Shimanami Kaido 1 Day Cycling Tour from Onomichi to Imabari

Experience the scenic Shimanami Kaido on a one-day cycling adventure from Onomichi to Imabari, covering a 75-kilometer route with the help of an English-speaking guide. Starting in Onomichi City on Honshu and stretching across six islands, this route leads you through beautiful landscapes, crossing impressive modern bridges and providing stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. Designed for a spring or summer outing, the tour also includes convenient luggage transfer from Onomichi to Imabari for a stress-free experience.

The Shimanami Kaido route is thoughtfully designed for cyclists, with gentle ramps and well-marked paths separate from the expressway, making it a comfortable ride for intermediate cyclists. As you pedal along, you’ll pass through quaint island towns and enjoy Japan’s coastal beauty up close. This tour offers a perfect way to explore the charm of Japan’s inland islands and seaside towns at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.

Tour Highlights

• Cycle 75 km along the scenic Shimanami Kaido

• Cross six islands with breathtaking sea views

• Enjoy modern bridges designed for cyclists

• Explore charming small towns along the route

• Suitable for intermediate cyclists with gentle inclines

• Convenient luggage transfer from Onomichi to Imabari

What’s Covered

• English-speaking guide

• Bicycle

• Luggage transfer

• Bottled water

What’s Extra

• Dinner

• Lunch

• Accommodation

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• E-voucher will be sent via email; please present it at the specified location

• Tour requires a minimum of 2 people and can accommodate up to 10 people

• Private tour, with only your group participating

• On tour day, schedule adjustments can be made with your guide’s assistance

• You may skip any spots, but no refunds for missed locations; substitutions may be available

• Alcohol is not permitted on the vehicle

• Please dispose of all trash personally when exiting the vehicle

• Arrive on time at the meeting location to avoid missing the tour

• Expect higher congestion on weekends, holidays, or event days

• Schedule adjustments may occur due to traffic or other unexpected delays

• No refunds for late arrivals or no-shows at the meeting location

• Seatbelt use is mandatory while the vehicle is moving

• Smoking and standing while in motion are prohibited on the vehicle

• Lost items left on the vehicle will be disposed of, so keep your belongings secure

Meeting Point:

Onomichi station

1-1 Higashigosho-cho, Onomichi City, Hiroshima

Tour Itinerary

08:30 - Meet at Onomichi Station

Start your day by meeting your English-speaking guide at Onomichi Station. They’ll provide a brief overview of the day’s journey and answer any questions you may have.

• Duration: 10 minutes

08:40 - Bike Pickup at Onomichi Port

Head to Onomichi Port to pick up your rental bike. After a quick setup and fitting, you’ll be ready to begin your cycling adventure.

• Duration: 20 minutes

09:10 - Ferry Ride to Mukaishima Island

Board a ferry from Onomichi Port to reach Mukaishima Island, the first island on the Shimanami Kaido route.

• Duration: 20 minutes (arrive by 9:30)

09:30 - Cycling Through Mukaishima Island

Begin your journey on Mukaishima Island, cycling a 9-kilometer stretch that passes by beautiful coastal views and Tachibanarinkai Park.

• Duration: 35 minutes

Crossing Innoshima Bridge to Innoshima Island

Continue your ride across the scenic Innoshima Bridge to reach Innoshima Island, covering a 12-kilometer stretch of serene landscapes.

• Duration: 45 minutes

Lunch Break on Innoshima Island

Pause for a lunch break (self-paid) on Innoshima Island. Take time to relax and refuel at one of the local spots.

Cycling Through Ikuchi Island

After lunch, set off on a 17-kilometer journey through Ikuchi Island, passing by Tatara Shimanami Park, a popular spot for its beautiful views of the surrounding sea and islands.

• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

Omishima Island and Omishima Bridge

Pedal 8 kilometers through Omishima Island, crossing the impressive Omishima Bridge, which offers stunning vistas of the Seto Inland Sea.

• Duration: 30 minutes

Hakata-Oshima Bridge to Oshima Island

Next, cross the Hakata Oshima Bridge to reach Oshima Island, cycling through picturesque settings along the 18-kilometer stretch.

• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

Kurushima Bridge and Arrival in Imabari

End your cycling journey by crossing the Kurushima Bridge and arrive at Sunrise Itoyama in Imabari, where you’ll return your bike.

• Duration: Arrive by 17:00

17:00 - Taxi to Imabari Station

After returning the bike, take a convenient taxi ride to Imabari Station to wrap up the day.

• Duration: 30 minutes

18:30 - Tour Concludes at Imabari Station

Arrive at Imabari Station, marking the end of your memorable Shimanami Kaido cycling experience.

FAQs

Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility. If you have specific stops you’d like to visit or areas you’d like to skip, let the team know in advance. Changes can even be made on the tour day with your guide’s assistance. Note that additional costs may apply for any new requested spots or changes in the schedule.

What is the cancellation policy for this tour?

A full refund is available up to 11 days before the tour date. Cancellations 8-10 days prior incur a 20% fee, 2-7 days incur a 30% fee, 1 day before is 40%, and cancellations on the day of the tour result in a 50% fee. No refunds are provided if you cancel after the tour has started or if you do not show up.

Are there any luggage handling services available?

Yes, a luggage transfer service is included in the tour. Your luggage will be transported from Onomichi to Imabari, allowing you to ride unburdened. You simply drop off your luggage in Onomichi and retrieve it upon arrival in Imabari.

What happens if the weather is bad?

In cases of extreme weather, such as a typhoon or natural disaster, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued. For lighter rain, the tour may still proceed, so it’s recommended to bring rain gear. Your guide will inform you of any changes in advance.

Related Read: Exploring Hiroshima's Surroundings: Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures