Q. What is the total distance of the Shimanami Kaido?

2025/7/19

Q. How long is the entire Shimanami Kaido route?

A. The shortest cycling route from JR Imabari Station to JR Onomichi Station is about 70 to 80 km (43 to 50 miles). These two stations are commonly used as the start and finish points of the Shimanami Kaido cycling route. The total distance can vary depending on your transportation method and chosen route.

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Different Routes for Different Cyclists

The cycling route of the Shimanami Kaido (also used by pedestrians and small scooters) doesn’t run directly along the expressway. While bridges have dedicated lanes running alongside the expressway, on each island you will ride on regular local roads, exploring the island as you go. There are multiple route options, including a main recommended route and longer coastal routes, allowing riders to choose based on their interests and cycling experience.

Shortest Distance: 70 to 80 km

Because of the different possible routes, guidebooks, pamphlets, and websites may describe the total distance of the Shimanami Kaido slightly differently. For example, the expressway itself is about 60 km long, while the shortest cycling route between JR Imabari Station and JR Onomichi Station is typically around 70 to 80 km. If you choose a longer coastal course, your ride could be over 100 km or even 200 km, depending on your route choices.

Different Starting Points

The starting point can also affect your total distance. In Imabari, many cyclists start from JR Imabari Station, but others choose to start from Sunrise Itoyama, the main rental cycle terminal located near the foot of the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge. According to the Japanese government’s National Cycle Route designation, Sunrise Itoyama is the official starting point. From Sunrise Itoyama to JR Onomichi Station, the shortest route is about 70 km.

With all these variations, it’s easiest to remember that the Shimanami Kaido is approximately 70 to 80 km for a typical ride across the entire route.

This page answered the common beginner question: “How long is the entire Shimanami Kaido route?" with both a simple answer and detailed explanation. For more frequently asked questions about cycling the Shimanami Kaido, please visit the FAQ page linked below. We hope this helps with your trip planning!