Shimanami Kaido Scooter FAQ
Routes, Distance, License, Price & Travel Tips
If you're visiting Hiroshima or planning a trip through western Japan, you may not realize that one of Japan’s most beautiful coastal routes is just nearby.
The Shimanami Kaido is a 70 km island-hopping route connecting Onomichi (Hiroshima) and Imabari (Ehime) across the Seto Inland Sea.
Many travelers explore it by bicycle, but renting a scooter is one of the easiest and most relaxing ways to enjoy the islands. You can ride at a comfortable pace, stop at small seaside cafés, and visit viewpoints that would be difficult to reach by bike.
This FAQ answers the most common questions international travelers have about exploring the Shimanami Kaido with a scooter.
① About Renting a Scooter on the Shimanami Kaido
Here are the basic things travelers often want to know before riding a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido.
We explain why scooters are popular, who they are best for, and how far you can travel in one day.
Q
Why is renting a scooter recommended for the Shimanami Kaido?
A
Many bridges on the Shimanami Kaido are built high above the sea, so the route includes more hills than most travelers expect. Some sections can feel quite challenging if you are cycling.
With a scooter, you can climb these hills easily without getting tired, which makes it easier to stop at places like Setoda, Innoshima, and scenic viewpoints along the islands.
Compared to traveling by car, a scooter lets you feel the ocean breeze and scenery much more closely. The journey itself becomes part of the travel experience.
For travelers who want to enjoy sightseeing while moving comfortably between islands, renting a scooter is one of the best ways to explore the Shimanami Kaido.
Q
Can you ride a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido?
A
Yes. Scooters 125cc or smaller are allowed on the Shimanami Kaido.
When crossing the bridges, scooters use a dedicated lane for scooters and bicycles, which is separate from the expressway used by cars. On each island, you ride on local roads until you reach the next bridge.
Instead of traveling straight through like cars, riding a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido feels more like island hopping—crossing a bridge, exploring an island, and then continuing to the next one.
Routes where you can travel long distances between islands on a scooter are rare in Japan, which is why some riders even call the Shimanami Kaido a “scooter pilgrimage route.”
Q
Which route do scooters use to cross the Shimanami Kaido?
A
Scooters do NOT use the expressway used by cars. Instead, they travel on a dedicated scooter and bicycle path, also known as the cycling road.
Along this route, you will see a blue line painted on the road, called the Blue Line. It shows the recommended route from Onomichi to Imabari.
The Blue Line continues across bridges and on local island roads. By simply following the line, riders are naturally guided to the entrance of the scooter and bicycle path for each bridge.
Because the Blue Line runs continuously across the Shimanami Kaido, even first-time visitors can navigate easily from island to island.
Q
Do scooters have to pay tolls on the Shimanami Kaido bridges?
A
Yes. Scooters must pay bridge tolls when crossing the Shimanami Kaido.
The fee is charged for each bridge, usually around JPY 50 to JPY 200 per crossing.
If you cross all the bridges between Onomichi and Imabari, the total toll is about JPY 500.
Most toll points use unmanned payment boxes, and they do NOT give change, so it is best to prepare coins such as JPY 50 or JPY 100.
There is also a convenient option called the Scooter Ticket, which allows you to pay all bridge tolls in advance instead of paying at each bridge.
A detailed explanation of Shimanami Kaido scooter tolls and the scooter ticket system is available here.
Q
What are the advantages of exploring the Shimanami Kaido by scooter?
A
The biggest advantage of a scooter is that you can travel long distances comfortably while still stopping freely along the way.
Unlike electric bicycles, you do NOT need to worry about battery levels. Our gas-powered scooters have a range of about 200 km, which is enough to ride across the Shimanami Kaido and return.
Scooters are also easy to park, even in places where cars cannot stop easily. You can quickly use bike parking areas and visit viewpoints, seaside cafés, and small island spots.
For travelers who want to explore a wide area in a limited amount of time, scooters are a very practical option.
Q
Who is renting a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido best suited for?
A
Scooter rental is ideal for travelers who want to fully enjoy the Shimanami Kaido without worrying about physical effort.
It is especially popular for couples, solo travelers, and girls’ trips. Many visitors combine exploring Onomichi with a scooter ride through the islands.
A scooter is also a good choice for travelers who want to cross the Shimanami Kaido at their own pace, stopping at viewpoints, cafés, and small towns along the route.
If you have a valid driver’s license, you can rent and ride a scooter.
Q
Is it okay if I have never ridden a scooter before?
A
Yes. Many of our customers are first-time scooter riders.
About 20% of our guests have never ridden a scooter before, so beginners are very common.
At the Mukaishima office, our staff will explain how to use the accelerator, brakes, and how to ride safely on the bridges before you depart. At other locations, you will watch a short riding instruction video before starting.
You can also begin riding on quiet local roads, which makes it easy to get comfortable before reaching the bridges.
Q
How far can I travel in one day?
A
If you ride from Onomichi to Imabari without stopping, it takes about 3 hours.
However, most travelers stop at cafés, viewpoints, and beaches along the islands. In that case, the journey usually takes 6–8 hours.
For a one-day rental, many riders choose to turn around around Omishima when starting from Onomichi, or around Ikuchijima (Setoda) when starting from Imabari.
One advantage of traveling by scooter is that you can adjust your route depending on the weather, time, or how you feel during the trip.
Recommended Shimanami Kaido model courses are available here.
② License & Requirements
Here are answers to common questions about driver’s licenses and requirements for renting a scooter in Japan.
This section explains whether you can ride with a Japanese driver’s license, an International Driving Permit (IDP), or a foreign license with a Japanese translation.
Q
What do I need to drive a scooter or moped in Japan with a foreign license?
A
To drive a scooter or moped in Japan as an international visitor, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP, 1949 Geneva Convention) together with your valid driver’s license from your home country.
For our 110cc Super Cub, 125cc PCX, and 125cc NMAX scooters, your IDP must include the motorcycle category (A).
Scooters in the 125cc class can carry two passengers, making them a popular option for couples and partners traveling together.
Based on the license categories shown on your IDP, our staff will recommend the most suitable scooter or moped model for your trip.
More information about IDPs and Japanese license translations is available here.
Q
Which type of International Driving Permit (IDP) is required?
A
The only International Driving Permit valid in Japan is the International Driving Permit (IDP, 1949 Geneva Convention).
It must be the official booklet-style permit issued by a government authority in your home country.
A single-page translation document or unofficial paper permit is NOT accepted in Japan.
Please note that IDPs cannot be issued inside Japan, so you must obtain your permit before traveling to Japan.
More information about IDPs and Japanese license translations is available here.
Q
What do I need to drive in Japan with a foreign license?
A
In most cases, international visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP, 1949 Geneva Convention) to drive in Japan.
However, drivers from certain countries and regions — including Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan — can drive in Japan using their valid driver’s license together with an official Japanese translation.
The translation must be issued by an official organization such as JAF (Japan Automobile Federation).
Please check the requirements in advance before traveling to Japan.
More information about IDPs and Japanese license translations is available here.
Q
What should I bring on the day of rental?
A
Japanese customers must bring their original valid driver’s license.
International visitors must bring either:
-an International Driving Permit (IDP, 1949 Geneva Convention), or
-a valid driver’s license with an official Japanese translation (for eligible countries)
You must carry your license or IDP while riding in Japan.
For identification purposes, international visitors should also carry their passport during the rental.
③ Booking & Pricing
Here are answers to common questions about booking, rental prices, and options for scooter rentals on the Shimanami Kaido.
You can also find information about same-day bookings, optional plans, one-way rentals, and cancellations.
Q
Do I need to make a reservation?
A
We recommend making a reservation in advance.
During busy travel seasons such as spring, autumn, and long holiday periods, scooters can become fully booked. Same-day reservations may not always have your preferred model or departure time available.
Your reservation is confirmed after uploading your driver’s license through the booking system. The process only takes a few minutes and can easily be completed from your smartphone.
Booking in advance helps ensure a smooth start to your Shimanami Kaido trip.
Q
Can I make a same-day reservation or walk in?
A
Yes. Same-day rentals are possible if scooters are available.
However, certain models or time slots may already be fully booked, especially on weekends or holidays.
Please contact us before visiting to check availability:
+81-70-9006-1859
Q
How much does the rental cost?
A
Our standard rental hours are 9:00 to 18:00.
Prices start from:
-50cc scooters: JPY 9,300
-125cc scooters and Super Cub: JPY 11,500
For additional days:
-50cc: +JPY 6,000 per day
-125cc / Super Cub: +JPY 7,000 per day
Depending on the rental location or busy holiday periods, the base price may be JPY 10,300 due to vehicle delivery arrangements.
Due to rising fuel costs, some rental rate have been adjusted starting from March 2026.
Q
What is included in the rental price?
A
The base rental price includes everything you need for a comfortable ride:
-scooter rental
-helmet
-insurance coverage
-fuel
All scooters are also equipped with:
-smartphone holder
-USB charging socket
-drink holder
-side stand
You do NOT need to refill the fuel before returning the scooter, so you can enjoy sightseeing until the last minute without looking for a gas station.
Q
What are the early morning and late return plans?
A
The Early Morning Plan allows you to depart from 6:00 AM for an additional JPY 3,000.
The Late Return Plan extends the return time until 9:00 PM, also for JPY 3,000.
You can choose either option individually, or add both for a total of JPY 6,000.
Example:
-50cc scooter (JPY 9,300) + Early Morning Plan → JPY 12,300
-50cc scooter + Early Morning + Late Return → JPY 15,300
These options allow you to ride the Shimanami Kaido at a more relaxed pace.
Q
What is the one-way rental option?
A
The one-way rental option allows you to return the scooter at a different location from where you started.
We currently have rental locations in:
-Shin-Onomichi
-Mukaishima
-Innoshima
-Ikuchijima
-Imabari
Example pricing:
-50cc scooter from the Onomichi side (Shin-Onomichi / Mukaishima / Innoshima / Ikuchijima) to Imabari → +JPY 12,000
-Between Onomichi area locations → +JPY 5,000
This option is popular for travelers who want to ride across the Shimanami Kaido and continue their trip to places like Dogo Onsen or Matsuyama Airport.
Q
Can I cancel or change my reservation?
A
Yes. Cancellations and schedule changes are possible.
If the weather forecast is poor, no cancellation fee will be charged for weather-related cancellations.
We understand that travel plans can change, so we try to be as flexible as possible with date changes.
For standard cancellation terms and details, please check our official cancellation policy page.
Q
What insurance is included?
A
The rental price already includes basic insurance coverage, so you can ride with peace of mind.
For full details about the coverage and conditions, please refer to the official insurance information page.
④ Routes & Sightseeing on the Shimanami Kaido
Here are answers to common questions about routes, distance, travel time, and sightseeing when riding a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido.
This section explains how far you can travel in a day, recommended turnaround points, scenic viewpoints, and the best seasons to visit.
Q
How far is it from Onomichi to Imabari on the Shimanami Kaido?
A
The distance from Onomichi to Imabari on the Shimanami Kaido is about 70 km if you ride straight across the bridges and islands.
This estimate assumes you ride directly across the route without detours. If you explore island coastlines or visit viewpoints, the total riding distance will naturally be longer.
Scooters on the Shimanami Kaido typically travel at around 30 km/h, which is a comfortable speed for enjoying the sea views, bridges, and island scenery along the route.
Rather than focusing only on the distance, many travelers say the highlight is the feeling of crossing from island to island over the Seto Inland Sea.
Q
How long does it take to ride a scooter from Onomichi to Imabari?
A
If you ride a scooter directly without stopping, the journey from Onomichi to Imabari takes about 3 hours.
However, most travelers stop at viewpoints, cafés, beaches, and small towns along the islands. When riding at a relaxed sightseeing pace, the trip usually takes 6 to 8 hours.
Many visitors tell us that they wish they had more time to explore, so if you want to enjoy the Shimanami Kaido slowly, staying one night or longer is often recommended.
Q
Can you cross the Shimanami Kaido by scooter in one day?
A
Yes. It is possible to ride across the Shimanami Kaido from Onomichi to Imabari in one day.
However, this usually means riding without many sightseeing stops. Many travelers instead choose to turn around halfway or explore the islands over two days.
In our experience, only about 20% of riders complete a round trip in one day.
Most visitors either turn around around Omishima or continue to Imabari using the one-way rental option.
Planning a relaxed schedule will help you enjoy the islands much more.
Q
I only have one day. Where should I turn around?
A
If you start from the Onomichi side (Mukaishima), a popular turnaround point is Omishima.
