Yamaguchi is one of 47 prefectures in Japan and I guess most foreign people have not heard about, as a survey showed that Yamaguchi was ranked in 30th place about its recognition from foreign visitors. However, it has many remarkable places as many people may have seen the scenery above.
Yamaguchi tends to be considered just a local prefecture, but it took a very important role when Japan tried to transform into a modern state. There are numbers of ambitious people grown in Yamaguchi and they contributed in many different fields in the beginning of Meiji Era (about 150 years ago). Surprisingly, the biggest numbers of Japanese Prime Ministers are from Yamaguchi Prefecture including the current Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Although the sightseeing spots in Yamaguchi are scattered in many areas, it is not very convenient to travel around. So, if you plan a travel to Yamaguchi, the first thing is to think how you move around. If you take a flight, the gateway will be Yamaguchi-Ube Airport or Hagi-Iwami Airport. Also, there are several shinkansen stations in Yamaguchi such as Shin-Yamaguchi.
[Must-visits in Yamaguchi]
- Kintaikyo Bridge, Iwakuni
It was originally built in 17th century and is one of the most famous wooden bridges in Japan. In Spring thousands of cherry trees make the area the most photogenic in a year.
Hagi is the best place to stroll through the town. Beautiful scenery of earthen walls and summer oranges has not been changed from the old era.
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| Shizukiyama Shrine |
- Rurikoji Temple, Yamaguchi
The iconic landscape of the beautiful five-storied pagoda and cherry blossoms is one of the must-visits in Yamaguchi.
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| Five-Storied Pagoda at Rurikoji Temple |
- Akiyoshidai & Akiyoshido, Mine
The stunning view of rocky fields makes you feel you are at the end of this world. It is worth visiting.
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| Akiyoshidai Karst Plateau |
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| Akiyoshido Cave |
- Karato Ichiba Market, Shimonoseki
It is a vibrant fish market where many locals and tourists visit every day. You can find and eat fresh seafood whatever you like.It is a vibrant fish market where many locals and tourists visit every day. You can find and eat fresh seafood whatever you like.
[Travel Tips]
- Consider a car rental or taking a bus tour.
You will find some places are very difficult to reach by public transportation. Private car is the most convenient way to move around Yamaguchi, especially if you would like to visit many places in the prefecture. You can grasp the location of each place here.
- They have great food!! Try local cuisine.
Yamaguchi boasts many kinds of local cuisine you shouldn't miss. Here are some recommendations;
[Useful links]
