Iguchi Port |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5,000 yen | 2,500 yen | 2,500 yen | 1,000 yen | |
| *This is an "unlimited ride ticket" valid for two consecutive operating days (Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays) for each section (*1). (*1)If the day following the start date of use is a weekday, it will be valid for one day only. *The fare includes the loading fee if you bring a bicycle. *Reservations and boarding may not be possible due to weather conditions or passenger capacity. | ||||
| Boarding ticket | Ticket Name: Shimanami Cruising Pass [How to Purchase] Reservations can be made through the reservation websites listed in the table below. *Please note that reservations and boarding may not be possible due to weather conditions or passenger capacity limitations. Downloading the respective app and registering as a member (free) is required to reserve a boarding ticket. Registering in advance will ensure a smoother experience. ≪TicketPurchase and UsageInstructions≫ |
|---|---|
| Flight cancellations and ticket refunds | [Regarding Flight Cancellations] If a flight is cancelled due to weather or other reasons, the decision will be made by 13:00 the day before. ・Customers who have booked through "EX Travel," "EX Travel Pack," or "Tabiwa Travel (Ticket + JR)" will be contacted by Nippon Travel Agency. ・Cancellation notices will be posted on each airline's SNS "X" between 13:00 and 17:00 the day before. *Please understand that flights may be cancelled suddenly on the day of departure due to weather. [Regarding Refunds in Case of Cancellation] ・Refunds will be provided if the ticket is unused. *Please note that tickets that have been used even once are not eligible for a refund. |
To reserve or purchase a ticket, you will need to download the respective app and register as a member (free of charge).
Introducing the model course
Requests regarding boarding
Notes
- If the captain gives you an instructed guide, please be sure to wear a life jacket. (We will prepare it on board.)
- Children are not allowed to participate or board the boat.
- Please do not walk around the ship while sailing as it may suddenly sway due to tides and waves. Please be especially careful if you have small children.
- Pets are not allowed on board. (Guide dogs are allowed on board.)
- You are asked to board and disembark with your bicycle yourself.
- Infants can board the boat using a stroller or baby carrier. (Please keep the stroller folded.)
- You cannot board the boat after drinking. We do not accept any fire or any cutlery or alcohol that is excluding some fires or other items.
- Please refrain from boarding if you are unwell or have a fever.
- If it is determined that it will interfere with safe flights, the flight may be cancelled on the day. (typhoons, heavy rain, storms, heavy snow, dense fog, lightning strikes, etc.)
Setouchi strolling stamp rally
To coincide with this demonstration project, the "Setouchi Stroll Stamp Rally" being conducted on the "WESTER App" will be holding the "Onomichi-Imabari Route Demonstration Commemorative Challenge." If you collect stamps by visiting stores on Ikuchijima and Omishima, you will receive a digital coupon that can be used on the spot.
| Challenge period | October 1st (Wed) - October 31st (Fri), 2025 *You can participate in the challenge even on days when the ship is not operating. (Using this route is not required to participate.) *Coupons are also valid during the above period. Setouchi Stamp Rally |
|---|
How to participate:Digital coupon participationmethod
to participate in the stamp rally!
. *Answering a survey is required to complete the challenge.