• Senkoji & Senkoji Park - Senkō-ji is the most renowned and striking 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 part of the hillside, offering sea views, 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, worked 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. As a student in Hiroshima in 1945, he witnessed the atomic bomb’s devastation and suffered radiation effects. Another recurring theme was cultural exchanges within the Orient, especially Buddhism’s transmission to Japan.

The Hirayama Museum is modern and well-maintained, featuring three spacious exhibition halls, a tea lounge, and a museum shop. A variety of Hirayama’s works from his career are part of the museum’s permanent collection, along with special exhibitions.

• Tatara Bridge - Tatara Bridge, with a central span of 890 meters, is the second longest cable-stayed bridge globally. Initially planned as a suspension bridge, the design was revised 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 worldwide.

• Neko no Hosomichi - Neko no Hosomichi stretches about 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 cats) 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 features 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, with several large department stores for more shopping.

Visitors to Hiroshima’s downtown should try Hiroshima Style Okonomiyaki, a local specialty. Many restaurants along Hondori and Aioi streets serve it, but Okonomimura is the best place to find it.

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

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 coherent style. A highlight is a long cave displaying images illustrating Buddhist hell’s tortures.

• 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 is the Innoshima Bridge Memorial Park.
• Mukaishima - Mukaishima is the sixth island from Imabari City.
• Tenneiji Temple - Built by Yoshiakira Ashikaga, the second shogun of the Muromachi Period, in 1367 and founded by Fumyo Kokushi, Tenneiji Temple features the Kaiun Pagoda, an important cultural property, and 500 arhats lining the Rakan Hall beside the main hall. The weeping cherry blossoms in early April and peonies in late April are must-sees.

• Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Onomichi
• Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 2-3 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 excursion with a government-licensed, experienced English-speaking guide offers a fantastic 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, providing visitors with a glimpse into a quaint, bygone era of Japan. 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 your guide of your interests, and they will tailor a four-hour tour to suit your preferences! You can select 2 to 3 sites from the ‘what to expect’ list to create your itinerary. Please note, bicycles are not permitted.

• This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.

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