Setouchi Shores & Shikoku Heartlands
Setouchi Island Hopping
Island-hop through Setouchi's famous art islands, explore hidden gems like Tomonoura and Onomichi,and unwind in hot spring ryokans.15-day self-guided tour.
2 tours available
Onomichi is a hillside port town on the Seto Inland Sea that has long captivated Japanese writers, filmmakers, and artists. Narrow stone paths climb steeply through a maze of 25 temples, vintage cafés, and cat-friendly alleyways, earning it a reputation as one of Japan's most atmospheric small towns.
The town is also the starting point of the Shimanami Kaido, a 70-kilometre cycling route that hops across six islands via spectacular suspension bridges to Imabari in Shikoku. Whether you come for the cycling, the temple walks, or the famous Onomichi ramen — a pork-broth bowl topped with rendered pork-back fat — this is a place where slow travel is richly rewarded.
Spring (March – April) — Cherry blossoms on Senkoji Park's hilltop offer panoramic views over the island-dotted inland sea. The Shimanami Kaido ride is at its most pleasant.
Autumn (October – November) — Mild cycling weather and autumn colours among the hillside temples. The Onomichi Betcha Festival in early November is a lively local tradition.
Year-round — The Seto Inland Sea climate is mild, and Onomichi's temple walk and ramen are rewarding in any season. Summers can be warm but the sea breeze helps.
Setouchi Island Hopping
Island-hop through Setouchi's famous art islands, explore hidden gems like Tomonoura and Onomichi,and unwind in hot spring ryokans.15-day self-guided tour.
Setouchi Island Hopping
Go beyond the typical Japan itinerary. This 11-day Setouchi tour features hidden port towns, scenic ferry rides,Hiroshima's peace memorials, and DogoOnsen.
Region
Chugoku
Location
Available Tours
2 tours