Onomichi travel guide and discussion

📍Address: 989 Shigeicho, Innoshima, Onomichi, Hiroshima ⏰Hours: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM (L.O. 2:00 PM) 📅Closed: Tuesdays (*Wednesdays may vary) 🚗Parking: 7 spaces 🚙Approx. 5 mins by car from Innoshima Kita IC If you're exploring the Shimanami Kaido and looking for a place to eat in Innoshima, "Rokutairiku" is a must-visit. The star of the menu is the "Rokutairiku Lunch," showcasing fresh seafood from the local Seto Inland Sea! This generous set comes with a mini seafood bowl, a daily specialty dish, side plates, miso soup, and pickles. 🐟✨ Since the menu changes based on the daily catch, part of the excitement is seeing what’s fresh that day. Reviews often rave about the large portions, making it the perfect pit stop to refuel during a cycling or driving trip. Besides seafood, they also serve hearty set meals like Japanese-style hamburger steak, fried shrimp, and chicken cutlets. Inside, the space feels cozy and rustic with warm wooden accents and even a wood-burning stove. It captures that simple island charm while offering a relaxing atmosphere to unwind. 🌿 And the unique name "Rokutairiku" (meaning "Six Continents") actually carries two meanings: the connection between the world's six continents and the six main islands of the Shimanami Kaido. When you're traveling the Shimanami Kaido, you deserve a meal that's just as good as the views! For those who want to experience authentic island flavors, this is the place to go in Innoshima. 🚲🌊 (*Business hours and holidays are subject to change, so we recommend checking before you visit.)

Onomichi is already an unusual city at street level, squeezed between steep hills and the Seto Inland Sea, but Senkoji Park was where the whole layout finally made sense to me. From the top, you can see rooftops packed below, ships moving through the narrow water and islands continuing into the distance. I took the ropeway up, but I wouldn't simply ride it back down again. Walking downhill turned out to be the better half of the visit, passing Senkoji Temple, small paths and different viewpoints as the city gradually got closer again. The new observation deck at the top also gives you a huge open panorama without needing to search for a good viewing spot. For me, this worked particularly well because it combined a city walk with the kind of sea-and-island scenery I'd normally expect much farther outside town. #citybreakvsnatureescape #senkoji #thingstodo #nature #localguides #japan #solotravel

3-Night, 4-Day Trip to Shikoku & Awaji Island Day 1 13. 10 Depart Haneda Airport JAL Flight 481 to Takamatsu 14. 25 Arrive Takamatsu Airport Meet up with friends and family 18:30 Kaisen Umaimonya Hamakaido Enjoy fresh seafood dishes 🍣 Day 2 7:30 Depart Takamatsu 9:30 Sanuki Mendokoro Yamaoka Have your noodles served with the Yamaoka Screw 12. 00 Kirosan Observation Park See the spectacular view of the Shimanami Kaido 13. 00 Hakata Beach Shopping & rest 19:30 Ikkaku Ota Branch Enjoy bone-in chicken 🍻 Day 3 10:00 Depart Takamatsu 12. 25 Kaisendon Kaiboshu Enjoy the recommended seafood bowl 13. 40 Shiawase no Pancake Main Store Enjoy coffee while looking at the sea & take photos at the photo spot 16:20 Awaji Confectionery Shop Purchased souvenirs 18:40 Tsuda no Matsubara Beach Enjoyed playing in the sea 20:15 Bone-in Chicken and Binchotan Yakitori Omimi Omimi Terai-cho Main Store Last Supper: A Big Mug of Beer Festival 🍻 Day 4 11:30 Ikkaku Ota Store Had one last bone-in chicken 17. 15 Departed Takamatsu JAL Flight 484 to Haneda 18. 40 Arrived at Haneda This plan included departures and arrivals at Haneda Airport. This time, I used JAL and the round trip cost 25,500 yen. I stayed at a friend's house for 3 nights. Using Takamatsu as a base, I was taken to the Shimanami Kaido and Awaji Island. Everywhere I looked, there were breathtaking views, making for wonderful travel memories. And the food was truly delicious. Seafood, meat, udon, everything was delicious, and I couldn't help but drink more than I intended. I hope this will be helpful for your travel planning. #DomesticTravel #ShikokuTravel #AwajiIsland #Gourmet

#slowtraveling JR Fukuyama to Tomo-no-ura bus terminal (40 min, 620 yen, cash). The harbor is a 10-minute walk from the bus stop, and the stone seawall path runs from the Benten-jima islet (linked by a causeway you can cross at low tide) past the old Tomo municipal office (1905, free entry, opens 9) to the Joyato lighthouse and the Fukuzen-ji temple where “Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea” lifted its harbor silhouette. I arrived 8:05 — the tide was mid, the causeway dry, no one but a fisherman mending nets. The wall is 600 m of fitted stone, worn concave by 300 years of feet, with the Seto Inland Sea flat and oil tankers distant on the horizon. Coffee from a 5-seat harbor-side roastery (500 yen, cash, opens 8:30) then sit on the wall — that’s the whole slow play. The Ponyo house is private, don’t photograph the residents; shoot the causeway and the red Benten shrine gate instead. Cards at the Tomo museum, nowhere on the wall. Error: a group who came by car at noon, parked at the new lot, walked the wall both ways in 25 minutes, and asked where Ponyo lived. The harbor isn’t a film set, it’s a working port with a causeway. Would you rush the wall or sit until the tide turns? I sat till 10:30 and watched the causeway drown. slowtraveling #TomonouraHarbor #PonyoSeawall

A boutique inn featuring just 22 rooms, beautifully restored from a 140-year-old estate. From courtyard-facing rooms and cypress baths to a dining experience that celebrates the bounty of Setouchi, immerse yourself in the unparalleled tranquility and beauty of this unique sanctuary. 📍Azumi Setoda 269 Setoda, Setoda-cho, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-2411 Save this post to inspire your next getaway.

As mentioned in my last post, my sister’s boyfriend is a Hiroshima local—more specifically, from Mihara. This reminded me of our trip to nearby Onomichi last year. Onomichi is a city of quiet restraint, yet it boasts breathtakingly grand scenery. After wandering through the local shopping street, I took the ropeway up to the Senkoji Temple Observatory. Before me stretched the tranquil Seto Inland Sea. Amidst the chirping of summer cicadas and the slightly sweltering heat, I gazed out at Mukoujima across the water. The way the city is nestled between the mountains and the sea is incredibly beautiful—it’s no surprise this place has inspired so many literary greats. Walking down from the summit along the Path of Literature, I passed Drum Rock (Bungaku no Komichi), the Onomichi City Museum of Art (which was sadly closed for AC maintenance during my visit), and Senkoji Temple itself. The temple is home to many stone Buddha statues adorned with red scarves and knit caps. Turning into "Cat Alley" (Neko no Hosomichi), I found many charming little shops. Near the end of the path, I came across a grassy terrace where I met a few friendly cats. Spending a couple of minutes petting them made the whole trip feel complete. All in all, Onomichi is definitely worth a visit.

