Shimanami Kaido

Cycle between Honshu and Shikoku on a world-class cycling adventure

Spanning 70km across the shimmering Seto Inland Sea, the Shimanami Kaido is more than just a cycle route – it’s one of the world’s most breathtaking journeys. A chain of six magnificent bridges links Honshu and Shikoku, carrying you over turquoise waters and through a necklace of islands, each with its own character and charm.

While many riders complete the route in a day or two, the true magic is found when you slow down. Each island offers something unique – sacred Shinto shrines with centuries of history, colourful gardens in full bloom, tranquil fishing villages where time moves gently and citrus groves heavy with mandarins and lemons. Stop for coffee in a seaside café, detour to a panoramic lookout, or wander through a small museum rich in local stories.

RAW Travel designs its journeys to let you savour the Shimanami Kaido at a relaxed, unhurried pace – time to connect deeply with the landscapes, culture, and warm hospitality along the way. And with a few carefree days of touring, free from train timetables or rigid schedules, you can simply ride, explore and enjoy the moment. It’s a fun, adventurous escape – scenic, immersive, and unforgettable – leaving you with memories as vivid and lasting as the views themselves.

Cycling through a rural town on the Shimanami Kaido on a sunny day.
E-bike parked on a section of the Shimanami Kaido cycing route
View of the hill of hope at the Kosanji Buddhist temple, Hiroshima, Japan
The Koyomon Gate of Kosanji Temple in Ikuchi-jima Island, Onomichi, Japan.
Street art illustration inside a painted white square on a wall, Shimanami Kaido
Stone statue depicting a person holding and reading a book, Shimanami Kaido
View of Kosanji Buddhist temple, Hiroshima, Japan
Closeup of white lotus flower in bloom showing yellow central stamen
Large ship sailing on calm sea with forested mountains all around, Shimanami Kaido
Exterior of Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima island
Cycling through a rural town on the Shimanami Kaido.
Large white monument letters spelling out: I love Shimanami
Close up of the ornate and colourful detail of a temple, Shimanami Kaido
Large white marble statues at the Hill of Hope, Kosanji Temple, Ikuchijima Island
Closeup of a stone statue’s face, Shimanami Kaido, Japan
Striking orange facade of Kosanji Temple, Ikuchijima Island
Kosanji Temple framed by lush green maple foliage in the foreground.
Small harbour with fishing boats on a calm morning, dense forested mountains in the background, Shimanami Kaido
Decorative white Japanese sake barrels stacked at a temple
Cyclist on a marked path on the Shimanami Kaido
Ōyamazumi Shrine located on Omishima Island.
Cyclist sitting on a low wall looking towards the towers and cables of the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge on the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
White road markings on asphalt showing 'Hiroshima' one way and 'Ehime' the other along the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
Scenic view of the Seto Inland Sea with lush forested mountains and a beach, serene atmosphere.
Large stone boulders along the Shimanami Kaido cycle route.
Closeup of a bowl of rice topped with meat, Japan.
Large stone carving of a fish near the shore of the Seto Inland Sea.
Exterior of a Japanese temple, hidden behind lush greenery, Shimanami Kaido
Colourful illustration of lotus flowers and the inland sea painted on a wall, Shimanami Kaido
Small boats in the harbour, Seto Inland Sea
Cyclist approaching the Tatara Bridge on the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route, Japan, with the cables fully visible.
Large monument letters spelling out Shimanami on the cycling route in Ehime Prefecture, Japan
White marble monuments set amongst lush greenery at the Hill of Hope, Kosanji Buddhist temple, Hiroshima, Japan
Shade hut next to the shoreline of the Seto Inland Sea, Shimanami Kaido
Serene view of islands from the shoreline of the Seto Inland Sea, Shimanami Kaido
View through the trees of the islands in Japan's Seto Inland Sea
Looking through one of the large white marble statues at the Hill of Hope, Kosanji Temple, Ikuchijima Island
Bridge over a river, Shimanami Kaido

Shimanami Kaido

THE RAW TRAVEL DIFFERENCE

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WE'RE CYCLING EXPERTS

We were predominately a cycling company back in the 2000s so we can expertly guide you through everything you need to know for a successful and enjoyable trip on Japan's Shimanami Kaido cycling route.

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FIRST-HAND KNOWLEDGE

We offer expert first-hand advice about cycling the Shimanami Kaido, along with comprehensive training resources. Our dedicated team of Japan specialists have in-depth knowledge and will ensure you are well prepared for your adventure.

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METICULOUSLY PLANNED TRIPS

We provide unrivalled pre-trip service and thoughtfully paced itineraries that give you time to fully immerse yourself in your Shimanami Kaido adventure, rather than just skimming the surface.

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AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION

You'll stay in hand-picked, character-filled accommodation with warm, welcoming hosts. After each day’s ride, you can unwind and enjoy a restful night’s sleep, ready for your next day of cycling.

