Onomichi Short Ferry
1 / 8

Onomichi Short Ferry

4.6
·30 reviews·尾道市, Japan

The vital, affordable ferry connecting Onomichi to Mukojima, kickstarting the Shimanami Kaido cycling route and holding nostalgic charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds for cycling

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Onomichi Short Ferry

Onomichi Short Ferry

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds for cycling

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The vital, affordable ferry connecting Onomichi to Mukojima, kickstarting the Shimanami Kaido cycling route and holding nostalgic charm.

4.6
(30 reviews)

"Cheap and easy to get across to start the cycling route."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚲 Start Shimanami Kaido Here

Perfectly positioned for cyclists beginning the Shimanami Kaido. Cheap and frequent departures!

💰 Budget-Friendly Travel

Only 70 yen with a bike, this is an incredibly affordable way to cross to the other side.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gateway to Shimanami Kaido

Gateway to Shimanami Kaido

Onomichi Port

The essential ferry for cyclists starting the iconic Shimanami Kaido route. Quick, cheap, and scenic.

Dragon Among Us Filming Location

Dragon Among Us Filming Location

Onomichi Port

A nostalgic spot for fans of the video game "Dragon Among Us," adding a unique cultural layer to your visit.

Quick Island Hop

Quick Island Hop

Onomichi to Mukojima

A few minutes of serene sea travel, connecting you to Mukojima island and beyond.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Start Your Shimanami Kaido Adventure

This short ferry is your gateway to the Shimanami Kaido cycling route. It's incredibly affordable and runs frequently, making it a seamless start for your cycling journey across the islands. Arrive early to catch the first departures and beat the crowds.

A Nostalgic Farewell

This beloved ferry service, a vital link for cyclists and a spot steeped in local memory, is facing closure. If you're planning a visit, consider experiencing this charming, short ride before it's gone forever. It's a quick trip with a lot of heart.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds for cycling
Crowd
Low
When
Throughout the day
Why
Frequent departures
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚲 Start Shimanami Kaido Here

Perfectly positioned for cyclists beginning the Shimanami Kaido. Cheap and frequent departures! Reddit

💰 Budget-Friendly Travel

Only 70 yen with a bike, this is an incredibly affordable way to cross to the other side. Reddit

⏰ Frequent Departures

The ferry runs often, so you won't wait long for this short, few-minute journey. Reddit

🎮 For Gaming Fans

Visit this spot featured in the video game "Dragon Among Us" for a dose of nostalgia. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚲 Start Shimanami Kaido Here

Perfectly positioned for cyclists beginning the Shimanami Kaido. Cheap and frequent departures! Reddit

💰 Budget-Friendly Travel

Only 70 yen with a bike, this is an incredibly affordable way to cross to the other side. Reddit

⏰ Frequent Departures

The ferry runs often, so you won't wait long for this short, few-minute journey. Reddit

🎮 For Gaming Fans

Visit this spot featured in the video game "Dragon Among Us" for a dose of nostalgia. Reddit

⏳ Experience Before It's Gone

This nostalgic ferry service is reportedly closing soon. Cherish the experience! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(30 reviews)

Reviews Summary

This short ferry is highly praised as an essential and incredibly affordable starting point for the Shimanami Kaido cycling route. Visitors appreciate its frequent departures and low cost, making it a seamless transition to island hopping. It also holds nostalgic value as a filming location and a charming, antique port, though its potential closure is a point of sadness for many.

"This port is very useful to cross to the other side as a cyclist for starting the Shimanami Kaidk.

It opened at 6:30 am and it cost 70 yen with a bike. The whole ride is only a few minutes so it runs often."

John Nguyen

"Very quite port in middle of Onomichi city, and antique and relaxing place , you can not lose, in your visit to Hiroshima"

Mendez 水上アレックス Calex

"Cheap and easy to get across to start the cycling route."

Tranter トランターLachie ロッキー

What People Like

Essential for Shimanami Kaido
Very affordable
Frequent departures

What People Dislike

Potential closure

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Onomichi Short Ferry is located in the heart of Onomichi city, easily accessible on foot from the main train station. It's a quiet port, often mentioned as a relaxing place to find. Reddit

Yes, it's a well-known point for starting the Shimanami Kaido cycling route and is situated in a central, albeit quiet, part of Onomichi. Reddit

Walking from Onomichi Station is the most convenient method. The port itself is described as antique and relaxing. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The ferry is incredibly affordable, costing only 70 yen per person with a bicycle. Reddit

Tickets can typically be purchased at the port. Given the short journey and frequent departures, advance booking is usually not necessary. Reddit

