Shimanami Kaido is an incredibly scenic cycling route that spans 70km across six major islands. It is easily the best cycle I’ve ever done.
Having had barely any sleep the night before and mostly operating on coffee alone, the serenity of Shimanami Kaido was enough to make me feel more alive and alert than ever before. Perhaps it was the early morning sun hitting my skin or the bright sparkling ocean that widened my eyes, but either way, I was energized and ready to go!
Getting started
Located outside of Hiroshima is the town of Onomichi, otherwise known as the starting point of the famous Shimanami Kaido cycling route. At the Onomichi Port, you can rent out a bike and helmet if you don’t already have one, and catch the ferry to the first island of Mukaishima.
At this point, the journey has already begun, and I would recommend stocking up on breakfast items and drinks at the Lawson convenience store before boarding the ferry. Once on board, you will likely share the space with students making their way to school, an interesting daily commute to say the least!
Follow the blue line!
Upon arrival on the island of Mukaishima, you will be greeted with the painted blue line on the road that paves the way for the Shimanami Kaido cycle route. This line extends an incredible 70 kilometers across six islands before terminating at Imabari city in Shikoku.
While it is relatively easy to follow, you should keep in mind that the blue line will occasionally disappear and then reappear whenever there is a crossroad. So long as you continue on the path that the blue line set out for you.
You should also be aware that the blue line occasionally splits up into two lines going in different directions. This is because, at some intersections, you have the option of skipping certain islands and shortening the ride, so be sure to keep an eye out for signs to your desired route.
Bridges galore!
The most defining aspect of the Shimanami Kaido cycling route is the grand bridges you’ll see and ride on along the way. These bridges bare a resemblance to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge and are used to connect islands together, allowing cyclists and cars to cross the ocean.
Connecting the islands of Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima, and Oshima, these bridges offer amazing views of the Seto Inland Sea. Reaching the bridge acts as a good checkpoint for your journey and cycling on them is a purely blissful experience that feels like you’ve taken flight over the ocean.
Stunning seaside views
The Shimanami Kaido cycling route which spans 70 kilometers and can take up to 8 hours at a casual pace may seem to be a daunting task. Fortunately, the ride is relatively flat for the most part with the occasional uphill and downhill, and there are plenty of rest stops along the way.
Perhaps it’s just me, but I found the breathtaking ocean views and the crisp morning sun constantly re-energizing me and making me feel that I always had some more stamina reserved. This was likely some sort of placebo effect, but regardless, there is something awe-inspiring about the sparkling crystal ocean and the clear blue skies that boost one’s positivity and keenness towards whatever task is at hand.
Don’t forget to refuel!
There’s no doubt that the Shimanami Kaido bike ride will deplete your energy reserves. The constant cycling for hours and hours on end will take up much of your stored calories, so make sure you consistently fuel yourself!
Remember, the duration of this bike ride is likely to extend from breakfast time all the way to dinner time. There are no restaurants along the way so you won’t be having a proper lunch.
Luckily, there are quite a few convenience stores along the way to keep you going. I’d recommend going for carb-based foods like onigiri (rice balls) and yakisoba pans (fried noodle bread), and getting a sports drink like Pocari Sweat to rehydrate and restore electrolytes.
If you don’t have a portable charger with you, I’d recommend using the power sockets in the combinis to charge your mobile device. Be sure to bring your phone charger because it’s always handy to have access to Google maps in case you get lost or confused along the way!
One to remember!
So there you have it! If you are visiting Japan or currently reside there, consider the Shimanami Kaido cycle for a day of fun, excitement, and adventure. You will need to dedicate a day to this memorable activity, so round up your cycling buddies and take plenty of photos, because it’s one to remember!
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!