Onomichi & Shimanami Kaido Cycling
Explore the sloped streets and old temples of Onomichi, then spend two days cycling the Shimanami Kaido, staying overnight in Setoda and finishing in Imabari.
Dedicate the first day to Onomichi's slopes and temples. Spend the next two days cycling along the Blue Line across the islands, staying overnight in Setoda on Ikuchijima. The daily distance is about 40 km, which is manageable for those with average physical fitness. The second day features the Miyakubo Pass climb and the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge. Perfect for travelers who want to stay active without rushing. The detour to Omishima is omitted to keep the daily mileage reasonable.
Midsummer is hot and prone to typhoons; spring and autumn offer the most comfortable cycling. Book accommodations early during peak seasons.
Day by day
Day 1 · Onomichi Slopes & Temples
Onomichi & Shimanami Kaido（Senkoji Park & Ropeway、Senkoji Temple、Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi)、Onomichi Hondori Shopping Street、ONOMICHI U2）
Walk from Onomichi Station, take the Senkoji Ropeway up the mountain, and walk back down to the waterfront along the sloped paths and old streets.
Bicycle rentals can be reserved in advance; there is a rental terminal next to Onomichi Port.
Stay: Onomichi Station / Waterfront
Day 2 · Cycling from Mukaishima to Setoda
Onomichi & Shimanami Kaido（Kosanji Temple & Hill of Hope、Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art、Setoda Sunset Beach）
Take a short ferry ride from Onomichi Port to Mukaishima (about 10 minutes), then cycle about 40 km via the Innoshima Bridge and Ikuchi Bridge.
The shoulder on the Onomichi Bridge is narrow, so cyclists should take the ferry. Large luggage can be forwarded to your final destination.
Stay: Setoda (Ikuchijima)
Day 3 · Cycling Across Bridges to Imabari
Onomichi & Shimanami Kaido（Tatara Bridge、Murakami Kaizoku Museum、Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge & Mt. Kiro Observatory、Imabari Castle）
Cycle about 43 km from Setoda to Imabari Station via the Tatara Bridge, Oshima, and the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge.
Return your rental bicycle in Imabari. If you run out of energy, you can return the bike early at designated drop-off points along the way and switch to a bus.