[2024 Onomichi Attraction] Travel Guide for Shimanami Kaido (Updated Oct)

Embark on a Soul-Cleansing Romantic Journey in Onomichi

The moment you step out of Onomichi Station, you're greeted by the sea breeze and the leisurely, romantic atmosphere of Onomichi. Unlike the tourist waves in Kyoto or Tokyo, I would say this is one of the best cities to relax your mind. Onomichi is also known as the City of Literature and has been the inspiration for many movies and art games. If you're a frequent consumer of Japanese culture, why not take a pilgrimage to Onomichi? Another highly recommended activity in Onomichi is cycling. Onomichi's famous Shimanami Kaido is a paradise for cyclists. The Shimanami Kaido, which connects Onomichi City and Imabari City, is Japan's first bike path that crosses a strait. All bridges are equipped with bike lanes. There are plenty of bike rental facilities, and even beginners can choose simpler routes. Bicycles can be rented in Onomichi and on various islands, allowing even beginners to enjoy the fun of cycling!

Don't go to Tokyo, these smaller cities in Japan are more interesting!

I've been living in Japan for almost a year without realizing it. In addition to the well-known Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, I've also visited quite a few smaller cities. Here are some of my personal favorite small cities for those who are struggling to decide where to go (in no particular order) ⭕ Takamatsu Takamatsu is the capital of Kagawa Prefecture in Shikoku, and it was the first place I visited on my trip to Japan 10 years ago. It has a famous nickname as the hometown of udon noodles, so you can enjoy various kinds of udon here. Also, the triennial 'Setouchi Triennale' art festival is an event not to be missed, and from Takamatsu Port, it's very convenient to travel to treasure islands such as Shodoshima, Naoshima, and Teshima. ⭕ Kochi It could be said to be the most low-key capital city in the Shikoku region. This is the hometown of the anti-shogunate warrior Sakamoto Ryoma. During my half-day city walk in Kochi, I truly felt the city's tranquil atmosphere. Additionally, I particularly like Kochi's trams, which have super cute liveries. ⭕ Tokushima Tokushima is also a place I visited on my first trip to Japan. The Awa Dance is a local specialty here, and you must see it. Also, the Iya Valley is a great place to escape the summer heat. ⭕ Onomichi A small city facing Shikoku across the sea from Honshu, it has both mountains and sea, and cycling is very popular here. Cycling from Onomichi to Shikoku's 'Shimanami Kaido' is known as Japan's most beautiful cycling route. Ramen and oysters are local specialties here. Oh, and Yasujiro Ozu's famous work 'Tokyo Story' was also filmed in Onomichi. ⭕ Kanazawa The largest city in the Hokuriku region of Japan. It is also a city with a 'high gold content.' Ninety-nine percent of Japan's gold leaf is produced here, so you can buy various gold leaf products, including food and drinks containing gold leaf. Additionally, one of Japan's three great gardens, Kenrokuen, is also located in Kanazawa. ⭕ Saga Saga in Kyushu is often rated as one of the cities in Japan with the least presence. But after going to Saga, I fell in love with it. Saga's ramen and Wagyu beef are really delicious, and the key is that they are much cheaper than in big cities. A double portion of Saga beef for just over 5000 yen is incredibly tempting. ⭕ Hakodate I've been to Hakodate twice, once in autumn and once in winter. Compared to Sapporo, Hakodate is much more interesting. From Mount Hakodate, you can see the million-dollar night view, and Goryokaku Park is a treasure with beautiful scenery all year round.

When it comes to traveling in Japan, most of them go to Hokkaido, Tokyo, Osaka, Nara and other places. In fact, many niche destinations in Japan are very worth visiting, such as Ehime County on Shikoku Island. The sea bream stuffed rice that I ate just now is the special delicacy here. The whole sea bream and rice are boiled together. Before serving the rice, all the fishbone/bones 🦴 will be picked out, and then mixed with rice evenly, and then served with side dishes and flavors Eat it together with Zengtang, I have eaten a lot of stuffy rice, I have to say it is really delicious. In addition, Ehime Prefecture is also rich in citrus, like a city surrounded by 🍊 [打泪笑笑] can see all kinds of food related to 🍊, including mascots are all related to citrus [呲牙] There is also Japan's very famous Dogo Onsen♨ which is the prototype of the oil house in "Spirited Away" and one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. To Ehime County, you can also go to: JR Shimonada Station: An unmanned station, facing the Seto Inland Sea, enjoying the tranquility of being alone. Shimanami Kaido Cycling Path: Wear light clothes, ride with the sea breeze, and enjoy the joy of outdoor sports. Matsuyama Castle Castle Tower: See the most romantic cherry blossoms in spring🌸. Imabari: Buy a towel of the highest quality in Japan. Meijinji Station: The filming location of "Tokyo Love Story". Perhaps Ehime Prefecture is not well-known among the counties in Japan, but in fact, many famous film and television dramas, food, items... all come from here. If you have the opportunity to go to Japan, you can really go and see it. It will definitely surprise you of.