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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Onomichi.
Onomichi is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored.
This charming city is a feast for the senses, with its winding streets, colorful alleys, and breathtaking views.
Whether you are a history buff, foodie, or simply seeking a change of pace, there is something for everyone in Onomichi.
So, pack your bags, leave your worries behind and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of this coastal town.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Onomichi:
1. Senko-ji Temple
Senko-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
It is situated on top of a hill and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding Seto Inland Sea.
What to see or do: The temple is home to many beautiful buildings, statues, and gardens, including the Main Hall, the Bell Tower, and the Kannon-do Hall.
Visitors can take a cable car or climb the 200+ stairs to reach the temple. At the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and sea.
There is also a small museum showcasing the temple’s history and cultural significance.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the famous “Viewing Stones,” a collection of intricately carved rocks that resemble different objects and animals.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid the crowds, visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
2. Onomichi City Museum of Art
Onomichi City Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum located in Onomichi, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum houses a collection of modern and contemporary Japanese art, as well as temporary exhibitions showcasing a variety of mediums and styles.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the museum’s rooftop garden, which offers stunning views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a fan of vintage film, don’t miss the museum’s film collection featuring works from prominent Japanese directors.
Additionally, the museum is located near the famous “Onomichi Ramen Street”, where you can find some of the best ramen in the city.
3. Onomichi Castle
Onomichi Castle is a historical castle located in the Onomichi city of the Hiroshima prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle grounds and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area. The castle is also home to a museum which houses a collection of historical artifacts related to the castle’s history.
Don’t miss: Be sure to climb to the top of the castle’s main tower, which offers spectacular panoramic views of Onomichi and the surrounding hills.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the cherry blossom season in spring for a truly picturesque view.
4. Onomichi Motion Picture Museum
The Onomichi Motion Picture Museum is a unique museum that showcases the history and development of Japanese cinema.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore permanent and special exhibitions that feature Japanese films, actors, directors, and other aspects of Japanese cinema. The museum has a collection of over 1,500 items, including movie posters, costumes, and props from famous Japanese films.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the screening of classic Japanese films in its theater. Visitors can enjoy a range of Japanese films, including animated films, samurai films, and comedies.
The museum also has a cinema library that allows visitors to watch films on demand.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit in advance as the museum has specific timings for the film screenings.
5. Mukaishima Island
Mukaishima Island is a small island located in Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: – Take a leisurely bike ride around the island and enjoy the views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Don’t miss: – The stunning view of the Seto Inland Sea from the top of Mount Shiratake.
Insider travel tips: – Rent a bike from Onomichi and take the ferry across to Mukaishima Island.
6. Innoshima Island
Innoshima is a small island located off the coast of Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The island is famous for its stunning botanical garden, the Innoshima Suigun Castle, and the Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art. Visitors can also explore the island’s many beaches, hiking trails, and fishing spots.
Don’t miss: A visit to the Innoshima Suigun Castle, a reconstructed five-story castle that offers panoramic views of the island and its surrounding sea.
Also, make sure to check out the island’s beautiful hydrangea gardens, which are in full bloom during the summer months.
Insider travel tips: Take a leisurely bike ride around the island to fully appreciate its scenic views and tranquil atmosphere. Don’t forget to try the local specialty, Innoshima chuka soba, a delicious noodle dish topped with seafood and vegetables.
7. Saikoku-ji Temple
Saikoku-ji Temple, also known as “The Temple of the Western Paradise,” is a Buddhist temple located in Onomichi, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the stunning architecture of the temple’s main hall, which dates back to 1400. They can also explore the temple’s beautiful gardens, home to several cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring.
Don’t miss: The temple’s unique statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, which is said to heal ailments in the neck and shoulders.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the temple grounds are quite extensive and require a fair amount of walking. Visitors should also bring cash to purchase souvenirs at the temple’s gift shop.
8. Jodo-ji Temple
Jodo-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Onomichi city, Hiroshima prefecture. It is one of the 33 temples on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage route.
What to see or do: Jodo-ji Temple has a beautiful and serene garden with a pond and designated Important Cultural Property buildings.
Visitors can also climb a steep hill to reach the temple and enjoy the panoramic view of Onomichi city and the Seto Inland Sea.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the unique stone statues that line the path to the temple, each with its own personality and story.
Also, don’t forget to try the local specialty dish of Onomichi, the “Onomichi ramen”, which can be found in many of the restaurants in the area.
Insider travel tips: Visit the temple during the autumn season to see the beautiful foliage and avoid the summer crowds. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a steep climb to reach the temple.
During your visit, take a stroll around the nearby area to fully appreciate the charming and quaint atmosphere of Onomichi city.
9. Tenneiji Temple
Tenneiji Temple is a beautiful Zen Buddhist temple located in Onomichi, a historic town in Hiroshima Prefecture.
What to see or do: – Admire the elegant architecture and traditional Zen gardens of the temple.
Don’t miss: – The temple’s main hall, which houses a striking statue of the Goddess of Mercy and is a designated National Treasure of Japan.
Insider travel tips: – Tenneiji Temple is part of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which is an 88-temple pilgrimage that circles the island of Shikoku.
10. Mt
Mountain in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands.
Walk or cycle along the picturesque Shimanami Kaido cycleway that connects Honshu to Shikoku, passing through Onomichi and over several bridges.
Don’t miss: Onomichi’s Temple Walk, a scenic route through the town’s beautiful temples, animes spots, and teahouses.
Insider travel tips: The best time to hike Mt. Onomichi is from late October to early December when the autumn leaves are at their peak.
Start the hike early in the morning and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Also, be sure to visit Senko-ji Temple on the way up, which is known for its stunning bell tower and beautiful pagoda.
11. Shiga Naoya Former Residence
Shiga Naoya Former Residence is a museum dedicated to the life and works of the famous Japanese writer Shiga Naoya.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved traditional Japanese house where Shiga Naoya lived, see his personal belongings, and learn about his influential contributions to the world of Japanese literature.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the gardens surrounding the house, which are a peaceful and serene spot to relax and reflect. Also, don’t miss the museum’s rotating exhibits, which offer unique insights into Shiga Naoya’s life and work.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least an hour at the museum to fully immerse yourself in the exhibits and learn about the writer’s life and works.
12. Onomichi U2
Onomichi U2 is a renovated warehouse turned multifunctional complex located in Onomichi city, Japan.
What to see or do: Visit the shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants inside the complex.
Rent a bike to explore the city’s famous cycling routes, or book a boat tour to see Onomichi from the sea.
Don’t miss: Climb to the rooftop observation deck for a stunning view of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. Check out the U2 Museum, which showcases the history of the warehouse and its transformation into a modern space.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, stay overnight at the U2 hotel which offers cozy and stylish accommodations. If you’re a fan of architecture, make sure to admire the intricate details of the warehouse reconstruction.
Visit in the spring to witness the blooming cherry blossoms that decorate the surrounding hillsides.
13. Path of Literature
A literary walking path in the city of Onomichi, Japan.
What to see or do: As you stroll along the Path of Literature, you’ll find a series of stones inscribed with poems, and books donated by famous Japanese authors.
The path winds through quiet residential streets, offers stunning views of the city and Seto Inland Sea, and leads to a lovely temple and shrine.
Don’t miss: The graves of famous Japanese authors like Shiga Naoya and Ichiyo Higuchi, and a scenic overlook at the top of the hill with benches to sit and enjoy the panoramic view.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the Path of Literature is hilly and has some steep inclines. Make sure to visit in the early evening to enjoy the stunning sunset view.
Stop by the Onomichi City Museum of Literature to learn about the city’s rich literary history before starting your walk.
14. Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art
The Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art is a contemporary museum located in Onomichi, Japan, dedicated to showcasing the works of renowned Japanese artist Hirayama Ikuo.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire more than 1,000 works of art from Hirayama Ikuo and other artists. The museum is also home to a beautiful garden that provides a serene space for reflection.
Don’t miss: Hirayama Ikuo’s mural “Silk Road” is the museum’s pièce de résistance.
Spanning over 60 meters long, this beautiful mural tells the story of the exchange between Eastern and Western civilizations through the ancient Silk Road.
Insider travel tips: The museum is perched on a hilltop overlooking the bay, providing a stunning view from its observation deck. Make sure to take in the panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea while you’re there.
Additionally, plan to visit the museum in the evening, when the building is lit up and looks particularly striking.