Yamaguchi Travel Guide

Yamaguchi
Travel off-the-beaten-track to a quiet and rural prefecture that’s home to serene beaches, tranquil caves, and ancient castles, and has a history that’s dominated by the samurai. Its Dassai sake is famed, and local delicacies include the poisonous fugu (pufferfish).
Travel off-the-beaten-track to a quiet and rural prefecture that’s home to serene beaches, tranquil caves, and ancient castles, and has a history that’s dominated by the samurai. Its Dassai sake is famed, and local delicacies include the poisonous fugu (pufferfish). Yamaguchi Prefecture was founded by the Ouchi clan in the 14th century. It’s the last point on the main island before you reach Kyushu and the tropical island of Okinawa, and is the gateway between Japan and South Korea, with a daily ferry service to and from Busan. History lovers should head to the historic Hagi to see the origins of the Meiji Restoration, samurai quarters, and castle ruins along with the town’s picturesque street. Yamaguchi came to be known as the Kyoto of the West after it grew to culturally rival Kyoto during Japan’s age of warring states, because of the Ouchi lords. The Hagi area is also renowned for its pottery and craftsmanship. Kintaikyo Bridge is a famed attraction and one of the most iconic bridges in Japan which is a reconstruction of an original five-arched bridge with limestone pillars that was built in 1673. Yamaguchi hosts a large firework festival in summer and other notable attractions include the Motonosumi Shrine that was erected in 1955 that features 123 repetitive red torii gates near the cliffside, as well as National Treasure, Rurikoji, a five-story pagoda and that largest limestone cave in Japan. The most popular place for tourist is Shimonoseki, as it offers up some of the county’s best seafood, and is particularly known for its local specialty, the poisonous fugu (blowfish). It can be deadly if prepared incorrectly, so only licensed chefs are allowed to prepare it. If you can bare getting up at the ungodly hour of 4 am, it’s worth heading down to the Karato Fish Market to get in on the fresh seafood action. Snack on renkon crisps, traditional Japanese sweets from Suzushi Toshiro, and sugar-coated mandarins. Other food specialties include kawara soba which is perfected by mixing noodles with green tea along and topping it off with the usual veggies, meat, and nori as well as a squeeze of lemon, and to top it off, it’s served on a sizzling roof tile! But it isn’t just food that the region is known for; Yamaguchi is also home to one of the most famous sake brands in the world, Dassai. The sake is made from an original strain of sake rice that creates that iconic smooth and refreshing taste.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What to eat in Yamaguchi?

Fugu (pufferfish) is known as a poisonous fish, causing many to stray away from this delicacy in fear. However, when prepared correctly, this fish can be safely consumed as sashimi or in various cooked forms. Fugu is best eaten in Yamaguchi as most of Japan’s pufferfish are caught in the city of Hikari.

What are the best things to do in Yamaguchi?

Kintai Bridge, located in Iwakuni, has five large wooden arches spanning across the Nishiki River. This bridge is part of Kikkou Park, a popular destination for visitors to Japan that’s also home to Iwakuni Castle.

Where to see cherry blossoms in Yamaguchi?

Tokiwa Park has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. You can follow the paths and stroll around the park to see the 3,200 cherry blossom trees. Other attractions to visit in the park include a zoo, museum, and a small amusement park.

What is Yamaguchi famous for?

Yamaguchi is famous for its long and rich history, but also for its unique cuisine. Kawara soba is unique to Yamaguchi as it is literally cooked on a kawara roof tile. This unique soba is a vibrant green color because matcha is added to the dough, giving the refreshing and herbal note of tea in every bite.

What to buy in Yamaguchi?

Ouchinuri (Ouchi Lacquerware) was originally created by the Ouchi Clan, based in Yamaguchi Prefecture. These bowls and plates are covered in beautiful patterns that evoke nature. Besides dishware, Ouchi dolls are a popular Yamaguchi souvenir, known as a symbol of love and happiness.

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