Onomichi is a quaint town located along the Seto Inland Sea in eastern Hiroshima Prefecture. The town extends from the mainland across some of the neighboring islands, which are connected by the bridges of the Shimanami Kaido. Small ferries operate between the downtown area and the nearby islands, adding to Onomichi's nostalgic port town atmosphere.
Onomichi is characterized by its many slopes, up and around which the town spreads. Many of the town's attractions are located along the slopes, and visitors will need to walk up the narrow lanes that cut through the residential areas to reach them. Onomichi's famous Temple Walk, for example, will take visitors up and down the slopes as it leads past the route's 25 temples.
Despite its small size, the town of Onomichi has made significant contributions to both the literary and cinematic world. Respected authors and directors were born in the city, and it has been the filming location for numerous movies and television dramas. This history is celebrated in a number of museums located throughout the town, many located along or just off of the Temple Walk.
One of the most unique attractions of Onomichi is the Shimanami Kaido. The route, which passes across bridges and islands of the Seto Inland Sea, is the only land connection between Japan's main island of Honshu and Shikoku that is traversable by cyclists and pedestrians. Along the way there are two particular attractions of interest to visitors. The Hirayama Museum, dedicated to one of Japan's most famous contemporary painters, and the unique Kosanji Temple.
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Pleasant walk through downtown Onomichi.
About Japan's famous contemporary painter.
