Perched on the hills of Onomichi, Hiroshima, Senkoji Park is a cherry blossom haven with sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea. With over 1,000 cherry trees, cherry trees and a literary walking path dotted with monuments, it’s no wonder this park is listed among Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. Spring transforms the entire area into a pink-tinged panorama, drawing visitors for both daytime strolls and illuminated nighttime displays.

Why Visit Senkoji Park

• Breathtaking Vistas: Enjoy sweeping views of Onomichi’s quaint townscape and the Seto Inland Sea from the park’s observatory.
• Diverse Sakura Varieties: From classic Somei Yoshino to elegant weeping cherry trees, the park showcases a range of blossoms.
• Literary Walkway: The “Literature Path” offers a poetic stroll lined with literary monuments and blooming sakura.
• Cultural Attractions: Visit Senkoji Temple and the Onomichi City Museum of Art, designed by architect Tadao Ando, all within the park grounds.
• Evening Light-up Experience: Bonbori lanterns with haiku add a whimsical glow during the cherry blossom season.

Senkoji Park Cherry Blossoms

Senkoji Park boasts around 1,500 cherry trees that paint the hillside in shades of pink during late March to early April. The most common variety is the Somei Yoshino, but visitors will also encounter weeping cherry (shidarezakura), double-flowered cherry (yaezakura), and a few rare species that bloom across different elevations of the park.

The observatory and mountaintop areas offer panoramic views of sakura against a stunning backdrop of Onomichi City, the Seto Inland Sea, and on clear days, even the distant Shikoku mountain range. The “Literature Path” leading to Senkoji Temple is another highlight, winding gently through tunnels of cherry blossoms and literary stone markers.

Cherry Blossom Light-up

From March 15 to April 13, 2025, Senkoji Park will host a night-time illumination event, casting a soft glow from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Bonbori lanterns featuring handwritten haiku reflect Onomichi’s literary spirit, creating a magical ambiance perfect for yozakura (night cherry blossom viewing).

Senkoji Park Facilities & Amenities

Senkoji Park is designed for accessibility and comfort. Visitors can reach the mountaintop via the Senkoji Ropeway, which takes about 3 minutes. Basic facilities like benches, restrooms, and the observation deck (“PEAK”) are available, and the elevator-accessible deck makes the area inclusive for visitors with mobility concerns. Parking is available, though fees apply.

Dining Options

While specific food stalls within the park are seasonal, during cherry blossom season, yatai (food stalls) often appear, adding a festive vibe with street food options. Around the base of the park and throughout Onomichi City, visitors can enjoy a range of eateries serving local specialties, including Onomichi ramen and seafood dishes. It’s recommended to check with the Onomichi Tourist Association for up-to-date dining options during the season.

Travel Tips

• Visit early or on weekdays to avoid peak crowds during sakura season.
• Dress in layers – Onomichi mornings and evenings in spring can be chilly.
• Combine day and night visits for contrasting cherry blossom experiences.
• Use the ropeway for easy access and fantastic aerial views.

How to Get to Senkoji Park

• By Train: From JR Onomichi Station, it’s a 15-minute walk to the ropeway base station. The ropeway then takes 3 minutes to the summit.
• On Foot: Adventurous visitors can hike to the summit while enjoying the traditional townscape of Onomichi.
• By Car: Accessible from Fukuyama-Nishi IC or Onomichi IC, both about 15 minutes via local roads.

Nearby Attractions

• Senkoji Temple – An iconic Buddhist temple with sweeping views and spiritual charm.
• Onomichi City Museum of Art – A striking architectural space blending art with scenic vistas.
• Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi) – A narrow, whimsical pathway lined with cat-themed art and tiny shrines, perfect for casual strolls.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

• Innoshima Park – Another sakura spot offering views of the sea and island bridges.
• Mihara Park – Known for its riverside cherry trees and local festival atmosphere.
• Fukuyama Castle Park – Features over 500 cherry trees surrounding the historical Fukuyama Castle.

Top Image Source: アラツク, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons