Things to do in

Yamaguchi Prefecture

Explore Hiroshima and Miyajima Island with a fully customizable private tour tailored to your preferences. You can choose your experiences and start time, allowing our local partner to create the perfect itinerary for you. Begin your day by meeting your guide at your hotel and select the sites you'd like to visit based on your interests. **Example 4-7-Hour Itinerary:** Start your adventure by meeting your guide at your hotel in Hiroshima and head to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Here, you'll find the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, now known as the Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few buildings that survived the devastating atomic bombing on August 6, 1945. This site now serves as a memorial for the victims and a symbol of global peace. Next, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the bombing. The museum features poignant artifacts from the time of the explosion and offers various educational exhibits that provide insight into this significant event. Afterward, take a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island. Enjoy a walking tour of this picturesque island and visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine, renowned for its iconic floating red torii gate that appears to rise from the sea.

Embark on a trip with a tour guide to discover the Hidden Gems of Kyushu. Imagine yourself at the Wabukari Parking Area, where an observatory offers breathtaking views of the Kanmon Strait. Here, you can also indulge in shopping for unique local products from Kyushu and Shimonoseki. It’s the perfect spot to take in the scenery and bring home a piece of Japan. Dive into the depths of the earth at Akiyoshido Cave, nestled 100 meters underground in Akiyoshidai National Park. This 1-kilometer-long stalactite cave remains a cool 17 degrees year-round, making it a comfortable escape in both summer and winter. Explore the cave’s incredible formations and uncover the profound history of our planet. Take your time to immerse yourself in this mysterious underground world – it's an adventure. Recognized by CNN as one of the most beautiful places in Japan, Motonosumi Inari Shrine is a must-visit. The shrine features a stunning, endless tunnel of torii gates that create a striking contrast against the blue sky, green land, and blue ocean. Try your luck at the coin box perched 6 meters high on a torii gate – it’s said that those who succeed will have their dreams come true. Listen to the dragon-like roar of the waves crashing against the rocks, and if you’re lucky, witness a spectacular 30-meter-high splash or a rainbow forming from the spray. As seen in many TV commercials, Tsunoshima Bridge is one of Japan’s most beautiful bridges. This 1,780-meter-long bridge, free for motor vehicles, stretches over the azure sea, perfectly blending with the surrounding stunning scenery. The harmony between the bridge and the sea is a sight to behold, making it an ideal spot for unforgettable photos. Explore these extraordinary destinations and experience the natural and cultural wonders that Yamaguchi Prefecture has to offer. Each location promises unique memories and breathtaking views that you’ll cherish forever.

Explore Yamaguchi's ancient port, local seafood market, magnificent bridge, and mysterious shrine. Depart from Fukuoka at 8:30 A.M. and enjoy your pleasant trip. First, visit Mojiko Port, a historic port city in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. Its well-preserved ancient dock buildings and warehouses give the city a strong port atmosphere. In addition, there are some museums and cultural relics where you can gain an in-depth understanding of Mojiko Port's history and culture. Next, discover the Subsea Tunnel on a fascinating walk and ferry experience. Stroll through the 780-meter-long subsea tunnel. Continue to the Kanmon ferryboat and cross the Kanmon Strait in just a few minutes on one of the fastest means of transportation between Fukuoka and Yamaguchi. Riding the Kanmon ferryboat, you can enjoy the spectacular sea view and the beautiful scenery on both sides. Next, visit the Karato Market. The 1st floor of Karato Market will be completely transformed into a seafood street called "Ikiiki Bakangai (Lively Bakan Street)". Numerous delicacies, such as nigiri sushi, miso soup, deep-fried, and other dishes made with fresh ingredients, are available. Of course, fugu (puffer fish) sashimi is also available. Tourists who like seafood or Japanese food must not miss this spot. Continue to the Tsunoshima Bridge, a magnificent bridge connecting Yamaguchi prefecture, Honshu, and Tsunoshima. You can enjoy the magnificent sea view and the architectural beauty of the bridge. Standing on the bridge, you can overlook the blue ocean and the surrounding scenery, making it definitely an unforgettable sightseeing spot. It is definitely an ideal place to take a photo. Finish your tour with a visit to Motonosumi Shrine. According to the oracle brought by a white fox, the shrine was built in 1955 by dividing (obtaining the spiritual power of the gods) from Taikodani Inari Shrine in Tsuwano Town, Shimane Prefecture. On the way from Ryugu Shiobuki to the shrine, there are 123 red torii gates, which are very impressive. If you carefully observe the torii on the high platform of the shrine, you may see the merit box above your head! It is said that if you put incense money into it, your wish will come true.

Basic Itinerary B Hagi/Akiyoshido Course [Adult] 6,500 yen (per person) [Children] 3,250 yen (per elementary school student over 3 years old) (including Akiyoshido entrance fee) 8:30 Departure from Yuda Onsen 9:10 Departure from Shin-Yamaguchi Sta. [30 minutes] Beppu Benten Pond 11:00 Departure from Nagato Yumoto Onsen. [60 minutes] Senza Kitchen(lunch on your own) [90 minutes] Hagi Castle Town [65 minutes] Akiyoshido Arrived at Shin-Yamaguchi Station at 17:00 17:40 Arrive at Yuda Onsen Beppu Benten Pond Beppu Benten Pond has a mysterious beauty with clear blue water.This is also the precincts of Beppu Itsukushima Shrine, and there is a legend that in the past, a wealthy man who cultivated the area but was suffering from a water shortage prayed to Benzaiten as told in a dream, and water began to gush out. The Nenbutsu dance is performed as a token of gratitude for the water. Senza Kitchen At Senza Kitchen, a roadside station in the port town of Senzaki, you can enjoy Nagato's food at its direct sales store, where you can purchase Nagato's fresh seafood and vegetables, as well as its restaurants and barbecue huts. There is also a Nagato Toy Museum on the premises where you can play with wooden toys.It's perfect for shopping, as well as for lunch or a break while looking out at the sea. Hagi Castle Town Hagi Castle Town retains the strong atmosphere of a once prosperous castle town. The birthplace of great figures who were active from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji Restoration, such as Shinsaku Takasugi and Takamitsu Kido, still exists, and it is a castle town with a wealth of attractions where you can follow in their footsteps. The town street is divided into a grid pattern and is dotted with old folk house cafes, general stores, and historical sites. It's a fun town to stroll around. Renting a kimono and walking around town will make you feel like you've traveled back in time to the Edo period. If you want to learn more about Hagi, there are guided walks and guided rickshaw rides. In addition to rental bicycles, shared bicycles, and rental mopeds, we also have electric kickboards, so you can enjoy being active! Akiyoshido One of Japan's largest limestone caves, Akiyoshido Cave, opens 100m underground at the southern foot of Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park. Passing through a grove of cedar trees where the cool air touches your skin, you will arrive at the entrance to Akiyoshido Cave. The sightseeing course inside the cave is about 1km (the total length is over 11.2km, making it the second largest cave in Japan), and the temperature remains constant at 17℃ throughout the year, making it cool in the summer and warm in the winter, making it a comfortable sightseeing experience. The many mysterious natural formations that seem frozen in time are rich in variety and evoke great emotion in our hearts.

