10 Things to know before your first Shimanami Kaido cycling trip

2026/1/132026/1/14

This page explains 10 key points you should know before your first Shimanami Kaido cycling trip. From distance and route selection to bike rentals, accommodation, and the best season, I’ve put together practical information so even beginners can plan with confidence.

You may be interested in cycling the Shimanami Kaido,
but wondering, “Is it really suitable for beginners?” or “I’m worried about the distance and preparation.”

The Shimanami Kaido is a route that has been carefully developed to make it easy for first-time riders to take on the challenge. On this page, I’ve summarized the essentials as “10 Things to Know Before Your First Shimanami Kaido Cycling Trip”, so you can grasp the overall picture of the route. The focus is on simple and easy-to-understand basics.

① Shimanami Kaido Cycling

Riding a bicycle from island to island while gazing out over the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea—doesn’t that sound appealing? The Shimanami Kaido is not about racing for speed. Instead, you ride at a relaxed pace of around 15–20 km/h, taking your time to enjoy the scenery, the sea breeze, and the atmosphere along the way. This style of “slow, savor-the-journey cycling” is one of the greatest attractions of the route.

The Shimanami Kaido is well known as the only route connecting Honshu and Shikoku where you can cross the sea by bicycle. Because the entire area has been developed with cycling tourism in mind, there is a strong emphasis on clear signage and safety. Even if you have no experience with road bikes or are new to bicycle touring, the environment is designed to make it easy and reassuring to take on your first long-distance cycling trip.

ー Main route
ー Optionally Route
● Scenic Spots
● Restaurants
● Cafe & Shops
● Accommodations
● Rental Bike Terminal

Along the route, you will cycle across several islands in sequence. Each island has its own slightly different scenery and atmosphere, and one of the pleasures of the Shimanami Kaido is how the landscape changes as you ride. You’ll pass farmland, small harbors, and quiet island towns, and there will be many moments when you feel like stopping to take a closer look (one of the great advantages of cycling is that you can stop almost anywhere, anytime).

Another experience unique to the Shimanami Kaido is crossing massive bridges by bicycle as they connect the islands. Riding across bridges of a scale that you would normally only cross by car, powered by your own legs, is a truly memorable experience. Because of these distinctive features, the Shimanami Kaido is known not only within Japan, but also as a world-class cycling route highly regarded by riders from around the globe.

② Beginner-Friendly support

Shimanami Kaido cycling is designed to be approachable even for beginners and first-time visitors. It’s not unusual to see people riding long distances for the first time using rental bikes, travelers taking their time and focusing on sightseeing, or even solo female travelers enjoying the route at a relaxed pace. One of the key features of the public bike rental system is that bikes can be returned at terminals along the route, making it easy to plan flexibly—such as “riding as far as I feel comfortable today.”

The Shimanami Kaido is also a route where you don’t need to push yourself too hard. If you start to feel tired, there are options such as ferries and buses that allow you to shorten your ride. Simply knowing in advance where you can easily stop or exit the route can make the journey feel much more relaxed. For beginners especially, the fact that there is less pressure to “finish the entire route at all costs” is a major source of reassurance.

Along the route, you’ll find rest areas known as “Cycle Oasis” spots. These are supported by local communities and usually offer a place to rest, use the restroom, and sometimes enjoy a friendly word from local residents. Support for bicycle-related troubles has also improved year by year, making it easier to get help if something unexpected happens during your ride.

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③ Multiple route options

Cycling the Shimanami Kaido feels less like riding on one continuous bike-only road and more like a journey that links bridges and islands together. On the six major bridges—such as the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge and the Tatara Bridge—there are dedicated bicycle lanes or separated paths, allowing you to ride apart from car traffic. Another nice feature is that the access roads leading up to the bridges are designed with gentle gradients, so even first-time cyclists can climb them without excessive strain.

Once you finish crossing a bridge, you continue on regular public roads within each island. What makes the Shimanami Kaido especially appealing is that you can choose different routes on each island. There is a “Main Route” that heads toward the next bridge along the shortest path, and an alternative “Island Explorer Route” that circles more of the island. You can decide how to proceed based on your energy level and what kind of scenery you want to enjoy.

Your main navigation aid is the famous “Blue Line,” a set of blue road markings painted directly onto the pavement. Along the main route, you’ll see signs such as “Onomichi ○ km” or “Imabari ○ km,” clearly showing both direction and remaining distance. Even on your first visit to the Shimanami Kaido, these markings make it easy to ride with confidence while checking your map as needed.

On the other hand, the outer loop routes are marked with signs such as “Outer Loop Course.” While these routes are slightly longer, their appeal lies in quiet coastal roads and scenery that feels deeply connected to island life. With fewer people and occasional unexpected views, they are a popular choice for riders who want to experience the Shimanami Kaido at a more intimate, local pace.

That said, on some islands the outer loop routes (island explorer routes) involve more hills and can be more physically demanding—especially on the eastern side of Oshima and the northeastern part of Innoshima. When leaving the main route, it’s wise to consider whether the terrain matches your fitness level. One section is a little different: the crossing from Mukaishima to Onomichi is typically done by a short ferry rather than a bridge. It only takes a few minutes, and it offers a charming, very “Shimanami-like” way to wrap up your cycling journey.

