Yamaguchi Prefecture Tourism Feature: A Journey Through Breathtaking Landscapes and History! Discover Tourist Attractions that Captivate International Visitors

Yamaguchi Prefecture is a region rich in natural beauty, surrounded by ocean on three sides. Located at the westernmost tip of Honshu Island, it faces both the Seto Inland Sea and the Sea of Japan, offering diverse landscapes and cultures within a single prefecture. Known as the “Kyoto of the West” due to its street layout modeled after Kyoto during the Muromachi period, Yamaguchi has played a historically significant role in Japan. It was also the birthplace of many pioneers who supported the Meiji Restoration.

In this feature, we’ll introduce Yamaguchi Prefecture’s captivating tourist attractions, focusing on spots that inspire wonder and excitement in international visitors. From breathtaking scenic locations to historical sites, hot springs, and local cuisine, we’ll cover all aspects of Yamaguchi’s charm.

1. Overview of Yamaguchi Prefecture: A Nature-Rich Land Surrounded by Sea on Three Sides

Yamaguchi Prefecture is located at the westernmost tip of Honshu, facing the Japan Sea to the north, the Seto Inland Sea to the south, and the Kanmon Straits to the west, which separates it from Kyushu. This geographical feature allows visitors to enjoy completely different ocean landscapes within a single prefecture—the calm Seto Inland Sea and the rugged Japan Sea.

Yamaguchi Prefecture has also been a transportation hub since ancient times, nestled between Honshu, the East Asian continent to the north, and Kyushu to the west. This position has fostered diverse cultural influences and unique development.

The climate is generally mild, allowing visitors to enjoy nature throughout the four seasons. However, the Japan Sea coast and inland areas may experience snow in winter, so weather conditions should be considered depending on when you visit.

In recent years, Yamaguchi City has gained international attention, being selected as the 3rd place in “52 Places to Go in 2024” by The New York Times, following North America and Paris. With its historic atmosphere, fresh local cuisine, and numerous attractions, Yamaguchi Prefecture continues to captivate an increasing number of tourists.

2. In Search of Stunning Views: Breathtaking Landscapes of Yamaguchi Prefecture

Tsunoshima Bridge – A Scenic Bridge Over Emerald Green Waters

The Tsunoshima Bridge in Shimonoseki City, Houhoku Town, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a 1,780-meter-long bridge connecting mainland Honshu with Tsunoshima Island. Opened in November 2000, this bridge has become a scenic spot known for its beauty that “doesn’t seem like Japan.”

The sight of this straight bridge stretching over cobalt blue waters, alongside small islands and beautiful white sand beaches, creates a resort-like landscape reminiscent of tropical destinations. The view from Amaga-se Park on the mainland side is particularly spectacular, offering a perfect photo spot overlooking the entire bridge.

The overwhelming beauty of the location has made it a popular setting for various movies, TV dramas, and commercials. It has appeared in films like “Four-Day Wonder” and the final episode of the TV drama “HERO,” as well as commercials for Japanese automobile companies including Toyota, Mitsubishi, and Mazda.

The Tsunoshima Bridge is toll-free and can be crossed not only by car but also on foot or by bicycle, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. Beyond the bridge on Tsunoshima Island, beaches with white sand and emerald green waters offer a resort-like atmosphere, and the active Tsunoshima Lighthouse provides another scenic spot.

Motonosumi Shrine – 123 Red Torii Gates Reflecting on the Sea

Motonosumi Shrine (Motonosumi Jinja) in Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a scenic spot characterized by 123 red torii gates extending toward the sea. The shrine was built in 1955 following a divine message from a white fox that appeared to a local fisherman, and has recently gained considerable attention for its unique landscape.

The tunnel of torii gates extending toward the sea creates a breathtaking view, with the beautiful contrast between the red gates, the blue sea, and the surrounding greenery making it a photogenic spot. In 2015, the shrine was selected as one of CNN’s “31 Most Beautiful Places in Japan,” becoming a world-renowned tourist destination.

The shrine’s attractions aren’t limited to the scenery. The “fortune-granting offertory box” installed at a height of about 6 meters is a popular spot—it’s said that if you can throw a coin into it, your wish will come true. Near the entrance to the path, you might also witness the natural phenomenon called “Dragon Palace’s Tidal Spray,” where seawater shoots up from a sea cave, resembling a rising dragon.

Motonosumi Shrine is believed to bring various benefits, including business prosperity, good fishing, maritime safety, and good relationships, making it popular not just as a tourist destination but also as a power spot.

Akiyoshidai – Japan’s Largest Karst Plateau

Akiyoshidai, located in Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is Japan’s largest karst plateau. The unique landscape was formed from limestone that developed between approximately 350 million years ago (Carboniferous period) and 250 million years ago (Permian period), gradually eroded by rain and groundwater over time.

