A sliding member has a sliding alloy layer, an intermediate layer of Ni or a Ni alloy formed on the sliding alloy layer, and a soft layer of Sn or a Sn alloy formed on the intermediate layer. A recess is formed on the sliding side surface of the sliding alloy layer. The intermediate layer is formed on the inner surface of the recess. The sliding member is subjected to a heat treatment, whereby there are formed intermetallic compounds in the soft layer, which extend protrudently from the intermediate layer.