"I want to experience the extraordinary without leaving Japan." "I want to enjoy nature, gourmet food, and hot springs all in one trip." If this sounds like you, we highly recommend 👇 🌿 A trip around Shikoku Each of the four prefectures has its own unique charm, making it a perfect destination for both adult getaways and family vacations✨ ⸻ 📍 Trip Overview 🚩 Recommended Duration → 6 Days/5 Nights to 8 Days/7 Nights 🚗 Recommended Transportation → Exploring by rental car is the absolute best! Traveling by car in Shikoku makes it so much easier to access stunning viewpoints and hidden culinary gems✨ Recommended Route 👇 Kagawa ↓ Tokushima ↓ Kochi ↓ Ehime ↓ Back to Kagawa ⸻ 🚩 Route 🟦 Day 1: Kagawa (The Udon Prefecture) 📍 Takamatsu City Start off with Kagawa's famous local cuisine🍜 Recommendations 👇 🍜 Sanuki Udon hopping 🌊 Chichibugahama Beach 🏝️ Shodoshima Island sightseeing 📸 Photogenic Spot Chichibugahama Beach A spectacular view often called the "Salar de Uyuni of Japan"✨ Sunset is the best time to visit. ⸻ 🟨 Day 2: Tokushima 📍 Naruto & Iya Areas A must-visit for nature lovers🌿 Recommendations 👇 🌊 Naruto Whirlpools 🌉 Iya Kazurabashi (Vine Bridge) 🏔️ Oboke Gorge The charm lies in its breathtaking, unexplored scenery. ⸻ 🟥 Days 3-4: Kochi The absolute highlight of a Shikoku trip✨ Recommendations 👇 🌊 Katsurahama Beach 🐟 Hirome Market 🌉 Shimanto River 🏞️ Niyodo Blue 📸 Photogenic Spot Niyodo River The outstandingly clear blue river is a sight that will move you even more than the photos do. ⸻ 🟩 Day 5: Ehime A day for hot springs & town strolling♨️ Recommendations 👇 ♨️ Dogo Onsen 🏯 Matsuyama Castle 🚂 Botchan Train The ultimate time to heal your tired body in a hot spring✨ ⸻ 🟦 Day 6: Shimanami Kaido Finish off with a spectacular scenic drive🚗 Recommendations 👇 🌉 Shimanami Kaido 🚲 Cycling 🌊 Views of the Seto Inland Sea One of the top driving courses in all of Japan. ⸻ 🏖️ Photogenic Spots 📸 Chichibugahama Beach (Kagawa) → A stunning combo of sunset and water reflection 📸 Niyodo Blue (Kochi) → A miraculously clear blue river 📸 Shimanto River (Kochi) → Japan's last pristine river 📸 Iya Kazurabashi (Tokushima) → Full of untouched, mystical vibes 📸 Shimanami Kaido (Ehime) → A scenic road running over the sea and islands ⸻ 🚇 Transportation 🚗 A rental car is highly recommended Reasons 👇 ✅ You can reach off-the-beaten-path spots ✅ Carrying luggage is a breeze ✅ You can pull over wherever you like 🚆 Train & Bus → Inter-city travel is possible → However, getting to nature spots can be quite inconvenient ⸻ 📷 Recommended Photo Spots 🌅 Chichibugahama Beach → At dusk 🌊 Niyodo River → On a sunny day to capture the river's clarity 🌉 Shimanami Kaido → Looking out over the Seto Inland Sea from the bridges ♨️ Dogo Onsen Town → Beautifully lit up at night ⸻ 🍜 Exquisite Local Eats 🍜 Kagawa → Sanuki Udon 🐟 Kochi → Seared Bonito (Katsuo no Tataki) 🍊 Ehime → Taimeshi (Sea Bream Rice) & Mikan (Mandarin) sweets 🍖 Tokushima → Tokushima Ramen Shikoku is worth visiting just for the food alone✨ ⸻ 🏠 Recommended Accommodations 💎 For Hot Springs & Luxury ♨️ Ryokans in the Dogo Onsen area → Enjoy a lavish time in a historic hot spring town 🌿 For Nature Lovers 🏡 Inns in the Iya area → Experience a stay in a secluded, mystical valley ✨ For Budget & Convenience 🏨 Business hotels in Takamatsu and Matsuyama → Very convenient as bases for sightseeing ⸻ 💡 Important Tips ⚠️ Shikoku is larger than you might think → Plan your itinerary with plenty of travel time ⚠️ Expect a lot of winding mountain roads in some areas → Beginner drivers should stick to daytime driving ⚠️ Popular spots can get crowded in the evening → Sightseeing early in the morning is highly recommended ⚠️ Heat protection is a must in summer☀️ ⸻ 💰 Estimated Budget (Per Person) 🚗 Budget Trip Approx. 50,000 - 80,000 JPY 🏨 Standard Trip Approx. 100,000 - 150,000 JPY 💎 Luxury Trip Approx. 200,000 JPY and up ⸻ 📌 Shikoku is "a place where you can be blown away without ever leaving the country" Enjoy nature, hot springs, amazing food, and breathtaking views all in one trip. It's a domestic travel destination you truly have to experience once in your life✨

Hondori wasn't really somewhere I needed to plan around. It's so central that I kept finding myself back here while moving between different parts of Hiroshima. After a while it became one of those streets I recognised immediately and used almost like a shortcut through the city. And it has its set of restaurants and shops selling things. There's a bit of everything along the arcade clothes, cafés, restaurants, drugstores and plenty of smaller shops I wandered into without intending to buy anything. I actually liked seeing this side of Hiroshima after spending so much time around the historical sights. Nothing here demands that you stop and take a photo or read a sign. You can just grab a coffee, look around the shops and watch people going about their day. Sometimes that's exactly what I want in between sightseeing. #localdiscoveries #hiroshima #thingstodo #localguides #travel2026 #japan #backpacking2026

