Important Notes During Bus Tour
Please refrain from drinking alcohol on the bus.
Members of the odd-numbered group may need to share seats with other passengers on the bus.
As stipulated by Japanese law, please wear your seat belt on the tour bus.
Please remain seated and avoid walking while the tour bus is moving.
Seating on the bus is assigned by H.I.S staff. Please do not change your seat during the tour.
Please be punctual and arrive at the designated meeting place on time. The bus will depart on time and will not wait for latecomers.
Latecomers who wish to rejoin the group will be responsible for all transportation fees.
8.Please wear the sticker provided by the tour guide visibly.
Avoid sticking the sticker on leather goods, as it may leave marks.
Do not use the seat reclining function or adjust the seat settings.
Please set all electronic devices, including mobile phones and game consoles, to silent mode.
Talking on mobile phones and making video calls are prohibited on the tour bus.
Smoking is strictly prohibited on the tour bus.
Arrival times at each sightseeing spot may vary depending on traffic conditions.
The use of drones for filming or other purposes is prohibited during the tour.
Please do not use perfume, sprays, or change baby diapers on the bus, as it may disturb other passengers.
Manage your valuable belongings yourself.
After the tour, please take all your trash with you and do not leave any on the bus.
Ensure you do not forget or leave any personal belongings on the bus after the tour.
If you fail to follow these regulations and cause a disturbance on the bus, you may be asked to leave the bus, even during the tour.
The Shimanami Kaido is renowned for its impressive series of bridges connecting Honshu and Shikoku, as well as its scenic route. Beyond experiencing the grandeur of the bridges, visitors can explore spots like Ikuchijima Island, which offers magnificent views of the Tatara Bridge. Each island along the route possesses unique charm, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it perfect for a leisurely drive or bike ride.
Ikuchijima Island is one of the best places to admire the Tatara Bridge. This island is famous for its spectacular sea and bridge views. Visitors can get up close to the magnificent Tatara Bridge, enjoy the sea breeze, savor local delicacies, and purchase souvenirs within the park. It's an ideal spot for photos and appreciating the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea.
For a comprehensive tour of the Shimanami Kaido, it's generally recommended to allocate at least 2 to 3 days for a more relaxed experience. This allows ample time to enjoy cycling, explore the unique charms of the islands, savor local cuisine, and admire the bridges both day and night. If time is limited, a one-day trip can still cover the main highlights and key attractions.
Driving the entire Shimanami Kaido, which is approximately 70 kilometers long, takes about 1.5 to 2 hours without any stops. However, to fully appreciate the scenery, stop at viewpoints, and visit the unique attractions on each island, it's recommended to set aside at least 4 to 6 hours. The route passes by several uniquely designed bridges, offering breathtaking views.
The Nishi-Awa Fireworks Festival is one of the largest fireworks events in Western Japan, famous for its approximately 20,000 fireworks and a competition featuring top Japanese pyrotechnicians. Its unique aspect is the synchronization of fireworks with music, creating a stunning audiovisual feast. This tour includes reserved paid seating, allowing you to comfortably enjoy this top-tier Japanese fireworks display without the hassle of finding a spot.
During your free time in Matsuyama city center, you can explore several popular attractions. For example, the renowned Dogo Onsen is one of Japan's oldest hot springs, where you can experience its unique hot spring culture. Additionally, Matsuyama Castle is a must-visit. This castle, located on a mountaintop, offers magnificent city views and is easily accessible by ropeway, making it ideal for a stroll and immersing yourself in history.
When crossing the Shimanami Kaido, the best spots for photographing the Tatara Bridge are on the bridge itself or at surrounding viewpoints. Ikuchijima Island offers an excellent vantage point, allowing you to frame the bridge against the magnificent backdrop of the Seto Inland Sea. It's advisable to shoot during the soft light of early morning or late afternoon, which usually captures the bridge's elegant lines and the glistening sea.
For a two-day, one-night trip, you can efficiently allocate your time by focusing on the Nishi-Awa Fireworks Festival on the first day, ensuring a comfortable experience with your reserved seating. On the second day, dedicate time to a scenic drive along the Shimanami Kaido, with stops at viewpoints like Ikuchijima Island. In the afternoon, concentrate on Matsuyama city center, using your free time to visit Dogo Onsen or Matsuyama Castle before heading back in the evening, ensuring a fulfilling and smooth itinerary.