A new attraction on the Shimanami Kaido! Accommodation "WAKKA" in Omishima (Ehime Prefecture)

The "Shimanami Kaido" connects Ehime and Hiroshima by islands and bridges. Located in the middle of this route, WAKKA on Omishima Island (Ehime Prefecture) is a popular stopover spot for cyclists.

Creating a New Attraction for the Shimanami Kaido

WAKKA opened in March 2020, just as the new Corona was beginning to spread throughout Japan, and was started by Arashi Murakami, who used to run an IT company and whose grandfather lived on the Seto Inland Sea island. Mr. Murakami had frequently visited the area for cycling before starting the business, and he decided that he wanted some kind of new facility on Omishima Island, which is rich in nature and has wonderful scenery.

A variety of accommodations and activities with views of the Seto Inland Sea

WAKKA is a comprehensive tourism facility where you can enjoy lodging, a cafe, and activities. In addition to a variety of accommodation facilities such as trailer houses, dormitories, and dome tents, which can be easily used, cottages and dome tents also offer barbecues, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious time while looking at the sea and starry sky.

In the spring of 2024, a residence with ocean-view bedrooms, kitchens, and other private spaces will also open. The view of the Tatara Bridge on the border of the prefecture is a luxury in itself. In addition to accommodations, the residence offers activities such as cruising, fishing, SUP, and cycling support, and is gaining popularity as a base for experiencing the charms of the Shimanami Kaido.

Welcoming many cyclists from Europe and the U.S.

More than 30% of WAKKA users are travelers from overseas. Recently, there have been months when 60% of the guests are from overseas. Among them, many are cyclists from Europe and the United States, indicating that the Shimanami Kaido is a world-class cycling course. Cyclists who are not guests often stop by for lunch at the café or to enjoy coffee supervised by one of Japan's best baristas. The view of the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and the Tatara Ohashi Bridge and feeling the sea breeze is a unique experience here.

WAKKA connects the harmony of people and the circle of islands

The name "WAKKA" is based on the words "harmony of people," "circle of islands," and "connection," and features a sound and spelling that are easy to pronounce and remember, even for foreigners. The logo is also based on the image of a bicycle wheel and the citrus fruits of Omishima, and is a symbol of the company's commitment to the Shimanami Kaido.

As the name implies, the event will focus on local exchange, and plans to add more events in the future, such as seasonal island events, music, and activities. Murakami's favorite part of the Shimanami landscape is the view of the sunrise over the islands. I want more people to have special experiences here, where the sunrise is so beautiful," he says, "and I want to enliven the entire region. This is the future that WAKKA envisions.