① Miraishin no Oka (The Hill of Hope) 🤍 A breathtaking scenic spot crafted from roughly 5,000 square meters of pure white marble. It offers an extraordinary landscape that feels like you've traveled abroad or stepped into Greece, and every angle is perfectly photogenic! Highly recommended to visit on a sunny day ☀️ ② Kosanji Temple ⛩️ Featuring beautifully vibrant, richly colored architecture, this temple boasts a glamorous atmosphere that hardly feels like Japan. You can also enjoy seasonal flowers, making it perfect for taking your time strolling and capturing great photos 📸 ③ Shimanami Kaido 🌉 A spectacularly scenic 70km route connecting the islands across the Seto Inland Sea. Popular not only for drives but also as a mecca for cycling, the endless views of the ocean and bridges will undoubtedly leave you moved! 🚗✨ ④ Kure Bay Ship Tour ⚓️ An incredibly exciting cruise where you can get an up-close look at Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Coast Guard vessels right from the water! The guides' commentary is super entertaining, offering an experience you can only get in Kure. ⑤ Yamato Museum 🚢 The 1:10 scale model of the battleship "Yamato" is an absolute masterpiece! Beyond just learning about history, the exhibits are packed with engaging displays that both adults and children can enjoy. It's incredibly well worth the visit. ⑥ Itsukushima Shrine ⛩️ One of Hiroshima's most iconic tourist spots, registered as a World Heritage Site. The grand torii gate floating on the sea is breathtaking, and the changing scenery brought by the ebb and flow of the tide adds to its charm 🌊 ⑦ Atomic Bomb Dome 🕊️ A World Heritage Site that continues to convey the importance of peace to this day. This is a must-visit spot to immerse yourself in history when traveling to Hiroshima. 📌 Save this post and use it as a reference for your Hiroshima trip! ✨🌸 ① Miraishin no Oka 🤍 A breathtaking hill made entirely of white marble, creating a surreal landscape that feels more like Greece than Japan. Every corner is incredibly photogenic, especially on a sunny day! ② Kosanji Temple ⛩️ A vibrant temple featuring colorful architecture inspired by famous temples across Japan. It’s a hidden gem where you can enjoy beautiful gardens and capture stunning photos. ③ Shimanami Kaido 🌉 One of Japan’s most scenic coastal routes, connecting islands across the Seto Inland Sea. Whether you drive or cycle, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular ocean views the entire way. ④ Kure Bay Ship Tour ⚓️ Take a cruise through Kure Bay to see Japan’s naval vessels up close. It’s a unique experience that offers incredible views and fascinating insights into the city’s maritime history. ⑤ Yamato Museum 🚢 Home to a massive 1:10 scale model of the legendary battleship Yamato. Learn about Japan’s naval history through interactive exhibits and impressive displays. ⑥ Itsukushima Shrine ⛩️ A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its iconic floating torii gate. The scenery changes beautifully with the tides, making every visit unique. ⑦ Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome) 🕊️ A powerful symbol of peace and resilience. Visiting this World Heritage Site is a meaningful experience that offers insight into Hiroshima’s history and hope for a peaceful future. 📌 Save this post for your next trip to Hiroshima! 🇯🇵 Travel Sightseeing

Hiroshima is a city that will capture your heart. Ready to experience it all? #Hiroshima #JapanTravel #VisitHiroshima #JapanTrip #TravelReel #TravelGuide #Okonomiyaki #Miyajima #ItsukushimaShrine #travellersmonde #worldtravelsconnect

If you're taking a drive along the Shimanami Kaido, you absolutely have to stop by! ⁡ Located on Ikuchijima, Belvedere Setoda is an art installation made of a steel double ring and a base, sitting just off a small sandy beach on the island's south side 🎨 ⁡ One of its charms is how the view changes with the ebb and flow of the tide. During low tide, you can even climb up onto the artwork! 💛 ⁡ There are plenty of scenic observation spots along the Shimanami Kaido, but Belvedere Setoda is one of my favorites because it's relatively uncrowded, allowing you to relax and take in the view at your own pace ☀️ ⁡ As evening approaches, the sky and sea turn a beautiful shade of orange, offering a completely different but equally stunning vibe compared to the daytime 🌅 ⁡ The Setoda Town Tourist Information Center is also nearby, where I spotted a super cute lemon sculpture 🍋 ⁡ If you're planning a trip along the Shimanami Kaido, I highly recommend timing your visit for low tide! 🚗 ⁡ ⁡ ⁡ 📍 Setoda, Setoda-cho, Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture ⏰ Open 24 hours 💰 Free 🅿️ Available (Free)

If you've already explored Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, or simply want to see a different side of Japan—save this list. Japan is more than just the crowded streets of Shibuya and thousands of tourists at Fushimi Inari Shrine. The country still holds incredible spots where you can experience the authentic Japanese atmosphere without the crowds. Here are 10 places you should definitely add to your itinerary. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 1. Ainokura Village 📍 Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture 📍 Address: Ainokura, Nanto, Toyama Prefecture A small, traditional village with gassho-zukuri style houses surrounded by mountains. It's much quieter here than in the famous Shirakawa-go. Best time to visit: winter and autumn. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 2. Kiyotsu Gorge 📍 Niigata Prefecture 📍 Address: 2119-2 Koide, Tokamachi, Niigata Prefecture One of Japan's most beautiful gorges, featuring a unique tunnel and a mirrored observation deck. The perfect spot for incredible photos. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 3. Noto Peninsula 📍 Ishikawa Prefecture 📍 Address: Noto Peninsula, Ishikawa Prefecture A scenic coastline, fishing villages, seaside rice terraces, and authentic rural Japan. It's best to rent a car and spend at least 2–3 days exploring the area. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 4. Sado Island 📍 Niigata Prefecture 📍 Address: Sado City, Niigata Prefecture An island where you can see traditional wooden tarai-bune tub boats, old gold mines, and stunning seascapes. You can get there by ferry from Niigata City. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 5. Takachiho Gorge 📍 Miyazaki Prefecture 📍 Address: Mukoyama, Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture One of Japan's most spectacular natural wonders. Here, you can rent a boat and row right past waterfalls nestled among towering basalt cliffs. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 6. Kakunodate Samurai District 📍 Semboku City, Akita Prefecture 📍 Address: Kakunodate-machi, Semboku, Akita Prefecture An authentic samurai town with beautifully preserved historic manors. It's especially breathtaking in spring during the cherry blossom season. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 7. Yamadera Temple Complex 📍 Yamagata Prefecture 📍 Address: 4456-1 Yamadera, Yamagata City To reach the temple, you'll need to climb around 1,000 stone steps. Your reward will be a stunning view of the mountains and valleys below. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 8. Iya Valley 📍 Tokushima Prefecture, Shikoku Island 📍 Address: Miyoshi, Tokushima Prefecture One of the most remote and picturesque regions in Japan. Its main attractions are the ancient vine suspension bridges and secluded mountain villages. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 9. Shiretoko National Park 📍 Hokkaido Island 📍 Address: Shari, Hokkaido A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can spot brown bears, waterfalls, lakes, and untouched wilderness with almost no signs of civilization. Best time to visit: June–September. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 10. Onomichi City 📍 Hiroshima Prefecture 📍 Address: Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture An atmospheric port city with narrow winding streets, hilltop temples, and sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea. This is exactly where the famous Shimanami Kaido cycling route begins. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ✨ If you want to experience Japan without the tourist crowds, venture beyond the typical Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka route.

