Spots List

Kanyoji Temple

Kanyoji Temple, located in the mountains of Shunan City, is an ancient temple founded by the Ouchi clan in the Muromachi period, and is a place where you can encounter modern garden art boasting some of the best beauty in Japan. More than 10 gardens with different atmospheres, such as the "Kyokusui Garden" by the world-famous landscape architect Mirei Shigemori, are arranged, and the creative and powerful designs woven by water and stone stimulate the viewer's sensibilities. The clear water drawn from the mountains flowing through the garden, coupled with the surrounding silence, produces the ultimate world of Zen. It...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Hanaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Hanaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Hanaoka Hachimangu, which has watched over the history of Kudamatsu City, is a prestigious shrine said to have been founded in 709. The biggest highlight is the "Tahoto" pagoda, built in the Muromachi period and designated as a National Important Cultural Property; its heavy wooden architectural beauty shines against the surrounding deep green and overwhelms viewers. Located in the center of Hanaoka, which once flourished as a post town, many materials and remains telling of the depth of ancient faith remain within the grounds. In autumn, colorful leaves decorate the shrine buildings, and the quiet grounds are enveloped in a...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Sunset Cape (Yuhi-misaki)

Sunset Cape (Yuhi-misaki)

Sunset Cape (Yuhi-misaki) on Kasado Island is famous as one of the best places to see the most beautiful sunset in the Seto Inland Sea. The silhouettes of small islands scattered across the sea and strange rocks carved by rough waves over many years show a divine appearance like a religious painting at dusk, as the sky and sea change expressions moment by moment. From the observation spot, you can see the vast, unobstructed horizon, and the time spent quietly watching the sun sink while listening to the sound of the waves will completely heal the fatigue of your journey....

Yamaguchi
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kasado Island

Located in Kudamatsu City between Shimonoseki and Hiroshima, this is a beautiful crescent-shaped island connected by the giant "Kasado Bridge." The greatest charm of this island is the mystical sunset where the sinking sun dyes the sea orange, viewed through the wave-carved "Hanaguri Rock." The view from "Sunset Cape" is considered one of the most beautiful in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Within the island, there are also hot springs with spectacular views and hiking courses overlooking the sea, allowing you to enjoy a resort atmosphere. It is a soul-cleansing island resort where you can fully enjoy the calm nature of the Seto...

Yamaguchi
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Prince Ito Memorial Park

Prince Ito Memorial Park

In honor of the achievements of the first Prime Minister, Hirobumi Ito, this park was developed near his birthplace. Within the grounds, there is the thatched-roof "Birthplace" that retains the appearance of that time, and the magnificent Renaissance-style architecture of the "Former Residence of Hirobumi Ito," said to be designed by himself in his later years, allowing you to view the roots and aesthetic sense of the man who led Japan's modernization simultaneously. In addition, the modern memorial hall offers a detailed study of his turbulent life and the history of the Meiji Restoration. The space, where beautiful buildings feeling...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kaisho-dori (Hikari City)

Kaisho-dori (Hikari City)

"Kaisho-dori" in the Murozumi district of Hikari City is an old townscape that retains the atmosphere of a port town that once flourished as a port of call for Kitamae-bune ships and as a key point of the Seto Inland Sea. Heavy merchant houses and storehouses line the street, reminiscent of the former bustle and the rich lives of the people of that time. If you take a city walk, you can encounter not only traditional architectural beauty but also historic shrines and temples and small shops loved by locals. This street, where the calm air unique to a town...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Zobiga-saki Cape

Zobiga-saki Cape

"Zobiga-saki" in Hikari City is a slender sandspit stretching about 2 kilometers into the Seto Inland Sea, possessing a unique shape like an elephant's nose, just as its name suggests. On the sandspit, a pine grove of about 400 trees continues, making it a rare terrain spot in Japan where you can stroll while overlooking the calm Murozumi Bay on one side and the rough Suo-nada Sea on the other. From the lighthouse at the tip of the spit, you can enjoy the beautiful contrast between the horizon and the islands. It is an ancient scenic spot mentioned in the...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Mt. Oboshiyama Observatory

Mt. Oboshiyama Observatory

Located at the summit of Mt. Oboshi (438m) in Hirao Town, this is an observation deck. From here, you can overlook the multi-island beauty of the Seto Inland Sea in a 360-degree panorama, and on clear days, you can see as far as Shikoku and Kyushu. The sight of giant wind power turbines standing side-by-side is particularly impressive, and the view of white windmills turning against the blue sea and sky is extremely photogenic. At night, the starlit sky is beautiful, enveloping you in a romantic atmosphere. In an overwhelming sense of openness with nothing to block your view, you...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Yanai Nishigura

