Dig deeper into the hidden charms of Yamaguchi Prefecture! Complete guide to history, sightseeing, and gourmet food

Dig deeper into the hidden charms of Yamaguchi Prefecture! Complete guide to history, sightseeing, and gourmet food

What is the charm of Yamaguchi Prefecture? Prologue to a journey that explores everything from spectacular scenery to history

Introduction: Yamaguchi Prefecture and me

Hello, I’m Kasumi, a travel web writer. This time, I would like to introduce a place that particularly stuck in my mind during my travels throughout Japan: Yamaguchi Prefecture. Having traveled to all 47 prefectures in Japan, I was particularly drawn to Yamaguchi Prefecture’s multifaceted nature and deep history. This time, I would like to explore its charm in as much detail and depth as possible.

Natural beauty with spectacular views

Yamaguchi Prefecture is full of natural beauty, from the beautiful coastline facing the Seto Inland Sea to the mountains inland. For example, Suo-Oshima is a resort area surrounded by the beautiful Seto Inland Sea and is visited by many tourists. I was one of them, and when I saw the beautiful sea for the first time, I was moved by the beauty of the scenery.

In addition to the sea, Yamaguchi Prefecture’s mountains are also attractive. At the famous mountain, Mt. Tsurugimine, you can enjoy nature in all four seasons. The autumn leaves season is especially spectacular, captivating visitors with its beauty.

deep history and culture

Yamaguchi Prefecture has a deep history and is dotted with many historical spots and cultural properties. One of the most famous is Motonosumi Inari Shrine in Nagato City. This shrine was built during the Heian period and is filled with a lot of history and legends. I also visited the shrine, and the atmosphere was an indescribably mystical place.

Yamaguchi City is also home to Hagi, a place where literature and history live. Hagi is famous for the Boshin War, and many historical sites are open to the public. I also took a walk around Hagi City and felt the depth of its history firsthand.

Delicious gourmet food and local charm

Speaking of Yamaguchi Prefecture, there is an abundance of delicious food. For example, Shimonoseki City is known as the “City of Fugu” and has many restaurants specializing in Fugu cuisine. I also had the experience of tasting blowfish at Fuguzen, and was impressed by its unique texture and flavor.

There are also many attractive dishes that can only be tasted locally, one of which is Hagiyaki. Hagiyaki is a type of Japanese sweets and is a special product that can only be found in Hagi City. I also experienced its deliciousness in Hagi City.

Statistical data and results

The number of tourists to Yamaguchi Prefecture is increasing every year. According to official statistics, approximately 5 million people visited Yamaguchi Prefecture in 2021, an increase of approximately 5% compared to the previous year. In particular, the number of tourists from overseas is increasing, and many of them are attracted to Yamaguchi Prefecture’s nature, history, and gourmet food.

Dig deeper into the history of Yamaguchi Prefecture! Little-known landmarks and their backgrounds

The multifaceted nature of Yamaguchi Prefecture, woven through history

This area has a long history and is dotted with famous spots that flourished in different eras and places where history is carved. Now, let’s explore its charm.

Hagi City and its historical attractions

Hagi City was originally a castle town that prospered during the Sengoku period under the influence of the Mori clan, and later became famous for the Boshin War and other events. Particularly famous is the ruins of Hagi Castle, which is associated with the Mori clan. Although this castle ruins was once abandoned, many historical events have taken place since then. I also visited this castle ruins and was overwhelmed by its majestic atmosphere.

There is also the Hagi Museum in Hagi City. Learn more about local history and culture at this museum. In particular, the exhibit focusing on Mr. Mori was very interesting, and I learned a lot myself.

History of Shimonoseki City and Moji Port

Shimonoseki City originally flourished as a port town and has been home to many historical events. A typical example is the Shimonoseki War during the Meiji Restoration. Many of the places that played an active role in this war are now popular tourist attractions. For example, from Kaikyo Yume Tower, you can see a panoramic view of the battlefield at the time, and you can feel its historical importance.

Moji Port is also a place filled with a lot of history. The Mojiko Retro Area is especially famous. Many of the buildings from the early Showa period remain here, and the atmosphere of those days has been preserved to this day. I also visited and was captivated by its retro atmosphere.

Nagato City and Motonosumi Inari Shrine

As I mentioned last time, Motonosumi Inari Shrine in Nagato City attracts many people with its history and mystery. Of particular note is Motonosumi Bay, which is located very close to the shrine. This bay is home to many historical legends and myths, giving it a mysterious atmosphere. I myself visited the bay and was impressed by its beauty and the depth of its history.

Statistical data and results

The number of tourists visiting historic sites in Yamaguchi Prefecture is increasing every year. According to 2021 data, the number of tourists in Hagi City increased by about 8% compared to the previous year, and the city is attracting increasing attention, especially from the younger generation. On the other hand, Moji Port was also seeing an increase in the number of tourists, with a growth rate of approximately 10%.

Yamaguchi Prefecture is rich in history and has a rich history.

Yamaguchi Prefecture’s history is extremely multifaceted, with each region having a different history and culture. I also visited various places and felt the history, and made many new discoveries.

Modern culture and industry in Yamaguchi Prefecture – Diverse charms where history and modernity intertwine

An art culture where contemporary art and traditional crafts coexist

In Yamaguchi Prefecture, modern art and traditional crafts coexist. A typical example is “Hagiyaki”. Hagiyaki is a traditional craft that has been around since the Edo period, and many artists have inherited this technique even today. I also visited the Hagi Art Museum in Hagi City and was captivated by its delicate beauty.

On the other hand, Yamaguchi City is home to the Yamaguchi Center for Arts and Media (YCAM), which exhibits cutting-edge art works. This is a place where modern technology and art intersect, and many people visit from Japan and abroad. I am one of them, and when I had the opportunity to experience some interactive works, I was surprised by the new ways of expression.

Local economy supported by fishing industry and tourism

Yamaguchi Prefecture is surrounded by the sea, so the fishing industry is very active. Shimonoseki City in particular is famous as the “Fugu Capital,” and the puffer fish cuisine is served at an extremely high level. The amount of pufferfish shipped has been increasing year by year, and in 2021, it reached a record of approximately 5,000 tons, the highest in Japan.

Tourism is also a big industry in this area, with hot springs being particularly popular. Yuda Onsen and Nagato Onsen are crowded with tourists throughout the year. According to statistics, the total number of guests staying at these two hot spring resorts exceeded 2 million in 2021.

Attractiveness as a local community

The connections between local residents are also one of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s charms. Community activities are active in many areas, with many people participating in agriculture, fishing, and local events. I also attended a local festival in Nagato City and was impressed by the friendly atmosphere and collaborative spirit.

Yamaguchi Prefecture is a charming prefecture where history and modernity intertwine.

Yamaguchi Prefecture is full of diverse charms, with its historical background and modern culture and industry intertwined. I was able to feel the richness of this region in many aspects, from art to the fishing industry, tourism, and the local community. Through this trip, I was once again made aware of the multifaceted nature and depth of Yamaguchi Prefecture, and I would like to share its charm with many people.

Yamaguchi Prefecture has many attractions, from natural beauty to history and modern culture, and once you visit, it will definitely remain in your heart. If you haven’t been there yet, please come and experience its diverse charm for yourself. See you on the next trip!

Historical buildings selected by Kasumi

Hello, I’m Kasumi, a travel web writer. This time, I would like to introduce five historical buildings in Yamaguchi Prefecture, which are places that have left a lasting impression on me during my travels throughout Japan. Each building has a “Kasumi Point,” and we will explain its charm from a unique perspective, so please read to the end.

1. Hagi Castle Ruins (Hagi City)

Kasumi points:

The Hagi Castle ruins are a place where historical value and beautiful nature coexist. In particular, the spectacular view of Hagi city and the Sea of Japan from the castle ruins is not to be missed. Additionally, this castle ruins has a history dating back to the Sengoku period, and you can still feel the atmosphere of that time.

2. Akiyoshidai (Mine City)

Kasumi points:

Akiyoshidai is one of Japan’s three major karst landforms, and a lot of limestone can be seen. The small shrines and stone monuments built within it create a mystical atmosphere. This geologically valuable place has an attractive combination of nature and history.

3. Nagato Ariake Onsen Town (Nagato City)

Kasumi points:

The hot spring town itself is valuable as a historical building. What is particularly eye-catching is that many of the wooden buildings from the Meiji period remain. These buildings give us a sense of the life and culture of that time.

4. Hikoshima Shrine (Shimonoseki City)

Kasumi points:

Hikoshima Shrine is the westernmost shrine in Japan and has a very old history. What is especially noteworthy is the beauty of the torii gate and the sea that stretches out behind it. It is a mysterious place where nature, history, and faith come together.

5. Chikage Hagi (Hagi City)

Kasumi points:

As the name suggests, Hagi Chikage is dotted with scenic spots and historical sites within Hagi City. There are temples and samurai residences built in the Edo period all over the place, and you can feel the atmosphere of that time. Each building has the feel of a small museum.

These are the historical buildings selected by Kasumi. Yamaguchi Prefecture is home to many attractive buildings that are a perfect combination of history and nature. Each of these spots has its own “Kasumi Point” and will provide a different impression to each visitor. Please come visit Yamaguchi Prefecture and experience its multifaceted charm for yourself.