When people think of Japan, Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto usually come to mind. But the truth is, Japan is hiding some seriously stunning coastal towns. With breathtaking ocean views, charming old-town vibes, fresh seafood, and photo spots that easily rival the big cities, these hidden gems have it all. Kamakura is the most accessible seaside town near Tokyo. Home to ancient temples, the iconic Enoden train line, and beaches highly favored by locals, it's the perfect destination for a day trip. Hakodate in Hokkaido is renowned for having one of the world's most spectacular night views. Visitors can head up Mt. Hakodate for a sweeping panoramic view of the cityscape and ocean, and dive into fresh catches at the famous morning market. Nagasaki is a historic port city that beautifully blends Japanese and Western cultures. It features historic churches, gorgeous gardens, and stunning scenic spots overlooking Nagasaki Bay. Onomichi, a quaint little town in Hiroshima Prefecture, radiates a unique charm. It’s loved for its hilly alleyways, ocean-view cafes, and the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, which draws biking enthusiasts from around the globe. Then there's Otaru, Hokkaido's incredibly romantic seaside town. It stands out with the scenic Otaru Canal, historic brick buildings, and an array of famous sweet shops. The tranquil atmosphere makes it ideal for a slow-paced, relaxing stroll. Whether you're into the ocean, historic towns, seafood, or just a chill vibe, these five cities boast their own distinct charms. They offer a completely different side of Japan that you absolutely need to experience at least once in your life.

📍 Trip Overview A 2-day, 1-night itinerary for exploring Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture, a city known for its winding slopes and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea! This area is highly recommended for anyone looking to kick back and enjoy retro cityscapes and local art. 🚩 Route Day 1: Evening departure from Onomichi Station ➡️ Take the Senkoji Mountain Ropeway to the summit (Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:15 PM / departs every 15 minutes) ➡️ Senkoji Summit Observatory PEAK Day 2: Depart from Onomichi Station ➡️ Head to Mukaishima (Ferries start at 6:00 AM / run every 10 minutes) ➡️ Lunch & shopping in the shopping arcade ➡️ Onomichi City Museum of Art ➡️ Visit Senkoji Temple ➡️ Head back down the mountain while strolling through "Cat Alley" (Neko no Hosomichi) ⛰️ Instagrammable Spots As you walk around, you'll spot nostalgic Japanese scenery, friendly street cats, and quirky art. It feels like a treasure hunt, letting everyone snap their own unique photos along the way. 🚊 Getting Around You can walk or take a bus to the ropeway station. We definitely recommend riding the ropeway up to the summit. Exploring on foot is also incredible, offering magical, Ghibli-esque views. (You can hike up to the summit without taking the ropeway, too. Since the ropeway skips past Senkoji Temple, walking back down is highly recommended!) 📷 Best Photo Spots The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean, mountains, and Mukaishima. Since the ropeway gets crowded, heading up after it closes at 5:00 PM creates a more mystical, peaceful vibe where you can truly soak in the idyllic scenery. On your way down, you'll run into plenty of cats lounging around. 💡 Pro Tip Onomichi is full of steep slopes and stairs! We strongly suggest wearing comfortable walking sneakers.

The Onomichi shopping street is full of narrow alleys, making it a fantastic hidden gem for photography📸🙆♀️✨️ It's also the perfect spot for a stroll in a kimono👘🥰 My top recommendation in the shopping arcade is the Japanese tea brand, TEA FACTORY GEN (SHOP & CAFE) 🍵 This tea factory is dedicated to natural farming, using zero fertilizers or pesticides, and handles the entire process from cultivation to roasting and selling. They are especially famous for crafting tea from traditional "native" tea leaves, offering unique Japanese teas that capture the terroir and aromas of the Setouchi region.  Located in the Onomichi Hondori Shopping Street, the shop and cafe features a workshop-like vibe where you can sip tea while watching the leaves being roasted and packaged. With a diverse lineup that includes Sencha, Japanese black tea, Hojicha, and flavored teas, you can grab a quick cup to go or sit at the counter for an authentic tea-tasting flight. Their brewing style, which lets you experience the evolving flavors and aromas across three separate infusions, is also a big hit.  Another highlight is their blended teas, which feature local ingredients like Setouchi citrus and fig leaves. You can truly feel the brand's mission to make "Japanese tea more accessible and free." While they deeply respect traditional tea culture, their modern, creative approach makes the shop incredibly welcoming, even for those who don't usually drink Japanese tea.  In Onomichi, they also run other directly managed spots: Tea Stand Yamate (Tea Factory Gen), where you can enjoy tea surrounded by the quiet, sloping townscapes characteristic of the area, and Tea Stand Gen, which offers the intimate feel of a tiny tea room.  [Store Information] · Address: 2-3-27 Tsudo, Onomichi, Hiroshima · Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (may stay open until 7:00 PM on weekends) · Closed: Thursdays, Fridays, or irregularly · Access: About a 10-minute walk from JR Onomichi Station, located inside the Onomichi Hondori Shopping Street 

