Man, what a day! I’m a shepherd, right? But today, I was more like a lost sheep in the city of Onomichi. Seriously, I thought I’d just pop in, grab some food, and head back to my flock. Nope. Not even close.
So, I roll into Onomichi, right? First thing I notice is the hills. Like, whoa! They’re everywhere! I’m used to rolling fields, not these steep climbs. I’m huffin’ and puffin’ like I just chased a runaway sheep. I hit up the famous Onomichi Ramen shop on the main street, Senkōji-dōri. Man, that broth? Pure magic! I slurped it down like I hadn’t eaten in days.
But then, bam! I step outside, and it’s like a scene from a movie. The sun’s setting, casting this golden glow over the Seto Inland Sea. I’m standing there, mouth full of noodles, just staring. It’s beautiful, but then I trip over my own feet. Classic me, right? I spill ramen all over my shirt. Great. Now I look like a walking noodle disaster.
I decide to wander around, check out the temples. There’s this one, Jikoji Temple, up on a hill. I’m like, “Sure, let’s climb another mountain.” I get to the top, and it’s peaceful. I’m thinkin’, “This is nice.” But then, I see a bunch of tourists taking selfies. Ugh. I mean, come on! Can’t a shepherd enjoy some quiet? I roll my eyes and try to sneak past them.
Then, I hear this loud honking. I look over, and it’s a bunch of cyclists zooming down the hill. I’m like, “Dude, chill! You’re not in a race!” But they’re all laughing and having a blast. I can’t help but smile. It’s contagious, ya know?
After that, I wander down to the waterfront. The view of the islands is insane! I’m standing there, just soaking it all in. But then, I see this seagull swoop down and steal someone’s snack. I’m cracking up! Like, that bird’s got some serious skills. I’m half tempted to throw my sandwich just to see if it’ll come for me next.
But then, I get a bit annoyed. I’m trying to enjoy my moment, and this guy next to me starts talking about how he’s gonna hike the Shimanami Kaido. I’m like, “Cool, man, but I’ve got sheep to tend to.” He just keeps going on and on. I’m nodding, but inside I’m like, “Dude, I’m not a travel guide!”
Finally, I decide to head back. I’m walking down the narrow streets, and I pass by this little shop on Nakamichi Street. They’ve got the cutest souvenirs! I see this tiny sheep plushie and think, “Aww, that’s me!” I buy it, of course. Gotta represent, right?
As I’m leaving, I bump into this old lady. She’s super sweet and starts chatting me up about her garden. I’m like, “Lady, I’m a shepherd, I know all about plants!” We end up talking for ages. She tells me about the local festivals and how Onomichi lights up during the summer. I’m all in, picturing lanterns and laughter.
But then, I realize I’m late! My sheep are probably wondering where I am. I dash back to the station, heart racing. I’m thinking, “I can’t let them down!” I hop on the train, and as it pulls away, I catch one last glimpse of Onomichi. It’s a mix of chaos and beauty, just like my day.
So yeah, Onomichi, you surprised me. You made me laugh, you made me trip, and you made me feel alive. I’ll be back, but next time, I’m bringing my flock. They need to see this place too!