Overview
Atmosphere and Appeal of the Café — Coastal Charm Amidst Scenic Beauty
Dolce Ice Cream, located along the picturesque Shimanami Kaido cycling route, offers a delightful and refreshing retreat for travelers. This gelato shop stands out with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views of the Seto Inland Sea. Its inviting interior, enhanced by colorful decor and ample seating, creates a warm ambiance for both relaxation and enjoyment. The café also features an outdoor terrace where visitors can savor their gelato while taking in the gorgeous scenery of the surrounding area, making it an appealing spot for both cyclists and casual visitors alike. Founded with a passion for quality and local ingredients, Dolce Ice Cream emphasizes a commitment to community and craftsmanship.
Signature Drinks & Sweets — A Celebration of Local Flavors
Dolce Ice Cream is famed for its artisanal gelato, which showcases a variety of unique flavors inspired by local ingredients. Among the must-try items are the Setoda Lemon gelato, which captures the essence of the region’s citrus heritage, and the delectable Decor Orange, known for its fresh and vibrant taste. The appealing combination of flavors, such as the lightly salted pistachio and the creamy sea salt & milk gelato, offers a delightful balance of sweetness and depth. Each serving is a visual treat, with colorful swirls that tempt the palate and brighten the day. Patrons often rave about the refreshing and invigorating qualities of these treats, adding to their overall indulgence.
Food/Menu Genre — Locally Inspired Gelato Crafted with Care
The menu at Dolce Ice Cream is centered around high-quality, handcrafted gelato made from locally sourced ingredients. Each flavor is thoughtfully created to showcase the richness of seasonal produce from the Seto Inland region, with an emphasis on fresh fruit and traditional recipes. The offerings cater to a range of tastes while prioritizing the use of local, organic fruits, particularly the beloved citrus varieties that flourish in the warm climate of the area. This commitment to locally inspired and crafted gelato not only emphasizes flavor but also supports the local agricultural community.
Reviews
"Located along the Shimanami Kaido, this gelato shop is a delightful surprise for cyclists. The quality of the flavors is impressive, especially the rich sweetness of the pistachio and the creamy taste of the salt and lemon. It's a great stop to enjoy delicious gelato after a ride. The picturesque seaside location enhances the experience beautifully."
"I returned to this popular gelato spot during a road trip, enjoying a refreshing bowl of Setoda lemon and Dekosuke orange while soaking in the sea view. The flavors were delightful, making it hard to resist the urge to order more. A fantastic stop that brings joy to the journey."
"At the Shimanami Kaido Dolci main store, I experienced a wonderful mix of fig, salt, and pistachio gelato. Each flavor brought its unique charm, especially the fig's natural sweetness. The vibrant presentation and taste made it a memorable treat, perfect for enjoying by the seaside."
"I stumbled upon this lovely gelato parlor while cycling along the Shimanami Kaido—it was a delightful find. I chose a classic chocolate chip cone that provided just the right amount of sweetness to revitalize my tired legs. The scenic surroundings made the experience even more enjoyable."
"During my visit, I couldn't resist the delightful offerings at this legendary gelato shop. The rich flavor of fig combined with a gentle sweetness made for a satisfying dessert. While I didn’t have a chance to try all the flavors, the enticing options left me eager to return and explore more."
Opening Hours
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
How to Get There
Train / Subway
3.3km (2.05mi) from Sawaminato
2.6km (1.64mi) from Mukaida Port
3.4km (2.10mi) from Innoshima Island (Setoda Port) (Route)
2.6km (1.64mi) from Mukaida Port
3.4km (2.10mi) from Innoshima Island (Setoda Port) (Route)
Bus stop
845m (0.53mi) from Ocean Center - about a 13-minute walk
Map
20-8 Setodachōhayashi, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-2416, Japan
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Things to Do in the Area
Hiroshima - A City of Resilience and Remembrance
Hiroshima is renowned not only for its historical significance but also for its beautiful parks and cultural heritage. Visitors will find a unique blend of somber memorials and vibrant city life.
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: This serene park is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945, featuring poignant monuments, including the famous Atomic Bomb Dome. It serves as a powerful reminder of the past and a symbol of peace for future generations.
- Hiroshima Castle: Also known as Carp Castle, this reconstructed fortress offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s feudal history. The surrounding gardens provide a picturesque view, especially during cherry blossom season.
- Shukkeien Garden: An exquisite traditional Japanese landscape garden, Shukkeien boasts beautifully arranged ponds, hills, and tea houses. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying seasonal changes throughout the year.
Onomichi - A Scenic Gateway to the Setouchi Region
Onomichi is a charming hillside town famous for its scenic views, historic temples, and the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido cycling route. This quaint port city offers a wonderful mix of nature and culture.
- Onomichi Temple Walk: This picturesque trail takes visitors through a series of historic temples and shrines, providing a fascinating look at the region's spiritual heritage. Each stop offers unique architecture and insights into Japanese Buddhism.
- Senkoji Park: Situated on a hilltop, this park provides panoramic views of Onomichi and the Seto Inland Sea. It’s adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
- Buddhist Temple Kosanji: Known for its stunning architecture and colorful design, this temple is not only a spiritual site but also an art piece in itself. Its unique structures and scenic surroundings attract art lovers and spiritual seekers alike.