Located in Hiroshima Prefecture, Onomichi is a charming port town renowned for the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea and its atmospheric scenery as the "City of Slopes." Here are a few highlights that make this town so captivating. [A "Miniature Garden" Landscape Woven by Slopes and Alleys] The maze-like narrow slopes and stone steps are a signature view of Onomichi. With every step up the hillside, the view opens up to reveal a picture-perfect panorama of the blue Seto Inland Sea and the Onomichi Channel stretching out beyond the traditional tiled roofs. [Temple Hopping and the Breath of History] The town is dotted with historic temples, including the famous Senkoji Temple. The "Old Temple Walk" connecting these sacred sites is the perfect way to take a relaxing stroll while soaking in the local history. As a town beloved by numerous writers and filmmakers, you can also spot traces of its legacy as the setting for various literary works and movies everywhere you go. A Holy Land for Cyclists and Foodies Famous as the starting point of the "Shimanami Kaido," Onomichi draws cyclists from all over the globe. You also can't miss out on the local eats, like "Onomichi Ramen"—a soy sauce-based soup rich with pork back fat—and fresh seafood straight from the Seto Inland Sea. [The Carefree "Cat Alley"] Nestled along the hilly paths is "Cat Alley" (Neko no Hosomichi), a relaxing haven where stray cats lounge freely, making it an absolute must-visit spot for feline lovers. Seamlessly blending retro shopping streets with chic renovated cafes, Onomichi is an enchanting mix of vibrant energy and sweet nostalgia, offering new discoveries every time you visit.

I went to Kosanji Temple, which has been going viral on Instagram. It was an absolutely dazzling temple!! "Kosanji" is a Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji sect temple located on Ikuchijima Island in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and is characterized by its extravagantly gorgeous architecture, earning it the nickname the "Nikko of the West." Built by the prominent businessman Kozo Kosanji as an expression of immense gratitude to his late mother, it is widely known as the "Mother's Temple." Today, it is open to the public as the Kosanji Museum and stands as one of the Seto Inland Sea's premier tourist destinations. The Hill of Hope (Miraishin no Oka): Designed by sculptor Itto Kuetani, this breathtaking white marble garden spans approximately 5,000 square meters. Crafted luxuriously from premium Italian marble, it offers a stunningly photogenic landscape that makes you feel like you've been transported overseas. Magnificent Temple Halls and Pagodas: The temple grounds feature 15 spectacular buildings modeled after Japan’s iconic historic structures, such as the "Koyo Gate" inspired by the Yomeimon Gate of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, and the "Main Hall" modeled after the Byodoin Temple Phoenix Hall. All 15 are designated as National Registered Tangible Cultural Properties. Senbutsudo Cave of Hell (Senbutsudo Jigokukyo): A mystical 350-meter-long underground corridor lined with stone Buddhas and intricate reliefs that depict the journey from the depths of Hell to the Pure Land of Paradise. Location: 553-2 Setoda, Setoda-cho, Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Open year-round) Admission Fee: Adults ¥1,400 / College Students ¥1,000 / High School Students ¥700 (Junior High School Students and younger: Free)

If the Onomichi Hondori Shopping Street embodies the everyday life of the Showa era, then ONOMICHI U2 is the pinnacle where modern design and maritime history intertwine. Transformed from a 1940s maritime warehouse (Prefectural Shed No. 2), this multi-purpose complex flawlessly blends rugged industrial vibes with refined lifestyle aesthetics, making it a space perfectly tailored for design enthusiasts. ♡ My Local Observations Stepping into U2, you'll immediately be struck by its massive architectural volume. It preserves the original warehouse's high ceilings and raw concrete textures, while seamlessly incorporating warm wooden elements and contemporary curated goods. Serving as the starting and ending point for the "Setouchi Shimanami Kaido"—a mecca for cyclists—it demonstrates an incredibly thoughtful "holistic approach." From a hotel that allows you to bring your bike into your room to a cycle-thru lane for direct ordering, this precise planning tailored to a specific demographic is undoubtedly its greatest design triumph. 🪄 ONOMICHI U2 Exploration Guide Bicycle-Friendly Details: 🪄 This isn't just a hotel; it also houses a Giant bicycle store. If you're planning to ride the Shimanami Kaido, the repair and rental services here can perfectly align with your itinerary, significantly reducing travel uncertainties. Pro Tips & Advice: 🪄 The restaurant and bakery inside U2 (The Restaurant / Butti Bakery) offer exceptional quality, but they get quite crowded on weekends. For those who want to enjoy some peace and quiet, I highly recommend arriving on a weekday morning. That way, you can elegantly sip a cup of coffee at a terrace seat by the sea. Curated Goods: 🪄 "Shima Shop" inside features an exquisite selection of local Setouchi crafts and agricultural products. The curation standard here is top-notch—it's incredibly hard to leave empty-handed. 📍 Core Space Highlights 📍 HOTEL CYCLE: Japan's very first hotel that allows you to check in with your bicycle. The room's spatial design is filled with a rational and pragmatic beauty. Even if you aren't staying overnight, just observing the flow of the lobby will let you appreciate the designer's mastery. 📍 Yard Café: Features a dedicated "Cycle-thru" window, allowing you to grab a coffee without even getting off your bike. Sitting on the wooden boardwalk, gazing out over the tranquil Onomichi Channel—this is the moment that best showcases their user-centric service. 📍 Waterfront Wooden Boardwalk: Right behind U2 is the coastline. The view here is expansive and unobstructed, making it the perfect spot to observe the nuances of harbor culture and capture stunning landmark photos. ♡ A Minor Gripe While U2 is off the charts in terms of quality and aesthetics, the prices are admittedly much higher than those of the small Showa-era shops on the shopping street. However, considering the meticulous attention to detail in revitalizing an old building and the overall atmosphere created, this premium is still a highly worthwhile, value-for-money choice for those who pursue quality. As a rational and pragmatic traveler, I deeply admire how U2 has struck a perfect balance between commercial operation and cultural preservation. It shatters the myth that old warehouses are destined for abandonment, injecting formidable design prowess into Onomichi.