View Our E-Cycle trips

Shimanami Kaido

Cyclist approaching the Tatara Bridge on the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route, Japan, with the cables fully visible.
5 Days

Japan

Shimanami Kaido by E-Bike (Self-Guided)

e-bike Japan Moderate Self-Guided
  • Cycle the entire Shimanami Kaido by e-bike
  • Explore the stunning architecture of Kōsanji Temple
  • Island-hop through fishing villages and stunning sea vistas
  • Enjoy panoramic views from Mt Shirataki Observation Deck
from

$1,950.00

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Side view of Kurushima Bridge leading to Imabari on the Shimanami Kaido.
7 Days

Japan

Shimanami Kaido with Yumeshima islands by E-bike (Self Guided)

e-bike Japan Moderate Self-Guided
  • Cross the dramatic suspension bridges of the Shimanami Kaidō
  • Explore Oyamazumi Shrine and its legendary samurai treasures
  • Hike Mt Sekizen for breathtaking 360° sea views
  • Discover Yumeshima Kaido’s secluded beaches and island charm
from

$2,650.00

view trip
Large-scale abstract contemporary art installation on Naoshima Island at sunset.
9 Days

Japan

Naoshima & Shimanami Kaido by E-bike (Self Guided)

e-bike Japan Moderate Self-Guided
  • Experience world-class art on Naoshima and Teshima
  • Cycle iconic Shimanami Kaido with breathtaking sea views
  • Explore hidden shrines, castles and charming villages
  • Savour fresh seafood and local island flavours
from

$3,695.00

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Shimanami Kaido Map

Uno

Gateway port to the art islands of the Seto Inland Sea. The town itself is small and laid-back.

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Naoshima

World-famous island where contemporary art transforms everyday landscapes.

Teshima

Serene island blending bold art with rural charm and beauty.

Takamatsu

Vibrant Shikoku city, home to the exquisite Ritsurin Garden.

Imabari

Lively city known for its scenic Seto Inland Sea views, historic castle, shipbuilding heritage and vibrant waterfront atmosphere.

Ōshima Island

Scenic island in the Seto Inland Sea, famous for its citrus orchards and coastal views.

Hakatajima Island

Small, charming island known for its scenic coastal views and quiet beaches.

Ōmishima

Known for its serene shrines and the picturesque Ohmishima Shrine surrounded by lush nature.

Ikuchijima

Home to beautiful lemon orchards and the stunning Kosanji Temple with panoramic views.

Setoda

Charming town famed for lemons, temples and coastal views.

Mukaishima Island

Gateway to the Shimanami Kaidō. A quiet coastal spot known for cycling, citrus groves and laid-back island life.

Onomichi

Charming hillside town famous for historic temples and quaint streets overlooking the Seto Inland Sea.

Shimanami Kaido

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the story behind Japan’s Shimanami Kaido?

The Shimanami Kaido is a 70km route linking Honshu and Shikoku across six islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Completed in 1999, it’s the only Honshu–Shikoku connection designed for cyclists and pedestrians as well as cars. Once a vital ferry corridor, it’s now Japan’s most iconic cycling route, celebrated for its world-class bridges, citrus orchards, and fishing villages. Blending modern engineering with centuries of maritime history, the Shimanami Kaido offers an unforgettable ride through sea, sky, and island life.

Where is the Shimanami Kaido in Japan?

The Shimanami Kaido is located in the Seto Inland Sea region of Japan, connecting the city of Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture on Honshu Island to Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture on Shikoku Island. It spans a series of six islands linked by scenic bridges, making it a popular cycling route between the two main islands of Japan.

What are the cycling conditions like?

Cycling the Shimanami Kaido is a safe, enjoyable and well-organised experience, suitable for a wide range of abilities. The route is fully signposted in English and Japanese, with blue cycling lines painted on the road to guide you the entire way. Most sections are on quiet coastal roads or dedicated cycle paths, with gentle gradients making it accessible even for less experienced riders, especially with the use of e-bikes. Bridge approaches can involve some hill climbs, but they are steady and manageable, rewarded with sweeping sea views. Regular rest stops, cafés and convenience stores make refuelling easy along the way.

When is the best time to cycle the Shimanami Kaido?

The best time to cycle the Shimanami Kaido is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when temperatures are mild, humidity is low, and scenery is at its most beautiful. Spring offers blooming flowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can be hot, humid, and prone to typhoons, making cycling more tiring, though mornings are cooler. Winter brings cold, wind, and unpredictable weather, but fewer crowds. Overall, spring and autumn provide the most comfortable, scenic, and enjoyable riding conditions for cyclists.

Are bike helmets compulsory in Japan?

Helmets are not legally required but are highly recommended for safety and are a requirement when joining RAW Travel’s Shimanami Kaido trips. Helmet hire is included on RAW’s Shimanami Kaido trips.

What is the food like on the Shimanami Kaido?

The Shimanami Kaido offers a delicious mix of local and traditional Japanese cuisine. Cyclists can enjoy fresh seafood, including grilled fish, oysters, and octopus, as well as island specialties like sweet potatoes, tofu and udon noodles. The islands, especially Omishima and Ikuchijima, are famous for citrus fruits such as mikan. Cafés and cyclist-friendly snack stops provide sandwiches, pastries and coffee. Overall, the route combines authentic flavours with convenient, tasty options, making the culinary experience as memorable as the scenic ride.

What other trips in Japan can I do?

Discover our hikes along the sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage, the historic Nakasendo Way through the Kiso Valley, the scenic Michinoku Coastal Trail and tropical  Okinawa. Reach out to our team today to start planning your next adventure.

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Your Dedicated Travel Team

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Destination Specialist

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If you don’t see the exact trip you’re looking for then consider a customised trip, individually tailored to your ideal walking distances and timeframes. Or if you have a group of friends or family you can have your own private group departure. Have a look at our tailor-made trips page on the link below and drop us a line:

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