Imabari’s 7 Best Tours & Experiences

Imabari stands out as a destination not just for its beautiful shimanami vistas but also for the variety of immersive tours that highlight its unique charm. Whether you’re pedaling across the famous Shimanami Kaido on an E-bike, cruising through powerful currents in the Seto Inland Sea, or exploring ancient vine bridges in Iya Valley, this area offers a mix of active, cultural, and scenic experiences. Our favorites include the Shimanami Kaido Sightseeing Tour by E-bike for its healthy, scenic ride and the detailed luxury tour to Iya Valley for a deep dive into remote Japan’s lush landscapes. These tours show Imabari’s appeal as an active outdoor hub and a place rich in history.

While Imabari’s scenic landscapes are the main draw, its cultural tours, like visiting the Oyamazumi Shrine or the Tokoro Museum, reveal the region’s long-standing traditions. For travelers craving adventure and authentic sights, the options are plentiful. So whether you prefer cycling, boat cruises, or guided explorations, there’s something here that can fit your style. To help you choose, below you’ll find a detailed look at each top experience, with honest insights and practical advice.

1. Shimanami Kaido Sightseeing Tour by E-bike

At number 1 is the Shimanami Kaido Sightseeing Tour by E-bike—a fantastic way to cover the 70-kilometer bridge route that connects Imabari to Hiroshima Prefecture. Using a power-assisted E-bike, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos of the vibrant islands and calm waters. The tour lasts about 5.5 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, and costs around $211.83 per person.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of active outdoor fun and ease of travel. Riders can focus on the views while the E-bike handles the hills, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The route is well-marked, and the tour includes equipment, safety gear, and some guidance. It’s ideal for those who want an energetic day with a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable scenery. The tour only has one review but rates a full 5.0/5, signaling high satisfaction.

Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to see Imabari from a different perspective—pedal power with minimal effort and maximum views. Book early to secure your spot.

2. Miyajimaguchi: Trip to Seto Inland Sea Picturesque Cities

Number 2 on our list offers a day tour from Miyajimaguchi exploring charming cities like Takehara, Onomichi, Setoda, or Imabari itself. This trip costs around $424 per person and includes a luxury bus ride, where you can relax on large seats with a dedicated attendant. It’s a flexible tour because you can choose your disembarkation city and explore at your own pace or with the help of local guides.

Highlights include a welcome drink and self-guided strolls in Takehara, famed for its traditional architecture and sake breweries. In Onomichi, a guided walk reveals its famous hillside temples and cinematic vibe. Setoda offers a visit to Kosanji Temple, with spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea from the Kirosan Observatory. The tour is an excellent option for those wanting a comfortable overview of multiple cities with some guided insights, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of local culture.

Bottom Line: This day trip is great for travelers interested in cultural exploration combined with scenic views, all from a comfortable, hassle-free bus. Ideal for those who prefer relaxing over physical activity.

3. Imabari: Cruising on Fast Tides and Tobishima Kaido Bus Tour

For the adventure seeker, number 3 offers a boat cruise through Miyakubo currents paired with a bus tour of Tobishima Kaido. The boat ride is an exhilarating way to experience the powerful currents of Miyakubo, with scenic vistas of the Seto Inland Sea. The tour costs $424 per person, with no specific review ratings provided, but the combination of boat and bus offers a full day of scenic and kinetic experiences.

The highlight is the boat tour through Miyakubo’s currents, which offers a thrilling perspective on the sea’s strength. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a comfortable bus ride to Tobishima Kaido, exploring hidden scenic spots. Transportation is seamless from Matsuyama, Dogo, or Imabari to Miyajimaguchi, making this a hassle-free way to combine water and land explorations.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who enjoy both scenic cruises and bus exploration, with a focus on the impressive natural forces at play in the Seto Inland Sea.

4. 8-Day ONE WAY Bus Tour to Fukuoka from Osaka via SHIKOKU

At number 4, this 8-day bus tour costs $9,477 for groups of up to 12 and offers a comprehensive journey across Japan’s southwestern islands. Starting from Osaka, the route crosses Awaji Island, Shikoku, and Kyushu, with three free days in major cities, giving you time to explore independently.