In Onomichi, the distance between the mountains, the sea, and the divine is unbelievably close. For travelers who meticulously plan their itineraries, this pilgrimage ascending from the foot of the mountain is not just a test of stamina, but also a stunning aesthetic exploration of color. ♡ My Local Observations The soul of Onomichi lies within these undulating elevations. From the tranquility of being surrounded by giant camphor trees at the base to the expansive panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea from the summit, every shrine and temple seems seamlessly embedded into the hillside. For design enthusiasts, this "coexistence with nature" layout serves as the perfect field to observe Japanese spatial aesthetics. 🪄 Must-Visit Shrines and Temples in Onomichi Visual Spotlight: 🪄 The vermilion main hall (Akado) of Senkoji Temple. The striking contrast between this commanding vermilion red and the deep blue of the Seto Inland Sea in the distance creates Onomichi's most iconic and perfectly composed scene. Heads-up: 🪄 The path to Senkoji involves many stone steps. If you want to save energy, I highly recommend taking the ropeway straight to the top and slowly walking your way down while visiting the sights—this was exactly our game plan. Island Hopping Adventure: 🪄 If you have enough time, it's worth crossing the sea to Innoshima. There you'll find Ohyama Shrine, a rare bicycle shrine in Japan. It's an absolute must-visit for anyone who loves hunting for unique landmarks. 📍 Senkoji Temple: Beyond the Red Hall, the massive "Tama no Iwa" (Jewel Rock) and the cliff-carved Buddha statues are also major highlights. Looking down at the Onomichi Channel from up here and watching the boats weave through the water perfectly captures the authentic daily life of this port city. 📍 Small Shrines near Neko no Hosomichi (Cat Alley): Hidden away in the narrow alleys, these little shrines may be small in scale but are brimming with a sense of local life. Observing how the locals carefully decorate these little corners offers plenty of food for thought regarding cultural differences. ♡ My Honest Take While these spiritual sites are all incredibly unique, Onomichi's "inclines" can be quite the workout and a slight challenge to age and stamina for those of us used to walking on flat ground. However, once you reach the top and take in that breathtaking ocean view, the unbeatable payoff and sense of achievement will make you feel like every single step was worth it. As a rational and practical traveler, this spiritual pilgrimage did more than just capture beautiful landmark photos; it helped me find an inner ability to "step away from the hustle and bustle and return to peace" amidst these ancient structures.

#February Destinations 2026 After returning to Onomichi City, the best place to stroll leisurely is the Onomichi Hondori Shopping Street, which stretches along the station. This old shopping street, with its Showa-era atmosphere, lacks overly ornate decorations but is full of authentic everyday life, making it the best place to experience Onomichi's daily life. Walking along the shopping street, you'll see a variety of small shops: traditional general stores, old cafes, handmade goods shops, and even some buildings that retain their retro style. The pace here is slow; there's no need to rush. Wandering around at your own pace allows you to better appreciate the charm of this port city. One particularly unique stop is Yamato-yu, converted from an old bathhouse. It retains the original architectural structure and some design elements, and you can still see traces of the old bathhouse inside, but the space has been transformed into a cafe. Sitting inside and relaxing gives you a feeling of stepping back in time, making it a representative hipster spot in Onomichi. And when in Onomichi, you certainly can't miss the local specialty—Onomichi Ramen. I recommend finding a shop and ordering a bowl of classic soy sauce ramen. The broth is clear yet fragrant with oil, paired with curly noodles and chashu pork—it's the kind of flavor that seems simple but is incredibly satisfying. What's special is that the broth often has a hint of pork fat, making the overall taste even richer. Sitting in a small shop, enjoying a steaming bowl of ramen while watching the people come and go in the shopping street—that down-to-earth atmosphere is what makes Onomichi so charming.

Hiroshima x Three-Day Experience Sharing This time, I flew solo to Hiroshima for a stress-free 3-day, 2-night trip! Whether you want to chill, savor local delicacies, shop at two major malls, or visit must-see attractions for photo ops, this itinerary is perfect for you. The area around Hiroshima Station is incredibly convenient for eating, shopping, and entertainment, with seamless connections between malls and transportation. Even traveling alone is super easy—you can enjoy authentic ramen and Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, visit Miyajima, and even try a calligraphy class. Highly recommended! 🗺️ Highlights of the Itinerary: · Perfect for solo travel beginners—easy transportation, dining, and accommodation · Two major malls, Minamoa & Ekie, connected to the station, offering a concentrated hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment · Hiroshima World Heritage Tour: Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum · Day trip to Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine to experience nature and culture · Unique calligraphy class and a quiet meal of grilled eel set · Convenient hotel ideal for female travelers and backpackers Day 1: After arriving at Hiroshima Airport, follow the signs to take the bus directly to the Shinkansen entrance—just a 40-minute ride for 1,500 yen. Hotel: Hiroshima Sotetsu FRESA INN (5-2 Enkobashicho, Minami), a 3-8 minute walk to Hiroshima Station. There's a 24-hour convenience store right downstairs, and the lobby offers self-service amenities, so you don't need to pack much! After check-in, head straight to Minamoa Mall for food. Try Onomichi Ramen Maruboshi (2-8-15 Tsuchido, Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, 722-0035) for their signature Onomichi ramen. The rich soy sauce broth mixed with flavorful back fat is pure happiness in every bite. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll back to the mall and hop on the No. 2 tram line to the Atomic Bomb Dome (1-10 Otemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima). The historical site is deeply moving, and the Peace Memorial Museum (1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward) is worth visiting—check the opening hours. Tickets can be purchased on-site or with a Tabi Pass for discounts. In the evening, find a small eatery near the hotel for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. The friendly owner might even offer you banana candies—traveling solo feels so carefree. Day 2: Calligraphy Class + Itsukushima Shrine Photo Ops Start the day with a Japanese calligraphy class at Sun Mall. The teacher is very patient, and the interactive process is super fun! Then, take the tram to Miyajima. From Hiroshima, transfer to the ferry—Tabi Pass users pay only 100 yen for a round trip (great deal)! A 10-minute boat ride brings you to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine Torii Gate (1-1 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, 739-0588). It's highly recommended to buy tickets and take a stroll around the shrine—the atmosphere of the sea shrine is unparalleled. Afterward, explore Omotesando Shopping Street for souvenirs and local snacks. Don't miss Miyajima Shokudo's grilled eel set and cheesy oysters—absolutely delicious. On the way back, visit Hondori Shopping Street to experience the city's liveliest area. Then, return to Minamoa and Ekie malls for more souvenir shopping. End the day with a hearty bowl of meat udon at 'Dashi Chazuke + Niku Udon En' on Minamoa's second floor. Day 3: Shopping and Departure Start the day with a final shopping spree at Ekie Mall's 'Omiyage Road.' After checking out, follow the directions to the Shinkansen entrance bus stop and take the airport bus back. The journey is smooth and hassle-free. The airport has a small selection of souvenirs for last-minute purchases. If you're hungry, you can enjoy Hiroshima oysters again or choose Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki or ramen at the airport's second-floor food court. Alternatively, head to the departure level for udon. Don't miss Hiroshima's famous Hattendo cream buns—soft and filled with rich cream. 🌟 Practical Tips: · Recommended Tabi Pass: Covers city trams and ferries—make sure to get the pass at customer service · Sun Mall calligraphy class requires reservations; the interactive teaching is worth the time · Solo travel is very safe—Hiroshima Sotetsu FRESA INN is perfect for short trips and light packers · Malls are interconnected, so you don't need to worry about rain; shop and dine without stepping outside · Visit the Atomic Bomb Peace Park in the morning for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities 🍴 Food Recommendations: · Onomichi Ramen Maruboshi: Rich-flavored ramen broth · Miyajima Shokudo: Grilled eel set and cheesy oysters are must-tries · Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki: Plenty of options near the hotel with friendly service ✈ Transportation Tips: · Hiroshima Airport to city bus: Use IC cards or credit cards for tickets; 45 minutes direct to Hiroshima Shinkansen entrance · Tram Line No. 2 connects major attractions and the port; great for rainy days · The airport is relatively small, so you don't need to arrive too early Conclusion: This 3-day, 2-night trip was incredibly fulfilling—traveling solo was easy and enjoyable! If you're looking to relax, shop, take photos, and indulge in Hiroshima's local cuisine, I highly recommend planning a similar itinerary.

A perfect 3-day plan packed with all the must-visit spots for a first-time trip to Hiroshima! 【Day 1】 14:00 🚅 Arrive at Hiroshima Station 14. 15 🍴 Lunch (Okonomiyaki) 15. 30 👀 Visit Hiroshima Castle 16. 30 👀 Visit Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine 17. 30 🏨 Hotel Check-in 18. 30 🍴 Dinner (Oyster Hot Pot) 💡 On the day we arrived, many street-side okonomiyaki restaurants were closed, so we had lunch at a restaurant inside the ekie shopping mall at the station. 💡 The interior of Hiroshima Castle's main keep will no longer be open to the public after March 22, 2026. Don't miss this opportunity! 【Day 2】 9:00 🚃 Arrive at Miyajima 9. 45 👀 Visit Itsukushima Shrine 10. 45 🍴 Stroll and enjoy street food along Omotesando 14. 30 🚃 Miyajimaguchi Station -----▸ Hiroshima Station (Approx. 1 hour) 15. 30 👀 Visit Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum 18:00 🏨 Return to hotel 💡 The scenery at Itsukushima Shrine changes depending on high and low tide, so it's recommended to check the tide schedule before visiting. 💡 The Peace Memorial Museum takes about 2–3 hours to explore thoroughly. Make sure to allocate enough time for your visit. 【Day 3】 9:00 🏨 Hotel Check-out 11:00 🚃 Arrive at Onomichi 11. 30 🍴 Lunch (Onomichi Ramen) 12. 00 👀 Visit Senkoji Park 12. 30 👀 Visit Senkoji Temple 13. 00 🚶 Explore and descend 14. 00 🚃 Onomichi Station -----▸ Hiroshima Station (Approx. 1.5 hours) 15. 30 🛍 Souvenir shopping 17:00 🚅 Depart from Hiroshima Station 💡 We took the ropeway up to Senkoji Park and walked down via the Literature Path and Cat Alley. 💡 This time, we only explored the area around Onomichi Station for half a day. Next time, we hope to stay overnight and fully enjoy the area. Our first trip to Hiroshima was packed with all the places we wanted to visit. Delicious food, beautiful scenery, and unforgettable memories made it a truly special journey.

Previously, my trips to Japan were always centered around major metropolises like Tokyo and Osaka. Eventually, I started exploring second-tier cities like Nagoya and regions like Kyushu. South of the Tohoku region, the only parts of Japan I hadn't visited were the Chugoku and Shikoku regions. One day, on a sudden whim, I decided to take a solo trip. I wanted to experience the pure joy of a spontaneous, "go-where-the-wind-takes-me" kind of journey. I settled on Okayama, the legendary home of Momotaro and famously known as the "Land of Sunshine." Okayama is home to Korakuen, one of Japan's three most famous gardens. Ever since visiting Kenrokuen in Kanazawa, it’s been high on my bucket list. My visit in November coincided with the autumn foliage season; though the leaves hadn't fully turned red yet, the gradient of colors was absolutely stunning. I also explored Senkoji Temple in Onomichi, the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, and Okayama Castle. The local food was incredible, and every spot I visited had its own unique charm. Unlike the hustle and bustle of big cities, Okayama offers a relaxed pace that stayed with me long after I returned home. I’m already planning my next trip back. ❤️ Food Recommendations: Men-sake Isshoan: The ramen broth is unique (the chicken wings are a must-try!). Okinoshima Ramen: A ramen shop near Okayama Station (the miso ramen is delicious). Onomichi Ramen Becha: They serve huge oysters, and the gyoza is a must-order. Kurashiki Udon Bukkake-an Furuichi: A very popular udon spot. Kurashiki Pudding: A perfect spot to grab a dessert and rest upstairs after a long walk.

