genki Introduction | A Gateway Island Between Shimanami Kaido and Imabari
Oshima is the island located closest to Imabari City on the Shikoku side of the Shimanami Kaido.
Positioned along the route connecting Honshu and Shikoku, it functions not just as a passage point, but as a hub for daily life and industry.
Unlike some of the quieter, more tourism-focused islands, Oshima has a slightly more dynamic atmosphere, where you can feel the movement of people and the presence of work. Industries such as shipbuilding have long been rooted here, and the island continues to maintain a strong identity as a place of employment.
At the same time, Oshima offers expansive coastlines and open views, allowing residents and visitors to experience the calm beauty of the Seto Inland Sea. Its relatively large scale is also one of its defining characteristics.
Accessibility, functionality, and natural surroundings—
the way these elements intersect seamlessly is what makes Oshima unique.
Basic Information
Location: Oshima, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture
Area: Approx. 41.9 km²
Population: Approx. 6,000
Access:
Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge (toward Imabari)
Hakata-Ōshima Bridge (toward Hakatajima)
Both are part of the Shimanami Kaido route
As the island closest to Imabari City, Oshima serves as a gateway to the Shimanami Kaido. With excellent access to both Honshu and Shikoku, it offers a practical base for commuting and daily life, while still retaining the natural charm of island living.
Atmosphere | Where Movement and Coastal Scenery Coexist
Oshima is one of the more “active” islands along the Shimanami Kaido.
Due to its proximity to Imabari, there is a constant flow of people and goods, creating a more energetic daily rhythm compared to other islands. In addition to tourists, many people pass through the island as part of their daily commute or work, contributing to its practical and lived-in atmosphere.
At the same time, the coastline offers peaceful views of the Seto Inland Sea, and quieter residential areas and traditional neighborhoods can still be found just off the main routes.
With established industries such as shipbuilding, Oshima is not merely a tourist destination, but also a working island with a strong economic presence.
Convenience, everyday life, and nature—
these elements blend together to form the island’s distinctive character.
Things to See in Oshima｜Dynamic Seascapes and Iconic Views
Oshima offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the Seto Inland Sea, along with iconic landmarks of the Shimanami Kaido.
One of the most notable attractions is the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, which connects Oshima to Imabari. Known as the world’s first triple suspension bridge, it is admired for both its engineering scale and the sweeping views it offers over the fast-moving currents of the Kurushima Strait.
Around the bridge area, visitors can enjoy ever-changing tidal flows and the sight of ships passing through the strait, experiencing the powerful side of the Seto Inland Sea.
The island also features scenic viewpoints such as Kirosan Observatory Park, as well as coastal drive routes that offer wide, open vistas throughout the journey.
Additionally, Oshima has historical ties to the Murakami Kaizoku (Murakami Pirates), providing a connection to the maritime culture of the region.
Rather than polished tourist facilities, the appeal lies in experiencing the raw combination of bridges, sea, terrain, and history.
Living on Oshima｜A Balance of Convenience and Island Life
Oshima is one of the few islands along the Shimanami Kaido where convenience and island living can truly coexist.
Thanks to its proximity to Imabari City, residents benefit from easy access to urban amenities while enjoying a quieter island environment.
Daily necessities such as supermarkets, restaurants, and local shops are available on the island, allowing for a largely self-sufficient lifestyle. In addition, a short drive provides access to larger medical facilities and commercial centers in Imabari, expanding everyday options.
Key Points for Living
- Excellent access to Imabari City
- Balanced availability of daily facilities both on and off the island
Due to its relatively large size, Oshima offers a variety of living environments, from convenient roadside areas to more secluded and scenic locations.
The ability to enjoy island life while maintaining practical living standards is one of Oshima’s greatest strengths.
Real Estate & Vacant House Trends
On Oshima, properties vary widely depending on location and intended use, including:
- Residential areas near main roads and closer to Imabari
- Detached houses spread across different districts
- Properties with relatively spacious land plots
Because of the island’s size, each area has its own characteristics, making it easier to choose a property that matches a specific lifestyle—whether prioritizing convenience or scenic views.
Older homes are common, and renovation is often part of the process. Some properties also offer larger plots of land, making them suitable for combined residential and workspace use.
Rather than being tourism-driven, Oshima’s real estate market is characterized by properties that support both living and working.
Who Oshima Is Ideal For
- Those seeking a balance between convenience and island living
- Those who want a calm lifestyle with access to a city
- Those looking to combine work and living in one place
- Those who prefer an environment with a moderate level of activity
Conclusion | Oshima as a “Practical Island for Living”
Oshima is one of the most practical islands along the Shimanami Kaido when it comes to envisioning daily life.
While surrounded by the natural beauty of the sea, its close connection to Imabari City and its industrial base provide a stable foundation for living.
An environment where daily life and work coexist—
and where convenience meets the charm of island living.
For those seeking both, Oshima stands out as a highly compelling option.