Onomichi and Ikuchijima Island Tour Temples Ropeway and Ferry

After lunch, your guide will take you to the Onomichi Port Terminal, where you will board a ferry and depart on a 40-minute boat ride to the island of Ikuchijima. As you sail across the Seto Inland Sea, you will have access to a fantastic view of the many small islands lying within it.

Once you disembark, you will be led to the next destination, Kosanji Temple. Located not too far from the port, these temple grounds were founded in 1936 and built in honor of the founder’s late mother. Kosanji belongs to the school of True Pure Land Buddhism and the whole temple complex took more than 30 years to be fully constructed. Your guide will provide you with an in-depth tour of the extensive grounds and the necessary historical context to fully appreciate this exceptional location. Kosanji fairly unique since it is not an ancient temple, but rather an eclectic collection of structures modeled after some of Japan’s most famous religious sites. Its elaborate Koyomon Gate is inspired by the Yomeimon Gate at the well-renowned Nikkō Tōshogū Shinto Shrine whereas the five-storied pagoda modeled after the Buddhist Muroji Temple’s ancient pagoda. The multiple pavilions located within the temple grounds are also based on various halls which can be found throughout Japan.

Within Kosanji also lies its arguably most recognizable landmark, “The Hill of Hope.” This marble garden was created by the Japanese sculptor, Itto Kuetani, over a period of 16 years. The garden opened in late 2000 and is filled with various monuments which incorporate the surrounding scenery in order to achieve harmony with nature. This type of structure cannot be found anywhere else in Japan and thus is a must-see for people visiting Onomichi. At the top of the hill, you will not only be able to admire the marble structures, but also gain a fantastic view of the island.

The walking trail will lead us to the iconic Senkoji Temple, one of Onomichi's most famous landmarks. This stunning temple was founded in the 9th century and is easily recognizable for its vermillion Main Hall located on the hillside. Enshrined within this hall is Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion, who people pray to for multiple reasons such as good health, traffic safety, finding a partner, etc. The smell of incense, the beautiful view of the city, and the surrounding nature, all come together to create an unforgettable experience. Guests will have the opportunity to pray, purchase amulets, and briefly explore the temple grounds and its surrounding area on their own before descending the mountain on foot.