Setonaikai National Park Naruto
Japan's first national park, a stunning archipelago of islands connected by scenic bridges, perfect for cycling and ocean lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for cycling
Setonaikai National Park Naruto
Best Time
Pleasant weather for cycling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Japan's first national park, a stunning archipelago of islands connected by scenic bridges, perfect for cycling and ocean lovers.
"The Shimanami Kaido bike ride is a must-do, offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable island adventure."
🚲 Rent a Bike for the Kaido
The Shimanami Kaido is famous for cycling. Blue lines guide you, making navigation easy!
🏨 Overnight Stay Recommended
For the full Shimanami Kaido experience, consider an overnight stop midway.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 1,307 reviews
Type
National Park
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route
Connecting Onomichi to Imabari
Cycle across stunning bridges, experiencing island life and breathtaking sea views. A truly unforgettable journey.
Innoshima Navy/Pirate Castle
Innoshima Island
Explore this unique historical site, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Japan's maritime past.
Scenic Bridge Viewpoints
Various islands along Shimanami Kaido
Discover picturesque rest stops with incredible vistas of the Seto Inland Sea and its iconic bridges.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Islands by Bike
Island Amenities & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Road Trip Because Why Not?
Hello other Japan Lifers. Feeling a bit lost as of late. A bit of an existential crisis, perhaps. Fifty-odd laps around the sun, four-fifths of which have been in Japan...and I've never really "seen" much of Japan outside of places like the different mountains, Yakushima, and…
🚲 Rent a Bike for the Kaido
The Shimanami Kaido is famous for cycling. Blue lines guide you, making navigation easy!
🏨 Overnight Stay Recommended
For the full Shimanami Kaido experience, consider an overnight stop midway.
[Tengoku Struggle, Yona: Innoshima Pilgrimage] Trip Report/Discussion: Tell me about your otome Pilgrimages! Where have you gone/wanna go?
I went to Innoshima to see the Navy/Pirate Castle :) I love anime pilgrimages, and this time I wanted to do something very far off the beaten path. I was so very tired of crowds and needed some views and nature. There were like 3 other people there, so I was able to be very…
Favorite Off the Beaten Path, Interesting Place You've Traveled to?
Story time!
🍎 Pack Snacks & Water
Island shops close early. Convenience stores are your best bet for food.
🌅 Catch a Sunset View
Rest stops offer stunning sunset vistas over the sea.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bike for the Kaido
The Shimanami Kaido is famous for cycling. Blue lines guide you, making navigation easy!
🏨 Overnight Stay Recommended
For the full Shimanami Kaido experience, consider an overnight stop midway.
🍎 Pack Snacks & Water
Island shops close early. Convenience stores are your best bet for food.
🌅 Catch a Sunset View
Rest stops offer stunning sunset vistas over the sea.
🗺️ Easy Navigation
Follow the blue line on the ground; you won't need GPS!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Setonaikai National Park, especially the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, praising the breathtaking bridge views and unique island experience. While the natural scenery and cycling opportunities are highly lauded, some travelers note that amenities and dining options can be limited and close early, requiring some planning.
"Beautiful park, worth a day trip at least. Take the cable car, and home up to the Observatory. Lots to eat and drink, but be warned, most shops and kiosks close early (autumn 2024)."
Steve Keogh
"I am truly in love with Japanese culture. I come here to heal in the most natural ways! The Non city vibes take you back in time. A must experience while in Hiroshima, Japan!"
dj sal
"I highly recommend the bike from Onomichi to Imabari. It was definitely the highlight of the trip!
For those that are concerned about the difficulty, it is surprisingly moderate (but definitely not easy). It sounds much more difficult than it actually is. Most of the uphill was not bad at all for 95% of the ride. It's mostly gradual uphill and a lot of downhill, with the exception of one part towards the end of the journey, which was admittedly very brutal.
As far as navigation goes, it is all very straightforward. When you rent your bike, the rental place will provide you with a map of the islands but it isn't even necessary. This national park is known for biking, so there is a blue line on the ground that will guide you from start to finish on your entire journey (see images). You would have to try to get lost. I didn't even need to use Google Maps.
You will likely need to stay overnight at one of the hotels or hostels midway through if you plan on doing the full ride. For those who don't want to spend more than a day bike riding, renting for one day is also fine and let's you see quite a bit (this is what I did the first time bike riding here!). Doing it in one day is possible, although I'm not sure I would recommend it.
There are convenience stores, but we didn't really find too many restaurants that were open on the island. So be prepared to just stick to convenience store food for some meals.
Check out the photos. Hopefully, they will convince you that visiting here is worth your time!"
Josh M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible via ferry or by cycling the Shimanami Kaido. The closest major city is Hiroshima, from which you can take trains to Onomichi or Imabari to start your island journey.
Yes, the Shimanami Kaido cycling route connects many of the islands with beautiful bridges. Ferries are also available for inter-island travel.
Cycling the Shimanami Kaido is highly recommended for an immersive experience. You can also explore by car or public transport, but cycling offers unique views.
Yes, you can drive across many of the islands via the bridges that form part of the Shimanami Kaido. Parking is available at various points.
Limited bus services operate on some of the larger islands. Ferries are a common way to travel between islands if you're not cycling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Setonaikai National Park itself is free to enter. However, there are tolls for using the bridges if you are driving or cycling.
The park is always accessible. However, individual attractions, shops, and restaurants on the islands have their own operating hours, which can vary and often close early.
Yes, there are tolls for using the bridges on the Shimanami Kaido, especially if you are driving. Cyclists may also encounter small fees or rental costs.
Yes, numerous bike rental stations are available, particularly in Onomichi and Imabari, and at several points along the Shimanami Kaido.
Most viewpoints are free to access. Some attractions on the islands may have separate admission fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Shimanami Kaido cycling route is the highlight, offering stunning bridge views and island exploration. Innoshima Island's Navy/Pirate Castle is also a unique attraction.
While known for cycling, some islands offer hiking trails with beautiful coastal scenery. Check local information for specific routes.
Cycling, sightseeing, enjoying seafood, visiting historical sites, and simply relaxing amidst the beautiful island scenery are popular activities.
A day trip can give you a taste, but to fully enjoy the Shimanami Kaido, at least one overnight stay is recommended.
Absolutely! The bridges, sea views, and charming island landscapes provide endless photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Seafood is a specialty here, with fresh catches readily available. Local island cuisine offers a unique culinary experience.
The number of restaurants can be limited, especially on smaller islands. Many shops and kiosks close early, so convenience stores are a reliable option.
Options may be limited. It's advisable to check with restaurants in advance or rely on convenience store items like onigiri or bread.
Look for local seafood restaurants on the islands. Some charming cafes offer light meals and drinks with scenic views.
Dining costs can vary. Seafood restaurants might be mid-range, while convenience store food is budget-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic bridges, panoramic sea vistas from viewpoints, charming fishing villages, and the unique architecture of Innoshima Castle are prime photo locations.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for the sea and bridges. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant blue of the water.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but a camera with good zoom capabilities can help capture details on distant islands and bridges.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be mindful of private property and respect local customs.
Capture the scale of the bridges, the tranquility of the islands, local life, and the interplay of light on the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit