Table of Contents
1. Basic Information about Onomichi
2. The Charms of Onomichi
– Strolling the Streets
– Culinary Exploration
– Scenic Spots
3. Onomichi’s Cats
4. Cat Hotspots
5. Cat-Friendly Town Initiatives
6. Guidelines for Visitors
7. Conclusion
1. Basic Information about Onomichi
Location: Eastern Hiroshima Prefecture
Access:
– Get off at JR Onomichi Station (about 1.5 hours by local train from JR Hiroshima Station)
– About 1 hour by bus from Hiroshima Airport
Local Specialties: Onomichi Ramen, Onomichi-yaki (local-style okonomiyaki), Hassaku oranges, Lemons
Main Tourist Attractions: Senkoji Temple, Onomichi Hondori Shopping Street, Onomichi Channel
Onomichi is renowned as a scenic port town facing the Seto Inland Sea. Characterized by its hilly streetscape, ancient temples, and beautiful sea views, it has been the setting for numerous literary works and films. It’s also a popular tourist destination where visitors can enjoy strolling through the town, savoring local cuisine, and taking in breathtaking views.
2. The Charms of Onomichi
Strolling the Streets: The essence of Onomichi tourism lies in exploring its sloping streets and alleys. Lose track of time as you wander past old townhouses, temples, and retro shopping streets from the Showa era.
Culinary Exploration:
– Onomichi Ramen: Known for its soy sauce-based broth rich in back fat
– Seafood Dishes: Abundant variety of fresh seafood cuisine
– Stylish Cafes: Numerous Instagram-worthy spots, including cafes in renovated traditional houses and those with terrace seating overlooking the sea. Popular for sweets using local citrus fruits and relaxing spaces to enjoy Onomichi’s scenery.
Scenic Spots:
– Senkoji Park: Offers a panoramic view of Onomichi Channel
– Takamiyama Observatory: Enjoy the beauty of the many islands in the Seto Inland Sea
– Shiomachi Shopping Street: A fusion of retro atmosphere and sea views
In recent years, Onomichi has been attracting attention not just for its beautiful scenery and historical charm. Its reputation as a “Cat Town” has been captivating many tourists, especially cat lovers.
3. Onomichi’s Cats
As you walk through Onomichi, you’ll encounter cats everywhere. In back alleys, on stone steps, and under the eaves of old houses, these felines blend perfectly with the town’s scenery. Many cats are cherished by residents and tourists alike, living a leisurely life.
4. Cat Hotspots
– Cat Alley: Known as a spot where cats particularly congregate in Onomichi.
– Onomichi City Museum of Art: This museum became famous for the amusing interactions between cats trying to enter and security guards trying to keep them out.
– Senkoji Park: You can meet many cats in the park and on the surrounding stone steps.
5. Cat-Friendly Town Initiatives
In Onomichi, residents and the government are working together to create a cat-friendly town.
– Community Cat Program: Implementing spaying/neutering and health management for stray cats.
– Cat Cafes: The town has several cat cafes where visitors can interact with cats.
– Cat-themed Goods: Many souvenir shops sell merchandise featuring Onomichi’s cats.
6. Guidelines for Visitors
When interacting with cats, please keep these points in mind:
– Don’t force contact with cats
– Refrain from feeding them
– Avoid using flash when taking photos
– Don’t startle or chase the cats
7. Conclusion
Through encounters with Onomichi’s cats, you can experience the town’s charm on a deeper level. Whether you’re a cat lover or not, you’re sure to enjoy Onomichi’s unique atmosphere and the scenery where cats and humans coexist. History, culture, cuisine, and cats – Onomichi is packed with various attractions. We invite you to visit and experience the special atmosphere of this town for yourself.
