Onomichi

Onomichi is one of those quiet towns that let you experience a different side of Japan—peaceful, clean, and with fewer tourists. The town sits near the shore, so there’s a cool breeze almost all day, and it can get quite chilly depending on the season. But that makes it even more relaxing. One of the highlights of my visit was going up to the view deck. From there, you get an amazing view of Onomichi and the sea—it’s beautiful to just stand there and take it all in. If you’re looking for a slower-paced stop with lovely scenery, Onomichi is a good place to include in your itinerary.

The JR Onomichi Station is right at the town centre of Onomichi. Connection can be made from this station through the San-yo Line to Fukuyama Station for a transfer to Kansai Shinkansen going towards Sin-Osaka or Hiroshima directions. A JR ticket reserving service office and a 7-11 convenience store are located outside the paid area of the station. Besides, the Hotel Beacon Onomichi is located at the 2nd floor connected by a staircase and a passenger/bike lift right above the station. Local bus services, taxi, department store/supermarket, cafe and bakery are situated around the station.

Between mountains and sea, Onomichi whispers of poets and cyclists. Temples, cats, and salt wind mingle in its narrow lanes. The Shinkansen passes quickly — but its memory stays. Tourist Tip: Get off at nearby Shin-Onomichi Station for cycling the Shimanami Kaidō. Rent bikes at the port. Visit temple walks and seaside cafés.

Nice little station. Since this information doesn't seem to be available online, the ticket office is open 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. There are self-service ticket machines available outside those hours, but if you need a human don't go before 8:00

Onomichi is a very unique city. After you get of the train and go through the gate, it's like you travel back in time. Especially the walking street, most of the shops are still keeping that Shōwa (昭和) aesthetics. Also highly recommend walking to Senkoji Park / Senkoji Temple. The Temple Walk route have signs guide you all the way up and the view along the way is beautiful.