Basic Itinerary A Tsunoshima/Motonosumi Shrine Course [Adult] 5,500 yen (per person) [Children] 2,750 yen (per elementary school student over 3 years old) 9:30 Departure from Yuda Onsen 10:00 Departure from Shin-Yamaguchi Sta. [60 minutes] Roadside Sta. Houhoku (lunch on your own) [60 minutes] Tsunoshima Bridge and Lighthouse [60 minutes] Motonosumi Shrine Arrived at Nagatoshi Station at 15:50 Arrived at 16:15 at Nagato Yumoto Onsen Arrived at Shin-Yamaguchi Station at 17:30 18:00 Arrive at Yuda Onsen Tsunoshima Bridge Tsunoshima Bridge often appears in TV commercials and locations. The spectacular view of a resort-like white sand beach and cobalt blue sea became a hot topic on SNS, and it has come to be introduced as one of Japan's top photo scenic spots. The length of the bridge is also one of the longest public roads in Japan that can be crossed for free. (1,780m) Motonosumi Shrine Motonosumi Shrine has a spectacular view of 123 red torii gates facing the Sea of Japan. The contrast between the red torii gate, the blue sea, and the green earth is beautiful, and it is a shrine boasting a spectacular view that the world is paying attention to. It is very popular as one of Yamaguchi Prefecture's leading power spots and looks great on SNS. Nagato Yumoto Hot Spring Nagato Yumoto Onsen, which has a rich atmosphere with inns on both sides of the river, is said to have been discovered about 600 years ago, the oldest hot spring resort in Yamaguchi Prefecture. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes around the Otozuregawa River, and you can enjoy not only hot springs but also walking and eating. Yuda Hot Spring It is also called “White Fox Hot Spring” because legend has it that an injured white fox healed his wounds. It is characterized by its soft water that blends well with the skin, and is also known as a “hot spring for beautiful skin.” Since there is plenty of hot water, there are plenty of casual footbaths in the hot spring town. National Treasure Rurikoji Five-Storied Pagoda The five-story pagoda is the symbol of western Kyoyamaguchi. Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, fall foliage, and winter snowscapes are counted as one of Japan's top three pagodas. Kawara soba “Kawara soba” was inspired by a story where soldiers in the Satsuma army used roof tiles to grill and eat food in between long field battles. Not only is the flavor, but the impressive visuals with ingredients such as boiled tea soba, kinshi eggs, and beef on a heated roof, and condiments such as lemon and grated maple leaves are also a must-see.

Leave Osaka or Kyoto for a day trip to Hiroshima, or join us directly from Hiroshima to visit the sobering Atomic Bomb Dome and the uplifting Itsukushima Shrine. Sit back and relax in our air-conditioned van from your starting point, then enjoy the comfort while you visit Hiroshima. Upon arrival, start your visit of the city's main attractions and world heritage sites. First, head to the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Experience the weight of nuclear warfare's effects firsthand as you view the derelict dome. Next, return to the van and travel to catch the ferry to Miyajima Island. Once there, marvel at the scenic Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan's most picturesque sites. Stroll on the island, known for its historic Shinto site, literally translated as "the way of the Gods," and take in the peaceful scenery. End your day by returning to Osaka or Kyoto, or choose to stay in Hiroshima.

Explore Akiyoshidō Cave, a special national treasure and one of the largest limestone caves in Japan. Admire geographically precious objects such as gigantic stalagmites and rimstones like terraced rice fields. Walk through the cave comfortably as the temperature stays 17°C throughout the year. Go directly up to the Akiyoshidai Plateau from the elevator located in the middle of the cave. Learn about the cave's history with a multilingual audio guide available in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.

Starting near the ruins of Hagi Castle, the boat travels up the river while viewing Hagi Castle Town and samurai residences, both registered as World Heritage Sites. The boat turns around near the former Tanaka Villa, with its rows of pine trees and white walls, and continues its sightseeing with views of the sea ahead. Once you head out to sea, you can see the islands floating in the Sea of Japan and the beautiful sandy beach of Kikugahama. You can also get an up-close look at the Hagi Castle walls. During cherry blossom season, you can see approximately 200 cherry trees from the boat. Enjoy the changing seasonal scenery of Hagi from the river and sea.

You will make one "Nerikiri", a traditional Japanese sweet, and then experience a tea ceremony in the tea room. Kuromoji (a stick used for eating Wagashi) in a cute kimono origami container is optional. The color is a powdered extract from fruits and vegetables, so it is healthier for the health. “Nerikiri” is not only delicious but comes in a variety of shapes, including many kinds of flowers and the type varies by season. Specifically, "chrysanthemum" and "fireworks" are made in this workshop.

This plan includes a kimono dressing experience and free time to walk around town. After dressing in kimono, you can enjoy walking around the town wearing the kimono. There are many photo spots around the area, such as footbaths, which are unique to Yuda Onsen. There are many kinds of kimonos to choose from. In addition, please enjoy Wagashi and tea set at LAWAKU Cafe. The sweets' color is from powdered extract from fruits and vegetables. Our staff will be happy to take some pictures for you and we can instruct you how to enjoy the Yuda Onsen. Please let us know if we can be of assistance.