Experience

Shimanami Rent-A-Cycle (しまなみレンタサイクル)

Traversing the Shimanami Kaido by bicycle either from Onomichi to Imabari or Imabari to Onomichi is a bucket-list item for a great many Japanese people as well as for tourists from abroad. Although going all the way provides the most enriching experience, it is more than possible to rent a bicycle from select points on Honshu, Shikoku, or any of the six islands in between. Those who wish to show up empty-handed can do so, as these Rent-A-Cycle stations have plenty of bicycles and helmets to lend, and customers simply pay by the day. Given how popular the Shimanami Kaido is year-round, tourists are advised to made reservations in advance during high seasons of travel.

Moment of Joy

Going all the way by bicycle in either direction is estimated to take around seven hours, so naturally, most visitors opt to only hit up some of the islands on the Shimanami Kaido. One popular choice is to bike all the way to Setoda Port on Ikuchijima, tour a museum, buy some snacks on Shiomachi-dori, and enjoy Sunset Beach before taking a ferry back to mainland Onomichi. If you insist on doing the whole Shimanami Kaido, it may be best to book a hotel on one of the islands to split your journey into two days. This lets tourists enjoy all six islands more thoroughly, not to mention being easier on the body.