Scenic Road Connecting Islands in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea Attracts Bicyclists from All Over the World

Imabari, a maritime city in Ehime Prefecture, Japan, has gained international recognition for its scenic cycling route along the Seto Inland Sea. The 59.4-kilometer route, known as the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido, connects Imabari and Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture via seven bridges spanning small islands. Designated as a national cycle route in 2019, the path attracts cyclists from around the world, with an expected 7,000 participants in an international cycling race held there every two years.

Seiya Watanabe, manager of the Imabari municipal government’s “cycle city” promotion division, highlights the route's breathtaking views, including the calm sea, grand bridges, green islands, and mountains. The increasing popularity of the route is evident in the 170,000 people who used bicycle rental terminals in both cities during the last fiscal year, accounting for over 40% of users being foreign tourists from 79 countries and regions.

The Imabari municipal government painted blue lines on the left side of the road to guide cyclists, making it accessible even for beginners, such as those cycling from JR Imabari Station via the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge to Oshima Island.

The area's rich history is showcased at the Murakami Kaizoku Museum on Oshima Island, which explores the rise and fall of three seafaring samurai families — the Noshimas, the Kurushimas, and the Innoshimas. The museum displays a map depicting dozens of the family's strongholds, including castles, forts, and watchtowers built on capes and islands.

Facing the museum across the sea is Noshima Island, known as a natural fortress due to the tidal currents swirling around it. Excavations of the former site of Noshima Castle, designated as a national historic site, uncovered numerous artifacts, leading to further research on them.