ITINERARIES

Enjoy cycling the Shimanami Kaido

Explore the beautiful islands of the Seto Inland Sea via the special pedestrian laneways of the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido (the Nishiseto Expressway), running from Ehime to Hiroshima via nine connecting bridges. Enjoy a ride while taking in stunning views of the islands and bridges! This route is suitable for intermediate cyclists.

Day 1

  • JR Imabari Station

    35 min
  • Sunrise Itoyama Cycling Station

    Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and natural surroundings on a ride around the Seto Inland Sea!

    Sunrise Itoyama is a cycling terminal at the foot of the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge. Bicycles are available to rent and this is the perfect starting point for a ride around the inland sea! Riders can use the pedestrian lanes on the connecting bridges while taking in stunning views and the refreshing breezes of the Seto Inland Sea! You will quickly lose track of time on this one-of-a-kind cycling experience. In addition to cycle rental the terminal also offers convenient accommodation for exploring the Shimanami Kaido. The night view from the rooms is mesmerising, especially when the bridge is illuminated.

    1 hr 15 min
  • Kirosan Observatory Park

    Enjoy a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea

    Kirosan Observatory Park on Oshima Island has some of the best views along the Shimanami Kaido, a cycle route over the Seto Inland Sea. Built on Mt. Kirosan, over 300 m above sea level, the observatory offers views of the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and the bridges that connect them. The observatory is designed by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma. It blends into its surroundings and conforms to the natural shape of the mountain. There is a shop next to the parking lot at the base of the observatory where you can buy souvenirs and refreshments.

    1 hr 30 min
  • [Michi-no-Eki] Hakata S.C. Park “Marine Oasis Hakata”

    Enjoy a range of local salty delicacies!

    Marine Oasis Hakata is a roadside station (‘Michi-no-Eki’) surrounded by a well-maintained beach and park grounds located at the foot of the Hakata and Oshima Bridges. The shop sells local specialties including unique products made with the local Hakata salt, freshly picked vegetables, and marine products from the Seto Inland Sea. You can also taste local specialities such as Shio Ramen at the on-site restaurant. Experience the pleasant sea breeze, catch the sunset over the bridges, and enjoy the incredible scenery! You can also see dolphins and whales at the nearby “Dolphin Farm Shimanami”.

    1 hr 20 min
  • Oyamazumi Shrine

    The shrine dedicated to the tutelary deities of the sea, mountains and martial arts

    Oyamazumi Shrine is the oldest shrine in Ehime, the head shrine of approximately 10,000 Yamazumi and Mishima shrines across the country. A gigantic 2,600-year-old sacred camphor tree stands in the centre of the shrine precinct. The shrine holds many items designated Important Cultural Properties including the Honden (the mail hall) and the Haiden (the hall of worship) and time will fly by as you wander around this mysterious place. The shrine has been worshipped as home to gods of the sea, mountains and warriors and many military generals dedicated arms to pray or give thanks for military victories. There is a treasure hall with displays of these arms within the shrine precincts. It is estimated that the collection of weapons and armoury are 80-percent of the nation’s National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties.