The Shimanami Kaido crosses six islands in the Seto Inland Sea between Onomichi and Imabari. Across roughly 70 kilometers, bridge panoramas alternate with seaside settlements and citrus groves. Kōsanji Temple on Ikuchijima offers another reason to stop along the way.
A blue line painted on the road and distance markers help riders follow the recommended route. Completing it on a rental bike in one day can be demanding; two days leave more time for stops. Cycle Oasis rest points may offer water refills and pumps, although services vary.
Rental choice shapes the itinerary. Shimanami Japan allows multi-day hire of its cross bikes and city bikes, with returns at another terminal in its network. Tandems must return to their original terminal and are limited to one-day rentals. Check the chosen bike’s conditions and the return terminal’s opening hours before booking.
Ferries also make shorter rides possible: the Onomichi–Setoda service reaches the route’s middle section. Several island ferries carry bicycles, while no railway runs through the island chain. Plan the return journey alongside the ride, checking the selected sailing’s timetable and bicycle carriage conditions.