Highlights

Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture has flourished as a center for the shipping industry, taking advantage of its geographical location, and has developed as a shipbuilding hub; at the same time, it is also a city of film. Numerous films have been set in the city, and this trend continues uninterrupted . 

Notable examples include Yasujirō Ozu’s “Tokyo Story” from the past, and more recently, the “Onomichi Trilogy” (“The Transfer Student,” “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time,” and “Lonely Hearts”) by Nobuhiko Obayashi, a film director native to the city. It is also known as the setting for Chapter 26, “The Town of Organs and Fish,” in Fumiko Hayashi’s “Wandering”

(Cabinet Office https://www5.cao.go.jp/j-j/cr/cr07/chr07_3-5-3.html)

Yasujirō Ozu’s “Tokyo Story” and Nobuhiko Ōbayashi’s “Onomichi Trilogy” 

Onomichi, beloved by these two masters, invites you into the world of cinema with its sloping streets, temples and shrines, and the scenery of the Seto Inland Sea. Start by viewing the valuable archives at the Onomichi Film Archive, then set out on a nostalgic stroll to visit the filming locations of these masterpieces. 

 Jōdo-ji Temple (Ozu’s "Tokyo Story") A famous temple visited by Shūkichi (played by Chishū Ryū) and others in "Tokyo Story". The view of the Onomichi Waterway from the temple grounds retains the same atmosphere as in the film. 

Ushitora Shrine and Misode Tenmangu Shrine (Obayashi’s “Onomichi Trilogy”)  These shrines appeared countless times in films such as "The Girl Who Leapt Through Time" and "The Transfer Student". In particular, the stone steps of Misode Tenmangu Shrine are famous for the scene where a character tumbles down them. 

The Sloping Streets and Alleys Around Jōsen-ji Temple (Obayashi’s "Lonely Heart") This area lets you fully enjoy walking through the maze-like alleys unique to Onomichi, the “City of Slopes.” You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped right into a scene from a movie.

Onomichi Chamber of Commerce Memorial Hall (Oobayashi World) Inside the hall, there is an exhibition corner dedicated to director Nobuhiko Oobayashi, where you can sense his deep affection for Onomichi. 

Takemura-ke Main Building The model for the inn where the elderly couple stayed in "Tokyo Story", this long-established ryokan has been beloved for many years (*Note: Currently, only the exterior of the building is open for viewing*). 

Senkoji Park Observation Deck A spot offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Onomichi cityscape and the Seto Inland Sea. Accessible via the Senkoji Mountain Ropeway, the view from the summit is a must-see.