Yanai Nishigura

A renovation of a soy sauce storehouse built in the Taisho era, this is an exchange facility where you can experience the traditional crafts of Yanai. Inside the heavy wooden building, you can enjoy making cute "Goldfish Lanterns" or the traditional weaving of "Yanai-jima." Skilled artisans teach you kindly, allowing you to take home your one-of-a-kind work as a memento of your trip, which is highly praised by international tourists. In the space with impressive high ceilings and thick beams from that era, you can directly learn about the culture and history of Yanai through your "hands" in this creative...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Yanai City

Facing the Seto Inland Sea, Yanai City is a charming town known for its "White-walled District" that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. In the streets lined with white-walled storehouses and merchant houses extending for about 200 meters, cute "Goldfish Lanterns" hanging under the eaves sway and color your walk. Traditional craftsmanship, such as soy sauce brewing and weaving, still lives on and is reflected in the many facilities where you can actually try these crafts. Away from the city hustle, you can enjoy a calm journey touching the old streets of Japan and the warmth of handwork while...

Yamaguchi
Area Info
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Muroya-no-Sono Merchant Museum

Muroya-no-Sono Merchant Museum

"Muroya no Sono," located in the white-walled district of Yanai City, is a museum that opens up the vast residence of the Oda family, which flourished as the largest oil merchant in western Japan during the Edo period. In the vast grounds of about 2,600 square meters, many daily life tools and business materials telling of the prosperity of the time are displayed, allowing you to realistically experience the lifestyle of former wealthy merchants. The building itself is very complex and deep, and one of its charms is being able to observe traditional Japanese architectural structures up close. It is...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kanro Shoyu Museum

Kanro Shoyu Museum

This is a museum utilizing the Sagawa Soy Sauce Storehouse, which carries on the traditional production method of Yanai City's specialty "Kanro Shoyu" (sweet soy sauce). Enticed by the savory aroma of soy sauce drifting through the streets of white-walled buildings, once you step inside, you can observe heavy brewing vats lined up and feel firsthand how the soy sauce is slowly and carefully aged over time. Kanro Shoyu is a luxurious item made through a time-consuming process called "double-brewing," and you can learn the secret of its deep body and umami. You can also enjoy tastings and sweets made...

Yamaguchi
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Iwakuni City

Located in the eastern part of Yamaguchi Prefecture, Iwakuni City is a charming city where history, nature, and tradition coexist, symbolized by the "Kintai Bridge," one of Japan's three most famous bridges. Starting from the Kintai Bridge with its beautiful five-arched curves, there are surprises and discoveries at every step, such as Iwakuni Castle atop the mountain, the castle town where samurai residences remain, and the "White Snakes" considered messengers of God. Also, local specialties like "Iwakuni Sushi" (square sushi), sweetfish from the clear Nishiki River, and local sake are exquisite. The four seasons, with cherry blossoms in spring, cormorant...

Yamaguchi
Area Info
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nishikigawa Seiryu Line

Nishikigawa Seiryu Line

A local railway connecting Iwakuni Station to Nishikicho Station, running along the Nishiki River, one of Japan's leading clear streams as its name suggests. From the train window, you can view the beautiful river flow, mountain scenery that changes expressions every season, and peaceful rural areas, enjoying a train journey like a "moving observatory." The operating cars have colorful designs imagining the nature along the line, such as cherry blossoms and fireflies, making you feel happy just by riding. Away from the city hustle, entrusting yourself to the rattling train while slowly proceeding through Japan's original landscape is the ultimate...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Irori Sanzoku

This is a restaurant resembling a theme park, with massive traditional folk houses, countless lanterns, and high-flying banners appearing in the mountains. Amidst a lively atmosphere like a festival, the highlight here is devouring "Sanzoku-yaki" (charcoal-grilled chicken) grilled grandly in a hearth and the giant "Sanzoku Musubi" rice ball. In the outdoor seating, you can enjoy your meal as if you've slipped back in time to the Edo or Warring States period while feeling the fresh air of nature. It is a sacred place for Yamaguchi Prefecture's youth and families, and its overwhelming visual impact and bold cuisine will surely...

Yamaguchi
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Iwakuni Castle

Standing at the summit of Mt. Shiroyama, about 200 meters above sea level, Iwakuni Castle is a beautiful mountain castle built in 1608 by the first lord, Hiroie Kikkawa, with Momoyama-style Namban architecture. You can climb up all at once by ropeway from the foot of the mountain, and from the castle tower, an overwhelming panoramic view spreads out, overlooking the Nishiki River flowing below, the world-famous "Kintai Bridge," and far out to the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and even Shikoku. Inside the castle, historical materials such as swords and armor are displayed, allowing you to learn the...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Iwakuni Shirohebi Museum

Iwakuni Shirohebi Museum

This is a hands-on museum where you can learn in detail about the "White Snakes of Iwakuni," a nationally designated Natural Monument that is extremely rare globally and only inhabits Iwakuni City. You can enjoy learning about the ecology of the white snakes, which have been cherished by the community since ancient times as "messengers of God" or "good luck charms for business prosperity," through the latest videos, quizzes, and observations of actual snakes. The pure white body with ruby-like red eyes is very beautiful, and you will be overwhelmed by its mysterious appearance up close. Located near the Kintai...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Birthplace of Uno Chiyo

Birthplace of Uno Chiyo

This is the restored birthplace of Uno Chiyo, one of Japan's leading female writers from Iwakuni City. It is an atmospheric wooden building from the Meiji era over 100 years old, where you can feel her deep love for "Sakura" (cherry blossoms) that she often depicted in her works. "Usuzumi-zakura" cherry trees, which she loved, are planted in the garden, welcoming visitors with expressions of the four seasons. Inside, her favorite items and manuscripts are displayed, allowing you to touch her philosophy of consistently preaching about "living happily" while leading a life full of ups and downs. It is a...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Momijidani Park

Momijidani Park

Momijidani Park, located near the Kintai Bridge in Iwakuni City, is one of Yamaguchi Prefecture's leading spots for autumn leaves, where the entire area is dyed in burning reds and yellows as its name suggests. Developed using the former sites of many temples that used to be here, you can enjoy an emotional stroll with stone walls and gates remaining that let you feel the weight of history within the silence. You can encounter beautiful Japanese garden-like landscapes in any season, such as fresh green in spring, deep green in summer, and colorful leaves in autumn. It is ideal as...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Suo-Oshima Island

Suo-Oshima Island

Known as the "Hawaii of Setouchi," Suo-Oshima is a beautiful island where a tropical culture still lives on, stemming from a history of many islanders emigrating to Hawaii. The coastline circling the island is perfect as a drive course, and you will be healed by the endless blue sea and the beauty of the many scattered islands. In winter, you can enjoy a unique dish called "Mikan Nabe," and in summer, swimming and marine sports are popular. There are various sights such as historic shrines and temples and the "Japanese Overseas Migration Museum," which tells the history of emigration to...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Michi-no-Eki Southern Seto Towa

Michi-no-Eki Southern Seto Towa

Located on the eastern side of Suo-Oshima Island, this roadside station is a lively spot with an open sea stretching in front and palm trees creating a tropical resort atmosphere. You can enjoy the rich local food all at once, including soft-serve ice cream and juice made from the island's specialty "mikan" (mandarin oranges), as well as fresh seafood caught in the Seto Inland Sea. On weekends, many stalls line up, creating a festive liveliness. From the back, you can also see the path of sand leading to Shingu Island, making it ideal not only as a break during a...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Food
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shingu Island

"Shingu Island," floating just behind the roadside station on Suo-Oshima Island, is a mysterious uninhabited island that can be reached via a "path of sand" (tombolo phenomenon) that appears from the sea only during low tide. This path is also known as a "Lover's Sanctuary," and legend says that if you cross it holding hands with someone important, you will become happy. The experience of walking on a path of white sand surrounded by highly transparent sea gives you a sense of openness as if you are walking on water. You can capture the spectacular view created by nature only...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Teahouse Hosho-an

Teahouse Hosho-an

Located within the grounds of Hofu Tenmangu Shrine, "Hosho-an" is a beautiful teahouse built to carry on the culture of plum blossoms and tea that Sugawara no Michizane loved. Surrounded by a scenic Japanese garden with a pond, you can enjoy authentic matcha green tea and seasonal Japanese sweets while admiring the nature of the four seasons. Spending time in this tranquil space, listening to the sound of water and the chirping of birds, is a blissful moment that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of daily life. Even if you are not familiar with the etiquette of the...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Mine City

Located in the center of Yamaguchi Prefecture, Mine City is a town of "Stories of the Earth" where you can directly feel the Earth's pulse. Its greatest appeal lies in the majestic natural landscapes created over hundreds of millions of years, such as "Akiyoshidai," one of Japan's largest karst plateaus, and "Akiyoshido," the top limestone cave in the East. Touring the karst plateau, where white rocks look like a flock of sheep, by driving or hiking makes you feel like you are traveling through the Earth's history. Also, with spots like the mysterious cobalt blue "Beppu Benten Pond" and fossil...

Yamaguchi
Area Info
Sightseeing
Food
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter