Goshuin Stamp Adventure
– Only Possible with a Scooter! –
Adorable Temple & Shrine Stamps Await!
Onomichi and the Shimanami Kaido are home to historic temples and shrines,
some offering unique goshuin (seal stamps) you won’t find anywhere else.
One even features a lemon motif, perfect for the citrus-loving Shimanami region.
Collect them all as you ride!
duration
1 day
Onomichi & Shimanami Shrine Stamp Guide
Senkoji Temple
(Onomichi)
Perched at an elevation of 144 meters, this temple offers panoramic views of Onomichi’s charming townscape and the Seto Inland Sea. The scenery from here is breathtaking no matter when you visit! The nearby Cat Alley feels like stepping into a Studio Ghibli world.The observation deck "PEAK," renovated in 2022, is also strikingly cool in design!
Ushitora Shrine
(Onomichi)
Pronounced “Ushitora Jinja,” this is the oldest shrine in Onomichi’s old city area, founded in 806 during the early Heian period. The grounds are home to a majestic camphor tree estimated to be around 900 years old, with a trunk circumference of about 7 meters, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. It has also served as a filming location for movies such as The Girl Who Leapt Through Time. A quiet hidden gem where you can truly feel a calming power.
Omoto Shrine
(Mukashima)
It is also a hidden scenic spot where you can see Mt. Senkoji, Mt. Saigokuji, and Mt. Jodoji all at once. You can get a panoramic view of the Onomichi side, opposite Senkoji Temple. It is also known as the "second Takachiho" as a miraculous place where five gods, including Amaterasu Omikami, the chief deity of Japan, descended!
Kosanji Temple
(Ikuchijima)
Built in 1936 as a tribute to the founder’s mother, the grounds are lined with vividly colored gates and halls modeled after iconic sites like Nikkō Tōshōgū and Byōdō-in Phoenix Hall. Explore the mysterious underground “Senbutsu Cave” with its depictions of hell, and don’t miss the stunning marble garden “Hill of Hope,” offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and sea. A must-visit art-filled sanctuary to enjoy at a relaxed pace on your bike journey.
Myouga Shrine
(Ikuchijima)
A shrine so tucked away it’s often called a “miracle” if you find it! Famous for its adorable lemon-patterned goshuin stamps and charms, making it a rare and unique stop. Perched on a hill, the view of the Seto Inland Sea from the grounds is simply breathtaking. For directions, search for “parking Myoga shrine” on your GPS, then enjoy weaving through the narrow paths by bike to reach this hidden gem!
Oyamazumi Shrine
(Omishima)
This sacred shrine is dedicated to Ōyamazumi-no-Kami, the brother of the sun goddess Amaterasu. Nestled within Japan’s oldest camphor forest, the heart of Oyamazumi Shrine is home to a giant camphor tree said to be over 2,600 years old — a nationally designated natural monument.Legend says that if you walk around this sacred tree three times while holding your breath, your wish will come true. Give it a try during your visit!
Oyama Shrine
(Innoshima)
Famous as the guardian deity of two-wheelers, this shrine is especially fitting for the Shimanami Kaido. It’s the only shrine in Japan where you can have your beloved bike (motorbike or bicycle) blessed right alongside you! A must-visit spot to pray for safety and happiness on your journey.
Mukaishima Itsukushima Shrine
(Mukaishima)
Even though it's a shrine, there's a rest area where you can drink ice-cold rare beer, local beer, and even home-roasted coffee! It's a special experience that only visitors can use! After a motorcycle trip, you can visit the shrine and then toast at the rest area! It's just the best!
Aren’t these Shimanami goshuin just sooo Kawaii?!
Lemon-themed stamps, shrines that bless your scooter, and even one where you can drink sacred water to end your trip in style! The Shimanami Kaido is full of unique temples and shrines. Hop on your scooter and see how many you can visit! by SAKI
