Japan’s Seto Inland Sea Revives Ferry Service to Enhance Cycling Tourism Between Onomichi and Imabari

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The ferry service that connected the islands of the Seto Inland Sea is finally returning after being shut down for more than 20 years. After the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido bridges were opened in 1999, the ferry that had previously connected Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture with Imabari in Ehime Prefecture stopped operating. However, the service is currently undergoing testing once more, providing visitors with a distinctive fusion of boat and bicycle rides throughout the picturesque islands, thanks to trial runs that were started in 2025.

Reviving the Historic Route for Cyclists

The revival of this ferry service is aimed at providing cyclists with a more flexible and accessible way to explore the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Cycling enthusiasts, especially beginners, often find it challenging to complete the entire 70-kilometre stretch of the Shimanami cycling road, which is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and panoramic ocean views. The introduction of ferries between the islands offers an innovative solution, allowing cyclists to cover shorter distances on their bikes and take the ferry for more difficult sections.

The trial runs are designed to gauge the demand for such a service and assess its viability for regular operations. Passengers can take advantage of the ferry service to hop between islands, enjoying both cycling and the pleasure of a boat ride. The route includes a 15-minute ferry ride from Ikuchijima Island to Omishima Island, after which cyclists can continue their journey. Bicycles are allowed on board the ferries, giving travellers the flexibility to combine cycling with scenic boat trips across the islands.

Trial Ferry Service to Operate Through October

The trial ferry service is already in motion, with limited runs taking place on specific dates in October. The remaining trial dates are set for October 18, 19, 25, and 26, giving a limited number of passengers the opportunity to experience this exciting new transportation option. The ferries involved in the trials are operated by Lazuli, an Onomichi-based company, and Shimanami, which operates from Imabari. The cost of the ferry service varies depending on the departure and arrival points, with a round-trip fare between Onomichi Station Pier and Imabari Port priced at ¥5,000.

This ferry service is being promoted by West Japan Railway Co., in collaboration with local communities, to enhance the tourism experience in the region. The trial period is crucial to determining whether the service will become a permanent fixture in the Seto Inland Sea, helping to attract more cycling tourists to the area. Local officials have expressed hopes that the ferry service will add to the growing appeal of the Seto Inland Sea, which is already a popular destination for cycling, walking tours, and cultural exploration.

Expanding Tourism Opportunities in Seto Inland Sea

The Seto Inland Sea, known for its stunning islands, historic landmarks, and the iconic Shimanami Kaido cycling route, has long been a major tourist destination in Japan. The Shimanami Kaido, which stretches across six islands between Onomichi and Imabari, is considered one of the most scenic cycling routes in the world, attracting cyclists from both Japan and abroad. The return of the ferry service offers tourists a chance to experience this picturesque region in a new way, combining the thrill of cycling with the relaxing experience of island hopping.

As local communities and tourism operators work together to promote the region, the ferry service is seen as a significant step in improving infrastructure for tourists. The goal is to make the Seto Inland Sea more accessible to travellers of all levels, whether they are seasoned cyclists or casual tourists looking for a leisurely way to enjoy the area.

Local Communities and Economic Benefits

The return of the ferry service is expected to have positive effects on the local economy. By offering a convenient mode of transportation for tourists, the ferry service helps stimulate spending in nearby areas, including accommodations, restaurants, and shops. Local businesses are likely to benefit from the increased influx of tourists who are drawn to the cycling and ferry experience. This aligns with efforts by local authorities to diversify tourism offerings and make the Seto Inland Sea a more prominent destination for visitors from around the world.

Local government bodies, such as the Hiroshima and Ehime prefectures, have been involved in the planning and execution of the trial runs, recognising the potential for sustainable tourism growth. The project fits within broader strategies for promoting the Seto Inland Sea’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while ensuring that tourism development is managed in an environmentally responsible manner. This partnership between private companies and government entities highlights the collaborative effort required to make this initiative successful.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Ferry Service

There is hope for the ferry service’s future even though the trial runs are still in progress. Should the service prove to be effective, it may become a frequent choice for travellers, contributing to the Seto Inland Sea’s increasing allure. Combining cycling and ferry rides allows for a more flexible approach to island exploration, giving visitors a chance to take in more of this breathtaking area.

The ferry service’s return invites cyclists to take their time exploring the islands. Others see it as a chance to take in the Seto Inland Sea’s natural splendour from both the land and the water. In the years to come, the ferry service is expected to play a significant role in the region’s tourism scene due to the growing emphasis on flexible and sustainable travel experiences.