[3-Day, 2-Night Journey Starting from Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan] From the Future to Timeless Towns—A Rail Trip into Everyday Life and Culture

Ride the Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima, then transfer to the JR San-yō Line and get off at Otake Station. From there, it’s about a 15-minute taxi ride to Simose Art Museum—often referred to as the world’s most beautiful museum.
This striking facility, designed by world-renowned architect Shigeru Ban, won the top honor at the 2024 Prix Versailles. Inspired by the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, the museum features eight colorful movable exhibition rooms floating over a large reflecting pool—a stunning fusion of art and nature.

After your art-filled morning, return to Otake Station and take the JR San-yō Line to Miyajimaguchi Station, the gateway to Miyajima. Just a 3-minute walk from the station, you’ll find Anagomeshi Ueno, a venerable establishment founded in 1901, famous for its signature dish: anago-meshi.
This beloved meal features grilled conger eel over savory, dashi-seasoned rice, all brought together with a secret sauce passed down for generations. Take-out is also available, making it a perfect companion for your ferry ride to Miyajima.

After lunch, board the JR-West Miyajima Ferry to cross over to Miyajima Island. As you sail, you’ll see the famous torii gate rising from the sea, gradually coming into view—building excitement for what lies ahead.
Itsukushima Shinto Shrine is one of Japan’s most iconic religious sites, known for its vermilion buildings and torii gate that appear to float on the water. The shrine is celebrated not only for its architectural beauty but also for its spiritual harmony with nature, shaped by centuries of devotion. A designated World Heritage Site, it offers a mesmerizing view that changes with the tides and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

From the ferry pier to Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, the lively Miyajima Omotesando Shopping Street stretches about 350 meters.
Lined with around 70 shops, the street is perfect for trying local specialties such as grilled oysters and fried momiji manju (sweet maple-leaf-shaped cakes), as well as browsing traditional crafts and souvenirs. If you have extra time, hop on the Miyajima Ropeway to Mt. Misen, which is said to have been founded by the great monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) of the Shingon sect. From the observatory at the top, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea’s stunning island scenery.

After enjoying Miyajima, take the JR-West Miyajima Ferry and JR San-yō Line back to Hiroshima Station.
Check in at Hotel Granvia Hiroshima South Gate, which opened in spring 2025 and is directly connected to the station. Its convenient location is ideal for exploring the surrounding area, and its close proximity to the Shinkansen platform means you can enjoy a leisurely morning the next day.

If you prefer, Hotel Granvia Hiroshima at the north exit of JR Hiroshima Station is another excellent choice. Opened in 1987, the hotel continues to meet the diverse needs of travelers with its reliable service and comfortable facilities.

Opened in March 2025, “minamoa” is a newly redeveloped commercial complex where you can enjoy dinner featuring Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, Onomichi ramen, and other regional specialties such as monjayaki and motsunabe. The facility also houses shops selling cosmetics, fashion, and lifestyle items, offering a full shopping experience.
Nearby, the adjacent “ekie” shopping mall—marked with 【Special Offer Available】 in this guide—offers an extensive selection of Hiroshima-themed souvenirs.

On the second day, take the Shinkansen to Fukuyama Station. A 25-minute taxi ride brings you to the Shinshoji Zen and Garden Museum, a destination attracting attention both in Japan and abroad.
Here, you can experience the essence of Zen through zazen meditation, sutra copying, and contemplative walks through the karesansui (dry landscape) and pond gardens. The museum also features exhibitions of contemporary art, blending tradition with modern expression. Engage your senses and immerse yourself in the profound depths of Zen and Japanese culture.

From Shinshoji, take a 15-minute taxi ride to Tomonoura, a historic port town once known as a stopover for ships awaiting favorable tides. Enjoy a stroll through streets that still preserve the atmosphere of the Edo period.
Your first stop is Fukuzenji Temple Taichoro hall 【Special Offer Available】 with panoramic views that look like a beautiful painting. Next, visit the Ota Family Residence 【Special Offer Available】, a well-preserved Edo-period merchant's home offering a glimpse into life in bygone days.

For lunch, head to Tomo Town Café 454, located in a renovated traditional townhouse. Relax in its cozy interior while enjoying pasta, pizza, and other dishes. Surrounded by history, scenic beauty, and delicious food, Tomonoura offers a deeply satisfying break in your journey.

After lunch, return to Fukuyama Station by bus and transfer to the JR San-yō Line to reach Onomichi.

First, enjoy an aerial ride aboard the Mt. Senkoji Ropeway, offering stunning views overlooking the Onomichi Channel and townscape. At the summit in Senkoji Park, you can experience the changing seasonal scenery while strolling through the observatory and the Path of Literature. The park also features the Onomichi City Museum of Art, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando 【Special Discount Available】 (closed until September 9, 2025, for air conditioning upgrades and exhibition preparation). Don't miss the breathtaking panorama of the Onomichi Channel and the Seto Inland Sea through the glass windows of the museum’s second-floor lobby. Additionally, at Senkoji Temple, the striking combination of the vermilion-colored main hall and impressive rock formations provides a tranquil atmosphere.

Make your way down the stone-paved paths and head to the famous Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi). Along this whimsical path dotted with cat-themed sculptures and artwork, you might even encounter real cats if you’re lucky. Stop by a local café along the way and fully take in the unique charm of Onomichi.

On the second night, stay at HOTEL CYCLE, located within ONOMICHI U2—a renovated warehouse originally built in 1943. Guests can check in with their bicycles at this unique accommodation and features thoughtful services that highlight local identity, such as room wear made from BINGO denim. Also on-site is The RESTAURANT ONOMICHI U2, where you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients while relaxing on the terrace with views of the Seto Inland Sea. ONOMICHI U2 also serves as a perfect base for exploring the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.

Also recommended is LOG, a hotel and multi-purpose complex situated halfway up Mount Senkoji. This renovated space, created from an apartment building constructed approximately 60 years ago, offers a unique atmosphere. The hotel occupies the third floor, featuring six guest rooms that wrap visitors in a cocoon-like comfort, with floors, walls, and ceilings covered in traditional Japanese washi paper. Additionally, guests can freely enjoy their time at the café, shop, or garden areas. (Accommodations available for guests aged 13 and older.)

In this itinerary, we traveled from Hiroshima to Fukuyama by train. However, for those who want a more unique experience, we recommend taking SEA SPICA—a high-speed sightseeing cruiser departing from Hiroshima Port.
This scenic cruise connects the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful seascape through large windows instead of train car windows. There is also a route that runs between Hiroshima and Onomichi, making it a great option for travelers who want to enjoy a relaxing journey by boat.

On the third day, return from Onomichi Station to Fukuyama Station, then transfer to the Shinkansen to reach Kurashiki Station. From there, head to the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.【Special Discount Available】

This charming district features white-walled storehouses and buildings with namako-kabe (tiled walls), willow trees lining the Kurashiki River, and a tranquil atmosphere rich in historical character. While strolling through the area, be sure to visit the Ohara Museum of Art, Japan’s first Western art museum. It showcases globally renowned works by artists such as Monet and El Greco—making it a must-visit spot for art lovers.

Next, stop by Hayashi Genjuro Shoten, a beautifully designed store offering a curated selection of lifestyle goods—perfect for souvenir hunting in Kurashiki. For lunch, unwind at Miyake Shoten, a café housed in a renovated traditional townhouse, where you can enjoy flavorful curries made with seasonal ingredients. Walking through Kurashiki offers delightful discoveries at every turn, ensuring a rewarding visit no matter how many times you return.

After exploring Kurashiki, take the Shinkansen and Okayama Electric Tramway to reach the castle town area where Okayama Castle and Okayama Korakuen are located.

First, visit Okayama Castle, affectionately known as "Ujo" (Crow Castle) 【Special Offer Available】. Known for its striking black exterior, this beautiful castle offers splendid views from its main keep and a variety of cultural experiences such as kimono wearing and Bizen pottery workshops.

Next, head to Okayama Korakuen 【Special Offer Available】, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens. The garden features spacious lawns, quiet ponds, seasonal flowers, and traditional tea houses—all in perfect harmony. The contrast between the lush greenery of the garden and the dark castle keep of Okayama Castle next door is especially photogenic. Spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage make the garden even more spectacular.

After enjoying one of Japan’s finest castles and traditional gardens, it’s time to bring the trip to a close. Head back to Okayama Station and explore the adjacent shopping complex “Sun Station Terrace Okayama.” 【Special Offer Available】 Here, you’ll find a wide range of specialty products, including sweets made with local peaches and grapes, and the region’s famous kibidango (millet dumplings). It’s the perfect place to pick up a few last-minute gifts and enjoy Okayama’s unique charm until the very end of your trip.

If you’re planning to stay another night in Okayama, consider Hotel Granvia Okayama 【Special Offer Available】, conveniently connected to the east exit (Korakuen Exit) of JR Okayama Station. The hotel features seven on-site restaurants and bars, where you can savor seasonal cuisine from Okayama and the Setouchi region.