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Yamaguchi Furusato Heritage Center

Yamaguchi Furusato Heritage Center

This is a cultural facility for "protecting, transmitting, and nurturing" the traditional crafts of Yamaguchi City. Inside the building, which recreates the appearance of traditional townhouses, you can observe artisans demonstrating skills passed down from the Muromachi period about 600 years ago, such as "Ouchi-nuri" (lacquerware) and "Akama-suzuri" (inkstones), a representative traditional craft of Yamaguchi. The greatest charm is the ability to actually experience making things, such as lacquer painting or decorating, under the guidance of artisans. Touching traditional techniques with your own hands and creating a one-of-a-kind work is a precious opportunity to deeply understand Japanese culture. It is...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
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Chomonkyo Gorge

Chomonkyo Gorge

Stretching across Yamaguchi City and Abu Town, "Chomonkyo" is a magnificent canyon created by the erosion of the Abugawa River, with a total length of approximately 5.5 kilometers. It is designated as a National Scenic Spot, and if you walk along the well-maintained promenade along the river, you can encounter dynamic landscapes where strange rocks, odd stones, and deep pools follow one after another. The cherry blossoms in spring, deep greenery in summer, and colorful leaves in autumn are particularly wonderful, and the panorama woven by the vivid trees and clear streams is as beautiful as an ink wash painting....

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
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Winter

Aio Kuruma Prawn Farm

Aio Kuruma Prawn Farm

The Aio district of Yamaguchi City is known as the "Birthplace of Kuruma Prawn Farming," having succeeded in farming Kuruma prawns for the first time in the world. At this farm, utilizing the vast sites of former salt pans, top-quality Kuruma prawns are raised under thorough management. Here, you can not only learn about the ecology of the prawns and the history of farming, but also enjoy the luxury of tasting freshly caught prawns on the spot. Whether eaten raw (odori-gui), salt-grilled, or as tempura, the overwhelming sweetness and bouncy texture unique to Kuruma prawns is truly an emotional flavor....

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Food
Spring
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Mori Clan Garden

Mori Clan Garden

This is a vast mansion and Japanese garden built with great luxury by the former Choshu Domain Lord Mori family during the Meiji and Taisho eras. The garden, a nationally designated scenic spot, is a magnificent strolling garden centered around a pond overflowing with water, skillfully incorporating the surrounding nature to allow you to enjoy the beauty of the four seasons. Especially in autumn, the colorful leaves are spectacular, and the vibrant colors reflected in the pond are breathtaking. The museum on the grounds displays numerous precious historical materials and artworks, including National Treasures, preserved by the Mori family, making...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
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Winter

Former Mitajiri Ochaya Eiun-so

Former Mitajiri Ochaya Eiun-so

Eiun-so in Hofu City is a historic building that was used as a villa or guest house for the Mori clan, the lords of the Choshu Domain, during the Edo period. It was also a stage for history visited by patriots of the Restoration, such as Shinsaku Takasugi, at the end of the Edo period. The building took its current form through additions and renovations in the Meiji and Taisho eras from the samurai residence style of the Edo period, and the ability to see multiple layers of history within a single building is a major attraction. Spending time looking...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
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Winter

Shunan City

Shunan City, located in the central part of Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a dynamic city where Japan's largest "factory night view" and calm nature in the mountains coexist. At night, the industrial complex along the Seto Inland Sea transforms into a sea of light that looks like scattered jewels, and the cruise experience viewed from a ship gives an extraordinary feeling as if you've wandered into a science fiction movie. On the other hand, in the northern part, there are beautiful terraced rice fields, hot spring areas, and old temples, where you can also touch traditional Japanese life. In addition, you...

Yamaguchi
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Spring
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Spring
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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
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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
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Activities
Nature
Spring
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Winter