Mihara is a small Seto Inland Sea city that earns its page through a few strong, local anchors rather than a long checklist. It was a castle town, a port, and a rail junction, and the strange sight of the station sitting inside the old castle grounds gives the centre an identity you remember.
The town is best as a spare-day stop between Hiroshima, Onomichi, and the islands. Start at Mihara Castle Ruins, then head for the water or climb to Mount Fudekage for the island view that makes the city feel properly Setouchi.
Mihara's quietest pleasure is inland at Buttsuji Temple, a Zen temple in a wooded valley that is especially good in autumn. None of this makes Mihara a major destination, but if you are already in eastern Hiroshima Prefecture, it has enough character for a day.