【Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture】Senkoji Park, with its stunning view of the strait, is a must-visit landmark in Hiroshima

Onomichi is a famous sightseeing spot for Hiroshima trips. In Onomichi, there is the Senkoji Temple and Senkoji Park, both bustling with worshippers and tourists. Here we introduce the charm of the historic Senkoji Temple, walking routes around Senkoji Park and its surroundings, as well as recommended sightseeing spots.

1. What is Senkoji Temple?

Senkoji Temple is a temple in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, founded in the first year of Daidō (806). The main hall enshrines the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva, attracting many worshippers. The long staircase leading up to the main hall is famous, and the temple itself is located halfway up Mt. Taipozan overlooking the Onomichi Strait. The view from Senkoji Temple is said to be “the finest in our country.”

2. Five things to do at Senkoji Park

1. First, take the ropeway to the summit!

Senkoji Temple is located halfway up Mt. Taipozan. While it is certainly possible to climb up to Senkoji, taking the ropeway up to the summit first, enjoying the view from the top, and then descending towards Senkoji is easier on the body and highly recommended.

The ropeway route passes directly over Senkoji Temple. Looking down at a temple from above is a rare experience, making it refreshing and unique. At the summit’s Senkoji Park, there is also an observatory where you can see a variety of landscapes. Be sure to enjoy the many spectacular views of Onomichi.

2. Stroll along “Path of Literature” while feeling the history of literature

After enjoying the view from the summit, head downhill toward Senkoji Temple. The shortest route to the temple is the “Path of Literature.” The Path of Literature is a nature-rich walking trail, and as its name suggests, it was loved by many writers and poets (for example, Masaoka Shiki / Shiga Naoya / Ogata Kōan, etc.).

Along the Path of Literature, natural stones engraved with poems and novel excerpts by writers and poets connected to Onomichi are scattered throughout. It is a historical and mystical trail where nature and literature coexist. (*The photo shows the monument to Jippensha Ikku, famous for “Tōkaidōchū Hizakurige.”)

3. Tour Senkoji’s power spots

Once you descend via the Path of Literature, you will arrive at Senkoji Temple. Within Senkoji, there are several power spots that attract many visitors.

【Tama-no-Iwa (Gem Rock)】

Senkoji is associated with the legend of “Tama-no-Iwa” (Gem Rock) (see details on Senkoji’s official website). It is said that this legendary rock gave the temple its name.

【Bell Tower】

The bell tower of Senkoji is also famous for its New Year’s Eve bell ringing.

【Onomichi Specialty / Kachikachi Beads】

The “108 Bead Rosary for Dispelling Earthly Desires,” made of cherry wood, is known as “Kachikachi Beads” and is a specialty of Onomichi. While making a wish for happiness, gently pull on them.

4. Take a break at an Onomichi café

Around Senkoji Temple, there are many stylish cafés that blend into the atmosphere of the Onomichi townscape. How about taking a rest from your stroll and relaxing in one of them? Along Cat Alley (the eastern side of Senkoji), there are several cafés with a charming atmosphere.

5. Enjoy the evening scenery around Senkoji

After strolling through Senkoji Park and receiving spiritual energy from visiting the temple, before you know it, it’s already evening!? At such times, make sure to admire the sunset from around Senkoji before heading back.

3. Access to Senkoji

The nearest station to Senkoji is JR “Onomichi Station.” Since it is a bit of a distance from the station, take a municipal bus to the area near the ropeway station. Once on the municipal bus, get off at “Nagaeguchi.” If coming by car or taxi, park at the parking lot inside Senkoji Park. From the parking lot, it is about a 10-minute walk to Senkoji.

4. Sightseeing spots around Senkoji

In addition to Senkoji Temple, Onomichi has many other sightseeing spots. One writer connected to Onomichi is Shiga Naoya, who spent two years in Onomichi from 1912 to 1914. His former residence is located in the “Onomichi Literature Hall,” so literature fans should not miss it.

Also recommended is the “Onomichi City Museum of Art” located at the foot of Mt. Senkoji. Highlights include the building designed by Tadao Ando and chairs created by famous designers, where you can enjoy the modern design. The chairs are available for sitting, so you can personally experience their comfort. (*The photo is of the Onomichi City Museum of Art.)

5. Dining spots around Senkoji

If you get hungry after strolling around Senkoji, have a meal at one of Onomichi’s popular cafés or restaurants. Here are some especially recommended places.

【Cafe Coyote】

An 8-minute walk from Onomichi Station, located in the shopping street. This café is popular for its spice-rich curry and also has a nice atmosphere.

【Matin Sun Ble】

Located at the north exit of Onomichi Station. Its stylish one-plate meals are popular. Other menu items include quiche, craft beer, and cold-drip coffee.

【Meal and Coffee Alto】

A renovated old house café located about a 10-minute walk from the north exit of Onomichi Station. It’s best to check the shop’s Facebook page for open days before visiting. You can enjoy stylish yet homely meals here.

◎ Finally: “Cat Alley” on the West Side of Senkoji is recommended for cat-loving travelers

Senkoji has a walking path called the “Path of Literature,” but there is also another path known as “Cat Alley.” While the Path of Literature connects the summit and Senkoji, Cat Alley leads from Senkoji to the ropeway station. As its name suggests, you can meet many cats there. The cats in this area are relatively accustomed to tourists, and many visitors find themselves soothed by their charming appearances and gestures. This is also one of the pleasures of exploring Senkoji.