• Senkoji & Senkoji Park - Senkō-ji is renowned as the most notable and stunning temple in Onomichi. It features the kyō-onrō, a bell tower whose bell rings in the new year, and is recognized as one of the ‘100 soundscapes of Japan’. The temple seems to be nestled into the hillside, offering views of the sea, and can be accessed via the historic temple walk (a steep 15- to 25-minute hike for most) or by the Senkō-ji-yama Ropeway.
• Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art - Hirayama Ikuo, a celebrated Japanese painter, was known for his work in the traditional Nihonga style. The Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art (平山郁夫美術館, Hirayama Ikuo Bijutsukan) is situated on Ikuchijima Island, where the artist was born in 1930. Hirayama passed away in 2009.

Hirayama’s work consistently explored themes such as peace, influenced by his experiences as a student in Hiroshima in 1945, witnessing the atomic bomb’s devastation and suffering from radiation effects. Another recurring theme was cultural exchanges within the Orient, especially the introduction of Buddhism to Japan.

The Hirayama Museum is modern and well-maintained, featuring three spacious exhibition halls, a tea lounge, and a museum shop. It houses a permanent collection of Hirayama’s work from throughout his career, along with special exhibitions.

• Tatara Bridge - Tatara Bridge, with a central span of 890 meters, is the second longest cable-stayed bridge in the world. Initially planned as a suspension bridge, the design was revised to a cable-stayed bridge to preserve the surrounding nature and due to economic considerations, alongside advancements in cable-stayed bridge technology. The tower stands 226 meters above sea level, marking the highest point on the route. Tatara Bridge has a sister bridge alliance with Normandy Bridge in France, the third longest cable-stayed bridge globally.

• Neko no Hosomichi - Neko no Hosomichi stretches approximately 200 meters from the eastern side of Ushitora Shrine to the three-story pagoda of Tennei-ji Temple. The area is named for the numerous Fukuishi Cats (stones painted with cat images) left there by Shunji Sonoyama, an artist residing in Onomichi. The Maneki-neko Museum in the area offers a delightful scene of “cats and Onomichi”.

• Hondori Shopping Street - Hiroshima’s vibrant downtown area is highlighted by Hondori Street, a pedestrian arcade closed to traffic and lined with shops and restaurants. It begins near the Peace Park and extends east for about half a kilometer. Aioidori (Aioi Street), running parallel to Hondori, is the main street for cars and trams, featuring several large department stores for more shopping options.

Visitors to Hiroshima’s downtown should try Hiroshima Style Okonomiyaki, a local specialty available at many restaurants along Hondori and Aioi streets. Okonomimura, or Okonomiyaki Village, located just south of Hondori’s eastern end, is dedicated to okonomiyaki and offers numerous dining choices, making it a convenient spot for a meal break.

• Kosanji Temple - Kosanji Temple (耕三寺, Kōsanji) is on Ikuchijima Island and is part of the True Pure Land Sect of Japanese Buddhism. Founded in 1936 by a successful businessman inspired by his devotion to his mother, the temple’s construction spanned over 30 years. Visitors may experience a sense of déjà vu as many buildings are replicas of Japan’s famous temple structures.

The replicas at Kosanji are impressive, including copies of Nikko Toshogu’s Yomeimon Gate and Byodoin’s Phoenix Hall. The temple complex is colorful and varied, yet maintains a cohesive style. A notable feature is a long cave displaying images depicting the tortures of Buddhist hell.

• Innoshima Bridge - Spanning 1270 meters, Innoshima Bridge connects Mukaishima Island with Innoshima Island and is part of the Shimanami Kaido. At its base on the Innoshima Island side, visitors will find Innoshima Bridge Memorial Park.
• Mukaishima - Mukaishima is the sixth island from Imabari City.
• Tenneiji Temple - Built in 1367 by Yoshiakira Ashikaga, the second shogun of the Muromachi Period, and founded by Fumyo Kokushi, Tenneiji Temple features the Kaiun Pagoda, an important cultural property, and a collection of 500 arhats lining the Rakan Hall beside the main hall. The weeping cherry blossoms in early April and peonies in late April are must-see attractions.

• Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Onomichi
• Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from ‘What to expect’ list

• Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
• Private Vehicle, No Bicycles Allowed.
• You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
• Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

This value-packed journey with a government-licensed, experienced English-speaking guide offers a wonderful and efficient way to discover Onomichi!

Onomichi is a charming, historic seaport town with hills adorned with temples, literary landmarks, and cats. Local businesses are increasingly embracing its retro-chic allure, offering visitors a glimpse into a quaint Japan of the past. For many travelers, Onomichi serves as the starting point for cycling the Shimanami Kaidō, a series of road bridges that enable island-hopping across the Inland Sea to Shikoku.

After booking, inform the guide of your interests, and they will tailor a six-hour tour to suit your preferences! You can select 3 to 4 sites from the “what to expect” list to craft your itinerary.

• This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.
• No Bicycles Allowed.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.