Hiroshima

Hiroshima

Abuto Kannon
Autumn

Abuto Kannon, at the Edge of the Void

A red pavilion clinging to a cliff above the Seto Inland Sea, a railing far too low, and hundreds of votive breasts on the walls: at Abuto Kannon, sailors and mothers have prayed side by side for four centuries.

Onomichi Pagoda Waterfront Cityscape, Japan Some hiking
Hiroshima

Onomichi: the Little Kyoto of Setouchi

Peaceful Onomichi charms tourists with its unusual topography, rich past, and four-legged locals!

Some crowds
Half day for the temple walk + Senko-ji area; full day if adding the Literature Path, Cat Alley, viewpoints, and port stroll. Extra full day if starting the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
Historic Japanese town Takeharas traditional architecture. Easy walk
Autumn

Takehara : Staggering between the whisky and the sake

When I arrived in Takehara one evening, I was expecting a little village wedged between a calm, silky sea on one side and mountains verdant with bamboo on the other.

Quiet
Half day (3–5 hours) for the old town stroll + drinks; full day if adding seaside/sunset viewing and brewery/whisky-related stops
Tomonoura: Picturesque Japanese Coastal Town Harbor Easy walk
Autumn

Tomonoura : The Village of Ponyo

I’m going round in circles. Where on earth is it? After searching far and wide for the way up, a steep flight of steps appears in front of me.

Some crowds
Half day (3–5 hours) for the port, narrow streets, shops/food; full day if you explore slowly and stay overnight in a minshuku.
Serene Beauty: Miyajimas Iconic Torii Gate in Seto Inland Sea. Easy walk
Autumn

The Torii of Miyajima

I visited the back alleys of Miyajima, I discovered the place where fawns meet together, I took a unique walk in a temple that was even more unique, I ate a lot both grub and junk food.

Busy
Half day to full day (allow extra time if hiking up the mountain and exploring back alleys/temples).