Yamaguchi: Discover the nostalgic Japanese scenery in a quick trip from Tokyo
Abundant nature and age-old traditions

Built in 1673, the Kintaikyo Bridge is renowned as one of Japan’s best three historic bridges. The graceful structure, which is approximately 200 meters long, comprised of five wooden arches is a sight to behold. You can admire its unique beauty achieved through intricate joinery techniques on the bridge, but it’s even more impressive when viewed from the water on a “yakatabune” cruise boat. The river cruise on the cormorant fishing pleasure boat is also a great way to enjoy the seasonal beauty of the Nishiki River.

Standing tall on a mountaintop, Iwakuni Castle’s observation deck offers a sweeping view of the Kintaikyo Bridge and the historic castle town. At the Honke Matsugane Iwakuni City Visitor Center, don a valiant suit of armor and take photos as a samurai for great mementos of your trip. Immerse yourself in history as you try the Iwakuni Sushi, a specialty said to have been highly praised by the feudal lord himself. See, touch, and taste all the amazing culture that Iwakuni Castle has to offer!

When visiting Iwakuni Castle, be sure to stop by the adjacent Kashiwabara Museum, where you will feel as if you’ve wandered back into history. The collections are exhibited through two lenses: “the culture of life and death,” which showcases various weapons possessed by the samurai during the Warring States period (from mid-15th century to early 17th century) to the end of the Edo period (1603-1868), and “the culture of everyday lives,” introducing the diverse culture that enriched the lives of samurai families. Furthermore, artworks embodying the women of the time depict the aesthetic sense that continues to exist deep within Japanese traditions and are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Dassai is a world-acclaimed sake born in Iwakuni City, renowned for its mellow aroma and delicate sweetness. With many famous sake breweries, Yamaguchi is truly a heavyweight for quality regional sake. In addition to brewery tours, try comparing different types at sake cafes or popular “izakaya” pubs frequented by locals. You're sure to find a great sake that suits your taste.

The city of Hagi makes you feel like you are traveling back to the Edo period. Hagi is a historic town lined with regal white-walled samurai residences. Rent a kimono and take amazing photos, tour the town in a rickshaw or relax at a traditional cafe. Try your hand at making your own Hagi pottery or appreciate world-renowned ukiyo-e art at the Hagi Museum. There are endless ways to spend an enriching time in Hagi, where history and culture are deeply rooted.

The Ruriko-ji Temple Five-Storied Pagoda is undergoing major restoration, the first in approximately 70 years, set to finish around March 2026. Currently, visitors can enjoy a rare special viewing of the hidden Buddha statue and the experience of inscribing your name on cypress bark. Both prominent representations of the Ouchi culture of the Muromachi period (1336-1573), the pagoda and the local Ouchi lacquerware, have been cherished by the people of the area to this day. Why not learn about the fusion of tradition and modernity through the experience of painting Ouchi lacquerware and create a great keepsake for your trip?

Hofu Tenmangu Shrine is the first of thousands of shrines in Japan founded for the worship of Tenjin, a deity said to bring blessings. The shrine grounds are home to several nationally registered tangible cultural properties and historic sites designated by Yamaguchi Prefecture, as well as many valuable cultural properties such as the Picture Scroll Showing the Origin of Matsuzaki Tenjin. Experience various festivals and religious ceremonies amid beautiful seasonal landscapes and sense the profound depth of the shrine’s history and culture.

The Akiyoshidai is one of the largest karst plateaus in Japan. From the observatory, take in a 360-degree panoramic view of the magnificent landscape of limestone scattered across the sprawling grasslands. Embark on a geo tour with a specialized guide and feel the earth breathing right up close as you explore the topography created over a span of 350 million years. At Akiyoshido, you can explore the stunning natural wonder shaped over the ages, stretching 100 meters underground.

Motonosumi Shrine is famous for bright vermilion “torii” gates that contrast beautifully against the lush greenery and the blue Sea of Japan. The stunning sight of 123 torii gates lined up toward the sea is a sight to behold. A scenic drive is highly recommended on the nearby Tsunoshima Bridge. A sightseeing bus also runs from Shin-Yamaguchi Station. During the trip, be sure to try the Kawara Soba, Yamaguchi's specialty noodle dish. The scrumptious noodles and warm soup will help soothe your travel fatigue.