Shikoku — Expressways & Toll Roads
Island expressways connecting four prefectures via iconic bridges to Honshu
About Shikoku Expressways
Island expressways connecting four prefectures via iconic bridges to Honshu
Shikoku is Japan's smallest main island, famous for the 88-temple pilgrimage route, spectacular bridge crossings to Honshu, and unspoiled natural beauty. The island's expressway network connects its four prefectures - Ehime, Kagawa, Kochi, and Tokushima - while three major bridge routes provide access from the mainland.
8
Expressways
4
Prefectures
18,800
km² Area
3.8M
Population
Bridge Routes to Honshu
🌉 Shimanami Kaido (Nishi-Seto Expressway)
Series of 6 bridges connecting Onomichi (Hiroshima) to Imabari (Ehime). Famous for cycling route with dedicated bike lanes.
🌉 Seto Ohashi Bridge (Seto-Chuo Expressway)
Iconic 13.1 km bridge connecting Okayama to Kagawa. Double-deck design with road on top and rail below.
🌉 Akashi Kaikyo Bridge (Kobe-Awaji-Naruto)
World's longest suspension bridge (main span 1,991m) connecting Kobe to Awaji Island and on to Tokushima.
Shikoku Expressways
Key Routes & Highlights
- ✓Shimanami Kaido (Island Bridge Route)
- ✓Seto Ohashi Bridge
- ✓88 Temple Pilgrimage Access
- ✓Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama - Japan's oldest hot spring
- ✓Naruto whirlpools viewpoint near Tokushima
- ✓Iya Valley vine bridges and scenic mountain roads
Major Cities Connected
Shikoku Driving Tips
🌉 Bridge Tolls
All three Honshu bridges have tolls. ETC discounts vary - check before travel.
🚴 Shimanami Cycling
Rent bikes in Onomichi or Imabari. Separate toll for cyclists on each bridge.
⛩️ 88 Temple Route
Many temples near expressway exits. Traditional pilgrimage takes 30-60 days by car.
📱 ETC Benefits
Significant bridge discounts with ETC, especially on weekends.
Roadway Alerts & Notices
ShikokuNo current roadway alerts for this region
All clear! Check back for future updates.