Imabari
JapanCfa
© OpenStreetMap, CARTO
しまなみの頃風 | The breeze of Shimanami
Why visit
The Shimanami Kaido is one of the world's great cycling routes, dedicated cycle path arcing across vast suspension bridges between island citrus groves and tidal narrows. Add Imabari Castle (one of Japan's three great seaside castles), the Murakami Pirate Museum on Oshima island, and Imabari's reputation for the world's softest cotton towels (the famous Imabari Towel brand).
When to avoid
Summers are hot, sticky and prone to typhoon-driven downpours (especially August to September). Cycling the full Shimanami Kaido takes 6 to 8 hours. Book accommodation midway if you're not a strong rider. The town itself is workmanlike industrial in stretches. Come for the bridges, the cycling, and the towels rather than the city center.
