Itoyama Park: The Best Free Viewpoint over the Shimanami Kaido in Imabari
Itoyama Park (Itoyama Koen) sits on the Imabari side of the Shimanami Kaido, right at the foot of the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge — the first of the great suspension bridges as you leave Shikoku. It is one of the best free viewpoints for taking in the whole sweep of the sea route, and an easy stop for cyclists and non-cyclists alike.
What is the Shimanami Kaido?
The Shimanami Kaido is an expressway that links Imabari in Shikoku with Onomichi in Honshu, hopping from island to island across the Seto Inland Sea over a distance of roughly 70 kilometres. What makes it famous is rare in Japan: alongside the car lanes there are dedicated lanes for bicycles, pedestrians and mopeds, so you can cross the whole route under your own power. It is regularly named as one of the best cycling routes in the world, and every year it draws riders from all over Japan and overseas.
Even if you are not cycling, the route is worth seeing — and Itoyama Park is the spot that gives you the classic, whole-in-one-frame view of it.
The view from Itoyama Park
From the park you look straight out over the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, a series of three linked suspension bridges that was the first structure of its kind in the world. Beyond it, the islands of the Seto Inland Sea scatter into the distance. Directly below runs the Kurushima Strait, one of the three fastest tidal currents in Japan, and ships pass through it almost constantly — simply watching them come and go is a quiet pleasure. On a clear day, the layered blues of sea, islands and bridge make up the classic Shimanami postcard shot.
Don’t miss the hilltop observation deck
There are a couple of places to enjoy the view here, but the best one is the outdoor observation deck reached by a short walk up the hill from the parking area. The view from the top is noticeably better, but the sign is easy to miss and the little climb puts some people off, so it is often surprisingly quiet. It is free and open to anyone — well worth the few extra minutes on foot.
When to go, and how long to stay
The view is at its best on a clear day, when you can see the bridge and the far islands sharply. Itoyama Park is also planted with Kawazu-zakura, an early-blooming variety of cherry, so you can enjoy hanami here a little earlier in the season — often from around late February into March — than at most cherry spots. Most visitors need about 30 minutes to an hour: enough time to walk up to the observation deck, take in the panorama, and watch a few ships slip through the strait.
Getting there and renting a bike
The park is on the Imabari side, at the foot of the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, which is the first bridge you cross heading out from Imabari toward Onomichi. Many travellers cross the Shimanami Kaido by bicycle; you can bring your own or rent one nearby. Rental locations and the latest 2026 information — including recent changes to the facilities in this area — are covered in our dedicated guide:
👉 Renting a Bicycle in Imabari for the Shimanami Kaido (2026)
A good way to make the most of a visit is to combine the viewpoint with a short ride: take in the panorama from the deck first, then cycle out onto the first stretch of the route to feel the sea breeze from the bridge itself.
Frequently asked questions
Is Itoyama Park free to visit?
Yes. The outdoor observation deck and the park itself are free and open to the public.
Do I need to cycle to enjoy it?
No. The viewpoint is reached on foot from the car park, so you can enjoy the panorama whether or not you ride the Shimanami Kaido.
What can I see from here?
The Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and ships passing through the Kurushima Strait below.
When can I see the cherry blossoms?
The park’s Kawazu-zakura tend to bloom early, often from around late February into March, ahead of the usual cherry season.
Please note that some park facilities are undergoing renovation, so if you are planning around indoor buildings, check the latest official information before you go. The outdoor viewpoint itself is free and open.
Original article in Japanese: 『糸山公園』絶景のしまなみ海道が一望できる｜今治の観光名所
