Bicycle Path Planned for Ōnaruto Bridge: Officials Visit Construction Site Ahead of Work
Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture is advancing plans for a dedicated bicycle path on the iconic Ōnaruto Bridge, linking Awaji Island to Shikoku. During the annual Akashi Kaikyō Bridge Seaside Walk event—which now includes an optional half-walk across the Ōnaruto Bridge—prefecture staff inspected the site where full-scale construction is slated to begin next year. This initiative aims to boost cycling infrastructure and sustainable mobility in the region.
Background
The Ōnaruto Bridge, part of the vital Honshū-Shikoku Bridge Expressway system spanning the Seto Inland Sea, has long been a key artery for vehicular traffic between Hyogo Prefecture’s Awaji Island and Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku. The bridge walk event, a popular annual attraction allowing participants to traverse approximately 4 km of the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge’s under-road management path, was expanded this year to include a partial walk on the Ōnaruto Bridge. Hyogo Channel, the prefecture’s official video platform, released footage from the inspection, highlighting the designated areas for the new bicycle lane. Supporting documents from Hyogo Prefecture’s road improvement committee and the Honshū-Shikoku Bridge Expressway Company (JB Honshi) outline long-term infrastructure enhancements, including dedicated cycling facilities to promote safer and greener transport options amid growing demand for non-motorized travel.
Future Outlook
With construction set to ramp up in 2026, the bicycle path is expected to open new opportunities for cyclists, tourists, and commuters, fostering connections between Awaji Island’s scenic routes and Shikoku’s networks. This project aligns with broader Japanese efforts to expand cycling infrastructure, potentially integrating with national sustainable transportation goals and events like bridge walks. Enhanced safety features and scenic views could boost eco-tourism, while reducing reliance on cars across the Inland Sea region.