The Most Beautiful Japan City Nobody Talks About (YouTube link)
Onomichi is a quaint port town nestled along the scenic Seto Inland Sea in eastern Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The town spreads out from the mainland onto neighboring islands, connected by the bridges of the Shimanami Kaido route. ferries also operate between downtown and the islands, adding to Onomichi's nostalgic port town atmosphere.
Onomichi is characterized by its many slopes. Many of the town's attractions are located along these slopes, and visitors will enjoy exploring the narrow alleys and streets that wind through the residential areas. A popular activity for visitors is the Temple Walk, a 2.5 kilometer hike that winds its way past 25 temples. Despite its compact size, Onomichi has played a significant role in Japanese culture. Respected authors and directors were born in the city, and it has been the filming location for numerous movies and TV dramas.
Jodo-ji 浄土寺: Explore this temple said to have been built in 616.
The Temple Walk starts just north of the first bridge crossing over the train tracks, approximately 200 meters east of Onomichi Station.
A taxi ride from Onomichi Station to the far end of the Temple Walk takes a few minutes and costs around 800 yen. Taxis are readily available in front of Onomichi Station, but may be hard to find at the other end of the Temple Walk.
Senkoji Temple千光寺: Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic temple. Senkoji Temple is located at an altitude of 140m on the slopes of Mt. Daiho, overlooking Onomichi Port. It was founded by Kobo Daishi (in 806), and is said to have been restored by Tada Mitsunaka.
Cat Alley:Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi猫の細道 ) is a 200-meter-long alley running along the left side of Ushitora Shrine, the oldest shrine in Onomichi. It extends on both sides at the end of the alley, continuing silently, as if guarded by the camphor trees of Ushitora Shrine.
Saikokuji Temple: See the interesting pairs of 2 meter high sandals hanging from the Niomon gate.
The Shimanami Kaido crosses six islands. Opened in 1999, it offers modern bridges and beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea and island towns.
Read this article for the bike rental information.
Kosanji Temple: Kosanji Temple (耕三寺, Kōsanji; Hours: 9 AM-5 PM), on Ikuchijima Island 生口島, belongs to the True Pure Land Sect of Japanese Buddhism. Founded in 1936 by a businessman devoted to his mother, the temple's construction spanned over 30 years. Many buildings are modeled after Japan's famous temples, including impressive replicas of Nikko Toshogu's Yomeimon Gate and Byodoin's Phoenix Hall, offering a colorful and varied complex.
Cave of 1000 Buddhas 千仏洞地獄峡: This cave allows visitors to visually experience the Ojoyoshu, written by Pure Land Buddhism founder Genshin Wajo. The 350-meter-long cavern, made of Mount Fuji lava and Mount Asama burnt stones, depicts hell and paradise with carved scenes and around 1,000 stone Buddha statues by sculptors Magose Mitsuo and Shohachi from Imabari City. Today, as hell and paradise are often overlooked, we encourage you to revisit this cave.
The Hill of Hope: As part of its artistic activities, the museum is working on "Hill of the Hope未来心の丘," a 5,000-square-meter white marble garden by world-renowned sculptor Kuetani Iitto. The marble, mined in Carrara, Italy, was transported by container ship. The garden features monuments, squares, and paths of various shapes and sizes. Kuetani Iitto always considered harmony with nature, including the surrounding scenery, wind, rain, and light when creating his works.
Onomichi City Museum of Art: The annual Onomichi City Art Exhibition, held every June since 1957 at the Onomichi City Museum of Art, showcases local artists' works and enriches the city's cultural vibrancy. It features Japanese and Western paintings, sculpture, crafts, calligraphy, photography, and design. The museum offers a great view of the city, especially in the misty mornings, and houses an impressive jewelry collection with intricate laces.
Enjoy fresh seafood or other local delicacies
Setouchi lemon: The Seto Inland Sea is known for its lemons, mandarins, and other citrus fruits. Onomichi, connecting many islands with the mainland, offers various "Setouchi lemon" products. From ice cream and sweet drinks to lemon-flavored beer, you can find these treats in most shops around Onomichi.
Take a boat tour of the Seto Inland Sea.
Click here to find the starting point of Temple Walk on Google Map
Download official Onomichi map (pdf or click to enlarge)
Top 10 Best Things To Do In Okayama, Japan (YouTube link)
Basking in the nickname "Land of Sunshine," Okayama 岡山市 boasts beautiful weather, perfect for exploring its many treasures. From serene gardens to captivating art and rich history, Okayama offers a delightful smorgasbord of experiences. Unlike the bustling crowds of other Japanese hotspots, Okayama allows you to immerse yourself in its charm at a relaxed pace.
Things to Do
Okayama is a destination worth visiting. It’s known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural significance. Here are some highlights that make Okayama special:
Okayama Korakuen Garden 岡山後楽園: One of Japan’s Three Best Landscape Gardens, offering peaceful walks and traditional landscape design.
Featuring a pond, a plum grove, a tea plantation, and a Noh Stage, this circuit-style garden offers various attractions for visitors to enjoy. One must-see highlight is the view from atop Yuishinzan Hill, overlooking the garden. Visitors are encouraged to explore both the garden and Okayama Castle, which towers on the opposite shore of the garden's pond.
Boat rental: Hekisuien offers Swan boats, hand rowing boats, and Peach boats for rental. Enjoy a relaxing time on the gently flowing Asahi River. Feel free to bring any drinks and food ordered from the café on board.
Kibitsu Shrine: A significant religious site, once the head shrine of the Kibi Kingdom, is the region's most important shrine. It features long covered corridors and a striking main hall on the mountain. Legend says Prince Kibitsuhiko battled an ogre here, causing it to turn into a bird and fly away.
Okayama Castle: Also known as “Crow Castle” due to its black exterior, it provides a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
Inside the six-story castle keep, you'll find exhibits about the castle's history and development. Additionally, the castle park features a pottery studio where visitors can craft Bizen-yaki, a pottery type native to Okayama Prefecture. Advance reservations are recommended.
Okayama Temple Walk: Okayama Temple Walk lets you wander amidst serene gardens and historic temples, soaking in the city's cultural and spiritual atmosphere.
Kibi Plain (吉備路, Kibiji) : A charming area with an attractive 17-kilometer cycling route connecting Bizen-Ichinomiya and Soja Stations. The route follows the legend of Prince Kibitsuhiko, passing important shrines, temples, and burial mounds. While the trip can be made in either direction, it's easier to start from Bizen-Ichinomiya Station. Bicycles can be rented and returned at either station or the rental shop near Bitchu-Kokubunji Temple.
Naoshima: Naoshima (直島) is an island in the Seto Inland Sea that is known for its contemporary art museums, architecture and sculptures.
THE VENICE OF JAPAN | Exploring Kurashiki's Historical Town (YouTube link)
