Shikanoshima—a small, land-tied island just 3.5 kilometers from north to south, located in the northern part of Kyushu’s Hakata Bay. Reaching the island takes a roughly 40-minute trip by boat from Hakata Pier or by car or bus from the heart of Fukuoka City. It is a popular tourist location where visitors can appreciate breathtaking panoramas of lush nature and many kinds of activities. With an approximately 10-kilometer perimeter and mostly flat roads, the island is a perfect place to cycle around in the refreshing ocean breeze.
Cycle clockwise from Shikashima Cycle at the entry to Shikanoshima. If you’re arriving by car or train, we recommend starting at Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, located just before the island entrance. You can ride along the 1-kilometer road connecting Shikanoshima and the city, flanked by the rough Genkainada Sea and the calm waters of Hakata Bay.
Enjoy the breathtaking panorama!
The best part about cycling around Shikanoshima is being able to ride alongside the ocean while feeling the breeze on your skin, taking in the scenery. If you stop by “Shiomi Park,” the highest point of the island, you’ll be greeted by an astounding 360-degree view from the observatory.
The observatory of “Kinin Park,” where an ancient Chinese gold seal is said to have been discovered, houses a replica of the historic find. Seen from there, it appears as though the gold seal is floating on Hakata Bay.
Shiomi ParkKinin ParkGold seal replica engraved with the words “Kan no Wa no Na no Kokuo (King of Na),” considered to be a gift from China (late Han Dynasty) in 57 AD. The seal has been designated as a National Treasure of Japan and is currently on display at the Fukuoka City Museum.
Enjoy the cuisine!
You certainly don’t want to miss out on the fresh seafood during your trip to Shikanoshima. The island’s ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and restaurants offer seafood bowls alongside the famous sazae (turban shell) bowls.
You can even get a taste of sazae no tsuboyaki (turban grilled in its own shell) at general variety stores. The island’s famous sazae bowls are a delectable delight consisting of island sazae, wakame seaweed, and shrimp enveloped in egg, a dish suffused with the flavors of the ocean.
Tips
There are bike lanes on both sides of the road that allow cyclists to ride stress-free. As bicycles must be ridden on the left side of the road, you can ride along the coast as long as you circle the island in a clockwise direction.
Those bringing their own bicycles can transport them via the Fukuoka Municipal Ferry. However, due to the limited space provided by the ferries for bicycles, it is best to notify the service in advance.
Shikashima Cycle
Bicycle rental spots
A bike rental shop and cafe at the entrance of Shikanoshima. They offer an array of cross bikes and mountain bikes, among others.
A bicycle station located inside Uminonakamichi Seaside Park. Those looking to get the most out of cycling can rent a bicycle and ride along the coastal public road to Shikanoshima.
Cross bike 2,500 yen/3 hours + 1,000-yen insurance fee
Address
Minato Rest House in Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, 18-25 Saitozaki, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka
Business hours
10:00 AM-5:00 PM (Rentals until 3:00 PM)
Regular holiday
Wednesdays (Thursdays when Wednesday falls on a national holiday)
I was born in Kagoshima Prefecture and have lived in different parts of Kyushu. A lover of food, sake, and hot springs in Kyushu, my goal is to become a “Sen-nin” (hot spring master), the highest rank for those who accomplish the “Tour of the Eighty-eight Hot Springs in Kyushu.” I hope to convey the fascinating aspects of Japan while featuring my beloved homeland Kyushu!
