There are many more temples in Onomichi than a town of its small size would be expected to have. This density of temples has become one of Onomichi's main tourist attractions, and there is a designated walking route in the downtown area called the Temple Walk that connects 25 of them.
The Temple Walk route is about two and a half kilometers long, and can take anywhere from an hour to half a day depending on how much time is spent at each temple. A whole day can be spent if visitors also stop at the other attractions along the way.
The temples of Onomichi are quite pleasant, even if none are breathtaking. Most of them are quite small, although there are a few that have multiple buildings, and a couple that have pagodas. The Temple Walk is marked quite well, but it should be noted that many of the temples can only be reached by diverting off the route a little bit.
Some typical temples found along the Temple Walk
In addition to exposing visitors to the town's temples, the Temple Walk also leads through the narrow lanes of Onomichi's residential areas, passing by small shops, houses and schools. The Temple Walk also takes visitors up and down some of Onomichi's slopes, which afford attractive views onto the town below and the neighboring island.
Along the route, tourists will also pass some sights related to Onomichi's artistic achievements, including a Literature Museum, the former residences of two prominent authors, and a "literature path" that is marked by rocks inscribed with poems. The Motion Picture Museum can also be reached as a diversion from the Temple Walk.
The view of Onomichi from Senkoji Park's Observation Platform
One of Onomichi's temples has given its name to a prominent public park, Senkoji Park, that is situated at the peak of a large hill. The park can be reached by foot, but there is also a ropeway available for visitors who would prefer not to walk up the slope. In addition to Senkoji Temple, the Onomichi City Art Museum can also be found within the park. The museum was designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Ando Tadao, and features temporary exhibitions, which vary widely in theme and period.
As one of the highest points in Onomichi, Senkoji Park affords some great views over the town. The best place to get a view is from the Senkoji Observation Platform, which is free to enter. The park is especially attractive during the cherry blossom season, which usually takes place in late March and early April, as it is considered one of Japan's 100 best cherry blossom spots.
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