"Shimanami Kaido” has become an extremely popular destination for cyclists from around the world in the last two decades. The cycling road is around 70 kilometers long total, starting in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture and spanning 6 islands to Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. The series of bridges makes an approx. 70 kilometer-ride, The cycling on the bridges over Seto Inland Sea under the blue sky will make your journey memorable.

There are impressive observation points on each of the six islands (Mukojima, Innoshima, Ikuchishima, Omishima, Hakatashima and Oshima) and nine bridges connecting the islands between Honshu and Shikoku Islands. You can stop at your favorite places and enjoy the view of Seto Inland Sea.

Many tourist attractions along the route such as temples, shrines, museums, hot springs, and parks can be found along the route. And, of course, Do not miss getting around the two end points, the world-famous Hiroshima Prefecture and Imabari City which produces the towels of Imabari, which has become famous for its high-quality towel making.

It is so reasonable that Dogo Onsen is one of the famous hot spring resorts considering its history, unique structure and the fact that it has a special bathroom for the Imperial Family.

One of the most attractive features of cycling on Shimanami Kaido is that one can easily cycle the road without bringing a bicycle. While many cyclists may prefer their own wheels, the expense and burden of carrying a bike internationally and on public transit in Japan can be tough. But you need not to worry about that here. Thankfully, there are rental systems that offer a decent range of bikes. There are a total of 13 cycle rental locations throughout the Shimanami Kaido.

The rental systems offer bikes from 1000 yen per day. Bicycle types include tandem, electric assisted, and city cycles, in addition to the more common sports cycles like road, mountain, and cross bikes. A deposit is required on top of the rental fee and is refunded when the bike is returned to the starting point. Conveniently, most cycles can be rented at one end of the route and returned at the other end if you do not mind that the deposit will not be refunded.
If you prefer a Giant bicycle, you can rent one at the Giant Store near Imabari Station. A cross bicycle (4000 yen / day) or a road bicycle made of carbon (13000 yen / day) is available with prior reservation. With additional charge of 3000 yen, you can pick up in Imabari and return in Onomichi (or pick up in Onomichi and return in Imabari).

Furthermore, there is little to worry about in case your tire punctures, or you slip, fall and get injured. The “Cycle Rescue” support staff at the bicycle shops and taxi companies or volunteer staff will provide assistance such as repair and transport by taxi according to your situation.

All of these features including the beautiful landscapes of Seto Inland Sea, tourist attractions on the islands and the convenient rental bicycle system have made Shimanami Kaido a popular destination among cycling enthusiasts from all over the world!

Sunrise Itoyama Cycling Station (サンライズ糸山)

Address
愛媛県今治市砂場町2-8-1

Phone
0898-41-3196

Business Hours Open
8am -8pm (April to September), 8am - 5pm (October to March)

Days Closed for Business
Open every day