[Onomichi Sightseeing] A comprehensive guide to Onomichi's charms, from exploring its hilly streets and strolling along the coast to the Shimanami Kaido.

The sights to see in Onomichi can be broadly divided into three areas.

Divided by the JR Sanyo Main Line, the area is divided into two distinct zones: the hillside area, dotted with temples and old houses, features a labyrinthine network of sloping streets; and the seaside area, with a shopping district offering gourmet food and souvenirs.
Furthermore, in the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido area, where islands stretch out before you, even beginners can easily enjoy island hopping by using rental bicycles or ferries.

We recommend creating a sightseeing plan that combines walking, cycling, and boat trips, using Onomichi Station as your base.

• Onomichi is like this
• How to enjoy the hilly area
• How to enjoy the seaside area
• How to enjoy the Shimanami Kaido area
• Access to Onomichi
• Here are some recommended souvenirs that capture the essence of Onomichi.
• Be sure to check out the tourist brochure that encapsulates the charm of Onomichi!

Onomichi, accessible from Hiroshima City by train or ferry, is a port town that stretches east and west along the Onomichi Channel. Having escaped the ravages of war, many old temples and houses remain on its slopes, creating a unique landscape of winding alleys. Known as a town of hills and temples, and as a setting for literature and films, its charm lies in the fact that you can encounter a different face with every step. Furthermore, it is the starting point of the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido, which connects the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, making it possible to easily enjoy island hopping by boat or bicycle, a unique feature of Onomichi. With its Onomichi ramen and abundant Onomichi souvenirs, it is a place full of diverse ways to enjoy yourself.

In Onomichi, which flourished as a port town in the Middle Ages, wealth was brought in by the movement of people and goods, and many temples were donated. Within a 2km radius at the foot of Senkoji Mountain, there are 25 temples that have existed since the Middle Ages, and the cluster of houses around the temples has created a unique townscape of winding narrow alleys. In this area where you can feel the layers of history just by walking, the "Onomichi Seven Buddha Pilgrimage" is the perfect way to experience the essence of Onomichi. It involves visiting seven ancient temples in Onomichi while praying for the fulfillment of your wishes, and at each temple you can receive a temple stamp or a power stone. As you follow the scenery woven from slopes, temples, and alleys, you can touch upon the origins of Onomichi and its profound charm.

With its unique slopes, alleys, and sea views, Onomichi has long been the setting for numerous literary works and films. The hillside areas are dotted with places associated with writers and poets, and landscapes reminiscent of stories, making you feel as if you've stepped into a fictional world just by walking around. As you stroll through the quiet temple grounds, scenic hilltops, and traditional townscapes, reflect on the stories that Onomichi has woven. The scenery, imbued with literature and film, will make your stroll even more enjoyable.

The seaside area along the Onomichi Channel is home to traditional shopping streets and culinary hotspots. One must-try is Onomichi Ramen, a local specialty representing Onomichi. Characterized by its soy sauce-based broth made with chicken and seafood stock, topped with floating pork back fat, Onomichi Ramen offers a diverse range of flavors, from long-established shops to those boasting their own unique tastes, making it a delightful experience to sample different bowls. It's easy to stop by during your stroll, so why not enjoy some Onomichi Ramen while walking through the retro shopping streets?

The seaside area is home to many shopping spots that embody the unique character of Onomichi. ONOMICHI U2, a renovated shipping warehouse, houses shops, cafes, a hotel, and other establishments, making it an attractive place to stop by while soaking up the atmosphere of a port town.

Onomichi Hon-dori Shopping Street is lined with specialty shops selling Onomichi-related products such as kamaboko (fish cakes) and canvas goods, making it a fun place to stroll around and look for souvenirs.

The Shimanami Kaido is a 60km-long expressway connecting islands between Onomichi City and Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture. Along the route, there are well-maintained cycle paths and 10 rental bicycle terminals, making it known as a "cyclist's paradise." You can take a ferry to Mukaijima Island (across from Onomichi), or a regular ferry to Innoshima and Ikuchijima Islands, allowing you to travel to the islands with your bicycle in one go. Even beginners can enjoy island hopping at their own pace with "Shimanami Short-Ride Cycling," where you can enjoy just the sections you want to ride.

From the white sandy beaches and calm waters of Setoda Sunset Beach to the magnificent pagoda and marble sculpture garden "Hill of the Future" at the Kosanji Museum , each island offers a unique and diverse landscape. Easily accessible by bicycle or boat, even short visits offer a satisfying experience. Here are some stunning spots perfect for a casual stop during your island hopping.

In Onomichi, you can enjoy a variety of activities in addition to cycling.
We introduce experiences that allow you to enjoy the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea's many islands and the relaxed pace of island life, such as day trips for barbecues on small islands and art tours while admiring scenic views.

We introduce souvenirs made in Onomichi, including lemon souvenirs from Ikuchijima Island, the birthplace of domestically grown lemons; hassaku sweets from Innoshima Island, the birthplace of hassaku oranges; and kamaboko (fish cakes) made with seafood from the Seto Inland Sea.

From hillsides and temples to the seaside and the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido, we introduce the sights of Onomichi.
This tourist brochure, which clearly shows the attractions of each area and is helpful for planning your first trip to Onomichi, is also available in PDF format.