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Shimanami Kaido and the Setouchi Islands

Follow the Shimanami Kaido between Honshu and Shikoku, selecting island towns, viewpoints and cycling segments while keeping ferries and onward logistics aligned.

Route sequence

This is a journey idea, not a fixed package or guaranteed stop order. Keep the sequence flexible around current access and local conditions.

  1. 1

    Onomichi

    Onomichi forms the Honshu gateway, with a hillside town, waterfront and ferry links that introduce the Setouchi island landscape.

  2. 2

    Shimanami Islands

    The route crosses a chain of inhabited islands, where cycling, local roads and short island stops can be combined without covering every detour.

  3. 3

    Imabari

    Imabari is the Shikoku gateway and a practical endpoint for onward travel, bicycle return arrangements and local cultural stops.

Who this route may suit

  • Island scenery and selective cycling
  • One-way travellers connecting Honshu and Shikoku

Destinations covered

  • Onomichi

    Onomichi forms the Honshu gateway, with a hillside town, waterfront and ferry links that introduce the Setouchi island landscape.

  • Shimanami Islands

    The route crosses a chain of inhabited islands, where cycling, local roads and short island stops can be combined without covering every detour.

  • Imabari

    Imabari is the Shikoku gateway and a practical endpoint for onward travel, bicycle return arrangements and local cultural stops.

Published destination guides

Plan the practical details

Compare public transport and road options in the context of the actual group, luggage, stops and travel date.

Match the route to cycling ability

Select a realistic cycling segment and confirm bicycle return, ferry and luggage arrangements rather than assuming a full crossing suits everyone.

Review wind and ferry status

Coastal weather can affect comfort and some transport links, so keep a non-cycling alternative for the selected island corridor.

Transport context

Buses, ferries and bicycle services support different ways to cross or sample the Shimanami corridor. A support vehicle can help a mixed-ability group, carry luggage and connect selected island stops, but cyclists still need safe independent arrangements and every bridge or ferry segment should be checked against current operations.

Compare rail and bus connections first. A private transfer may help when luggage, several stops or a door-to-door connection makes those links less practical.

Related journeys and guides

Back to all Japan routes

Official planning sources

Shimanami Kaido Itinerary

Ehime Prefecture Tourism Association

Official external website · opens in a new tab

Checked 2026-07-15

Want to shape this idea around your trip?

Send the route, date, group size, luggage and priorities. JPN Ride reviews feasibility and availability before any option is confirmed in writing.

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