The grassland stretching as far as the eye can see, dotted with exposed white limestone formations that resemble a flock of sheep, exhibits such natural beauty that it has been designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan. The plateau shows different faces through the seasons—green in spring and summer, golden with pampas grass in autumn, and snowy in winter.

To enjoy Akiyoshidai, driving along Karst Road is recommended. This well-maintained scenic drive allows visitors to appreciate the vast landscape from their car window. Rental bicycles are also available, offering a way to explore the magnificent nature at your own pace.

Below Akiyoshidai lies Akiyoshido, one of Japan’s premier large limestone caves. By visiting both spots, you can enjoy the natural sculptural beauty both above and below ground for a truly luxurious sightseeing experience.

Higashiushirobata Rice Terraces – Selected as One of Japan’s Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields

The Higashiushirobata Rice Terraces (Higashiushirobata no Tanada) in Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, are a beautiful landscape spot selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields.” Located in the northwestern part of Yamaguchi Prefecture facing the Japan Sea, these terraced rice fields with countless paddies arranged in steps on the sloping land are beautiful, allowing visitors to experience the quintessential Japanese rural landscape.

Fukada Reservoir, located just behind the rice terraces, has also been selected as one of the “Top 100 Reservoirs” by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and plays an important role in supplying agricultural water to the area.

Water enters the rice fields from May, and by the time the rice grows, the water surface becomes less visible, making May to mid-June the best time to visit. The scenery at dusk is especially spectacular, with the setting sun illuminating the water-filled paddies, creating a breathtaking view. At night, fishing lights can also be seen, especially on Sunday evenings, creating a beautiful collaboration between the sunset and the fishing lights.

From the Higashiushirobata Rice Terraces, visitors can also view the Sea of Japan, making it a rare spot where rural landscapes and ocean views can be enjoyed simultaneously. By choosing the right season and time, visitors can experience unforgettable beautiful scenery.

Senjojiki – A Great Grassland Overlooking the Sea

Senjojiki is a grassland situated at an altitude of 333 meters in Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. As its name suggests, it resembles “a place with a thousand tatami mats spread out.” From this highland, the Sea of Japan can be viewed in its entirety, giving visitors a sense of floating between sky and sea.

From this location, visitors can see not only the vast ocean but also islands floating in the distance, and many tourists are captivated by the expansive scenery. Throughout the seasons, visitors can experience the beauty of nature, from hamayu flowers in spring, green grasslands in summer, fields of pampas grass swaying in the autumn wind, and snow-covered landscapes in winter.

Near Senjojiki, large wind power generators have been installed, and these giant propellers standing amid nature create an impressive landscape in their own right.

The area is also equipped as a campground, allowing visitors to enjoy camping under the starry sky. The starry night sky unseen in cities, and the gradations of sea and sky tinted by sunrise and sunset, truly deserve to be called spectacular views.

3. Experiencing History: Sites Related to the Bakumatsu and Meiji Restoration

Hagi Castle Town – A World Heritage Site Where Traces of the Edo Period Remain

The Hagi Castle Town flourished as the headquarters of the Choshu Domain during the Edo period, and the original town layout and samurai residences from that era still remain. Walking through the town with its white-walled earthen storehouses and samurai residences feels like stepping back in time.

Particularly in the Horiuchi district, old samurai residences stand in rows, and areas like Kikuya Yokocho preserve the streetscape where common people lived. In 2015, the area was registered as a World Heritage Site as one of the component assets of the “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining,” representing a place where Japan’s modernization and industrialization can be understood.

Hagi is also known as the “Birthplace of the Meiji Restoration Movement,” having produced many great figures including Yoshida Shoin. Due to this historical background, Hagi Castle Town attracts visitors from Japan and abroad as more than just a tourist site, but a place to experience the origins of Japan’s modernization.

To effectively tour the castle town, a guided tour called “Walking the Town with an Old Map” is recommended. By walking while comparing historical maps with the current town, visitors can feel history more deeply.

Shoka Sonjuku – Where the Pioneers of the Meiji Restoration Studied

Shoka Sonjuku was a private academy run by Yoshida Shoin during the late Edo period, and it remains as a historical site visited by many tourists. The small school building located within the grounds of Shoin Shrine is a modest wooden structure with a tiled roof, but from here emerged many talented individuals who became the driving force behind the Meiji Restoration and later played important roles in the new Meiji government, including Takasugi Shinsaku, Kusaka Genzui, Ito Hirobumi, and Yamagata Aritomo.

The origin of Shoka Sonjuku dates back to 1842, when Shoin’s uncle, Tamaki Bunnoshin, started a private school at his home. It was later taken over by Shoin’s maternal uncle, Kubo Gorozaemon, and then in 1857, at the age of 28, Shoin took over its management.

The building is only about 50 square meters in size, consisting of an original 8-tatami room, and later additions including a 4.5-tatami room, two 3-tatami rooms, an earthen floor of one tsubo, and a mezzanine area. The 8-tatami room, which was used as a lecture room, contains a plaster statue and portrait of Shoin, along with his desk, allowing visitors to imagine the atmosphere of that time.

