Senko-ji Park

In short

Senko-ji Park spreads across the summit area of Mt. Senkoji in Onomichi. From here you can look out over the townscape along the Onomichi Channel, Mukaishima Island on the opposite shore, and the islands of the Shimanami Kaido, and on clear days, the view extends as far as the mountain ranges of Shikoku. The park has been selected as one of "Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots" and one of the "Top 100 Night Views."

• ​Summit Observation Deck "PEAK"​​: An observation deck newly opened in March 2022. You can enjoy the shifting scenery as you walk along its long, slender deck, 63 meters in total length. It has an elevator and is also accessible by wheelchair
• ​Path of Literature​​: Along this walking path, which runs approximately 1 kilometer from the summit to Senko-ji Temple, stand 25 literary monuments bearing words by authors and poets associated with Onomichi
• ​Cherry Blossoms and Night View​​: In spring, around 1,500 cherry trees bloom, and from dusk into the night, you can also enjoy the night view of the Onomichi Channel lit up by city lights

History and Highlights

​Senko-ji Park​ is a park that spreads across the summit area of Mt. Senkoji, which rises to the north of Onomichi's city center. From 1894, development began under the name "Kyorakuen" by figures such as Miki Hanzaemon, who would later become an honorary citizen of Onomichi. It was later donated to Onomichi City, which continued the development, and upon its completion in 1905, it was renamed Senko-ji Park.

From the top of the mountain, you can look out over the townscape along the Onomichi Channel, Mukaishima Island on the opposite shore, and the islands of the Shimanami Kaido; on clear days, the view extends as far as the mountain ranges of Shikoku. In spring, around 1,500 cherry trees bloom, and the site has been selected as one of "Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots." The night view is also beautiful and has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Night Views."

Viewing and Experience Points

• ​Summit Observation Deck "PEAK"​​: The summit observation deck was rebuilt from the previous cylindrical observation deck and newly opened in March 2022. Designed by architects Aoki Jun and Shinagawa Masatoshi, it features a long, slender deck measuring 63 meters in total length, where visitors can enjoy shifting scenery as they walk. Connected directly to the summit station of the ropeway and equipped with an elevator, it is also accessible by wheelchair.
• ​Path of Literature​​: This walking path extends approximately 1 kilometer from the summit down toward Senko-ji Temple. Established in 1969, the path features 25 literary monuments carved from natural stones, bearing quotes from authors and poets associated with Onomichi, such as Matsuo Basho, Masaoka Shiki, Shiga Naoya, and Hayashi Fumiko.
• ​Highlights on the Mountain​​: The Onomichi City Museum of Art is located inside the park, and descending a short way brings you to the grounds of Senko-ji Temple. The giant rocks and the bell tower within the temple grounds are introduced in the "Senko-ji Temple" spot guide.

Tips for Exploring

Riding the Mt. Senkoji Ropeway from the foot of the mountain will bring you to the summit in about 3 minutes. A recommended route is to enjoy the scenery on the way up via the ropeway, and on the way down, walk through the Path of Literature to Senko-ji Temple, then continue along the slopes and stone stairways passing Tennei-ji Temple Three-storied Pagoda and Neko-no-Hosomichi Alley. As the slopes and stone stairs continue, please wear comfortable walking shoes. From dusk into the night, you can also enjoy the night view of the Onomichi Channel lit up by city lights.