The ferry opens early, with reports of it starting at 6:30 am. It runs frequently throughout the day for its short journey. Reddit

While specific closing times aren't always detailed, it operates frequently from early morning, catering to early bird cyclists. Reddit

🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience

The ferry ride is very short, lasting only a few minutes, making it a quick and efficient way to cross to Mukojima island. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a primary transit point for cyclists starting the Shimanami Kaido, with dedicated space for bikes. Reddit

Beyond its utility for cyclists, the port is known for its antique and relaxing atmosphere, and it's a filming location for the video game "Dragon Among Us." Reddit

Yes, the ferry is designed to accommodate bicycles, making it an ideal starting point for the Shimanami Kaido cycling route. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the charming, antique feel of the port, the boats, and the brief sea crossing. It's also a great spot for photos if you're a fan of the game "Dragon Among Us." Reddit

The short ride offers pleasant views of the Onomichi coastline and the approaching island, perfect for quick snapshots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Onomichi Short Ferry is a fantastic, low-cost way to introduce children to island hopping and cycling. The ride is incredibly short, ensuring kids won't get bored, and the low fare makes it an easy addition to any family itinerary. It's a gentle introduction to the Shimanami Kaido experience, allowing families to gauge their children's interest before committing to longer cycling segments. Reddit

Pro-tip: Consider this ferry as a fun, quick adventure in itself. The novelty of a short boat ride can be exciting for younger travelers, and it provides a great photo opportunity with the boats and the port scenery. Just be mindful of the reported closure, and try to experience it if your visit aligns.

🚴 Cyclists

For cyclists embarking on the Shimanami Kaido, this ferry is non-negotiable. It's the most efficient and cost-effective way to begin your journey from Onomichi to Mukojima island. The ferry accommodates bikes easily and runs frequently, minimizing wait times. The low cost of 70 yen with a bike is unbeatable for starting such an epic ride. Reddit

Key takeaway: Arrive early, especially if you're participating in events like the Shimanami Kaido International Cycling Festival, to ensure a smooth boarding process. Given the potential closure, cyclists should confirm its operational status before their trip.

🎮 Video Game Enthusiasts

Fans of the video game "Dragon Among Us" will find a special connection to the Onomichi Short Ferry. This port served as a filming location, offering a chance to step into the real-world setting of the game. It's a unique opportunity to blend your passion for gaming with travel, exploring the atmospheric, antique surroundings that inspired virtual landscapes. Reddit

Must-do: Take photos that recreate scenes from the game or simply soak in the nostalgic ambiance of this memorable location. It's a quick visit that offers a significant payoff for dedicated fans.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route

The Onomichi Short Ferry is intrinsically linked to the Shimanami Kaido, a world-renowned cycling route that spans six islands in the Seto Inland Sea. This ferry provides the crucial first step for cyclists starting from the Honshu side in Onomichi, transporting them to Mukojima island, the first of many scenic stops. The route is celebrated for its well-maintained cycle paths, stunning coastal views, and the unique experience of island hopping via bridges.

Cyclists often choose Onomichi as their starting point due to the convenience of this short ferry. It's an economical and efficient way to begin the approximately 70-kilometer journey. The ferry itself, though brief, offers a moment of calm before the adventure begins, allowing riders to mentally prepare and enjoy the sea breeze. The cost-effectiveness and frequency of the ferry make it an accessible option for all types of cyclists, from seasoned adventurers to casual riders. Reddit

Important Note: There have been reports indicating that this nostalgic ferry service may be closing. If you plan to cycle the Shimanami Kaido starting from Onomichi, it's advisable to check the latest operational status and consider experiencing this unique crossing before it potentially disappears. This makes the short ferry ride even more poignant for those who have fond memories or wish to experience it one last time. Reddit

A Port of Memories and Nostalgia

The Onomichi Short Ferry is more than just a transit point; it's a place imbued with local history and cultural significance. For many, it represents the start of an unforgettable cycling adventure, a rite of passage for those tackling the Shimanami Kaido. The ferry's antique and relaxing atmosphere contributes to its charm, offering a glimpse into a simpler mode of travel.

Adding another layer to its appeal, the port is recognized as a filming location for the popular video game "Dragon Among Us." This connection draws fans who wish to visit the real-world setting of their favorite game, seeking out the familiar sights and soaking in the atmosphere. It’s a unique blend of modern gaming culture and traditional maritime transport, making the port a point of interest for diverse groups of visitors. Reddit

However, this cherished ferry service is reportedly facing closure. This news has sparked a sense of urgency among locals and visitors alike to experience its unique charm one last time. The potential loss of this service highlights its value not just as a transport link, but as a piece of local heritage and a nostalgic landmark. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2