Hill of Hope Miraishin no Oka
A stunning white marble art garden offering panoramic sea views, built over 16 years by a famed sculptor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Hill of Hope Miraishin no Oka
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning white marble art garden offering panoramic sea views, built over 16 years by a famed sculptor.
"The contrast between crisp white marble and endless blue sky & sea is surreal. 
🎯 Go on a Clear Day
The white marble shines brightest against a blue sky!
⏰ Arrive Before 4:30 PM
Last admission is at 4:30 PM, and the cafe closes at 5 PM.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.2 · 1,883 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The White Marble Garden
Top of the hill
A surreal, climbable white marble platform offering panoramic views of the sea and sky.
Cave of 1000 Buddhas
Kosanji Temple complex
An intriguing underground passage filled with countless Buddha statues, offering a unique spiritual experience.
Panoramic Sea Views
Hilltop lookout
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Seto Inland Sea, reminiscent of Santorini's charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Combine Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go on a Clear Day
The white marble shines brightest against a blue sky!
⏰ Arrive Before 4:30 PM
Last admission is at 4:30 PM, and the cafe closes at 5 PM.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and climbing around the marble structures.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is available about 6 minutes away from the temple.
Shimanami Kaido and Okunoshima Island advice
I am currently planning my itinerary for a trip to southwestern Japan, and I am having trouble with one particular part of the journey. I will be travelling from Tokyo towards this region, and I have decided to include the Shimanami Kaido in my plans, splitting it into two days.…
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go on a Clear Day
The white marble shines brightest against a blue sky!
⏰ Arrive Before 4:30 PM
Last admission is at 4:30 PM, and the cafe closes at 5 PM.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and climbing around the marble structures.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is available about 6 minutes away from the temple.
🍦 Treat Yourself at the Top
Grab an ice cream or a refreshing drink from the small cafe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique white marble art garden, often comparing its beauty to Santorini. The panoramic sea views and the spiritual atmosphere of Kosanji Temple, including the Cave of 1000 Buddhas, are frequently praised. However, some find the attraction a bit small if visited as a standalone destination, suggesting it's best combined with other local sights or the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
"Second time here! Sky is cloudy and a rainy day. The last time was crowded during last year Golden week and I took very vibrant photos. Missed the museum this time and walk through the cave of 1000 Buddhas."
A T
"It's a big temple complex with a museum attached. At the top of the hill is a small cafe where you can get refreshing drinks/dessert. They close at 5:00 PM with the last admission at 4:30 PM. We had to visit it twice as we missed the last admission by 5 minutes. There is a free parking area about 6 minutes from the temple."
Litao Li
"The place looks exactly the same as what the photos have shown.
But the place is too tiny. It does not worth to travel for an hour or two for visiting this place alone.
If you happen to be nearby, it is ok to pay for a visit.
There is a newly opened drink selling stall outside the temple. The lemonade made my trip less miserable."
Christina Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hill of Hope is located within the Kosanji Temple complex in Setoda-cho, Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. If you're cycling the Shimanami Kaido, it's a convenient stop. You can also reach it by bus from Onomichi Station.
Yes, there is free parking available about a 6-minute walk from the temple entrance.
Absolutely! The Hill of Hope is a popular and scenic stop along the Shimanami Kaido cycling route, offering a unique art experience.
Onomichi is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Hiroshima Station, then transferring to a local train. Alternatively, you can fly into Hiroshima Airport and take a bus.
The main marble structure is climbable, and there are paths around the temple complex. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The site is part of Kosanji Temple and has a last admission time of 4:30 PM, with the complex closing at 5:00 PM. It's best to check the official Kosanji Temple website for the most up-to-date hours.
Admission fees apply for the Kosanji Temple complex, which includes access to the Hill of Hope and other attractions like the Cave of 1000 Buddhas. Prices can vary, so check their official site.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site at the Kosanji Temple entrance. It's advisable to arrive early to ensure you have enough time before closing.
While the main marble structure involves climbing, there are accessible paths within the temple grounds. The Cave of 1000 Buddhas is also an indoor experience.
The Hill of Hope is part of the larger Kosanji Temple complex, which often includes access to its museum and other unique features with a single admission ticket.
📸 📸 Photography
On a clear day, mornings offer beautiful light and fewer crowds. The contrast of white marble against a vibrant blue sky is iconic.
The entire white marble garden is a prime photo spot. Experiment with different angles looking up at the structure and out towards the sea.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and tourist attractions. It's best to check local regulations and temple rules before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive marble structure and sea views. A standard lens will also work well for general shots.
Generally, photography is allowed in most outdoor areas. However, always be respectful of the religious nature of the site and any specific signage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a small cafe at the top of the hill offering drinks and desserts. You can also find new drink stalls outside the temple entrance.
Onomichi City is known for its ramen. You can find local eateries and restaurants in the surrounding area, especially if you're cycling the Shimanami Kaido.
While picnicking might not be encouraged within the temple grounds, it's generally acceptable to have water. Purchasing from the onsite cafe is a good option.
Visitors often enjoy refreshing drinks and desserts, especially on a warm day. The lemonade has been specifically mentioned as a pleasant treat.
The cafe primarily offers drinks and desserts. For more substantial meals, exploring restaurants in Onomichi City or along the Shimanami Kaido route would be necessary.
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