Onomichi Cat Alley
Art, Cats, and Hillside Charm in the Temple Town
Neko no Hosomichi (Cat Alley) emerged as an art project in 1998 when local artist Shunji Sonoyama began installing small ceramic cat sculptures and painted stones throughout the steep alleyways of Onomichi's temple district. What started as a simple art installation evolved into a beloved attraction that captured the essence of Onomichi's charm - the convergence of art, history, and the numerous cats that have long inhabited this hillside port town.
The project resonated with locals and visitors because cats have been an integral part of Onomichi's culture for generations. The port city's warehouses and shops historically attracted rodents, making cats valued residents. As the town's steep hills deterred vehicular traffic, cats found safe havens in the quiet alleyways connecting Onomichi's 25 historic temples. The art installations celebrate this relationship while revitalizing forgotten pathways.
Today, over 1,000 cat-themed artworks line the 200-meter path through the temple district. The alley has become emblematic of Onomichi's creative tourism approach, complementing the city's reputation as a filming location and literary destination. The cats themselves have become local celebrities, with regular visitors recognizing individual felines. The initiative inspired similar cat-themed tourism projects across Japan while preserving Onomichi's historical character.
Key Highlights
- Over 1,000 cat-themed artworks along narrow hillside paths
- Ceramic cat sculptures, painted stones, and murals by local artists
- Real cats lounging in alleys - friendly and photogenic
- Connects historic temples including Senkoji and Tentokuji
- Panoramic views of Onomichi Channel and Seto Inland Sea
- Unique shops and cat-themed cafes along the route
Access Information
Location
Higashitsuchido-cho, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0033, Japan (area between Senkoji Temple and lower town)
Nearest Stations
- • Onomichi Station (JR San'yo Main Line) - 15 min walk to alley entrance
- • Onomichi Port (ferry terminal) - 10 min walk
Opening Hours
Alley accessible 24 hours (outdoor public space). Recommended visit: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM for best lighting and cat activity. Nearby shops/cafes: typically 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, closed Wednesdays (varies by establishment).
Admission Fee
Free access to alley and art installations
How to Get There
From Hiroshima
Take JR San'yo Main Line (Local or Rapid) to Onomichi Station (80-90 minutes, ¥1,520). Exit station and walk east toward hillside temple area (15 minutes uphill). Follow signs for 'Neko no Hosomichi.' Or take Senkoji Ropeway partway up (¥500 round-trip).
1.5 hours
From Fukuyama
Take JR San'yo Main Line to Onomichi (20 minutes, ¥330). Walk from station or take Onomichi City Bus #1 to Ropeway-mae stop (5 minutes, ¥150). Cat Alley accessible from ropeway area.
30 minutes
From Kurashiki
Take JR San'yo Main Line via Fukuyama to Onomichi (approximately 90 minutes, ¥1,690). Combined day trip with Kurashiki possible. Consider Setouchi Marineview scenic train for special experience.
1.5 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Interacting with Cats
Onomichi's cats are generally friendly but are community animals, not pets. Observe respectfully - avoid chasing, grabbing, or using flash photography. Some cats enjoy gentle petting if they approach you. Do not feed the cats (locals provide proper nutrition). Best cat-spotting times: early morning (7-9 AM) and late afternoon (3-5 PM) when temperatures are cooler.
Photography Opportunities
Narrow alleys create intimate compositions with cats, art, and temple backgrounds. Morning light (9-11 AM) illuminates the hillside beautifully. Bring a longer lens (50mm+) to photograph cats without disturbing them. The stone steps, ceramic cats, and real cats create endless photo opportunities. Panoramic city views available from higher sections of the path.
Navigating the Hillside
The temple district involves significant uphill walking on uneven stone steps and slopes. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. The elevation gain is about 80 meters over the route. Take your time - the journey is the destination. Multiple rest points with benches. Not fully wheelchair/stroller accessible due to steep narrow passages.
Temple District Exploration
Cat Alley connects 7 of Onomichi's 25 temples. Notable stops: Senkoji Temple (city views and ropeway), Tentokuji (three-story pagoda), and Jikoji (historic rock cave). Combined temple-cat walk takes 2-3 hours. Temple admission usually free or ¥100-300. Respect religious sites - quiet behavior near worship areas.
Cat-Themed Cafes & Shops
Several cat-themed establishments line the route: Neko no Hosomichi Art Museum (¥300, cat art exhibits), various coffee shops with cat décor serving local specialty Onomichi ramen and hassaku citrus treats. Cat goods shops sell ceramic figurines, postcards, and local crafts. Fukuishi-neko Lucky Cat Shop is particularly popular.
Best Visiting Season
Spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November) offer pleasant temperatures for hillside walking. Cherry blossoms in April add extra charm. Summer (June-September) can be hot and humid on exposed hillsides - visit early morning. Winter (December-February) is quiet with fewer tourists, but cats may seek indoor shelter. Year-round accessible.
Complete Walking Route
Start from Onomichi Station, walk to the harbor, then climb through the temple district following cat markers. The full circuit (including multiple temples) takes 2.5-3 hours at a relaxed pace. Download the Onomichi Tourism map app or grab a free map at the station tourist information center. Ropeway provides shortcuts up/down the hill.
Practical Tips
Onomichi is a small town - English signage limited but locals are helpful. Bring cash (many small shops don't accept cards). Public restrooms available at temples and the ropeway station. Combine with Shimanami Kaido cycling route for multi-day itinerary. Luggage storage available at Onomichi Station (¥300-600).
FAQ
What is Cat Alley in Onomichi?
Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi) is a 200-meter artistic pathway through Onomichi's hillside temple district, featuring over 1,000 cat-themed artworks including ceramic sculptures, painted stones, and murals created by local artist Shunji Sonoyama since 1998. Real cats also frequent the alley.
How long does it take to walk Cat Alley?
Walking just Cat Alley takes about 30 minutes at a leisurely pace. However, the complete temple district circuit including multiple temples takes 2.5 to 3 hours. The journey is the destination, so take your time exploring the art, cats, and temple connections.
Will I see real cats in Cat Alley?
Yes, real cats live and lounge throughout the alley. Best cat-spotting times are early morning (7-9 AM) and late afternoon (3-5 PM) when temperatures are cooler. The cats are generally friendly but are community animals, not pets, so observe respectfully.
Can I pet or feed the cats?
Some cats may enjoy gentle petting if they approach you, but do not chase, grab, or feed them. Local residents provide proper nutrition for the cats. Avoid using flash photography as it can startle them. Respectful observation is key to preserving this unique attraction.
Is Cat Alley suitable for people with mobility issues?
Cat Alley involves significant uphill walking on uneven stone steps and slopes with about 80 meters of elevation gain. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are essential. The narrow steep passages make it not fully wheelchair or stroller accessible.
How do I get to Cat Alley from Onomichi Station?
It's a 15-minute walk east from Onomichi Station toward the hillside temple area. Follow signs for 'Neko no Hosomichi.' Alternatively, take the Senkoji Ropeway partway up the hill (500 yen round-trip) and access the alley from the upper area.
Is there an admission fee for Cat Alley?
No, Cat Alley is free to access as it's an outdoor public space. However, some nearby attractions like the Neko no Hosomichi Art Museum charge admission (300 yen), and shops and cafes have their own prices.
What are the best hours to visit?
The recommended visiting time is 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM for the best lighting and cat activity. The alley is accessible 24 hours, but nearby shops and cafes typically operate from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with many closed on Wednesdays.
What temples can I visit along Cat Alley?
Cat Alley connects seven of Onomichi's 25 temples. Notable stops include Senkoji Temple with city views and ropeway access, Tentokuji with its three-story pagoda, and Jikoji with historic rock caves. Most temples have free or minimal admission (100-300 yen).
Are there cat-themed cafes and shops?
Yes, several cat-themed establishments line the route including the Neko no Hosomichi Art Museum, coffee shops with cat décor, and cat goods shops selling ceramic figurines and postcards. Fukuishi-neko Lucky Cat Shop is particularly popular among visitors.
What's the best season to visit Cat Alley?
Spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November) offer pleasant temperatures for hillside walking, with cherry blossoms in April adding extra charm. Summer can be hot and humid on exposed hillsides, so visit early morning. Winter is quiet with fewer tourists but cats may stay indoors.
Can I get good photos in Cat Alley?
Yes, the narrow alleys create intimate compositions with cats, art, and temple backgrounds. Morning light (9-11 AM) illuminates the hillside beautifully. Bring a longer lens (50mm+) to photograph cats without disturbing them. Panoramic city views are available from higher sections.
How far is Onomichi from Hiroshima?
Onomichi is about 1.5 hours from Hiroshima by JR San'yo Main Line (Local or Rapid train, 1,520 yen). The connection is convenient for a day trip or as part of a broader Hiroshima area itinerary.
Are there English signs in Cat Alley?
English signage is limited, but locals are helpful. Grab a free map at Onomichi Station tourist information center or download the Onomichi Tourism map app. The visual nature of the cat art makes the experience enjoyable regardless of language ability.
Where can I store my luggage while visiting?
Luggage storage is available at Onomichi Station (300-600 yen depending on locker size). This is convenient if you're visiting as a stopover between destinations or on a day trip.
What local food should I try in Onomichi?
Try Onomichi ramen, the local specialty served at various cafes along the route. Hassaku citrus treats are another local favorite. Many cat-themed cafes serve light meals and refreshments in charming settings.
Can I combine Cat Alley with other Onomichi attractions?
Absolutely. Combine Cat Alley with the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, waterfront temple walks, or Onomichi's retro shopping streets. The city offers multiple attractions making it worth a full day or overnight visit.
Do I need to be quiet around the temples?
Yes, maintain quiet behavior near active worship areas as these are functioning religious sites. Respectful conduct is essential. You can speak normally in the pathways between temples, but lower your voice when near prayer halls.
How many cat artworks are there?
Over 1,000 cat-themed artworks line the 200-meter path, including ceramic cat sculptures, painted stones, murals, and various installations by local artists. The collection has grown continuously since the project began in 1998.
Is Cat Alley busy with tourists?
Cat Alley attracts steady visitor numbers, especially on weekends and during cherry blossom season. Weekday mornings and winter months tend to be quieter. The narrow pathways can feel crowded during peak times, so early visits offer a more peaceful experience.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome)
The UNESCO World Heritage Atomic Bomb Dome stands as a powerful symbol of the devastation of nuclear weapons and humanity's hope for lasting peace.
Itsukushima Shrine
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Miyajima Island (Mt. Misen)
A sacred island in the Seto Inland Sea featuring primeval forests, mountain trails, temples, and spectacular panoramic views from Mount Misen's summit.
Onomichi Temple Walk
Scenic hillside temple route through 25 historic temples offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and retro townscape.
Sandankyo Gorge
Spectacular 16-kilometer gorge featuring emerald waters, waterfalls, and dramatic rock formations - one of Japan's most beautiful valleys.
Tomonoura
A picturesque historic port town on the Seto Inland Sea, featuring traditional architecture, scenic harbor views, and the inspiration for Studio Ghibli's 'Ponyo on the Cliff.'