Shoin accepted students regardless of their social status or class, and although his teaching period was short—just over a year—he nurtured individuals who would later shape Japan. The name “Shoka Sonjuku” is said to have come from the fact that the area was called Matsumoto Village.

Today, Shoka Sonjuku is designated as a national historic site and is visited by many tourists as the spiritual origin of the Meiji Restoration.

Rurikoji Five-Storied Pagoda (National Treasure) – One of Japan’s Three Famous Pagodas

The five-storied pagoda of Rurikoji Temple in Yamaguchi City is a national treasure and one of Japan’s three famous pagodas. The current Rurikoji Temple was relocated to the site of the former Kozanji Temple, which was built by the 25th head of the Ouchi clan, Ouchi Yoshihiro. The five-storied pagoda is considered the 10th oldest outdoor five-storied pagoda still existing in Japan.

The pagoda is characterized by its harmony with the beautiful surrounding nature, creating a scene like a painting. It is one of the representative landmarks of “Yamaguchi, the Kyoto of the West,” attracting many tourists.

The scenery is particularly spectacular in spring with cherry blossoms and in autumn with fall foliage, offering different charms in each season. The five-storied pagoda standing in silence strongly evokes the traditional beauty of Japan, deeply impressing visitors.

Currently, the pagoda is undergoing a major renovation called “Reiwa no Daishuufuku” (Great Renovation of the Reiwa Era), with a complete re-thatching of the cypress bark roof being carried out from February 2023 to December 2025. This is the first such renovation in approximately 70 years.

Kintaikyo Bridge – A Wooden Architectural Masterpiece Admired Worldwide

Kintaikyo Bridge is a wooden bridge that spans the Kintai River in Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. It is one of Japan’s three famous bridges. The five-arch bridge is approximately 193.3 meters long and was first built in 1673.

The river flow is abundant and the river width is about 200 meters wide. Although the bridge was washed away twice by floods in the past, improvements were made each time, and with regular reconstructions since the Edo period, the structure has been gradually revised to reach its current form. When counting the various repairs, replacements, and reconstructions, the work has been carried out more than 100 times.

Kintaikyo Bridge is also selected as one of the “100 Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Sites,” and the view of approximately 3,000 cherry trees in full bloom in spring is breathtaking. The bridge can be enjoyed throughout the four seasons, with the clear stream of the Kintai River and lush greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy scenery in winter.

About a 10-minute walk from the bridge is a ropeway that leads to Iwakuni Castle, and from the castle’s observation deck, visitors can overlook the entire town below.

Kintaikyo Bridge is not just a tourist attraction but also a valuable cultural heritage that demonstrates traditional Japanese wooden construction techniques, built without using a single nail, showcasing the excellence of traditional Japanese craftsmanship to the world.

Akama Shrine – Rich in Historical Legend

Akama Shrine in Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a shrine that enshrines Emperor Antoku, who was only eight years old when he drowned during the Battle of Dannoura. The shrine is characterized by its bright vermillion Water-Heaven Gate (Suiten-mon), which was built to resemble the Dragon Palace.

The shrine grounds include Emperor Antoku’s mausoleum and a treasure hall displaying valuable artifacts. The shrine is famous for the “Sento Festival” held annually on May 3rd, where a procession of court ladies recreates the visit to Akama Shrine by ladies of the Heike clan.

Akama Shrine was originally a temple called Amidaji, which was the setting for Lafcadio Hearn’s ghost story “Hoichi the Earless.” In the Hoichi Hall stands a statue of Hoichi playing the biwa, and next to it are the graves of the Heike clan members. It is said that Hoichi might still be playing and reciting tales to the ghosts of the Heike to this day.

Akama Shrine is believed to bring various benefits, including safe childbirth, household safety, good health, good fortune, maritime safety, and business prosperity.

4. Healing Hot Springs: Touring Yamaguchi Prefecture’s Famous Springs

Nagato Yumoto Onsen – Yamaguchi Prefecture’s Oldest Hot Spring

Nagato Yumoto Onsen in Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is said to be the oldest hot spring in Yamaguchi Prefecture, with a history of about 600 years. The origin dates back about 600 years, beginning with a “divinely guided spring” legend when Zen priest Teian of Daineiji Temple received guidance from the Sumiyoshi Daimyojin deity.

Along the Otosure River (Otozuregawa) that flows through the center of the hot spring town, there are stepping stones, sunken bridges, and other features that allow visitors to enjoy playing in the river. The area also has the only riverside terraces in Yamaguchi Prefecture, where visitors can spend relaxed time listening to the sound of flowing water.

The spring quality is alkaline simple hot spring, gentle on the skin and said to be close to the components of lotion, making it known as a “beauty spring.” The temperature inside the cave remains constant at around 17°C throughout the four seasons, making it cool in summer and warm in winter.

