Last reviewed: · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.
Route at a glance
This active-paced 6-day itinerary uses 3 bases — Onomichi (2 nights), Matsuyama (2 nights), Hiroshima (2 nights) — to keep hotel changes low while covering Onomichi, Matsuyama, Hiroshima. Daily spend for mid-range travelers is around ¥16,000 per person including accommodation.
Why this route is ranked #48
Ranked #48 with 81/100: a multi-stop route with more transfer time, strong Chugoku highlights (Onomichi, Matsuyama, Hiroshima), active pacing for cyclists, and good value at ¥16,000/day.
| Criterion | Score |
|---|---|
| Route Efficiency & Transit Pacing | 24.3 / 30 |
| Iconic & Cultural Depth | 20.3 / 25 |
| First-Timer Accessibility & Logistics | 16.2 / 20 |
| Cost-to-Value Ratio | 12.2 / 15 |
| Seasonal Flexibility | 8 / 10 |
| Total | 81 / 100 |
Day-by-day plan
Arrive in Onomichi
Arrive, pick up an IC card and settle in. Easy first afternoon: Temple Walk and the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
Flexible day in Onomichi
Free day in Onomichi: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Temple Walk and the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
Travel to Matsuyama
Morning transfer to Matsuyama (forward big luggage with takkyubin the day before). Afternoon: Dogo Onsen Honkan and Matsuyama Castle.
Flexible day in Matsuyama
Free day in Matsuyama: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Dogo Onsen Honkan and Matsuyama Castle.
Travel to Hiroshima
Morning transfer to Hiroshima (forward big luggage with takkyubin the day before). Afternoon: Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Shukkei-en and okonomiyaki.
Flexible day in Hiroshima · depart
Free day in Hiroshima: revisit favourites, shop, or rest at an onsen/sento. Ideas: Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Shukkei-en and okonomiyaki. Head to the airport in the afternoon.
Transport & rail pass notes
Use an IC card (Suica/ICOCA) for local trains and buses. Point-to-point tickets are usually cheaper than a JR Pass for this route.
What to book ahead
- Hotels in peak sakura (late Mar–early Apr) and koyo (Nov) seasons
- Shinkansen seats on weekends & holidays
- Signature experiences in Onomichi
Ways to adapt this route
- Short on time? Drop Hiroshima and add a night to Onomichi.
- Travelling in winter? Check seasonal closures for mountain roads and ropeways.
- Use our Itinerary Builder tool to customise this plan.
Frequently asked questions
Is 6 days enough for Onomichi, Matsuyama, Hiroshima?
Yes — this plan gives Onomichi (2 nights), Matsuyama (2 nights), Hiroshima (2 nights), which is enough for the main highlights at a active pace.
How much does this 6-day Japan trip cost?
Roughly ¥96,000 per person for 6 days (≈¥16,000/day) excluding international flights.
Do I need a JR Pass for this itinerary?
Enter your legs in our JR Pass Calculator; single tickets or regional passes are often cheaper.
When is the best time to do this route?
Late March–May and October–November for the best weather.