The Shimanami Kaido is Japan's greatest cycling route and one of the finest in the world — a 70-kilometre path that hops across six islands between Onomichi (Hiroshima Prefecture) and Imabari (Ehime, Shikoku), crossing the Seto Inland Sea on a series of suspension bridges with panoramic views of islands, ferries and fishing villages. For agents looking to add an active, photogenic and genuinely unique experience to a Japan program, the Shimanami Kaido is the answer.
What makes the Shimanami Kaido special
- Dedicated cycling lanes on all six bridges — rare globally; every bridge has a separate bikeway with its own gradient and island touchdown point.
- Sea and island scenery — the Seto Inland Sea is dotted with 3,000 islands; the route crosses six of the most interesting.
- Cultural stops — citrus farms, traditional crafts (Setoda's Kosanji Temple, Oshima's cycling museum, Hakata Island's salt fields).
- All levels — the route is gentle (bridges have ramps) and can be done in a single day by fit cyclists or spread over two days at a leisurely pace. E-bikes are available at all major rental points.
- Connects two regions — starting in Hiroshima-side Onomichi and ending in Shikoku allows a natural Hiroshima + Shimanami + Matsuyama (Shikoku's castle city) circuit.
The six islands of the route
Departing Onomichi: - Mukaishima — the first island; flat farmland, lemon groves and small fishing ports. - Innoshima — a working fishing island with a hydrangea garden and the historic Suigun Castle (pirates who controlled the Inland Sea in the 16th century). - Ikuchijima (Setoda) — the cultural heart of the route; Kosanji Temple is an astonishing reproduction of Nikko-style architecture built by a devoted son for his late mother, surrounded by white marble hills. - Omishima — home to Oyamazumi Shrine, one of Japan's oldest and most important maritime shrines, housing samurai armour and swords. - Hakata Island — the smallest of the six; salt production and a quiet charm. - Oshima — the final island before Imabari; a cycling museum, sea views and the Kirosan Observatory.
How agents build Shimanami Kaido into a Japan itinerary
Standalone 2-day cycle tour Day 1: Onomichi → Setoda (35 km; lunch in Setoda, visit Kosanji). Day 2: Setoda → Imabari (35 km; Oyamazumi Shrine, bridge views, finish with Imabari ramen). Explera arranges luggage transfer between overnight stops; bikes pre-reserved at Onomichi rental point.
Add-on to Hiroshima program From Hiroshima, take the train to Onomichi (1 hour), do the Shimanami route over 1–2 days, cross to Imabari and return by ferry or fly from Matsuyama. Pairs naturally with the Hiroshima and Miyajima day.
Full western Japan circuit Kyoto → Hiroshima/Miyajima → Onomichi → Shimanami Kaido → Imabari/Matsuyama → Kanazawa (by ferry or rail). A 10–14 night program covering western Japan's finest.
Practical notes for agents
- Best cycling months: March–June and September–November. July–August is hot; January–February is cold.
- E-bikes available at Onomichi and most island stations for clients who prefer less effort on the bridges.
- Cycling not required — the route can also be driven by private car or van for clients who want the scenery without pedalling.
- Group cycling (10–30 riders): Explera arranges support van, guide vehicle and route briefing.
- Net rates in 14 currencies; proposals within 24 hours of RFQ.
FAQ
How long does it take to cycle the Shimanami Kaido? The 70-kilometre route can be done in a single day by fit cyclists or spread over two days at a leisurely pace. A typical 2-day tour rides Onomichi to Setoda and then Setoda to Imabari, about 35 km each day, with luggage transferred between stops.
Is the Shimanami Kaido suitable for clients who are not experienced cyclists? Yes. The route is gentle, the bridges have ramps and dedicated bikeways, and e-bikes are available at Onomichi and most island stations. Clients who prefer not to cycle can see the same scenery by private car or van.
When is the best season for a Shimanami Kaido cycling group? The best cycling months are March to June and September to November, as July and August are hot and January and February are cold. For groups of 10 to 30 riders, Explera arranges a support van, guide vehicle and route briefing.
Contact b2b@explera.jp, WhatsApp +66 93 656 8090, or the B2B portal. IATA 96215733, ASTA member 900408341.
