Things To Do
in Onomichi

Onomichi is a picturesque port city located in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, known for its charming hillside temples and scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea. The city is famous for its historic architecture, narrow alleys, and vibrant cultural scene, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration. Onomichi is also renowned for its cycling routes, particularly the Shimanami Kaido, which connects the islands of the Seto Inland Sea.

With its unique blend of history, nature, and modernity, Onomichi provides a delightful experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Onomichi's Temples and Old Streets
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Senkoji Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city. Take a stroll along the Onomichi Temple Walk, which connects several historic temples.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local noodle shop to try Onomichi's famous ramen. Afterward, explore the charming narrow streets of Onomichi, visiting local shops and cafes.

evening
:

Watch the sunset from the Onomichi Sunset Park, then dine at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while enjoying views of the harbor.

day 2
Day 2: Cycling and Island Adventures
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and embark on the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, which offers stunning views and access to various islands. Stop at the first island, Mukaishima, for a quick coffee break.

afternoon
:

Continue cycling to the island of Innoshima, where you can visit the Innoshima Suigun Castle and learn about the local pirate history. Have lunch at a local eatery on the island.

evening
:

Return to Onomichi and enjoy dinner at a traditional izakaya, experiencing the local dining culture. Finish the night with a visit to a local bar or sake brewery.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Onomichi Ramen$8
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$5
🚌Bus Fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal views
  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Quaint and peaceful atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
  • Less accessibility to major attractions compared to larger cities
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Onomichi

Visit one of these nice places.

Senkoji Temple

Capture stunning views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea from the temple's hilltop location.

Onomichi's Old Town

Photograph the charming narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, shops, and temples.

Onomichi Park

A beautiful park perfect for panoramic shots of the city, especially during cherry blossom season.

Culinary Guide

Food in Onomichi

Onomichi offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring unique local dishes that reflect the city’s coastal heritage and rich agricultural traditions.

Onomichi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Onomichi Ramen

A soy sauce-based ramen with a rich, savory broth, often topped with pork, green onions, and nori.

Must-Try!

Fried Noodles (Hiyashi Chuka)

Cold noodles served with fresh vegetables and a variety of toppings, perfect for hot days.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Onomichi Umon Market

A vibrant local market offering fresh seafood, produce, and various street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Onomichi has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 0°C (32°F). The transition seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and comfortable, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

When visiting temples and shrines, observe silence and remove your shoes if required.

Politeness in Communication

Use polite language and bows when greeting locals, and avoid speaking loudly in public spaces.

Queuing

Always queue in an orderly manner, whether at public transport or shops, as it is considered respectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Onomichi is considered a safe city for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. The city has a low crime rate, and emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for medical emergencies.

Tipping in Onomichi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally not practiced in Japan, as excellent service is expected. Instead, express gratitude verbally.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and cherry blossoms blooming, making it a popular time for sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and humid conditions, ideal for cycling and water activities but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage, perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snow; a quiet time to visit and enjoy Onomichi’s temples without the crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Onomichi at Night

Onomichi's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to larger cities. You can find cozy izakayas, local bars, and a few live music venues. The atmosphere is friendly, and many places offer local sake and craft beers. Enjoying a night out here often involves socializing with locals and experiencing traditional Japanese hospitality.

Hiking in Onomichi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mukaishima Island Trail

A scenic hiking trail on Mukaishima Island that offers beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea and is accessible by ferry.

Senkoji Park Trails

Various trails within Senkoji Park that lead to beautiful viewpoints and ancient temples, suitable for all hiking levels.

Airports

How to reach Onomichi by plane.

Hiroshima Airport

Located about 40 km from Onomichi, Hiroshima Airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Onomichi is highly walkable, particularly in its old town area where narrow streets and steep hills are best explored on foot. The city is compact, making it easy to navigate between temple sites, cafes, and shops. However, be prepared for some uphill walks due to the city’s hilly terrain, which offers rewarding views.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists mainly of Japanese residents, with a mix of families and elderly individuals who contribute to the city's cultural heritage.

Tourists

Onomichi attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those interested in cycling, history, and scenic beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is incredibly popular in Japan, with local teams drawing large crowds during the season.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing fan base, and local clubs participate in various leagues, hosting matches that attract enthusiastic supporters.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Onomichi is generally light, with most visitors opting for bicycles or walking to explore the city. Public transportation includes local buses and trains, which are punctual and convenient for getting around. The city is well-connected by road, but parking can be limited in the old town area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Onomichi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional dishes often contain fish or meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, particularly in noodle dishes.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice dishes and some soba noodles can be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Onomichi is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and travelers. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and many hospitals have English-speaking staff. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while in Japan.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide