Onomichi
Hillside temples, cats and the start of the Shimanami Kaido.
Why Japanese travelers love itIt feels like a film set: slopes, temples, cats and the sea, plus a bowl of Onomichi ramen.
Onomichi is an old port town squeezed between steep hills and a narrow strait. Stone steps and alleys climb past dozens of temples, with sea views at every turn. Many Japanese films were shot here. It is also the starting point of the Shimanami Kaido, a cycling route across island bridges to Shikoku. Rent a bike at the port and ride as far as you like.
Best time: Spring and autumn for walking and cycling. Summer is hot on the slopes.
Weather
Average temperature, °C. JMA 1991–2020 normals (Fukuyama AMeDAS (JMA)).
Top 5
- Temple WalkA trail linking temples across the hillside.
- Senko-jiHilltop temple with a ropeway and wide views.
- Shimanami KaidoAbout 60 km of bridges and islands to Shikoku.
- ONOMICHI U2A converted warehouse with a bike shop, bakery and restaurant.
- Onomichi ramenSoy broth with pork back fat.
A simple day
- Ropeway up to Senko-ji.
- Walk down the Temple Walk.
- Onomichi ramen lunch.
- Ferry to Mukaishima and cycle a short stretch.
- Sunset on the waterfront.
Where to stay
- WaterfrontNear the station and bike rental.
- Hillside guesthousesOld houses with sea views; expect steps.
Getting there
Fukuyama → Onomichi: about 20 min by JR (Fukuyama is on the shinkansen). Hiroshima → Onomichi: about 80 min by local train.
psst — skip this mistake: Big suitcases on the slopes. Leave them at the station or your hotel.