In recent years, Nagato Yumoto Onsen has been undergoing the “Nagato Yumoto Future Project,” a tourism town renewal project, maintaining the traditional atmosphere of the old hot spring town while incorporating modern elements. It has been reborn as a hot spring town where new and old attractions are fused, with new souvenir shops like “Otozure-do” and the renovated bathhouse “Onyu.”

Yuda Onsen – The Spring of the White Fox Legend

Yuda Onsen in Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, has a history of over 800 years. According to legend, an injured white fox was healing its wounds there, earning it the nickname “White Fox Spring.” It is one of the representative hot springs of Yamaguchi Prefecture.

The water at Yuda Onsen is soft and moisturizing to the skin, known for its beauty-enhancing effects. The spring output is abundant, and there are many foot baths installed throughout the hot spring town, allowing visitors to casually enjoy the hot spring atmosphere while strolling around.

Located about 40 minutes from Yamaguchi Ube Airport and about 20 minutes from JR Shin-Yamaguchi Station, Yuda Onsen has good access to major tourist spots in Yamaguchi Prefecture, including Iwakuni in the east, Akiyoshidai and Shimonoseki in the west, and Hagi and Nagato in the north. Therefore, many travelers use it as a base for sightseeing.

Yuda Onsen is famous for “Slipper Table Tennis,” which was also featured on NHK’s “Asaichi” program, making it a popular and unique entertainment at hot spring inns.

Kawatana Onsen – Birthplace of Kawara Soba

Kawatana Onsen in Toyoura Town, Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a hot spring town also known as the birthplace of “Kawara Soba,” a soul food of Yamaguchi Prefecture. Surrounded by rich nature, this quiet hot spring has maintained the atmosphere of a traditional hot spring healing place.

Kawatana Onsen has flourished as a hot spring healing place since the Edo period and continues to be visited by many people as a tourist destination centered around the hot spring. The hot spring, beloved by locals, is also available for day trips, making it convenient for a stop during a tour.

The area also has many restaurants serving “Kawara Soba,” allowing visitors to enjoy Yamaguchi’s famous local cuisine along with the hot spring. From the birthplace of Kawara Soba, “Original Kawara Soba Takase,” to various other establishments, different versions of Kawara Soba can be savored, which is one of the unique attractions of Kawatana Onsen.

The surrounding area also features a beautiful natural environment, making it a spot where visitors can enjoy not only the hot spring but also nature walks and outdoor activities.

5. Yamaguchi Prefecture’s Cuisine: Seafood and Local Specialties

Fugu Cuisine – Shimonoseki’s Specialty

Fugu (pufferfish) cuisine is a specialty dish representative of Yamaguchi Prefecture, particularly Shimonoseki City. Shimonoseki boasts the largest landing volume of fugu in Japan, and there are many long-established restaurants that serve high-quality fugu dishes. Locally, fugu is called “fuku,” and is considered a good-luck item that brings happiness.

The history of fugu cuisine in Shimonoseki is old, with a story that Ito Hirobumi visited Shimonoseki, ate fugu, was impressed by its taste, and subsequently lifted the ban on eating fugu. “Shunpanro” is famous as Japan’s first officially licensed fugu restaurant.

Representative fugu dishes include thinly sliced fugu sashimi called “tessa,” fugu hot pot called “tecchiri,” fried fugu, and grilled fugu milt. The sashimi, in particular, is beautifully arranged with thinly transparent slices that allow the pattern of the plate to be seen through them, making it a visually enjoyable dish as well.

In Shimonoseki City, there is a market called “Karato Market,” where during the “Ikiiki Bakanstreet” held every weekend and holiday, fresh seafood including fugu cuisine can be enjoyed at reasonable prices. It is a popular spot among tourists, where they can casually enjoy fugu sushi, fugu soup, and other dishes.

Kawara Soba – Yamaguchi Prefecture’s Soul Food

Kawara Soba is a representative soul food of Yamaguchi Prefecture. It consists of green tea soba noodles laid on a heated roof tile (kawara), topped with shredded egg, sweetened simmered beef, chopped green onions, nori seaweed, grated daikon with red pepper, and lemon, among other ingredients.

Kawara Soba was created in 1961 when Shinichi Takase, who ran an inn called “Takase” in Kawatana Onsen, Toyoura Town, Shimonoseki City, wanted to create a specialty for the hot spring town. It is said that he was inspired by a story of Satsuma soldiers during the Seinan War who cooked meat and wild plants on roof tiles.

Additionally, in Kawatana Onsen, which flourished as a hot spring healing place during the Edo period, the use of roof tiles by common people was specially permitted to maintain public safety, making roof tiles an essential part of life. This historical and cultural background combined to give birth to “Kawara Soba.”

