Island Bridges and Sea Breezes: Cycling in Japan on The Shimanami Kaidō

The Shimanami Kaidō

Distance: 43 miles

Route Map

The Shimanami Kaidō — a paved dedicated cycling corridor stretching approximately 43 miles from Onomichi on Japan’s Honshū island to Imabari on Shikoku — offers a great low-traffic route. Set against a backdrop of the shimmering Seto Inland Sea and strung across six islands via well-engineered bridges, it ranks among Asia’s most intriguing cycling experiences.

From the start in Onomichi you climb gently aboard the first island ramp, then wind your way through Mukaishima and Innoshima. Just beyond you’ll reach the quaint island of Ikuchijima with its iconic hilltop temple (Kōsan‑ji) and panoramic views. Ahead, the wide-span Kurushima‑Kaikyō Bridge leads you into Imabari, where the trail coexists with a comfortable town center and convenient train line. The route is marked by a vivid blue line painted on the pavement.

Terrain, amenities and a few caveats

Probably not surprising is that this paved Japan cycling trail is well maintained and separate from heavy traffic for most of its length. Rider amenities are plentiful: bike rental stations at each major island, parking for cars, cafés and convenience stores just off the route, and overnight lodging options on the islands. Because of its manageable length and low-gradient climbs, it works as a one-day outing or a relaxed overnight stop-over.

On the flip-side, although the main corridor is cyclist-friendly, a few detours—especially during bridge ramp construction seasons—may require short road links or use of ferries. Also, the terrain, while moderate, still includes ascents to bridge tops and exposed sections where sea-salt wind can pick up. For that reason, early morning or off-peak season rides (spring or autumn) are generally best to avoid heat or winds.

While the blue line is helpful, you may benefit from downloading the official PDF map ahead of time or stopping at one of the “cycling stations” for orientation. Links to the route map are available on the official site.

Whether you aim for a strong single-day ride or a gentle two-day island cruise, the Shimanami Kaidō delivers a nice mix of marine scenery, bridge engineering, island culture and well-tuned cycling infrastructure. Pack light, plan for wind if you ride across the big bridge span, and you’ll be rewarded with one of Japan’s finest paved multi-use cycling experiences.

Bridge crossings mark the Shimanami Kaidō cycling trail in Japan

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