⚠️ Opening hours, prices and access conditions may change without notice, for reasons beyond our control (season, weather, decisions by operators, establishments or local authorities). Before each trip, check the information with the relevant authorities and service providers.
Shōdoshima: a hire car is the most practical option
Shōdoshima’s buses serve the south coast well, but far less the north and the interior, where Kankakei, Nakayama and the Great Kannon are. A hire car, collected on arrival at Tonoshō, Fukuda or Ikeda port, often with fuel included, lets you see everything at your own pace. Drivers from France, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Monaco and Taiwan must show an official Japanese translation of their licence, while UK, US and most other drivers need an International Driving Permit (1949 Geneva Convention). At weekends, also book a space for the car on the ferry.
See offers on DiscoverCars.com →Partner link: if you book through this link, Dem-Tukki earns a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Shōdoshima Ferry company’s rental arm has two branches at Tonoshō and Fukuda ports, open 8 am to 6 pm. Small cars at ¥9,900 for 24 hours in 2026, fuel included, booked by phone only, up to two months ahead.
Official websiteshikokuferry.com→At Ikeda port, the ferry company rents cars from ¥2,600 for 2 hours, fuel included, and 16 e-bikes at ¥1,700 for 4 hours or ¥2,200 a day, 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. Three Toyota Share car-sharing vehicles are also available nearby.
Official websiteryobi-shodoshima.jp→The island’s bus company runs 6 regular routes and 3 municipal routes, including the seasonal Kankakei route, with new timetables since 1 April 2026. The day pass cost ¥1,600 in October 2026, and IC cards are accepted.
Official websiteshodoshima-olive-bus.com→The island’s taxi and bus company, which also offers 3- or 6-hour private taxi tours, including to neighbouring Teshima island. Taxis are booked by phone or online, which is advisable for reaching the north and the interior.
Official websiteshodoshima-kotu.com→