Discover the Heart of Shimanami: Where Nature, Culture, and Cycling Converge
Shimanami-no-Eki Omishima is a premier roadside station nestled in the serene heart of Oshima Island, just off the scenic Shimanami Kaido route. Located adjacent to the revered Ōyamato Shrine—the spiritual center of over 10,000 branch shrines nationwide—it stands as a cultural and natural gateway to the region. The station blends modern convenience with deep-rooted tradition, offering visitors panoramic views, a vibrant marketplace of local citrus, fresh produce, and seafood delicacies, and a dedicated tourism information center that supports both domestic and international travelers.
Beyond its role as a rest stop, the roadside station serves as a dynamic hub for adventure and discovery. It hosts the Oshima Bike Rental Terminal, complete with showers, lockers, and drop-off points, making it an ideal base for cyclists exploring the Shimanami Kaido. With guided tours of the ancient cedar forest and access to the shrine’s national treasure collection, including the legendary red-silk armor of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, every visit becomes a journey through time, nature, and local heritage.
Why Visit
Shimanami-no-Eki Omishima stands as the only roadside station adjacent to the grand Ōyamato Shrine, home to Japan’s oldest known primeval forest of Japanese cedars, including a 2,600-year-old sacred camphor tree. Here, visitors can taste the region’s exclusive citrus jam made from locally grown Kishu mikan, and explore the shrine’s National Treasure collection of ancient samurai armor, including the famed red silk war armor believed to have been offered by Minamoto no Yoritomo. The station also serves as the sole rental terminal for the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, complete with showers and lockers, making it essential for long-distance cyclists.
Restaurants & Dining
Savor fresh local flavors at Shimanami-no-Eki Omishima, where seasonal dishes and regional specialties await.
Local Cuisine Restaurant
地元料理レストラン
Specialty
Traditional local dishes from the Shimanami region
A cozy dining space offering authentic regional cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients sourced from local farms and fisheries. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for experiencing the flavors of the Seto Inland Sea area.
Café with Local Flavors
地元の味カフェ
Specialty
Coffee and pastries made with regional ingredients
A relaxed café serving locally roasted coffee and handmade pastries using regional produce. The space is bright and airy, ideal for a quiet break or light snack.
Seafood Specialty Stall
海産物専門店
Specialty
Freshly prepared seafood snacks
A quick-service stall offering freshly grilled or steamed seafood, emphasizing the day’s catch from the Seto Inland Sea. The atmosphere is casual and lively, ideal for on-the-go dining.
Shopping Highlights
Discover authentic regional goods and handmade crafts at Shimanami-no-Eki Omishima’s vibrant market stalls.
Local Produce Market
地元産直市場
A market featuring fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits, and seasonal produce from nearby farms.
Products
Must-Try Item
Fresh citrus fruits
Seafood Processing Shop
水産加工品店
A shop specializing in processed seafood products such as dried fish, fish cakes, and canned seafood.
Products
Must-Try Item
Dried fish
Souvenir and Craft Shop
お土産・工芸品店
A retail space offering handmade crafts, local art, and traditional souvenirs from the Shimanami region.
Products
Must-Try Item
Handmade crafts
Bakery
ベーカリー
A small bakery offering freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes using local ingredients.
Products
Must-Try Item
Citrus-infused croissant
Alcohol and Beverage Shop
酒類・飲料販売店
A shop selling local alcoholic beverages, including sake, shochu, and citrus-based liqueurs.
Products
Must-Try Item
Citrus liqueur
Featured Products
Explore signature local products like citrus fruits, fresh vegetables, and traditional seafood delicacies.
Citrus Fruit Jam
柑橘ジャム
A sweet and tangy jam made from locally grown citrus fruits, perfect for toast or desserts.
Dried Fish Snack
干し魚スナック
Lightly seasoned dried fish, ideal as a healthy and savory snack.
Citrus Infused Olive Oil
柑橘風味オリーブオイル
Extra virgin olive oil infused with fresh citrus zest, ideal for salad dressings and cooking.
Handmade Craft Set
手作り工芸セット
A set of small handmade crafts made by local artisans, ideal as a unique souvenir.
Local Sake
地元酒
A premium local sake crafted using traditional methods and local rice.
Citrus Liqueur
柑橘リキュール
A smooth and aromatic liqueur made from fresh citrus fruits and local spirits.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities including parking, restrooms, showers, and information services at Shimanami-no-Eki Omishima.
Parking Lot
Standard cars: 31 spaces. No large vehicle parking. Disabled parking: 1 space. Available 24 hours.
Toilet
Men's toilets: 11 units. Women's toilets: 7 units.
Disabled Access Toilet
One unit available for people with disabilities.
EV Charging Equipment
Electric vehicle charging facilities available.
Nursing Room
Private room for breastfeeding.
Play Area
Children's play area available at the roadside station.
Information Center
Offers tourism information about the Shimanami Kaido and surrounding areas. Also serves as a foreign tourist information center.
Bike Rental Terminal
Bike rental and drop-off service available. Also includes shower rooms and coin lockers for cyclists.
Adjacent to the roadside station
Shower
Shower facilities available for visitors, especially convenient for cyclists.
At the bike rental terminal
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi available for visitors.
Activities & Experiences
Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops, seasonal events, and outdoor adventures at Shimanami-no-Eki Omishima.
Guided Tour of Ōyamato Shrine
大山祇神社
Participants will take a guided tour of Ōyamato Shrine, one of Japan's most sacred shrines known as the national protector of Japan, with a focus on its ancient giant cedar tree and historical artifacts including national treasures and important cultural properties.
Duration
60 min
Cycling Rental
レンタサイクル
Rent bicycles at the on-site rental terminal for exploring the surrounding area, including the Shimanami Kaido route. Facilities include shower rooms and coin lockers.
Duration
120 min
Best enjoyed on clear days; avoid during heavy rain or typhoon conditions.
Local Produce Tasting Experience
特産品コーナー
Participants can taste fresh local citrus fruits, vegetables, and seafood products directly from the on-site market, offering a hands-on experience of regional agricultural and marine specialties.
Duration
30 min
Cultural Heritage Workshop
体験施設
Engage in hands-on cultural activities related to the shrine's historical artifacts, such as traditional crafts or educational sessions about the significance of the ancient cedar forest and national treasures.
Duration
90 min
Indoor activity; suitable for all weather conditions.
Insider Tips
Maximize your visit with local insights on timing, access, and hidden gems near Shimanami-no-Eki Omishima.
- Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to secure a parking spot near the rental bicycle terminal, as spaces fill quickly by 10:00 AM due to morning cyclists
- Hidden Gems: Visit the special produce counter between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to find freshly harvested citrus fruits and seasonal vegetables that are not available later in the day
- Weekend Special: Stop by the information corner between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays to join a free guided tour of the Ōyamatsumi Shrine, led by volunteer guides
- Bike Rental Tip: Use the coin locker at the rental bicycle terminal before starting your ride—this is the only secure storage available for personal belongings during cycling
- Shower Access: Use the shower room after 3:00 PM on weekdays when it is less crowded; mornings are busy with cyclists from the rental terminal
- Souvenir Timing: Purchase the limited-edition "Shimanami Cycle Route" map at the information corner before 4:00 PM, as it sells out daily by the end of the day
- Cultural Insight: Visit the treasure hall at Ōyamatsumi Shrine during the station’s operating hours (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM) to view the national treasure red silk armor, which is displayed only during these hours
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Peak season for canola flower viewing in late March to April and fresh bamboo shoots available at the market.
Summer (June–August): Ideal for cycling along the Shimanami Kaido and visiting the shrine’s ancient cedar forest.
Autumn (September–November): Best time to enjoy citrus harvests and scenic views from the lookout.
Winter (December–February): Quiet months with fewer crowds and access to hot spring showers.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
The roadside station offers stroller-friendly access, a dedicated nursing room, diaper changing station, and a children's park. It also features interactive elements like the nearby shrine and cycling rentals, enhancing family engagement.
Food Lover Review
It features a variety of local specialties such as fresh citrus fruits, regional vegetables, and seafood products. The food market offers high-quality, locally sourced items, and the restaurant options provide authentic regional flavors.
Car Camping Review
The station has ample parking for regular vehicles and basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines. While it lacks designated overnight parking, the quiet environment and proximity to nature support comfortable short stays.
Scenic Beauty Review
The roadside station offers scenic views of the surrounding sea and mountains, with a designated lookout area. Seasonal beauty and the natural landscape enhance its aesthetic appeal, complemented by the nearby ancient cedar forest.