Island-hopping bridges across the Seto Inland Sea. That is what Shimanami Kaido promises, and it delivers. At about 37 miles (60 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 1–2 days, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from Onomichi to Imabari.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from Onomichi
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. Onomichi is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Ikuchijima. It is the natural place to stop, eat well and stretch your legs.
Do not miss Kosan-ji temple.
Arriving in Imabari
The final miles always go faster than you expect.
By the end you will have seen Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge and Kosan-ji temple, and you will understand why Shimanami Kaido belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is March–May or October–November. Plan on 1–2 days so the drive never feels rushed.
Check route weather and fuel stops on the Plan tab before you go.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
