While you can ride the Kaido either way, our favourite way to ride the route is from North to South, from Onomichi to Imabari. Experienced cyclists used to riding at speeds in excess of 25kph, should keep an eye out for road furniture as it is very prevalent here. That said, the main route is mostly on roads with bike arrows or adjacent lanes, and much of the route has pylons that stop cars from entering areas for cyclists only.
While the main route takes most amateur cyclists one full day, more seasoned cyclists will complete it in around four hours, assuming minimal stopping. At approximately 70km in length, this is the shortest and easiest route of the Kaido.īeyond the main “blue line route” there are many additional routes you can take by weaving around the different islands you cross the whole route actually consists of more than 250 kilometres of cycle routes. The main route of the Shimanami Kaido cycling road is designated by blue arrows painted on the ground. Information on the Shimanami Kaido bikeway Main route The towering Buddha statue overlooking the gardens of the Kousanji Temple Complex 3. Being the final bridge, there is a great observation deck just after you cross where you can soak in the views of your accomplishments. Besides having a dedicated cycling lane separate from the cars, this bridge also offers amazing views of the ocean below where Naruto whirlpools regularly form.
Last, the Kurushima Kaikyo Ohashi (Ohashi means big bridge) is the second longest suspension bridge in Japan. Be sure to visit with a guide or read up on this before arriving to really get the most out of this unique experience. Weave through the dark caves of hell, and come out to the marble stairs to heaven. More a museum than a temple, the Kosanji offers visitors a chance to go on a journey of redemption. The Kosanji Temple Complex is one of a kind. Just above the temple is a large observation deck with sweeping views of the Onomichi Strait and the many islands of the Seto Inland Sea. It takes you to a beautiful Buddhist temple nestled in the rocks. It’s a beautiful walk or bike up the backside of the hill.
The Senkoji Temple rests on the hill behind the town of Onomichi where the Shimanami Kaido begins. Three big highlights of the route are the Senkoji Temple, the Kosanji Temple Complex and the Kurushima Kaikyo Ohashi Bridge. Highlights of the Shimanami Kaido bike route
You can also find these on RideWithGPS here (classic) and here (Bike Tour Japan preferred route). Check out the Shimanami Kaido route on Strava here for the classic route or here for the route I prefer.
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