The appeal of Kawara Soba lies in its unique texture and flavor. Due to the far-infrared effect of the roof tile, the soba becomes chewy on the top layer and crispy on the bottom layer, allowing two different textures to be enjoyed at once. It is also eaten by dipping in a rather strong warm sauce, which keeps it hot until the end.

Today, “Original Kawara Soba Takase,” the birthplace of the dish, and many other establishments throughout Yamaguchi Prefecture serve Kawara Soba, each with their own unique twist. It has also become a dish that can be easily made at home using a hot plate or frying pan, truly establishing itself as a soul food of Yamaguchi Prefecture residents.

Dassai – Internationally Acclaimed Local Sake from Yamaguchi

Dassai is a Japanese sake produced by Asahi Shuzo in Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, and has received high acclaim both domestically and internationally in recent years. In particular, the Junmai Daiginjo “Migaki Sanjukyubu” is made using a luxurious method where 61% of the rice is polished away, using only the remaining 39%, and is loved by many sake enthusiasts for its delicate taste and aroma.

The characteristic of Dassai is its refined taste and elegant aroma. It suppresses the distinctive aroma and taste common in traditional Japanese sake, featuring a clear taste that is easily accepted by those unfamiliar with sake and by foreigners. As a result, it is now served in high-class restaurants around the world, greatly contributing to raising the status of Japanese sake overseas.

Dassai also offers various types of products, such as “Sparkling Dassai,” and is known for its innovative product development that overturns conventional concepts of Japanese sake. When visiting Yamaguchi Prefecture, it is recommended to taste authentic Dassai in its place of origin.

Iwakuni Sushi – A Colorful Local Cuisine

Iwakuni Sushi is a local cuisine from Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, also known as “Tono-sama Sushi” (Lord’s Sushi), which is a luxurious pressed sushi. It is characterized by colorful ingredients such as shredded egg, shiitake mushrooms, lotus root, and conger eel, layered multiple times, creating a beautiful cross-section of colors when cut.

The origin of Iwakuni Sushi is said to have begun when it was presented as provisions or preserved food for Iwakuni Castle. It later spread to the common people and has now become established as a representative local cuisine of Iwakuni.

A characteristic ingredient of Iwakuni Sushi is “Iwakuni Lotus Root.” Unlike regular lotus root, it has one more hole, with 9 holes in total, which is considered lucky as it symbolizes “having good foresight.” This Iwakuni lotus root has been cultivated in Iwakuni since the Edo period and is a local specialty.

The sushi rice has a slightly sweet flavor and a fluffy texture, which is another charm of Iwakuni Sushi. It is a popular dish among tourists and can be enjoyed at many restaurants in Iwakuni City.

Seafood of Yamaguchi – Blessings from the Three Surrounding Seas

Yamaguchi Prefecture is a region surrounded by sea on three sides—the Japan Sea to the north, the Seto Inland Sea to the south, and the Kanmon Straits to the west—and is blessed with abundant seafood. Particularly, Karato Market in Shimonoseki is known as one of Japan’s leading fishing ports, where various fish including angler fish, fugu, and amadai (tilefish) are landed.

Among the noteworthy seafood is “Setsuki Aji” (horse mackerel). These are small but firm and flavorful horse mackerel caught in the Seto Inland Sea, and they have become one of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s specialties.

Additionally, Hagi City and the North Ura coast are famous as production areas for red sea urchin, which has become increasingly rare in recent years. Although red sea urchins are slightly smaller compared to other sea urchins, they are a delicacy that impresses gourmet diners with their rich taste and aromatic flavor.

Furthermore, “Kasado Flounder” is known as a high-quality flounder farmed on Kasado Island in Kudamatsu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Due to unique farming techniques, such as feeding them with extract from Hagi summer oranges, they have a firm flesh and a distinctive crisp texture.

These seafood delicacies can be enjoyed fresh at restaurants and markets throughout Yamaguchi Prefecture, offering tourists an opportunity to savor the rich food culture of Yamaguchi Prefecture.

6. Tourism Model Courses: Efficiently Touring Yamaguchi Prefecture’s Famous Sites

Scenic Tour Course (2 nights, 3 days)

Day 1:

• Morning: Arrive at JR Shin-Yamaguchi Station, travel by rental car
• Afternoon: Tour Akiyoshidai and Akiyoshido
• Evening: Stay at Nagato Yumoto Onsen

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit Motonosumi Shrine
• Lunch: Seafood meal in Nagato City
• Afternoon: Tour Tsunoshima Bridge and Tsunoshima Island
• Evening: Stay at Yuda Onsen

Day 3:

• Morning: Visit Kintaikyo Bridge and Iwakuni Castle
• Lunch: Enjoy Kawara Soba in Iwakuni
• Afternoon: Return journey

This course allows you to efficiently tour Yamaguchi Prefecture’s representative scenic spots. At Akiyoshidai and Akiyoshido, you can enjoy both above-ground and underground scenery, while at Motonosumi Shrine and Tsunoshima Bridge, you can appreciate the beautiful scenery of the Japan Sea. You can also enjoy two hot springs with different atmospheres, Nagato Yumoto Onsen and Yuda Onsen, making it a luxurious course.

