Sandwiched between Osaka and Hiroshima, Fukuyama is famous for the fragrant roses that line its parks and city streets. Whether you want to visit cultural museums, gaze up at Buddhist temples or day trip to the nearby fishing town of Tomonoura, Fukuyama is a fantastic base for exploring Honshu Island.

Things to do

Downtown Fukuyama is anchored by a leafy park where you’ll find a replica of Fukuyama Castle. Climb to the top and you’ll unlock sweeping views of the city. The park is also dotted with museums, including the Fukuyama Museum of Art. From contemporary graphic design to ancient calligraphy, it showcases a fascinating collection of Japanese works.

On the western banks of the river is Myoo-in temple, built at the beginning of the 9th century by a Buddhist priest. The five-storied pagoda blends traditional Japanese and Chinese styles, with the main gate carved from a single piece of bush clover wood.

Made famous by Hayao Miyazaki's animated feature film “Ponyo on the Cliff”, Tomonoura is a charming port city at the southern tip of Fukuyama. It backs onto the sparkling Seto Inland Sea and is known for its old-fashioned fishing townscape and laid-back atmosphere.

To the west of the city is the pint-sized town of Matsunaga. It’s the birthplace of Japan's traditional “geta” wooden sandals, so duck into one of the stores to purchase this unique souvenir.

Getting around

Fukuyama is a compact and easily walkable destination, especially if you’re exploring the area around Fukuyama Castle. The city is also serviced by local buses that can take you to nearby destinations. If you’re heading to Hiroshima, high-speed bullet trains can whisk you there in just 25 minutes.