Q. Are there any places I can make a detour to while cycling along the Shimanami Kaido?

2025/7/19

Q. Are there places to stop along the way?

A. Yes! Along the Shimanami Kaido, you don’t have to stick strictly to the main route. Exploring side streets and wandering into local towns are part of the fun. You’ll also find unique cafes and shops that are perfect for casual stops during your ride.

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Small Discoveries Off the Route

One of the joys of cycling the Shimanami Kaido is the freedom to create your own journey. In addition to the shortest Main Route, each island offers optional Outer Routes around its coastline. But the real adventure begins when you step off these recommended routes and explore small towns and quiet backstreets. Cycling allows you to enjoy small discoveries that would be missed when traveling by car or bus.

Make Local Cafes and Shops Your Destinations

Along the route, you’ll find charming cafes, small shops, and minor sightseeing spots. It’s a great idea to research a few places beforehand and make them your informal destinations. Each island has its own character—some known for citrus fruits, others for shipbuilding, or ancient shrines. Choosing spots that reflect each island’s personality will make your ride more memorable.

Plan with Flexibility

Taking spontaneous detours is one of the highlights of cycling the Shimanami Kaido. To make this possible, plan your trip with plenty of extra time and, if possible, travel in a small group of just one or two people. Avoid tight schedules so you can decide freely along the way whether to stop or keep going. A flexible plan will let you enjoy the freedom of your ride to the fullest.

This page answered the beginner-friendly question: “Are there places to stop along the way?” with a simple answer and detailed explanation. You’ll find more useful Q&A topics on our FAQ page linked below. We hope this helps in planning your Shimanami Kaido cycling trip!