A world-famous cycling route linking Honshu and Shikoku across six small islands in the Seto Inland Sea, connected by a continuous chain of bridges with a dedicated blue-line cycling path.
| Distance | 70.0 km |
| Recommended time | 2 day(s) (minimum 1) |
| Best season | Spring and autumn (mild temperatures, clearer skies) |
| Getting to the start | Onomichi is reachable by train from Hiroshima (about 1 hour on the JR Sanyo Line) or from Osaka via Shinkansen to Fukuyama then a local train. |
| Getting back from the end | Imabari is reachable by bus back to Onomichi, or onward by train/ferry into Shikoku (Matsuyama, etc.). |
Starting point on the Honshu side. A historic port town with a charming old shopping street and temple walk. Bike rental terminals are located near Onomichi Station.
Cross-border bike rental terminal at the start — pick up here, drop off at any terminal along the route including Imabari.
The first island, reached by a short ferry hop from Onomichi (the only ferry crossing on the route not covered by a bridge).
Known for its citrus orchards and a small castle. A good early rest stop with cafes near the bridge crossing.
Roughly the halfway point, home to the ornate Kosanji Temple and a well-known citrus gelato stop popular with cyclists. A natural overnight stop for a 2-day itinerary.
Home to Oyamazumi Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Japan, dedicated to the god of the sea and war.
A quieter, smaller island with pleasant coastal views and fewer crowds than the larger islands.
The last island before Imabari, with a well-known lookout point (Kirosan Observatory) offering panoramic views back over the bridges just crossed.
Finish point on the Shikoku side, known as a towel-manufacturing city. Bike rental terminals here allow drop-off, and the city has direct bus connections back to Onomichi.
Cross-border bike rental drop-off point here.