Onomichi Bridge
Historic bridge connecting Honshu to Mukaishima Island, serving as the scenic start to the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos
Onomichi Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic bridge connecting Honshu to Mukaishima Island, serving as the scenic start to the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
"While picturesque, cyclists are advised to use the ferry due to narrow paths and traffic."
🚲 Ferry is Best for Cyclists
Prioritize the ferry to Mukaishima Island for a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience.
🚶♂️ Pedestrian Path Caution
The pedestrian path on the bridge is narrow and has obstacles; walk carefully if crossing on foot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Onomichi Bridge Views
Connecting Honshu and Mukaishima Island
Admire the architecture of this historic bridge, a gateway to the Shimanami Kaido.
Shimanami Kaido Gateway
Onomichi City
The starting point for the famous Shimanami Kaido cycling route, offering stunning island vistas.
Mukaishima Island
Across Onomichi Bridge
Explore the first island on the Shimanami Kaido, known for its flatter terrain and scenic beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cycling the Shimanami Kaido: Bridge Etiquette
Onomichi Bridge: A Cyclist's Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Ferry is Best for Cyclists
Prioritize the ferry to Mukaishima Island for a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience.
🚶♂️ Pedestrian Path Caution
The pedestrian path on the bridge is narrow and has obstacles; walk carefully if crossing on foot.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The bridge's design is a highlight, especially from viewpoints on either side.
🗺️ Shimanami Kaido Start
This bridge marks the beginning of the iconic Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Ferry is Best for Cyclists
Prioritize the ferry to Mukaishima Island for a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience.
🚶♂️ Pedestrian Path Caution
The pedestrian path on the bridge is narrow and has obstacles; walk carefully if crossing on foot.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The bridge's design is a highlight, especially from viewpoints on either side.
🗺️ Shimanami Kaido Start
This bridge marks the beginning of the iconic Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Onomichi Bridge as a picturesque gateway to the Shimanami Kaido, offering stunning views. However, many caution that it's not cyclist-friendly due to narrow paths and traffic, strongly recommending the ferry as a safer alternative for cyclists.
"I did the full cycling route last year and planning to go again. Looking for small group to join. DM to discuss.
Did it in 2 days, total 100km, from Onomichi to Imabari.
The views are stunning, along the coastal line. There are roads that are steep as well need to cycle up to cross the bridge. We took ferry from some islands to other islands.
In short, keep it chill and just enjoy.
We also stopped by some places of attraction.
Awesome experience if you want to enjoy the view in a relaxing way."
Pit
"Unsuitable for cycling except as a last resort if ferry has stopped running. Road too narrow and traffic too fast to be safe, but sidewalk/pavement too narrow to ride, plus big cables at regular intervals, so waking is a real pain. It’s hell, you should stick with the ferry."
Van Milton
"This 386-meter-long cable-stayed bridge spans the Onomichi Strait in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and opened in March 1968.
It connects Honshu and Mukaishima Island, with the Shin-Onomichi Bridge of the Nishiseto Expressway running parallel to it.
In the Seto Inland Sea, there are other islands where two road bridges run parallel to the mainland, such as Ondo-no-Seto and Rokko Island, but here the two bridges are really close together.
There is a parking lot just after crossing onto Mukaishima Island, so I parked my car there and walked to see the bridge.
When it was first built, it was a toll road, but it became free in 2013 and there is a sidewalk for pedestrians to cross, but it is only wide enough for one person, so I had to be careful when crossing.
There are cables sticking out in the middle of the narrow sidewalk, making it very difficult for bicycles to pass. It is recommended to use a ferry to cross the Onomichi Strait by bicycle.
Visited: January 2025"
奈海龍真
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Onomichi Bridge is located in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. You can reach Onomichi by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Onomichi Station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to the bridge.
Yes, there is a parking lot available just after crossing onto Mukaishima Island, which is convenient if you plan to explore the island.
While technically possible, it's not recommended for cyclists due to narrow sidewalks, overhead cables, and car traffic. The ferry is a safer alternative.
For cyclists and those seeking a more relaxed experience, taking the ferry from Onomichi to Mukaishima Island is highly recommended.
Yes, Onomichi Bridge is the starting point for the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, connecting Honshu to Mukaishima Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking across Onomichi Bridge is free. The bridge became toll-free in 2013.
Ferry operating hours can vary, but they generally run frequently throughout the day. It's best to check the local ferry schedule upon arrival in Onomichi.
While the Shimanami Kaido itself is a public route, there are tolls for crossing some of the larger bridges if you are driving. Cycling is generally free, but the ferry has a small fee.
Onomichi Bridge opened in March 1968.
The bridge is primarily for vehicular traffic. Pedestrians and cyclists should use the designated (though narrow) sidewalk and be aware of traffic.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities exist from the viewpoints on both the Onomichi and Mukaishima sides, as well as from the ferry.
It can be challenging to stop safely for photos while cycling on the main roads. It's better to pull over at designated rest areas or viewpoints.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while early mornings can provide clearer skies and fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone in the area.
Many photographers capture the bridge from a distance, showcasing its scale against the sea and islands, or from the Mukaishima side looking back towards Honshu.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴♀️ Dedicated Cyclists
Be prepared for varied terrain, including steep inclines to reach bridge summits. 🚶♂️ Pedestrian Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Shimanami Kaido: A Cyclist's Guide
While the route is celebrated for its stunning coastal views and the engineering marvel of its bridges, it presents varying levels of difficulty. Some sections are flat and easy, while others involve steep climbs to reach the bridge summits. Travelers often recommend splitting the journey over two days to fully appreciate the scenery and explore the islands.
Key islands along the route include Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima, and Oshima, each offering unique charm and cycling experiences. Important Note for Cyclists: While the Onomichi Bridge is the gateway, it's not designed for bicycles. The pedestrian path is narrow and obstructed by cables, making it unsafe. The ferry service from Onomichi to Mukaishima Island is the recommended and safer option for cyclists starting their Shimanami Kaido journey.
Onomichi Bridge: History and Design
Historically, the bridge was a toll road but became free in 2013.
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