Imabari’s 5 Best Tours: Which To Choose?

Imabari might not be as famous as neighboring regions like Hiroshima or Kyoto, but it offers a surprising variety of tours that showcase the area’s natural beauty and unique culture. Whether you’re after a relaxing ride along the Shimanami Kaido, a pulse-racing boat trip through powerful currents, or exploring the remote Iya Valley, Imabari delivers authentic experiences you won’t forget. One reason we love Imabari for tours is its accessibility combined with some truly distinctive activities—like riding an e-bike across the iconic Shimanami, or crossing vine bridges in the Iya Valley—these are real highlights.

For travelers who enjoy active adventures, Imabari’s e-bike tours are a standout. If you prefer a mix of scenic cruising and cultural exploration, the boat and bus options will suit you. And for those craving an in-depth, full-day experience, the multi-day bus tour to Fukuoka opens up a broader view of Shikoku and Kyushu. These options show that Imabari is a versatile destination with something for every type of traveler.

Quick Overview

Our list includes a variety of tours: from exhilarating E-bike rides along the Shimanami Kaido, to luxurious boat excursions through the Seto Inland Sea, and even an immersive 8-day bus trip covering Shikoku and Kyushu. Whether you’re interested in active outdoor activities, cultural visits, or luxury adventures, you’ll find something that fits your style.

Now, let’s explore each of these highly recommended tours in detail.

1. Shimanami Kaido Sightseeing Tour by E-bike

At number one, this E-bike tour offers a fantastic way to explore the Shimanami Kaido, a famous cycling route connecting Japan’s main islands. For around $211.83 per person, you’ll spend about five and a half hours riding across seven bridges that span the Seto Inland Sea. The e-bike makes it easier to cover the 70 km route, which includes scenic views, quaint fishing villages, and panoramic island vistas.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of effort and scenery. You don’t need to be a seasoned cyclist—the e-bikes assist with hills and long stretches—making it accessible for most fitness levels. The route is carefully curated to maximize views and local encounters, so you’ll get plenty of photo ops and opportunities to learn about the area’s history and culture. The guide shares insights into local life and the engineering marvels of the bridges, adding depth to your ride.

The Shimanami Kaido is a highlight for active travelers who want to experience Japan’s coast in a fresh, healthy way. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with biking, with enough time to enjoy stops and snacks along the way. The only drawback might be the cost, but considering the comprehensive experience and top-notch equipment, it’s good value.

Bottom Line: Perfect for active individuals who want to enjoy stunning views and local culture on a comfortable, guided e-bike tour.

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

This boat and bus combo tour offers a different perspective of Imabari and the Seto Inland Sea. Priceing at $424 per person, it’s a more premium experience designed for those who want scenic views without the physical effort. The boat tour takes you through the powerful currents of Miyakubo, where the sea’s strength is on full display. It’s a thrilling ride in itself and a rare chance to see the forces shaping this part of Japan.

After the boat ride, the tour continues on a luxurious bus with large windows, providing comfortable views of Tobishima Kaido and the surrounding islands. The bus explores hidden areas that might be hard to access otherwise, making it ideal for travelers seeking scenic beauty and cultural insight without strenuous activity. The transportation from Matsuyama, Dogo, or Imabari to Miyajima-guchi is hassle-free, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

The main attraction here is the combination of dynamic boat ride and scenic bus drive, offering a comprehensive look at the region’s natural and man-made marvels. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a smooth, guided experience that covers both sea and land.

Bottom Line: A great option for travelers wanting stunning views and a little adventure on the water, combined with comfortable transportation.

3. 8-Day ONE WAY Bus Tour to Fukuoka from Osaka via SHIKOKU

At number three, this 8-day bus tour is a comprehensive journey across Japan’s Shikoku and Kyushu islands. With a price of $9,477 for up to 12 people, it’s a significant investment but perfect for travelers craving an immersive, multi-day exploration. The tour includes three free days in major cities in Shikoku, allowing for personal discovery, plus guided excursions like a day trip to Shodoshima, known for its olive groves and scenic vistas.

One highlight is the visit to Kochi’s Katsurahama Beach on day 4, blending cultural sites with natural beauty. On day 6, the tour takes you to Imabari, where you’ll rent a bicycle for the Shimanami Kaido—a chance to see the region’s beauty up close. This itinerary balances structured sightseeing with free time, making it flexible and ideal for curious travelers with a sense of adventure.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, in-depth experience of Japan’s islands, and are comfortable with multi-day travel. The inclusion of free days provides flexibility, but the overall cost reflects its extensive scope.

Bottom Line: A solid choice if you want a deep dive into Shikoku and Kyushu, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

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

For about $456.96 per person, this luxury day tour takes you into the remote and lush Iya Valley—one of Japan’s most scenic and less visited spots. The tour begins in Imabari and ends in Takamatsu, making it a perfect day trip for those seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility.

The highlight is crossing the Kazurabashi vine bridge, a historic suspension bridge reconstructed to ensure safety but still offering a thrill. You’ll also enjoy a boat tour through Oboke Gorge, renowned for its steep walls and jagged rocks. The tour includes a visit to Katsurahama Beach in Kochi and a chance to learn how to make Udo noodles in Takamatsu, adding cultural depth.

This is a luxury experience with personalized service, designed for travelers who want to see the wild side of Japan without sacrificing comfort. The day’s itinerary balances outdoor activities with scenic drives, making it ideal for active but comfort-seeking visitors.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a full-day adventure in Japan’s most dramatic landscapes with a touch of luxury.

5. 6 Hour Private E bike Tour on Omishima

Our final pick is a private e-bike tour that explores Omishima’s southern half-circle in about six hours. Priced at $276.72 per person, the tour covers approximately 34 km and includes visits to Oyamazumi Shrine, Tokoro Museum, and Ken Iwata Mother and Child Museum. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stops at wineries, breweries, and the famous Kaeru Bakery, making it a multi-sensory experience.

What makes this tour special is its focus on cultural and culinary highlights combined with scenic cycling. The Oyamazumi Shrine is notable for housing 80% of Japan’s National Treasure armor and weapons, offering a fascinating glimpse into samurai history. The Tokoro Museum features contemporary art with views of the Seto Inland Sea, adding an artistic touch to the trip.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible experience focusing on local culture, food, and scenic views. Its private nature makes it suitable for families, couples, or small groups seeking a tailored outing.

Bottom Line: A great choice for those interested in cultural exploration and scenic cycling at a relaxed pace.

How to Choose

When selecting a tour in Imabari, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If you love active outdoor adventures, the Shimanami Kaido E-bike is hard to beat. For a more relaxed and scenic experience, the cruise and bus tour offers comfort and stunning views. Want a deep dive into regional culture? The multi-day bus tour provides detailed exploration, while the luxury Iya Valley day trip combines outdoor fun with comfort.

If you prefer a private, personalized experience, the Omishima E-bike tour is an excellent option. Remember to book early, especially in peak seasons, and check availability for multi-day trips. Think about whether you prefer active cycling, scenic cruising, or culture, and pick accordingly.

To sum it up, Imabari offers a diverse range of tours suited to all interests and activity levels. From the breathtaking Shimanami Kaido to the remote beauty of Iya Valley, there is an option for everyone. For active travelers, the E-bike tours will be most satisfying, while those seeking convenience may prefer the boat and bus excursions. If you’re after a comprehensive journey, the 8-day bus tour provides a deep dive into the region.

No matter your choice, booking early will ensure you secure your spot in these memorable experiences. Imabari’s variety of tours guarantees an authentic and rewarding visit—so pick your adventure and get ready to explore this unique part of Japan.