Key highlights include a day trip to Shodoshima, known for its olive groves, and visits to Kochi’s Katsurahama Beach and Imabari’s famous Shimanami Kaido. This tour is perfect for those wanting an extended, immersive experience with a mix of guided highlights and free exploration. It’s suited for travelers who prefer to see multiple regions without worrying about logistics and want a structured itinerary that covers Japan’s islands thoroughly.

The value lies in the inclusive nature—transport, accommodations, and some planned activities—making it a good choice for serious adventurers wanting to see Japan’s islands comprehensively.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with time to spare, eager for a deep, multi-region experience, and comfortable with guided groups.

5. Luxury tour to Iya Valley’s Kazurabashi and Oboke gorge by boat

Number 5 takes you into the heart of Shikoku’s remote Iya Valley with a luxury day trip for about $456.96. Starting from Imabari, this tour explores the Kazurabashi vine bridge, a reconstructed suspension bridge made of vines, and the breathtaking Oboke Gorge via boat—both iconic sights. After crossing the vine bridge, you’ll cruise through the gorge, renowned for its jagged rocky walls and tranquil waters.

This tour is all about immersive natural beauty and a touch of adventure. Crossing the vine bridge offers a sense of stepping back in time—its design reminiscent of ancient escape routes used by samurai. The boat tour through Oboke Gorge provides a peaceful yet dramatic scenery perfect for nature lovers. The day ends with a transfer to Takamatsu, where you can learn to make Udo, a local noodle specialty, adding a culinary finish to this adventure.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a full-day, luxury experience of Japan’s wild side, combining historic structures, scenic boat rides, and authentic regional cuisine.

6. 5 Hour E-bike Trekking on Omishima

Number 6 offers a 5-hour E-bike tour of Omishima for about $262.53. Starting from WAKKA guest house, this tour is perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet active exploration of the island’s scenic spots. You’ll glide along flat terrains past ancient Oyamazumi Shrine, home to Japan’s largest collection of national treasure armor and weapons, and ascend to Mt. Anjin for panoramic views.

What makes this tour special is its focus on cultural and natural highlights—from shrine treasures to mountain vistas. The route includes a visit to the Gods Island, where shrine offerings and sacred rituals take place. Participants praise the effortless ride, thanks to high-quality E-bikes, making it accessible for most levels. It’s a great way to combine outdoor activity with cultural discovery without a strenuous hike.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers interested in combining history, spirituality, and nature at a slow pace, with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection.

7. 6 Hour Private E-bike Tour on Omishima

Last but not least, the 6-hour private E-bike tour costs about $276.72 per person. This customizable experience lets you explore Omishima’s southern coast, visiting key landmarks such as Oyamazumi Shrine, Tokoro Museum, and Ken Iwata Museum, all at your own pace.

What sets this tour apart is its personalized approach. With a private guide, you’ll enjoy tailored stops at wineries, breweries, and scenic coastal spots, including casual visits to Kaeru Bakery. The route covers approximately 34 km, making it ideal for those who want a more intimate, flexible exploration. It’s perfect for small groups or couples seeking a deeper dive into local culture and scenery.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a private, customizable experience with the comfort of guided support and the freedom to focus on what interests them most.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you love outdoor activity and scenic views, the Shimanami Kaido E-bike or Omishima E-bike tours are excellent choices. For those wanting a cultural and scenic overview, the day trip exploring Seto Inland Sea cities or the 8-day island tour might suit you better. Adventure seekers and natural lovers will appreciate the Iya Valley luxury tour, while those with a penchant for private experiences will enjoy the custom E-bike tour.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like spring and autumn, when Imabari’s landscapes are at their most photogenic. Check availability and plan around your travel style—whether active, relaxed, or culturally curious—to make the most of your time in this fascinating region.

Final Thoughts

Imabari offers a rich selection of tours that showcase its stunning scenery, historic sites, and outdoor adventures. For a quick thrill, the E-bike rides along the Shimanami Kaido are hard to beat, while the luxury trips in Iya Valley appeal to those seeking a more indulgent, immersive experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find options suited to their interests, from guided city walks to private, customized bike tours.

No matter which experience you choose, booking ahead will secure your spot in these popular tours. Whether you want to cycle over bridges, cruise through gorges, or explore remote islands, Imabari’s diverse tour options promise a memorable journey in this unique corner of Japan.