Q. Can I cycle the Shimanami Kaido with my children?

2025/7/19

Q. Can elementary school children try cycling?

A. Yes. Some public rental bike terminals along the Shimanami Kaido offer kids’ bikes. By planning a relaxed schedule and knowing where you can easily stop cycling if needed, families with elementary school children can enjoy cycling too.

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Public Rental Bikes

On the Shimanami Kaido, everyone from experienced cyclists with their own bikes to tourists renting bicycles enjoys the ride. Family cycling with elementary school children is also a common sight. Public rental bike services offer kids’ bikes at some terminals, and since bikes can be returned at various points along the route, one-way trips and stopping partway are easy to arrange.

Renting a Kids’ Bike

Public rental bike services have around 10 staffed terminals between Onomichi and Imabari, but kids’ bikes are only available at certain locations. You can check which terminals offer kids’ bikes on the official website of Shimanami Japan, the organization operating the public rental bikes. Online reservations can also be made through that site.

Plan with Plenty of Time

The distance between Imabari and Onomichi is about 70–80 km, which can be quite challenging even for beginner adults. If you’re traveling with children and aiming to complete the full route, planning a two-day trip with around 30–40 km per day is recommended. Alternatively, you can focus on just one scenic section instead of riding the entire route. For example, cycling across the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge and around Oshima Island can be a satisfying experience even on its own.

Know Where to Stop

Even with a well-planned route, you may find the ride more difficult than expected. If you’re using public rental bikes, you can return them at intermediate terminals and stop cycling partway. Before your trip, check which terminals are near bus stops or ports with services back to Onomichi or Imabari. Being flexible on-site can make your trip safer and more enjoyable, creating great memories for your family while surrounded by beautiful island scenery.

This page answers the common question: “Can elementary school children try cycling?” with a simple answer and detailed guide. You can find other useful Q&A at the link below. We hope this helps you plan a fun cycling trip on the Shimanami Kaido with your family.