Historical Exploration Course (2 nights, 3 days)

Day 1:

• Morning: Arrive at JR Shin-Yamaguchi Station, travel by rental car
• Afternoon: Visit Rurikoji Five-Storied Pagoda, tour Yamaguchi City
• Evening: Stay at Yuda Onsen

Day 2:

• Morning: Explore Hagi Castle Town, visit Shoka Sonjuku
• Lunch: Local seafood in Hagi
• Afternoon: Explore Hagi Meirinshaka, Kikuya Yokocho, and other castle town areas
• Evening: Stay at Hagi Onsen

Day 3:

• Morning: Travel to Shimonoseki City, visit Akama Shrine
• Lunch: Authentic fugu cuisine in Shimonoseki
• Afternoon: Shopping at Karato Market, return journey

This course allows you to experience the rich history of Yamaguchi Prefecture. At Rurikoji Five-Storied Pagoda and Hagi Castle Town, you can feel the prosperity of the former Ouchi and Mori clans. At Shoka Sonjuku, you can trace the spirit of Yoshida Shoin and the footsteps of the Meiji Restoration pioneers he nurtured. By relaxing at Yuda Onsen and Hagi Onsen, you can deeply savor the history and culture of Yamaguchi while healing your fatigue.

Gourmet Enjoyment Course (1 night, 2 days)

Day 1:

• Morning: Arrive at JR Shin-Yamaguchi Station, travel by rental car
• Lunch: Yamaguchi native chicken cuisine near Yuda Onsen
• Afternoon: Travel to Iwakuni City, visit Kintaikyo Bridge
• Dinner: Enjoy Iwakuni Sushi and Kawara Soba in Iwakuni
• Evening: Stay at Iwakuni Onsen

Day 2:

• Morning: Travel to Shimonoseki City
• Lunch: Savor fugu cuisine at a long-established restaurant in Shimonoseki
• Afternoon: Shop for seafood and local sake souvenirs at Karato Market, return journey

This course allows you to fully enjoy the specialty dishes of Yamaguchi Prefecture. It’s a culinary journey featuring Yamaguchi native chicken, Iwakuni Sushi, Kawara Soba, and fugu cuisine, all representative foods of Yamaguchi. For tourist spots, the focus is on Kintaikyo Bridge, but if time allows, extending to Tsunoshima Bridge or Motonosumi Shrine would make for an even more fulfilling course.

7. Conclusion: Enjoy the Diverse Charms of Yamaguchi Prefecture

Yamaguchi Prefecture is a region filled with diverse attractions, including magnificent natural landscapes, deep history and culture, and unique food culture. From breathtaking views like Tsunoshima Bridge and Motonosumi Shrine, to mystical natural formations like Akiyoshidai and Akiyoshido, historical sites like Shoka Sonjuku and Hagi Castle Town, and unique culinary culture such as Kawara Soba and fugu cuisine, there are abundant elements to captivate visitors.

One of the characteristics of Yamaguchi Prefecture is that it shows different faces despite being a single prefecture, as it faces both the Japan Sea and the Seto Inland Sea, which have different characters. Visitors can enjoy diverse landscapes created by different natural environments, including the calm scenery of the Seto Inland Sea, the rugged landscape of the Japan Sea, and the views of mountains and plateaus in the inland area.

There are also numerous hot spring areas scattered throughout, perfect for healing tired bodies after sightseeing. You can enjoy hot springs with their own distinctive features, such as Nagato Yumoto Onsen, the oldest hot spring in Yamaguchi Prefecture, and Yuda Onsen, which has a white fox legend.

Tourism in Yamaguchi Prefecture provides a valuable opportunity to deeply experience the diverse attractions of Japan not just by visiting famous places, but through the history, culture, and food that have taken root in the region. Please enjoy the rich nature and culture of Yamaguchi Prefecture along with the beautiful scenery of the four seasons.

When visiting Yamaguchi Prefecture, please use the spots introduced in this article as a reference to plan your own journey through Yamaguchi Prefecture. It will surely become an unforgettable memory.

References

1. Yamaguchi Prefecture Tourism Federation. “Welcome to Yamaguchi.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://yamaguchi-tourism.jp/
2. Nagato Yumoto Onsen Official Tourism Website. “Welcome to Nagato Yumoto Onsen!” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://yumotoonsen.com/
3. Hagi City Tourism Association. “Shoka Sonjuku.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.hagishi.com/search/detail.php?d=100009
4. Rakuten Travel. “21 Recommended Tourist Spots in Yamaguchi Prefecture! Carefully Selected from Standard to Hidden Spots by Local Staff.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://travel.rakuten.co.jp/mytrip/ranking/spot-yamaguchi
5. Nap. “12 Specialties of Yamaguchi! Introduction from Standard Souvenirs to Sweets and Local Gourmet.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.

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Continuing with the English translation of the Yamaguchi Prefecture Tourism Feature:

References (continued)

5. Nap. “12 Specialties of Yamaguchi! Introduction from Standard Souvenirs to Sweets and Local Gourmet Food.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.nap-camp.com/mag/1458
6. Yamaguchi Prefecture Official Tourism Website. “Yamaguchi’s Four Seasons – Events Calendar.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://yamaguchi-tourism.jp/events/
7. Ministry of the Environment. “Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park Guide.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.env.go.jp/park/akiyoshidai/
8. Iwakuni City Tourism Association. “Kintaikyo Bridge – History and Attractions.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://kankou.iwakuni-city.net/kintaikyo.html
9. Shimonoseki City Tourism Bureau. “Karato Market Guide and Fugu Information.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.shimonoseki-port.com/karato/
10. Japan National Tourism Organization. “Discover Yamaguchi – Hidden Gems of Western Japan.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.japan.travel/en/destinations/chugoku/yamaguchi/

Tips for International Travelers

Transportation

Yamaguchi Prefecture can be accessed by various means of transportation:

• By Air: Yamaguchi Ube Airport offers domestic flights from Tokyo and Osaka. International visitors typically connect through these major cities.
• By Bullet Train (Shinkansen): The Sanyo Shinkansen line connects Yamaguchi with major cities. Key stations include Shin-Yamaguchi, Asa, and Shin-Shimonoseki.
• By Ferry: Ferry services operate between Shimonoseki and Busan, South Korea, making it a convenient gateway for Korean visitors.

Once in Yamaguchi, the following transportation options are recommended:

• Rental Car: The most flexible way to explore the prefecture, especially for visiting scenic spots like Tsunoshima Bridge and Akiyoshidai, which are not easily accessible by public transportation.
• Tourist Buses: Several tourist bus routes connect major attractions from the main train stations.
• Local Trains: The JR lines provide access to many cities and towns, though service may be limited in rural areas.
• Taxis: Available in urban areas and can be reserved for day tours to specific destinations.

Best Time to Visit

Yamaguchi Prefecture offers unique experiences throughout the year:

• Spring (March-May): Cherry blossom season brings exceptional beauty to historical sites like Kintaikyo Bridge, Rurikoji Temple, and Hagi Castle Town. The weather is mild and pleasant for sightseeing.
• Summer (June-August): While temperatures can be hot and humid, this is the best time to enjoy festivals, including the Hagi Summer Festival and Shimonoseki Kaikyō Festival. Coastal areas like Tsunoshima Island offer refreshing sea breezes.
• Autumn (September-November): The fall foliage season transforms places like Akiyoshidai and Mount Koya into spectacular displays of red and gold. The weather is typically clear with comfortable temperatures.
• Winter (December-February): Less crowded and offering a different perspective of Yamaguchi’s attractions. The Akiyoshidai plateau covered in snow presents a unique landscape, and hot springs like Yuda Onsen are particularly enjoyable in cold weather.

Language and Communication

While English signage has increased in recent years, especially at major tourist destinations, it may be limited in rural areas. Here are some helpful resources:

• The Yamaguchi Prefecture Tourism Website offers information in multiple languages.
• Translation apps like Google Translate or Japan-specific apps can be useful.
• Many hotels and major attractions have staff who can speak basic English.
• Consider printing or downloading key phrases in Japanese before your trip.

Cultural Etiquette

Observing Japanese customs will enhance your experience in Yamaguchi:

• At Hot Springs (Onsen): Bathing nude is the custom. Rinse before entering the bath, and don’t bring towels into the water. Many facilities have instructions in English.
• At Temples and Shrines: Show respect by speaking quietly and following posted rules. Some sacred areas may prohibit photography.
• Dining: Tipping is not customary in Japan. When eating local specialties like fugu, follow the guidance of restaurant staff for the proper way to enjoy the dish.
• Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people. Some historical sites may have restrictions on tripod use or flash photography.

Recommended Itineraries for International Visitors

First-Time Visitor (5 Days)

This balanced itinerary introduces the highlights of Yamaguchi:

• Day 1: Arrive at Shin-Yamaguchi Station, explore Yamaguchi City and Rurikoji Temple
• Day 2: Visit Akiyoshidai and Akiyoshido, stay at Yuda Onsen
• Day 3: Travel to Hagi, explore the Castle Town and Shoka Sonjuku
• Day 4: Visit Tsunoshima Bridge and Motonosumi Shrine
• Day 5: Tour Iwakuni (Kintaikyo Bridge and Iwakuni Castle), depart

Cultural Immersion (7 Days)

For those interested in deepening their understanding of Japanese culture and history:

• Day 1-2: Yamaguchi City (Rurikoji Temple, Yuda Onsen, traditional craft workshops)
• Day 3-4: Hagi (Castle Town, pottery studios, Tokoji Temple)
• Day 5: Akiyoshidai and surrounding rural villages
• Day 6-7: Shimonoseki and Iwakuni (historical sites, food experiences)

Nature and Outdoor Adventure (6 Days)

Focusing on Yamaguchi’s natural beauty and outdoor activities:

• Day 1-2: Akiyoshidai (hiking, cave exploration)
• Day 3-4: Coastal adventures (Tsunoshima Island, sea kayaking, beaches)
• Day 5-6: Mountain experiences (Mine City area, forest trails, hot springs)

Seasonal Festivals and Events

• February: Ume (Plum) Blossom Festival at Yuda Onsen
• Late March-Early April: Cherry Blossom Festivals throughout the prefecture, especially at Kintaikyo Bridge
• May: Sento Festival at Akama Shrine (May 3-5)
• July: Hagi Summer Festival, featuring traditional dance and fireworks
• August: Shimonoseki Fireworks Festival and Shimonoseki Kaikyo Festival
• October: Hagi Autumn Festival with historic parades
• November: Fall foliage illuminations at various temples and gardens
• December: Winter illuminations at hot spring towns

Special Experiences Only Available in Yamaguchi

Hands-On Cultural Activities

• Hagi Pottery Workshop: Learn the techniques of creating Hagi-yaki, one of Japan’s most revered pottery traditions, in a historic studio.
• Traditional Paper Making: Experience washi (Japanese paper) making in Misumi Town, using techniques passed down for generations.
• Tea Ceremony in Historical Settings: Participate in traditional tea ceremonies at historical venues like the garden pavilions in Yamaguchi City or Hagi.

Unique Culinary Experiences

• Fugu Preparation Demonstration: Watch master chefs prepare fugu at licensed restaurants in Shimonoseki (note that tourists cannot participate in the cutting).
• Sake Brewery Tours: Visit breweries like Asahi Shuzo (makers of Dassai) to learn about the meticulous sake-making process.
• Kawara Soba Cooking Class: Learn to prepare this regional specialty in Iwakuni, including the art of arranging ingredients on the hot roof tile.

Only-in-Yamaguchi Natural Phenomena

• Akiyoshido Cave Exploration: Beyond the standard tourist route, specialized guided tours can take you deeper into the cave system.
• Sea Firefly Viewing: Witness the magical blue luminescence of sea fireflies (marine bioluminescent organisms) on beaches near Yuya Bay during summer nights.
• Tidal Whirlpools of Kanmon Straits: Observe the dramatic whirlpools formed by tidal currents in the narrow strait between Honshu and Kyushu.

Conclusion

Yamaguchi Prefecture offers an authentic glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage away from the more crowded tourist destinations. From its breathtaking natural landscapes and well-preserved historical sites to its unique culinary traditions and warm hospitality, Yamaguchi presents international visitors with diverse experiences that capture the essence of traditional and modern Japan.

Whether you’re seeking historical insights, culinary adventures, natural beauty, or cultural immersion, Yamaguchi Prefecture stands ready to provide unforgettable memories. As Japan’s westernmost prefecture on Honshu Island, it serves as both a gateway to Kyushu and a treasure trove of experiences that many international travelers have yet to discover.

We invite you to explore Yamaguchi Prefecture’s countless charms and create your own journey through this captivating region of Japan.

References

1. Yamaguchi Prefecture Tourism Federation. “Welcome to Yamaguchi.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://yamaguchi-tourism.jp/
2. Nagato Yumoto Onsen Official Tourism Website. “Welcome to Nagato Yumoto Onsen!” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://yumotoonsen.com/
3. Hagi City Tourism Association. “Shoka Sonjuku.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.hagishi.com/search/detail.php?d=100009
4. Rakuten Travel. “21 Recommended Tourist Spots in Yamaguchi Prefecture! Carefully Selected from Standard to Hidden Spots by Local Staff.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://travel.rakuten.co.jp/mytrip/ranking/spot-yamaguchi
5. Nap. “12 Specialties of Yamaguchi! Introduction from Standard Souvenirs to Sweets and Local Gourmet Food.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.nap-camp.com/mag/1458
6. Yamaguchi Prefecture Official Tourism Website. “Yamaguchi’s Four Seasons – Events Calendar.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://yamaguchi-tourism.jp/events/
7. Ministry of the Environment. “Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park Guide.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.env.go.jp/park/akiyoshidai/
8. Iwakuni City Tourism Association. “Kintaikyo Bridge – History and Attractions.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://kankou.iwakuni-city.net/kintaikyo.html
9. Shimonoseki City Tourism Bureau. “Karato Market Guide and Fugu Information.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.shimonoseki-port.com/karato/
10. Japan National Tourism Organization. “Discover Yamaguchi – Hidden Gems of Western Japan.” Accessed May 4, 2025, https://www.japan.travel/en/destinations/chugoku/yamaguchi/