This distance allows you to enjoy scenic viewpoints, local food, and island cafés without feeling rushed.
If you start from Imabari, many riders turn around at Ikuchijima (Setoda).
Even travelers who arrive without a fixed plan are often recommended these turnaround points because they offer a good balance between riding distance and sightseeing time.
Q
Are the hills on the Shimanami Kaido difficult?
A
The bridges of the Shimanami Kaido are built high above the sea, so there are long uphill roads leading from each island to the bridges.
For cyclists, these climbs can sometimes be challenging. On the first bridge between Mukaishima and Innoshima, it is common to see cyclists taking a break halfway up.
With a scooter, you can climb these hills easily using the throttle, which makes it easier to visit scenic spots located higher up.
For example, Kirosan Observatory on Oshima is famous for its panoramic view, and a scooter makes the uphill ride much easier.
Q
Is traffic or crosswind dangerous?
A
On the bridges, scooters ride on a dedicated path shared with bicycles, which is separated from car traffic.
Because of this, the bridge sections are generally safe and comfortable to ride.
On the islands, scooters use normal local roads, but traffic is usually much lighter than in major cities.
Weekends may have more cars and cyclists, but riding at a calm and steady pace is usually enough to stay safe.
Strong crosswinds can occasionally occur on the bridges, so maintaining a stable speed and avoiding sudden movements is recommended.
Q
What scenic spots are recommended when riding a scooter?
A
One of the most memorable places to ride a scooter is Tatara Bridge.
Scooters and bicycles travel on a separate outer path, which gives riders the feeling of riding above the sea with wide open views.
Another recommended spot is Kirosan Observatory on Oshima.
It is located at the top of a steep hill, but scooters make it easy to reach without worrying about physical effort.
During busy holiday periods, the parking area at the observatory can become crowded with cars. However, scooters can usually park easily in the bicycle parking area, making it easier to visit.
Q
When is the best season to ride the Shimanami Kaido by scooter?
A
The most popular times to ride the Shimanami Kaido are Golden Week in spring and the autumn season from October to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable.
In spring, lemon trees bloom across the islands, filling the air with a gentle neroli-like citrus fragrance.
In summer, many travelers combine their ride with beach visits and swimming, although the bridges have little shade, so regular breaks and hydration are recommended.
Each season offers different scenery, which is part of the charm of exploring the Shimanami Kaido by scooter.
⑤ Clothing, Weather, and Luggage Tips for Riding a Scooter
Here are answers to common concerns from travelers who are riding a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido for the first time.
This section explains what to do in the rain, what clothing is recommended, and how to manage luggage safely during your ride.
Q
Can I still ride a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido if it rains?
A
When it rains, road surfaces on the Shimanami Kaido can become slippery, especially on curved sections leading up to the bridges.
For safety reasons, we usually recommend canceling or changing your reservation if rain is expected.
There is no cancellation fee for weather-related cancellations, so you can make the decision on the day of your ride.
Please note that we do NOT provide raincoats, as riding in heavy rain can reduce visibility and safety.
Your safety is our top priority, so we encourage guests to ride on clear and comfortable weather days whenever possible.
Q
What should I wear when riding a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido?
A
We recommend wearing comfortable pants and sneakers when riding a scooter.
Shoes that can easily slip off, such as sandals or open-toe footwear, are NOT recommended for safety reasons.
If you plan to wear a skirt, please be aware that loose clothing can sometimes get caught in the scooter while riding, so pants are generally the safer choice.
In winter, the wind on the bridges can feel cold, so bringing a windproof jacket is helpful.
In summer, the sunlight can be strong. Many riders wear light long-sleeve clothing or UV protection to prevent sunburn.
Q
Is the summer heat or winter cold a problem when riding a scooter?
A
During summer, the sunlight can be strong and there is little shade on the bridges, so we recommend taking regular breaks and staying hydrated.
However, many riders say that the heat feels less intense than expected, because scooters do not require physical effort like cycling and you are constantly moving through the sea breeze.
In winter, the wind on the bridges can feel colder, but wearing a windproof jacket or warm layers usually keeps the ride comfortable.
On rare days when there is a risk of road icing, we may recommend canceling or rescheduling your ride for safety reasons.
Q
What should I do with luggage or suitcases when riding a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido?
A
Large suitcases such as rolling luggage cannot be carried on a scooter, so we recommend traveling with a backpack or small bag that leaves both hands free.
Most scooters have storage space under the seat, which can hold smaller items if they are packed compactly.
At the Mukaishima rental office, we can store suitcases during your ride.
If you would like to use this service, please write a note in the reservation comment section indicating that you will have luggage storage.
If you start from another location, we recommend using coin lockers at nearby stations or facilities.
Traveling light will make your Shimanami Kaido scooter ride much more comfortable.
⑥ Cycling vs Driving vs Scooter Touring on the Shimanami Kaido
Cycling and driving are both popular ways to experience the Shimanami Kaido, but scooter touring offers a unique balance between the two.
Here we explain the differences between cycling, driving, and riding a scooter across the islands.
Q
Which is better for the Shimanami Kaido: cycling or riding a scooter?
A
Both cycling and scooters follow almost the same scenic route across the Shimanami Kaido, so either option allows you to enjoy the islands and bridges.
Cycling is popular for travelers who want a physical challenge and a sense of achievement from riding the entire route.
Scooters are ideal for travelers who want to explore more places without worrying about physical effort, including viewpoints and attractions located on hills.
In fact, some groups travel together with cyclists and scooter riders following the same route, enjoying the Shimanami Kaido in their own style.
Q
What are the advantages of riding a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido?
A
The biggest advantage of a scooter is that you can explore a wide area without worrying about physical effort.
Many of the most scenic locations on the Shimanami Kaido are located at the top of hills, such as Kirosan Observatory on Oshima or Senkoji Temple in Onomichi.
With a scooter, you can reach these viewpoints easily and comfortably, without needing to climb long uphill roads.
Scooters also make it easier to visit places slightly off the main route, such as Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima or the sacred Ikiki-no-mon gate deeper on the island.
For travelers who want to enjoy the islands at a relaxed pace while still covering a large area, scooters are an excellent way to explore the Shimanami Kaido.
Q
How much more of the Shimanami Kaido can you explore by scooter compared to cycling?
A
The full distance of the Shimanami Kaido between Onomichi and Imabari is about 70 km.
Many travelers who cycle for sightseeing find that the hills and travel time are more demanding than expected, and some choose to turn around after reaching the first island.
With a scooter, it is much easier to travel longer distances without fatigue, which makes crossing the entire Shimanami Kaido a realistic option.
In practice, many scooter riders starting from Onomichi turn around around Omishima, while those starting from Imabari often ride as far as Ikuchijima (Setoda).
Some travelers also choose a one-way rental, riding across the islands in one direction.
Q
Which is the best way to experience the Shimanami Kaido: cycling, driving, or scooter touring?
A
Each travel style offers a different way to experience the Shimanami Kaido.
Cycling is popular for travelers who want to enjoy the route slowly and experience the feeling of crossing the islands under their own power.
Driving is the easiest option for covering distance quickly and is less affected by weather conditions.
Scooter touring sits between the two.
You can follow the same scenic cycling route across the bridges, while still traveling comfortably without physical strain.
Scooters are also convenient at popular viewpoints where car parking is limited, such as Kirosan Observatory, because they can usually park in bicycle parking areas.
For many travelers, scooter touring offers the best balance between freedom, scenery, and comfort on the Shimanami Kaido.
About this FAQ
Here are the key facts international travelers should know about renting and riding a scooter on the Shimanami Kaido.
-Route: The Shimanami Kaido connects Onomichi (Hiroshima) and Imabari (Ehime) across the islands of the Seto Inland Sea.
-Distance: The full route is about 70 km from Onomichi to Imabari.
-Travel time by scooter:
About 3 hours without sightseeing
About 6–8 hours with stops and sightseeing
-Recommended one-day route:
From Onomichi: ride to Omishima and return
From Imabari: ride to Ikuchijima (Setoda)
-Bridge tolls for scooters: About JPY 50–200 per bridge, or around JPY 500 total for the entire route.
-License requirement: International visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP, 1949 Geneva Convention).
-Best seasons: Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for riding.
-Why choose a scooter: Scooters allow you to follow the cycling route across the bridges while traveling farther and more comfortably than by bicycle.
For many international travelers, riding a scooter is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to explore the Shimanami Kaido.