Recently, I went on a two-day trip to Hiroshima to visit a dear friend! Though the time was short, I immersed myself in deep history, indulged in delicious food, and experienced two truly fulfilling days for both body and soul. 🕯️ Day 1: Visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome Upon arriving in Hiroshima, my first destination was the Atomic Bomb Dome. Witnessing the exposed steel framework and crumbled walls firsthand, I deeply felt the importance of peace and the wish to never repeat such tragedy. I was surprised to see not only visitors from Asia but also many tourists from Western countries. A European friend told me that Hiroshima is a globally renowned tourist destination. At the museum and around the Dome, people of all nationalities were silent, and some even walked with tears streaming down their faces. It was a powerful realization that this place transcends words, serving as a site where people from all over the world pray for peace. 🕊️ A Peaceful Landmark Visited by G7 Leaders Near the Atomic Bomb Dome is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which was visited by world leaders during the 2023 G7 Hiroshima Summit. The sight of these leaders leaving messages of peace at this location was deeply moving. Visitors can even sit in the same chairs used by the leaders! 🍞 A Relaxing Break at Hiroshima Andersen For a break, I stopped by the flagship store of Japan's renowned bakery, "Hiroshima Andersen." The historic building exudes a sense of grandeur, and stepping inside, you're greeted by the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread. The light meal I enjoyed here was truly delicious, with the flavors of the ingredients shining through. Spending time in this beautifully preserved space became a cherished memory of the trip ✨ ⛩️ Day 2: Exploring Miyajima, One of Japan's Three Scenic Spots On the second day, I took a ferry to Miyajima! Highlights of Miyajima: Itsukushima Shrine Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the main attraction. When the tide rises, the vermilion shrine appears to float on the sea, creating a magical sight. The island is also home to adorable wild deer, adding to its tranquil atmosphere 🦌 🦪 Savoring Miyajima's Culinary Delights · Oysters: The oysters I had along the main street were plump and juicy, bursting with rich ocean flavor. · Deep-Fried Momiji: A must-try while strolling through Miyajima is "Deep-Fried Momiji." Impression: This treat is essentially a fried version of momiji manju, with a crispy exterior and a moist, hot interior! The contrast between the crunchy and fluffy textures offers a luxurious experience unlike regular momiji manju. · Flavor: I tried the "koshi-an" (smooth red bean paste) version, and the combination of the fragrant coating and the sweet bean paste was absolutely perfect. I could eat endless amounts of these delicious treats. It's a must-try when visiting Miyajima! 🥢 Hiroshima's Must-Try Gourmet Delights For lunch, I went to the famous restaurant "Micchan"! The authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, layered with plenty of cabbage and noodles, was absolutely fantastic. However, the portion size of Micchan's okonomiyaki is quite large, which might be a bit much for smaller appetites. Sharing with friends or arriving with a hearty appetite is recommended! 🎁 Recommended Hiroshima Souvenirs 1. Takatsudo's Momiji Manju 🍁 My personal favorite is "Takatsudo." Known as the original maker, their momiji manju has incredibly chewy skin. The filling is not overly sweet, offering a refined taste. I bought various flavors as souvenirs for my workplace and family. 2. Miyajima's "Shamoji" (Rice Paddle) A traditional craft from Miyajima. The custom began in the Edo period, with "serving rice" symbolically linked to "capturing enemies," making it a lucky charm. There were many practical options available. I purchased a name-engraved strap shaped like a shamoji! 3. Oyster Soy Sauce from Local Supermarkets Oyster soy sauce, available at local supermarkets, is a must-have. It adds depth to dishes, and I made sure to buy some for home use. It worked wonders when making tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet)! Summary 🍋 Though the trip was limited to two days, I was able to experience both the "history" and "present" of Hiroshima. Seeing and feeling it firsthand helped me understand why Western friends make the effort to visit. I highly recommend taking a journey to connect with Hiroshima's "heart" ✨

#JapanTravelStrategy EnjoyingStunningViews &DeliciousFood Day 1 📍Peace Memorial Park → A Historical Stroll 📍Okonomiyaki Rei-chan → Hiroshima Lunch🥢 📍Yakigaki Hayashi → Miyajimaguchi Gourmet🦪 📍Itsukushima Shrine → The Great Torii Gate at Dusk🌅 🏨Hotel Miyajima Villa → Relaxing in the Lounge & Tatami Bath with a View♨️ Day 2 📍Early Morning Itsukushima Shrine → Mysterious Shot✨ 📍Miyama Observatory → Spectacular Ropeway🚡 📍Momijido → Fried Maple Leaves🍁 📍Helen Cafe and Bar → Photogenic Dessert #DomesticTravel #HiroshimaTrip #Miyajima #StunningSpots #GourmetTrip

Heading south from Okayama, we arrived at Onomichi, the only thriving port in the Seto Inland Sea, nestled on steep slopes. It serves as a stopover on the way to Hiroshima City. After storing our luggage 🧳 at the station, we discovered a cosplay and market event happening in the square across the street. The bustling crowd made it seem like everyone in Onomichi had taken Monday off to gather here. After mingling with the crowd to explore, we returned to our tourist itinerary, passing through a somewhat quiet shopping street to reach the Senkoji Ropeway 🚡. Under the blazing midday sun, we queued for about twenty minutes to ascend to Senkoji Park, where we enjoyed a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea. We then entered Senkoji Temple to light a candle 🕯️ and pray for family peace. Following that, we strolled along the Cat Alley, feeling the sea breeze and listening to the sound of wind chimes 🎐, searching for traces of cats. I must admit, Cat Alley felt like a small, rundown version of Houtong Cat Village, with its art installations appearing somewhat aged and neglected, leaving a slight sense of disappointment. However, looking at postcards depicting cats and the mountain town, I guessed it might just be bad luck 🍀 this time. At the end of our Onomichi journey, we walked along the Seto Inland Sea coastline on what CNN has rated as one of the world's most beautiful cycling 🚲 routes, reaching the destination, Onomichi U2. In contrast to the winding stone steps in the city, this area felt orderly, as if stepping into a different world. Unlike the bustling vibe of a metropolis 🌃, Onomichi exudes a simple and unpretentious charm. While it might not appeal to those looking to shop for cosmetics and electronics, it’s a wonderful little town for those seeking to experience a slower pace of life.

This time, I had lunch at Onomichi Shopping Street and chose Senryo Ramen, ordering through the self-service kiosk 💻. I ordered a bowl of ramen with bean sprouts 🥬. The broth was oily and fragrant but not greasy, with a balanced soy sauce and fish flavor. The noodles were on the firmer side with a good chew 🍜, and the bean sprouts were crisp and added texture. The fried chicken was a large boneless thigh 🔥, with a thin, crispy skin and plenty of juice, served with a small amount of lettuce to cut through the richness 🥗. I also ordered a fried rice 🍚, which was slightly moist but well-balanced in flavor. The rice grains absorbed the broth and had a pleasant aroma, perfectly complementing the ramen and fried chicken. Overall, the portions were moderate, with a complete meal including soup, noodles, side dishes, and fried rice, and the price was reasonable 💴. The shopping street location is convenient, and the table turnover is fast ⏱️, making it suitable for a quick meal while traveling. Senryo ramen boasts a fragrant, oily yet not heavy broth, and the noodles have a great texture. Some recommend adding bean sprouts for extra flavor. The fried chicken is large, boneless, and juicy, making it a must-try ramen shop in Onomichi Shopping Street. Eating fried rice with the ramen makes it even more filling. Overall, the prices are reasonable, making it a great choice for a quick meal, and it's recommended by both locals and tourists. #OnomichiFood #OnomichiRamenSenryo #OnomichiShoppingStreet #AffordableRamen #FriedChickenLeg #FriedRice #JapanTravel #LunchChoices #QuickMeal #ShoppingStreetFood

Senkoji Temple (千光寺) is perhaps Onomichi's most iconic landmark, perched near the summit of Mount Senkoji with views of the Onomichi Channel. It's one of a number temples in the vicinity that Onomichi is known for, but also joined by several nearby attractions at the top of Mount Senkoji inside Senkoji Park, including the Onomichi City Museum of Art and an observation platform at the top.