Shimanami Kaido

The Shimanami Kaido is a 70-kilometer scenic route connecting Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture to Imabari in Ehime Prefecture across Japan's Seto Inland Sea. Completed in 1999, this expressway links Honshu and Shikoku islands through a series of six islands—Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima, and Oshima—via six impressive suspension bridges. The route was primarily built to improve transportation between the two main islands, but it has gained international recognition as one of the world's most spectacular cycling routes.

The Shimanami Kaido holds significant cultural value as it passes through communities with centuries-old maritime traditions. Omishima is home to Oyamazumi Shrine, one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines that houses the nation's largest collection of samurai armor and weapons, many designated as National Treasures. The islands themselves preserve traditional Japanese island life, with fishing villages, citrus groves, and salt production facilities that have sustained local economies for generations. The route showcases the engineering prowess of modern Japan while providing access to the more traditional, slower-paced island culture of the Seto Inland Sea region.

Cycling is the primary attraction, with a dedicated bicycle path running parallel to the vehicle expressway for the entire distance. The route is suitable for all fitness levels, taking four to eight hours to complete depending on pace and stops. Rental bicycles, including electric-assist models, are available at 13 terminals across the route with a convenient one-way rental system. Visitors can explore individual islands, stopping at beaches, art museums, temples, and local restaurants serving fresh seafood and regional specialties like Setoda lemon products from Ikuchijima. The Tatara Bridge, with its 890-meter main span, offers particularly dramatic views and has become an iconic symbol of the route.

The Shimanaki Kaido is accessible from Onomichi Station on the JR Sanyo Line from Hiroshima or Osaka, while the southern terminus at Imabari connects via JR Yosan Line from Matsuyama. Express buses also run between major cities and both endpoints. The bridge toll for automobiles ranges from 4,000 to 5,000 yen depending on the vehicle, while cyclists and pedestrians pay a combined total of just 500 yen across all bridges. Bicycle rental costs approximately 1,100 yen per day for standard bikes and 2,000 yen for electric models, with helmets included.