Traveling to Fukuyama soon? In this guide, you’ll get to know the best things to do in Fukuyama, Hiroshima.
The home of the phenomenal anime movie “Ponyo,” geta sandals, and aromatic roses, Fukuyama is Hiroshima’s second most populous city, known for its natural beauty, temples, shrines, and museums. If you’re wondering what activities to do in Fukuyama, prepare to be awed.
1. Visit the Old-Fashioned Fishing Town of Tomonoura
Kick off your journey in Fukuyama by visiting the old-fashion fishing town of Tomonoura. A port area located at the city’s southern end, Tomonoura sits at a bay facing the Seto Inland Sea. Take in the calm and laid-back aura of this fishing townscape. It is also the setting of Studio Ghibli’s anime, “Ponyo,” and the Wolverine’s origin story starring Hugh Jackman.
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2. Stop by the Fukuzenji and Ioji Temples
While you’re in Tomonoura, grab the opportunity to stop by two famous temples here, the Fukuzenji and Ioji. Fukuzenji gives you the “most beautiful” views of the Seto Inland Sea, while Ioji offers you a scenic bird's eye view of the fishing town. Note, though, that you need to climb a slope to reach Ioji, but it’s worth it.
3. Explore the Old Town Center
Continue your Tomonoura tour by exploring its old town center. It’s like the Japanese version of Europe’s old town in terms of how it looks. Aside from visiting shops where you can try homeishu, the local medicinal liquor, be sure to also see the Joyato Lighthouse and Ota Residence.
4. Spend Your Afternoon at the Museum of History and Folklore
Your afternoon in Tomonoura is best spent at the Museum of History and Folklore where you can do a cultural immersion into the exhibits showcasing the daily life of the locals.
5. Bike Around the Bandaiji Temple Area
The design of Bandaiji Temple stands out from above the rest as it sits atop a cliff by the sea. This temple teaches the history of Fukuyama and there are also biking trails around its vicinity.
6. Take a Selfie With Fukuyama Castle
Transport yourself to what you only see in historical flicks and drama through the gorgeous Fukuyama Castle. Constructed in the 17th century, it’s the perfect place to learn local history, and maybe pose and take a selfie with it in the background to bring home memories.
7. Watch a Musical Performance at Reed & Rose Fukuyama Hall of Art & Culture
If China has high-octane opera performances and Korea has shows featuring gayageum or its traditional guitar, Fukuyama does it modern. The performances at Reed & Rose Fukuyama Hall of Art & Culture are mostly about music, such as the rock genre.
8. Bring Your Kids to Fukuyama City Zoo
If you have kids in tow, it’s great to bring them to the Fukuyama City Zoo. They’ll surely enjoy its collection of giraffes, penguins, birds, monkeys, zebras, reptiles, and so much more.
9. See Both Japanese and European Artworks at Fukuyama Museum of Art
The Fukuyama Museum of Art was built in 1988 primarily to contribute to the development of arts and culture. It’s not a big museum and is in a modern building, showcasing both Japanese and European works of art from the Renaissance era to postmodern.
10. Relax at the Fukuyama Rose Park
Roses became a symbol of peace for a city war once devastated. Hence, this Fukuyama Rose Park. It houses over 5,000 roses and more than 200 kinds of colorful flowers in full bloom.
Most of your time in Fukuyama will be spent at the old-fashioned fishing town of Tomonoura. But apart from this landmark, you may also visit beautiful temples, as well as museums where you can learn about art and history.
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