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Onomichi is a pleasant town on the Seto Inland Sea, one of many in the Chuugoku region. Defined by the Onomichi Channel - a narrow strip of water that runs between the main island of Honshu and Mukaishima in the inland sea - and steeped in more than a millennium of history, it offers travelers access to both the islands of the inland sea and other cities in the area.
Although Onomichi has easy access by train (it is a stop for kodama-type bullet trains), there are cruises that one can take that show much more of the region. The area of the inland sea near Onomichi is studded with hundreds of islands, making the scenery very memorable. But if you can’t take a cruise for whatever reason, try taking the ropeway to top of Mt. Senkoji where you can see entire city and much of the sea beyond. A hundred and forty meters (about 450 ft) high, this low mountain also has a park on its side. In the spring, over 10,000 cherry trees bloom, covering the area in a pastel pink. The Onomichi Municipal Museum of Art is also located within the park. Onomichi is well known among Japanese artists for its inspiring landscapes, and this museum has a good collection of local works. At only \300 for adults, it’s a good way to get a feel for the local culture.
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Aside from great views, Onomichi has its famous “temple walk”. The town was spared from damage during the war, and this walk will show you a collection of 25 Buddhist temples, the most famous of which is Jodoji. A trove of enormous historical significance, Jodoji’s main hall and the two-storied pagoda are designated as national treasures, the gate and Amida Hall as important cultural assets. Saikoku temple is also interesting, with gigantic straw sandals (over two meters in length!) hanging on the gate.
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