④ Flexible bike rentals

On the Shimanami Kaido, you’ll find a wide range of bike rental services that can be matched to your goals and fitness level. The types of bicycles available, pricing, rental locations, and one-way return systems vary by service, so it’s important to picture your travel style in advance and choose accordingly.

Among these options, the most widely used is the public Shimanami Kaido bike rental system, jointly operated by the Ehime and Hiroshima sides of the route. It offers a large fleet of bikes at reasonable prices. With many rental and return terminals along the way, it’s easy to plan a flexible itinerary and enjoy cycling without feeling constrained.

Rental fees are charged on a per-day basis depending on the type of bicycle, and the one-way return fee is already included. This means you don’t have to worry about extra charges no matter where you pick up or return your bike—an especially reassuring point for first-time visitors who may not yet have a clear sense of the geography. Free helmet rentals are also included, making it easy to get started with minimal preparation.

Rental terminals are located not only in front of Imabari Station and Onomichi Station, but also on many of the islands along the route. You can start riding from a midway island or return your bike early depending on your energy level. By knowing the terminal locations and your transportation options after returning the bike in advance, you can plan your first Shimanami Kaido cycling trip with even greater peace of mind.

⑤ Starting points and distance

If you plan to ride the entire length of the Shimanami Kaido from end to end, your starting point will be either Onomichi or Imabari. Travel blogs and social media may give the impression that most people start from Onomichi, but in reality, the choice is usually determined by how you access the area and the rest of your travel itinerary. The route is designed so that you can start from either direction, and riding in reverse does not make it confusing or difficult to follow.

The shortest distance for a full crossing is approximately 70–80 km. That may sound long at first, but it’s not an unrealistic distance even for beginners. However, trying to finish it all in one day often turns the trip into a ride-focused schedule with little time to stop and explore. If this is your first attempt at riding the full route with a rental bike, I recommend staying overnight on Omishima or Ikuchijima and spreading the journey over two days or more. Simply having more time greatly changes how much scenery you notice and how many places you can stop along the way.

On the other hand, if you don’t focus too much on “completing the entire route,” the Shimanami Kaido becomes much more approachable. There are many sections that can be enjoyed in half a day or a full day. Starting from a midway island or calling it a day earlier depending on your energy level are both very Shimanami-style ways to enjoy the experience. Treat distance and time as rough guidelines, and plan at a pace that feels right for you—that’s the key to finishing your first cycling trip feeling satisfied and relaxed.

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⑥ Transportation options

On the Shimanami Kaido, your journey doesn’t have to rely on cycling alone—you can combine several different transportation options. Before the bridges were built, boats were the primary way people traveled between the islands. Even today, while bus routes are well developed, traveling by boat across the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea still has a timeless appeal. Taking a break from cycling and enjoying the sea views during a short ferry ride adds a pleasant rhythm and variety to your trip.

When planning your cycling itinerary, it’s reassuring to understand in advance how rental bike terminals are located in relation to bus stops and ferry ports. Simply knowing that you can switch transportation modes depending on your energy level or the weather can make the journey feel much more relaxed. Routes commonly used for partial travel or shortcuts include the Imabari–Habu ferry and the Setoda–Onomichi ferry.

If you’re using a rental bike, it’s also perfectly fine to return the bike at a terminal on one of the islands and continue your journey by bus. Local buses between Imabari and Omishima, highway buses connecting Imabari and Fukuyama, and local buses between Habu and Onomichi all pair well with cycling plans. Not feeling obligated to ride every single kilometer—and being able to rely on public transportation when needed—is one of the reasons the Shimanami Kaido is so welcoming for first-time cyclists.

⑦ Choosing where to stay

On a Shimanami Kaido cycling trip, your choice of accommodation can strongly shape the overall experience. A good starting point is to imagine which island you want to end your day on. Once you decide where to stay overnight, your daily distance and route tend to fall into place naturally, making it much easier to plan a realistic and comfortable itinerary.

In recent years, more guesthouses and small inns have opened with cyclists specifically in mind. Well-known examples include “Cyclo no Ie” on the Imabari side and “Wakka” on Omishima. These cyclist-friendly accommodations often have staff who are familiar with handling bikes and provide helpful local information, creating an environment where even first-time visitors can feel at ease.

If you plan to ride the full Shimanami Kaido over two days, staying around Ikuchijima or Omishima is a classic choice. On Ikuchijima, you’ll find traditional Japanese inns such as “Ryokan Sawaki” and “Suminoe Ryokan,” where you can enjoy meals made with local island ingredients. At the same time, guesthouses like “Ohana” and “Nest” offer more casual options, allowing you to choose based on your budget and travel style.

Whichever accommodation you choose, it’s worth thinking not only about how far you’ll ride, but also about how you want to spend your evening. Getting a good night’s rest and enjoying the calm atmosphere of the island after a day of cycling is, in itself, one of the pleasures of a Shimanami Kaido journey.

⑧ Send your large luggage ahead

On a Shimanami Kaido cycling trip, deciding what to do with large luggage turns out to be more important than many people expect. Especially if you plan to travel from Onomichi to Imabari—or from Imabari to Onomichi—within a single day, riding with a suitcase simply isn’t practical. In these situations, a very helpful option is Sagawa Express’s same-day luggage delivery service known as “Hands-Free Shimanami Cycling.”

By using this service, large bags can be delivered on the same day between partner accommodations in Onomichi and Imabari. This allows you to ride with only the essentials during your cycling day, making the journey far more comfortable both physically and mentally. It’s a service that first-time visitors, in particular, tend to appreciate once they experience it.

If same-day delivery isn’t necessary, using standard parcel delivery services such as Yamato Transport or Japan Post is another good option. By adjusting the delivery date, you can have your luggage waiting for you at your accommodation without any hassle. If you plan to return to your starting point, coin lockers at train stations or luggage storage services are also practical alternatives.

Choosing the least stressful option based on your riding distance and schedule is one of the keys to enjoying the Shimanami Kaido comfortably. Simply being able to ride light can make a surprisingly big difference in how much you enjoy the journey.

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⑨ The best time to go

The Shimanami Kaido lies in a mild climate zone known in Japan as the “Seto Inland Sea climate,” characterized by relatively warm temperatures and low rainfall. Except for the rainy season and typhoon periods, you can generally enjoy cycling here throughout the year. That said, there are clearly defined times when the route feels busier with cyclists.

The main peak seasons are typically from mid-February until the start of the rainy season, and from after the rainy season through around mid-December. During these periods, you’ll see many travelers using rental bikes as well as cyclists who come specifically to ride the Shimanami Kaido. In contrast, the period from January to early February and the rainy season itself tend to be quieter, with fewer riders on the route.

Within the peak season, the most popular times are spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November). These are classic sightseeing seasons in Japan, with mild temperatures and relatively stable winds, making them especially well suited for a first Shimanami Kaido cycling experience.

Even winter, which is considered the off-season, has its own appeal. The air is clear, the scenery is often at its best, and there are fewer people around, allowing you to enjoy the islands at a slower, more peaceful pace. While you do need to prepare for the cold, winter can be a very attractive option for those who prefer a calm and uncrowded cycling experience.

⑩ What to wear for cycling

I often hear first-time visitors who plan to ride the Shimanami Kaido on a rental bike say, “I’m not sure what I should wear.” It may sound like you need special gear, but in reality, there’s no need to overthink it.

To put it simply, you’re not racing, so you don’t need a full cycling kit or professional jerseys. Comfortable, sporty clothing that’s easy to move in and doesn’t become tiring over long hours is more than enough. With sports bikes, the chain is exposed, so it’s a good idea to make sure the right pant leg isn’t loose or flapping around. Using a simple leg band or strap to secure it also works well.

One important point is layering for temperature control. When cycling, you tend to sweat on climbs and then cool down quickly on descents. Being able to easily take off or put on an extra layer before and after hills helps reduce stress on your body and keeps you comfortable.

Another thing to keep in mind is sun protection. Much of the Shimanami Kaido runs over the sea or along open roads, and there’s often less shade than you might expect. Be sure to use sunscreen and take proper measures against strong sunlight. Sunglasses can also make a big difference by reducing eye strain and improving overall comfort. With just a little thought put into your clothing, cycling the Shimanami Kaido becomes much more enjoyable.

Summary

• The Shimanami Kaido is beginner-friendly
  Dedicated cycling lanes on the bridges, easy-to-use rental bikes, and clear signage make it accessible even for first-time long-distance riders.
• Blue lines and signs make navigation simple
  The recommended route is marked with blue lines showing distances, so you can ride confidently even without a map.
• Your route choice shapes the entire experience
  You can choose the shortest main route or more scenic outer routes. Distances and difficulty vary by island, so pick what suits your time and fitness.
• You don’t have to ride the entire route
  The full crossing is about 70–80 km, but it’s perfectly fine to ride only part of it, stop on one island, or go one way.
• Rental bikes are a key part of planning
  Public rental bikes are convenient, but be sure to check in advance where you can return them along the route.
• Allow extra time for distance and pace
  When you stop for sightseeing, the ride often takes longer than expected. For first-timers, a two-day trip or more is ideal.
• Ferries and buses add peace of mind
  Using ferries or local buses makes it easy to shorten the ride or adjust plans if needed.
• Choosing the right place to stay makes the trip easier
  If you plan to finish in two days, staying on Omishima or Ikuchijima works especially well.
• Travel as light as possible
  Use luggage delivery services and carry only the essentials while cycling.
• Season and clothing affect comfort
  Spring and autumn are the best seasons. Wear layers you can adjust easily and be prepared for strong sunlight.

This page introduced 10 key topics that are helpful to know before your first Shimanami Kaido cycling trip. If you are planning your first ride and would like more detailed, step-by-step guidance, you can find a thorough explanation on the page below. I hope it helps you plan your trip with confidence.