Things To Do
in Onomichi
Onomichi is a picturesque coastal town located in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its charming streets lined with traditional Japanese houses and temples. The town is also famous for its numerous slopes and staircases that offer stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Onomichi is a popular destination for tourists seeking a quiet and relaxing getaway.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing bike ride along the Shimanami Kaido. The scenic views of the islands will energize you for the day ahead.
Visit the Onomichi City Museum of Art for a taste of local culture and stunning exhibitions. Later, enjoy lunch at a café overlooking the harbor.
Stroll through the charming streets of Onomichi and discover quaint shops. End your evening with a dinner of local seafood at a restaurant by the sea.
Visit the famous Senkoji Temple and take in the panoramic views of the city. The serene environment is perfect for a peaceful start.
After lunch, hike the trail to the lighthouse for more breathtaking views. The hike is a great way to immerse yourself in nature.
Relax at a local izakaya and savor authentic Japanese dishes. Engage with locals who can share stories about the history of Onomichi.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical temples and shrines.
- Famous for its local cuisine, especially seafood and ramen.
- Charming old town atmosphere with traditional architecture.
- Access to scenic cycling routes, particularly the Shimanami Kaido.
- Limited public transportation options may require a car.
- Tourism infrastructure is not as developed as in larger cities.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
- Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to urban centers.
Best Activities in Onomichi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A scenic cycling route that connects several islands and offers beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea.
A hilltop park with panoramic views of Onomichi, walking paths, and historic temples.
A striking temple complex known for its elaborate architecture and art collections.
Tours
Uncover the best of Onomichi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Onomichi
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop park offering panoramic views of Onomichi, the Seto Inland Sea, and its many islands
A museum with a rooftop garden providing sweeping views of the city and the surrounding islands
An iconic bridge offering picturesque vistas of the city, the sea, and the surrounding landscape
Food in Onomichi
Onomichi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory noodle soup topped with chashu (braised pork), green onions, and nori seaweed, renowned for its rich and flavorful broth. It can be savored at Taisho-ken, a historic ramen shop believed to be the birthplace of Onomichi Ramen.
Must-Try!
A savory pancake layered with cabbage, noodles, and various toppings, reminiscent of the famous Hiroshima version of okonomiyaki. Visitors can enjoy this dish at Okonomi-mura, a multi-story building housing several okonomiyaki restaurants.
Traditional Japanese rice crackers made at Senbei Dojo Kamomeya, where visitors can experience making their own senbei while enjoying the beautiful view of the Seto Inland Sea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A renovated warehouse complex transformed into a modern food and shopping space, featuring a variety of vendors offering local delicacies, including freshly caught seafood, artisanal snacks, and handmade desserts.
A bustling market that offers a wide range of fresh produce, seafood, pickles, and street food, such as yakitori skewers and oysters, providing an authentic taste of Onomichi's local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Onomichi, Japan, it is important to show respect for elders by using honorific language and bowing when greeting or thanking them.
It is a cultural norm to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments in Onomichi to maintain cleanliness and show respect.
Maintaining a quiet and polite demeanor in public places, such as restaurants and public transportation, is a common cultural expectation in Onomichi, reflecting respect for others.
Safety
Tipping in Onomichi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Onomichi, Japan. It is not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Onomichi, Japan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment. However, credit and debit cards are also increasingly being accepted, especially in larger establishments. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting smaller shops or restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Onomichi, Japan is in spring (March to May) when you can experience the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom and pleasant weather for exploring the city and its surroundings.
During the summer months (June to August), Onomichi experiences warm and humid weather. This season is ideal for enjoying festivals and local events, but be prepared for the heat and occasional rain showers.
In autumn (September to November), Onomichi is adorned with stunning fall foliage, creating a picturesque setting for visitors. The temperatures are milder, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Winter (December to February) in Onomichi brings cooler temperatures and occasional snowfall. While the city may not be as crowded with tourists, it offers a serene atmosphere and unique winter landscapes.
Onomichi at Night
Hiking in Onomichi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic island with beautiful trails and views of the Seto Inland Sea, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
A famous cycling and hiking route connecting Honshu and Shikoku, offering stunning views and multiple trails.
A mountain offering a variety of hiking trails and panoramic views of Onomichi and the surrounding islands.
A park with gentle trails, ideal for leisurely hikes and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
A quiet island with charming hiking paths that lead to picturesque coastal views and local flora.
Aiports
How to reach Onomichi by plane.
The main international airport serving Hiroshima, located approximately 60 km from Onomichi.
An international airport located about 78 km from Onomichi, serving Okayama and the surrounding regions.
An international airport located approximately 140 km from Onomichi, serving the Osaka area and beyond.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, located about 130 km from Onomichi and primarily handling domestic flights.
An airport serving Tokushima Prefecture, located about 120 km from Onomichi, offering a limited number of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Onomichi's demographic consists of elderly residents, reflecting Japan's overall trend of an aging population.
Middle-aged adults, particularly those in their 40s to 60s, make up a large segment of the population, often working in local industries and services.
Young adults in their 20s and 30s represent a smaller demographic, often pursuing education or early career opportunities.
Teenagers form a vital part of the population, engaging in local schools and community activities.
Younger children from families in the area attend preschools and elementary schools, contributing to the local community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Onomichi is known for its scenic cycling routes, particularly the Shimanami Kaido which offers breathtaking views and connects the islands of the Seto Inland Sea.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, and Onomichi has local teams that contribute to the community's enthusiasm for the game.
Given its coastal location, fishing is a popular activity and sport in Onomichi, with many locals participating in both recreational and competitive fishing.
Soccer has a growing following in Onomichi, with local clubs and youth programs encouraging participation among residents.
With its beautiful landscapes and numerous trails, running enjoys popularity among fitness enthusiasts and is often combined with local events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Onomichi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, several restaurants and cafes in Onomichi offer plant-based dishes, including tofu-based delicacies, vegetable tempura, and meat-free ramen.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can opt for dishes like sashimi, rice-based sushi, and grilled fish, which are naturally gluten-free. Additionally, some eateries may offer gluten-free noodle alternatives.