Yamaguchi

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Yamaguchi Prefecture is home to numerous notable historic locations and hot spring resorts. Known as the “Kyoto of the West” for its culture, the historic city of Yamaguchi is situated in the center of the prefecture and was founded by the Ouchi clan in the 14th century. It continued to play an important role even after being taken over by the Mori clan, and offers a pleasingly calm, relaxed atmosphere.

Destination Highlights

Kintaikyo Bridge

Arts & Culture

An iconic tourist spot in the city of Iwakuni, Kintaikyo Bridge is an elegant wooden bridge that was completed in 1673. Its five arches span the beautiful Nishiki River, harmonizing with its natural surroundings to create a spectacular scene that attracts many people.

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Hagi

Arts & Culture

Hagi is a historic city that retains many aspects of its origins as an Edo-period castle town. Must-sees include the Hagi Castle Ruins, samurai residences, and streets lined with white-walled houses. Hagi is also known as an area that produced many historical figures that left their mark on history.

Hofu

Arts & Culture

Facing the Seto Inland Sea, Hofu City is rich in history and culture, and its historic buildings and beautiful coastline make it a perfect spot for sightseeing. Its mild climate and rich natural environment make it enjoyable year-round.

The four seasons of Yamaguchi

Spring

In spring in Yamaguchi the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, with those at Kintaikyo Bridge and throughout Yamaguchi City being particularly notable viewing spots. The mild climate makes this area perfect for enjoying sightseeing in the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful natural setting.

Summer

Yamaguchi in summer is the perfect time for outdoor pursuits in the sea and mountains. Enjoy marine sports or hiking, or relax in a hot spring. The beaches at Hagi and Nagato are popular tourist locations.

Fall

Yamaguchi has beautiful leaves in the fall, making it the perfect time to view the colors outdoors at Akiyoshido and Akiyoshidai while enjoying the hot springs and gourmet delicacies of the region. You can also partake in the seasonal delights of seafood and newly harvested rice.

Winter

Winter is the perfect time to relax in a hot spring. Warm yourself in renowned hot springs such as those at Yuda Osen or Nagato Onsen and enjoy winter seafood and delicious seasonal cuisine.

Trip highlights

  • Kintaikyo Bridge

    Kintaikyo Bridge

    Arts & Culture

    Closest station

    Shin-Iwakuni Station

    Iwakuni Station

    View details Map
  • Hagi Castle Town Preservation District

    Hagi Castle Town Preservation District

    Arts & Culture

    Closest station

    Hagi Station

    Website Map
  • Hofu

    Hofu

    Arts & Culture

    Closest station

    Hōfu Station

    Website Map
  • Motonosumi Shrine

    Motonosumi Shrine

    Arts & Culture

    Closest station

    Nagato-Furuichi Station

    Website Map
  • Akiyoshido Cave

    Akiyoshido Cave

    Nature & Outdoors

    Closest station

    Shin-Yamaguchi Station

    Website Map
  • Tokiwa Zoo

    Tokiwa Zoo

    Leisure & Attractions

    Closest station

    Tokiwa Station

    Shin-Yamaguchi Station

    Website Map
  • Yuda Onsen

    Yuda Onsen

    Leisure & Attractions

    Closest station

    Yudaonsen Station

    Website Map

Yamaguchi route map

Use the route map to find your route and make your trip easier! Use the interactive map to determine the best route for your trip and learn more about your destination and the spots along the route to get there.

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Passes valid in this area

Hakata, Shin-Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Okayama, Kobe, Osaka, Nara, Matsuyama, Takamatsu

Setouchi Area Pass

Tour Kansai area, Fukuoka, and Setouchi area on trains and boats! It also includes unlimited rides in Okayama, Takamatsu, Hiroshima and Yamaguchi!
Hakata, Shin-Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Matsue, Okayama, Tottori, Kobe, Wakayama, Osaka, Nara, Kyoto

Sanyo - San'in Area Pass

Get unlimited rides from Kansai and Fukuoka to Okayama, Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Tottori and Shimane!
Hakata, Shin-Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Onomichi

Hiroshima - Yamaguchi Area Pass

Get unlimited rides from Fukuoka to Yamaguchi and Hiroshima!
Hakata, Shin-Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Okayama

Okayama - Hiroshima - Yamaguchi Area Pass

Get unlimited rides from Fukuoka to Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Okayama, and Takamatsu!
Hakata, Kokura, Shin-Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Onomichi, Fukuyama, Okayama, Kurashiki, Himeji, Shin-Kobe, Shin-Osaka

SANYO-SHINKANSEN One-way Ticket

Save on Shinkansen tickets between Shin-Osaka and Hakata!
Hakata, Shin-Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Matsue, Okayama, Tottori, Kobe, Wakayama, Osaka, Nara, Kyoto, Fukui, Kanazawa, Toyama

JR-WEST All Area Pass

A single Pass lets you enjoy unexplored areas of West Japan, from Kansai to Hokuriku, Sanyo, San'in and Hakata!
Nagasaki, Hakata, Saga, Kumamoto, Oita, Shin-Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Matsue, Okayama, Tottori, Kobe, Wakayama, Osaka, Nara, Kyoto, Tsuruga, Kusatsu

Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu pass

Further travel from Kansai area to Kyushu area (Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita) in addition to Okayama, Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Tottori and Shimane!

JAPAN RAIL PASS

JAPAN RAIL PASS is a ticket offered jointly by the six JR Group companies, and it is convenient and reasonably priced for traveling throughout Japan by train.
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Travel and stay with JR-WEST Group

Find convenient hotels near JR-West stations. Enjoy a comfortable stay with easy access, allowing you to relax and make the most of your trip.

Yamaguchi Hotels List

Make the most of your trip to West Japan

Other sights in the Setouchi area

There are many other fascinating places in Setouchi. Be sure to visit its diverse landscapes.

Okayama

Hiroshima

Fukuoka