As well as being the gateway to the Shimanami Kaido, home to many temples, and a popular film location, Onomichi is also become known as a "city of cats,” many of which can be encountered on the higgledy-piggledy streets that weave their way across the slopes of Mt Senkoji.

Whether you are a cat lover or simply love Onomichi’s retro atmosphere, you will enjoy wandering along the 200m-long alleyway known as Cat Alley (Neko no Hosomichi), a narrow path celebrating Onomichi’s love for cats and art. As you wander along, you’ll discover an array of cat-themed sculptures, paintings, and installations created by local artists, each adding a playful touch to the serene atmosphere.

We have to thank French-born artist Shunji Sonoyama for this whimsical spot. Sonoyama populated the pathway with 108 hand-painted stone cats hidden in nooks and crannies between quirky shops and cafes. Don’t miss the Maneki-neko Museum, which houses a collection of over 3000 lucky cats.

The entrance to Cat Ally can be found next to the entrance to Ushitora Shrine, behind the Senkoji Ropeway station.