Mt. Senkoji Ropeway | Review by WANG

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Mt. Senkoji Ropeway

A uniquely scenic ropeway suspended over panoramas of Japan Heritage sites below.

3 Sep 2026 See More

While traveling in Onomichi, I made a point of riding the historic and charming Mt. Senkoji Ropeway to reach Senkoji Park and its spectacular views! As soon as I arrived at the station at the foot of the mountain, I could see the brightly colored, adorable cable car slowly traveling up and down in the distance, instantly bringing out my inner child and filling me with anticipation.

After buying a ticket and boarding, the car smoothly climbed the mountain as the breathtaking scenery unfolded outside the window. The aerial journey only takes about three minutes, but the views are truly incredible! Below is a dense stretch of traditional Japanese houses built along the hillside and a maze of narrow alleys. In the distance are the sparkling blue sea and islands of all sizes scattered across the water. As the car climbs higher, the panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea becomes even more expansive. Watching the postcard-like scenery from the car had me gasping in amazement and taking photos nonstop.

Once I arrived at the summit station, I stepped out near a spacious observation deck and the famous Cat Alley. Not only can you overlook the magnificent panorama of central Onomichi and the Onomichi Channel, but you can also stroll around and visit the old temples along the way. Even better, the ropeway runs frequently, almost every 15 minutes, making the ride convenient and smooth. If you're visiting Onomichi, I highly recommend taking the Mt. Senkoji Ropeway instead of exhausting yourself climbing the mountain. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Seto Inland Sea and hillside town from a relaxing and romantic aerial perspective!

Other Reviews by WANG

Hakodate Bugyosho

Hakodate Magistrate’s Office faithfully recreates the Edo Shognate’s security base around Japan’s northern territory. It is built at the original location in the former Goryokaku (the star-shaped fort), using as much similar skills and provisions as those in the Edo Period, such as pine beams, Bingo tatami mats or sliding doors with hand-made paper.
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In the spacious front courtyard of the Magistrate’s Office, the impressive black-tiled Japanese roof and dark wooden exterior immediately catch the eye, creating a calm and dignified atmosphere against the blue sky and white clouds.

The building’s meticulous traditional craftsmanship and broad roofline are remarkable, making you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time to a key political site at the end of the Edo period.

Inside, you can appreciate the spacious tatami rooms and the fine details of the historical exhibits, while the displays provide deeper insight into the important history surrounding the opening of the Port of Hakodate.

I highly recommend including Hakodate Magistrate’s Office in your walk around Goryokaku. Whether you’re admiring the exquisite craftsmanship of traditional Japanese wooden architecture or taking in the history of the late Edo period, it adds rich cultural depth to the visit!
Goryokaku Park

Goryokaku, a Western-style fortress, was built in 1866 and served as the political capital of Hokkaido until the new Meiji government took over. It later became a popular tourist attraction after it was opened to the public as "Goryokaku Park" in 1914 and was designated as a national special historic site.
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In front of the large stone monument reading “Special Historic Site: Goryokaku Ruins” beside the moat, a rustic wooden bridge and calm water come into view. Surrounded by lush green trees and the moat, the area has a serene atmosphere.

After crossing the wooden bridge into the star-shaped fort, you can stroll along the wide, flat earthworks and paths. Not only can you get a close look at this Western-style military defense facility built at the end of the Edo period, but you can also see detailed historical models and informational signs.

Whether you’re standing inside the fort looking up at the blue sky or enjoying the gentle breeze along the moat, the entire park offers a peaceful and pleasant walking experience.

I highly recommend including Goryokaku Park in an in-depth walking itinerary in Hakodate. Whether you go up the tower to see the full star shape before exploring it on foot or simply enjoy a leisurely walk through this historic green space, it will add a rich cultural experience to your trip!
Goryokaku Tower

Goryokaku Tower, built adjacent to Goryokaku Park, offers a bird's-eye view of the Goryokaku Ruins, a special national historic site, from 90 meters above ground, and is loved by locals and tourists alike as a landmark of Hakodate.
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Looking up from the base of the tower, the tall structure with its sleek design rises straight into the sky, standing out beautifully against the blue sky, white clouds, and blooming flowers and greenery around it.

After taking the high-speed elevator directly to the observation deck, you can look down through the large floor-to-ceiling windows and take in the entire massive five-pointed-star-shaped moat and lush Goryokaku Park at a glance. You can even stand on the transparent reinforced-glass floor for the thrill of looking straight down from high above.

From this height, you can see the Hakodate cityscape along with the mountains and sea in the distance, while the unique geometric star-shaped landscape is truly eye-opening.

I highly recommend including Goryokaku Tower in an in-depth Hakodate itinerary. Whether you’re admiring the striking panoramic view of the star-shaped fortress, enjoying the transparent floor high above the ground, or taking in a view where history and modernity come together, it will add a memorable visual experience to your trip!