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Parks #1 in Onomichi, Hiroshima

Senkoji Park

4.2 · 5,062 reviews
A serene, scenic hillside park overlooking a historic port town.
Senkoji Park, 19-1 Nishitsuchidocho, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0032, Japan
Interesting facts
1

The park is home to the 'Literature Path,' featuring 25 stones engraved with works by authors like Naoya Shiga.

2

The onsite Senkoji Temple is said to have been founded in 806 AD during the early Heian period.

3

The park contains a massive 'Tama-no-iwa' rock formation, historically used as a navigational landmark for ships in the Inland Sea.

4

The red main hall of the temple is often referred to as the 'Red Hall' due to its distinct vermilion color visible from the harbor.

5

Senkoji Park is officially listed among the Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan.

6

The park's observation area was redesigned in 2020 to include a modern 'Peach' observation platform.

Overview

Senkoji Park is situated on the slopes of Mount Senkoji in Onomichi, offering panoramic views of the Onomichi Channel and the Seto Inland Sea islands. The park serves as the gateway to the historic Temple Walk, which connects several ancient Buddhist sites on the hillside. At its peak stands the red-lacquered Senkoji Temple, known for its unique 'lock-key' architectural style and massive boulder formations. The area is a designated 'Sakura Meisho' (Famous Cherry Blossom Spot), containing over 1,500 cherry trees that bloom in spring. An observation deck provides a 360-degree vantage point overlooking the city's labyrinthine alleys and rooftops. The park grounds feature a dedicated Literature Path lined with stones engraved with poetry and prose by writers who resided in Onomichi. The Peony Garden within the park complex is noted for its collection of traditional Japanese flower species.

Photo spot

The red-lacquered main hall of Senkoji Temple, framed by the backdrop of the Onomichi Channel and the suspension bridges.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear as the terrain involves steep stone paths and stairways.

Bring a water bottle, as the uphill climb can be strenuous during humid summer months.

Carry small change if you plan to use the local coin-operated binoculars at the observation deck.

What to avoid

Attempting to walk the entire uphill slope in extreme midday heat; utilize the ropeway if mobility is a concern.

Etiquette

Respect the temple grounds by maintaining a quiet volume; keep to marked paths to protect the garden flora.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late March to early April for cherry blossoms, or during the clear, crisp days of autumn.
Address
Senkoji Park, 19-1 Nishitsuchidocho, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0032, Japan
34.411, 133.196
Get directions
Details
ViewsPanoramic Seto Inland Sea and Onomichi Channel
Botanical FeaturesOver 1,500 cherry trees and a dedicated Peony Garden

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late March to early April for cherry blossoms, or during the clear, crisp days of autumn..

The red-lacquered main hall of Senkoji Temple, framed by the backdrop of the Onomichi Channel and the suspension bridges.

Close by you'll find Senkou Temple, Senkoji Temple Mountain Ropeway, Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi).