Things to do in

Onomichi

Spend your day with a private, licensed guide who can share authentic insights about local culture in Onomichi. Let the guide know what you would like to experience and create your ideal itinerary. Get a glimpse of a quaint Japan of yesteryear in this old-timey seaport town. Embrace its retro-chic charm with its hills full of temples, literary sites, and cats.  Choose to visit the hilltop temple, Senkō-ji, with its commanding view of Onomichi, the Seto Inland Sea, and other islands. After visiting the temple, take a walk through Senkō-ji Park. Take the ropeway and head up to the temple and come down gradually by walking down the slope so that you can enjoy the feeling of Onomichi as the “town of slopes.” Along the way, pass Senkō-ji Shinmichi, which is a symbol of Onomichi. Old houses line this narrow hill road where the former residences of literary masters remain. Stroll down Neko no Hosomichi, a lane that stretches from the east of Ushitora Shrine to the three-floor pagoda of Tennei-ji Temple. See the adorable fukuishi-neko (lucky stone cats) scattered along the alley, and stop by the small Maneki-neko Museum. Visit the Buddhist Kōsan-ji Temple and hear the story of the Osakan industrialist who constructed it in memory of his deceased mother. Explore its wide grounds, with splendid buildings modeled after famous architecture from all over the country. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous dish, Onomichi ramen. Get recommendations from your guide about the local ramen shops and try the light-tasting soup with seafood from the Seto Inland Sea.