Shin-Onomichi Bridge
The iconic gateway to the Shimanami Kaido, offering stunning sea views and the start of an unforgettable cycling adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps
Shin-Onomichi Bridge
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The iconic gateway to the Shimanami Kaido, offering stunning sea views and the start of an unforgettable cycling adventure.
"The view of the Seto Inland Sea from the islands and bridges is truly breathtaking!"
📸 Best Photo Spots
Catch the bridge from Senkoji Ropeway or along Onomichi Strait for stunning shots.
🚴♀️ Start Your Cycling Journey
This is the official start of the Shimanami Kaido. Rent bikes nearby!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gateway to Shimanami Kaido
Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
The starting point for an unforgettable cycling journey across the Seto Inland Sea.
Breathtaking Sea Views
From the bridge and surrounding areas
Panoramic vistas of the Seto Inland Sea dotted with islands, truly a sight to behold.
Unique Bridge Architecture
Spanning Onomichi Channel
Admire the distinct design of this cable-stayed bridge, a feat of engineering.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Start Your Shimanami Kaido Adventure
Best Views of the Bridge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
For anyone interested in riding the entire Shimanami Kaido AND going to Rabbit Island in one day
📸 Best Photo Spots
Catch the bridge from Senkoji Ropeway or along Onomichi Strait for stunning shots.
🚴♀️ Start Your Cycling Journey
This is the official start of the Shimanami Kaido. Rent bikes nearby!
Shimanami Kaido - Onomichi to Imabari, one way
I cycled the Shimanami Kaido in 2024 . Here are my best TIPS.
🚢 See it from the Water
Views from a boat crossing the Onomichi Channel are also spectacular.
Shimanami Kaido cycling route tips - best part of our trip
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spots
Catch the bridge from Senkoji Ropeway or along Onomichi Strait for stunning shots.
🚴♀️ Start Your Cycling Journey
This is the official start of the Shimanami Kaido. Rent bikes nearby!
🚢 See it from the Water
Views from a boat crossing the Onomichi Channel are also spectacular.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Shin-Onomichi Bridge as the iconic starting point for the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, praising the breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and the unique bridge architecture. Many highlight the experience of crossing the bridge as the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. Some note that while the bridge itself is impressive, the most spectacular views are often from observation points or from the sea.
"This bridge is the starting point for the Shimanami Kaido, which begins in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and traverses the Seto Inland Sea to Kaneji City, Ehime Prefecture, Shikoku. Along the way, it passes through several large islands, including Mukaishima, Inoshima, Ikuchijima, Ōmishima, Hakatajima, and Ōshima. It also crosses several connecting bridges, including the Onomichi Bridge, Inoshima Bridge, Ikuchi Bridge, Tatara Bridge, Ōmishima Bridge, Hakata Bridge, and the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge.
Each island has its own unique charm, making it a great place to stop and explore. Each bridge is uniquely shaped, each meticulously designed. From the islands and bridges, the view of the Seto Inland Sea on either side is breathtaking, with smaller islands scattered throughout. It's truly breathtaking! You absolutely must visit and travel the Shimanami Kaido once in your lifetime."
wenfu lin
"The starting point of the Shimanami Kaido, Shin-Onomichi Bridge, is said to be best viewed from the Senkoji Ropeway Observation Deck.
However, you can also enjoy the view from a different vantage point along the road along the Onomichi Strait.
Don't just visit the bridge, take a quick walk along the Onomichi Strait.
You're sure to discover many new things."
Ami Iida (Google Nerd)
"Visited on 18/11/2012.
I saw the bridge from a boat heading from Tomo to Onomichi. It's nice to cross the bridge, but it's also nice to see it from below.
The Shin-Onomichi Bridge is a road bridge in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. It is a bridge exclusively for automobiles that is part of the Nishi-Seto Expressway, "Shimanami Kaido," which connects Mukaishima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea, with Honshu."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Shin-Onomichi Bridge is located in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. You can reach Onomichi by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Onomichi Station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride to the bridge. If arriving by car, it's accessible via the Nishi-Seto Expressway.
Yes, there are parking facilities available in Onomichi City, particularly near the starting point of the Shimanami Kaido. It's advisable to check for designated Shimanami Kaido parking lots if you plan to cycle the route.
The Shin-Onomichi Bridge is primarily an automobile bridge as part of the Nishi-Seto Expressway. While pedestrians and cyclists can access the Shimanami Kaido route from Onomichi, direct pedestrian access across the main span of the Shin-Onomichi Bridge might be limited. It's best to use designated access points for cyclists and pedestrians.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the Shin-Onomichi Bridge from various vantage points, including the shoreline or observation decks, is free. If you plan to cycle the Shimanami Kaido, there are no entry fees for the bridge itself, but tolls may apply for certain sections of the expressway.
As a public expressway bridge, the Shin-Onomichi Bridge is accessible 24/7 for vehicular traffic. Viewing points around the bridge are also generally accessible during daylight hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The Senkoji Ropeway Observation Deck offers a spectacular panoramic view of the bridge and the surrounding islands. You can also get great shots from the roads along the Onomichi Strait, or even from a boat on the water.
Sunrise and sunset often provide the most dramatic lighting for photographing the bridge and the Seto Inland Sea. Clear days offer excellent visibility, while slightly overcast conditions can create a softer, more atmospheric look.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for islands with family-friendly attractions, such as beaches or parks, where you can take breaks. Packing plenty of snacks and water is essential, as services can be spread out. The sense of accomplishment for kids completing sections of the Shimanami Kaido is immense, making it a memorable family trip. Remember to check the ferry schedules if you plan to use them as part of your journey.
🚴♀️ Cycling Enthusiasts
Consider renting a high-quality road bike or touring bike in Onomichi to make the most of the journey. Many cyclists opt to complete the route in 1-3 days, staying overnight on one of the islands. Be prepared for some inclines, especially when approaching the bridges, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. Don't forget to factor in potential tolls for the bridges and expressways.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shimanami Kaido Cycling Experience
Cyclists can rent bicycles at various rental stations in Onomichi, including near the bridge. The route is well-signposted, guiding you across each island and over its distinctive bridges, such as the Inoshima Bridge and the Tatara Bridge. Each island offers unique attractions, from temples and local crafts to delicious seafood. The journey is designed to be accessible, with options for different fitness levels, and many visitors choose to break up the ride over two or three days to fully appreciate the islands.
When planning your ride, remember to check the weather, especially for wind conditions, which can be a factor on the exposed bridges. The views from the bridges, looking out over the Seto Inland Sea with its scattered islets, are consistently described as breathtaking.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography Tips
Alternatively, exploring the Onomichi Strait shoreline provides ground-level perspectives that highlight the bridge's scale and engineering. Walking or cycling along the coast allows you to find unique angles and capture the bridge in relation to the water and nearby islands. If you have the chance, viewing the bridge from a boat crossing the channel offers a dramatic, 'from below' perspective that emphasizes its grandeur.
Consider visiting during the golden hours – sunrise or sunset – for the most dramatic lighting. The warm hues of the setting sun or the soft glow of dawn can transform the bridge and sea into a painterly scene. Clear days offer sharp details and expansive views, while slightly misty or overcast conditions can lend a more atmospheric and moody feel to your photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit