Yamaguchi Prefecture is the most western prefecture on the main island of Honshu. Bridging Honshu with the southern island of Kyushu, it’s important location has lent it to be a trove of history and culture. Let’s see what sort of places and experiences we can have in Yamaguchi Prefecture!
Tsunoshima Bridge
Heading to the northwestern coast of Yamaguchi, you'll find a plethora of islands just off the coast of the prefecture. One of the islands is Tsunoshima Island, which has its own resort and 19th century lighthouse designed by Richard Henry Brunton. Brunton, originally from Scotland, was hired by the Japanese government as an advisor to help build lighthouses across the country in the 19th century. To reach the island, you cross the beautiful Tsunoshima Bridge over the Amagaseto Strait. Spanning 1780 metres, the bridge has been featured in a variety of TV and other media. Crossing the mesmerising blue seawater is an experience you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re in the area during the daytime or for sunset, the views will be amazing. Accessible by bus from Kottoi Station, or best accessed by car, Tsunoshima and Tsunoshima Bridge are a perfect resort and getaway.
Motonosumi Inari Shrine
Quite close to Tsunoshima Bridge, Motonosumi Inari Shrine is also a coastal delight that should not be missed. Similar to other Inari shrines in Japan with red torii gates spanning a long path through the grounds, the highlight of Motonosumi Inari Shrine is the fact that it is located right on the coast. You can get wonderful views of the Sea of Japan while traversing the 123 gates. The donation box is also placed at the top of one of the torii gates, making it a fun challenge to try to throw your donation in on the first try. The coastline is a great place to relax and take in views of the Sea of Japan, and there is a nearby water spout where you can see waves crash and fly into the air. The shrine has been ranked as one of the top places in Japan, you’ll understand why when you make your way over!
Akiyoshido Cave
There are some stunning geologic features in Yamaguchi Prefecture, some being located within Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park. However, this time we’ll be going underground for our next spot! Located northwest of Yamaguchi City, you’ll find one of the largest limestone caves in all of Japan. Known as Akiyoshido Cave, it has more than 8 kilometres of passageways, and a variety of unique features, such as stalactites and terraced rock. If you are keen to head above ground, you can check out the Akiyoshidai Plateau, which is known for its karst topography. Karst, which is formed by the dissolution of rock over long periods of time, can be found in plenty as you explore the plateau. There is an observation spot that gives you great views of the entire area, and different walking trails and roads that wind through the unique geography.
Kintaikyo
Heading over to the eastern part of the prefecture, near the border with Hiroshima, we find the city of Iwakuni. One of the major cities of Yamaguchi Prefecture, it was formerly part of Suo Province. One of the most famous attractions in the area is a bridge known as Kintaikyo. Spanning the Nishiki River, this bridge is unique in the fact that it has 5 distinct arches, and is composed of multiple different types of wood. Originally constructed in 1673 by the third lord of Iwakuni Domain. It was washed away in 1950 by a typhoon but was rebuilt a couple of years later. 150 metres long, crossing it can evoke feelings of being back in samurai time. When you cross the bridge, there is nearby Kikko Park, which is filled with cherry and plum trees, and has traditional buildings from the time of the Iwakuni Domain. During cherry blossom season, there are plenty of perfect photo opportunities with both Kintaikyo and the blossoms, making a perfect combination of nature and innovation. You can also visit Iwakuni Shirohebi Shrine, which is decorated with and pays homage to the local white snakes that are found in the area.
Tokoji
We now move back to the northern part of the prefecture facing the Sea of Japan. In the city of Hagi, you’ll find the temple Tokoji. A 17th century temple of the Obaku sect of Japanese zen, this temple has the graves of some of the Mori Clan lords, alongside numerous Japanese lanterns, creating a nearly ethereal effect. It was decided by the Mori Clan that only the lords in odd numbered generations would be buried at Tokoji, while even numbered generations are buried in Daishoin, another temple in Hagi. The lanterns are lit during the Obon festival in August each year, making the sights even more otherworldly.
Yumoto Onsen
Heading to the west of Hagi City, slightly south of Nagato, you’ll find Yumoto Onsen. The oldest onsen that you’ll find in Yamaguchi Prefecture, it’s the perfect getaway if you are looking for a peaceful retreat and want to spend some time right next to nature. With traditional ryokans and other facilities, you can enjoy the great water and food that the town has to offer. There are public ashiyu, or footbaths, available in the area as well, allowing you to relax after a long walk through the town. Buy some food from a local restaurant, sit down next to the Otozure River and take in the sights and sounds of an onsen town in Japan. There is also Taijneiji, a Buddhist temple and a top spot to view the changing leaves in autumn.
Yamaguchi Prefecture can be easily accessed by the shinkansen from Tokyo. It is a perfect gateway to Kyushu, or even further into the Chugoku region if you are thinking about exploring Shimane, Tottori, Okayama, or Hiroshima prefectures. So why not come down to the edge of Honshu, and explore some of what Yamaguchi has to offer?
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