Let’s hike/climb up a few stone steps!!

Located in Fukuyama-shi, Hiroshima prefecture, Tomonoura is a port town that faces the Setouchi Inland Sea. The streets of the town exude a somewhat nostalgic air, which leaves you feeling that the passage of time has slowed right down.

One of the highlights of a visit to Tomonoura is a rather special viewing spot that offers fabulous views of the town and of ships coming and going. The place is called Taishiden, which is on the mountaintop above “Iou-ji”, the second oldest temple in Tomonoura.

To get to Taishiden, you have to climb up 583 stone steps, but the amazing view you have upon arrival is totally worth the effort!

Numbers have been carved into the sides of the stone steps, but as you climb up, you might start to wonder why you’re bothering! However, just keep climbing slowly. There’s a bench halfway up, and the view from there is a must-see as well.

Running and climbing up the stone stairs, Taishiden eventually comes into view… 583 steps, finished!!

And there it is, Taishiden is right in front of you.

Turn your back to Taishiden and the jaw-dropping scenery of Tomonoura spreads out before your eyes!

Bringing a feeling of peacefulness, in the early morning, the sounds of birds singing and the distant rumble of ship engines permeate this quiet place.

In September, we could see the symbol of Tomonoura ‘joya-to’ (all-night street lamp). It looks like a golden silhouette.

When you descend from Taishiden and get to “Iou-ji” the scenery, though still amazing, looks different. I hope you enjoy it.

Taishiden / Iou-ji

Address: 1397 Tomochouushiroji, Fukuyama-shi, Hiroshima prefecture
Tel: 084-982-3073
Access: Tomotetsu Bus “Tomoko” / 30 mins by car from Fukuyama Higashi IC

Setouchi Finder Photo-writer: Yusuke Minami