Chugoku Travel Guides

The Chugoku area, with its beautiful natural scenery and historical sites, consists of five prefectures: Tottori, Shimane, Okayama, Hiroshima, and Yamaguchi. Major attractions in this area include the following

The Tottori Sand Dunes in Tottori Prefecture are also known as Japan's desert because of their beauty. The dunes, which stretch 2.4 km from north to south and 16 km from east to west, are designated as a special protection area in San'in Kaigan National Park. Here, visitors can enjoy the pleasure of taking pictures with camels or take a camel ride through the dunes. Visitors can also try sandboarding, which takes advantage of the difference in elevation of the dunes and is popular among tourists.

Izumo Taisha Shrine, located in Shimane Prefecture, is a shrine that is believed to be beneficial for all kinds of good relationships and has a long history, having been founded in the Heian period (794-1192). As a shrine dedicated especially to the deity Okuninushi, it is an object of faith for worshippers who wish for matchmaking and conjugal harmony. The Izumo-taisha Shrine's Kaguraden (Hall of Shinto music and dance) is home to one of Japan's largest and most magnificent shimenawa (sacred straw ropes), which impresses many visitors to the shrine.

Okayama Castle, located in Okayama Prefecture, was built between 1346 and 1369 and is a sightseeing spot of great historical value. The castle has an observation floor that offers a panoramic view of the city, and on a clear day, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the city. There are also plenty of opportunities to experience the history and culture associated with the castle, and the related items on display are also a must-see.

The Korakuen Garden is a Japanese garden built in the early Edo period (1603-1868) and designated as one of the three best gardens in Japan and a special place of scenic beauty by the national government. In summer, the beautiful lotus flowers of "Itten Shikai" bloom in the Hanaba pond in the garden, delighting visitors. This garden offers beautiful seasonal views and is a popular place to experience Japanese garden culture.

Itsukushima Shrine, located in Hiroshima Prefecture, is a World Heritage-listed shrine and an impressive sightseeing spot with its large torii gate floating on Hiroshima Bay. Itsukushima is one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, and its shrine pavilions offer a wonderful view. The shrine evokes a sense of Japanese history and religious culture and attracts many tourists.

Kintai Bridge in Yamaguchi Prefecture is a wooden arch bridge designated as a place of scenic beauty in Japan and spans the Nishiki River in Iwakuni City. completed in 1673, it is considered one of the three strangest bridges in Japan due to its unique structure and is also known as a famous bridge representing Japan. It is loved by many tourists for its beautiful scenery in each of the four seasons.

Prefecture

Hiroshima

Okayama

Tottori

Shimane

Yamaguchi

Recommended spots for Chugoku

Pick up sightseeing spots and specialties!

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Area

The area, with its rows of willow trees swaying in the wind, white walls and sea cucumber walls casting a beautiful contrast and casting shadows on the Kurashiki River, retains much of its traditional Japanese architectural beauty. There are many cultural facilities such as the Ohara Museum of Art, which has a collection of world-famous paintings, a folk art museum, and an archaeology museum....»

Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine is located on Miyajima Island and is registered as a World Heritage Site. It enshrines the three Munakata Goddesses and was worshipped by the Heike clan. It was built in 593, and was worshipped by the Heike clan. The shrine was built in 593 and is characterized by its long corridor, which is an adaptation of the Heian-period shinden-zukuri style of shrine architecture. The thre...»

Tottori Sand Dunes

Experience an extraordinary place that does not feel like Japan

One of the largest sand dunes in Japan, the Tottori Sand Dunes were created over a period of 100,000 years.They stretch 16 km from east to west and 2 km from north to south. Depending on the topography and weather conditions such as wind, you can see various expressions such as wind ripples and sand curtains.Rare dune plants can also be found here. The world's first "Sand Museum," which exhibits ...»

Akiyoshido Cave

One of the most famous limestone caves in the East, Akiyoshidai Cave is located 100 to 200 meters below the ground at the foot of Akiyoshidai Mountain.Of the total length of 10,300 meters, approximately 1 km is open to the public as a tourist route.It is the largest limestone cave in Japan. An underground river flows down for about 1 km from Kotogafuchi at the back of the cave to the cave mouth. ...»

Izumo Grand Shrine

Sacred place of the god of marriage

Izumo-taisha is one of the oldest shrines along with Ise Jingu Shrine. It is dedicated to Okuninushi no Mikoto, popularly known as Daikoku-sama. It is famous as the god of marriage, the god of good fortune, and the god of peace, and is especially known as Japan's representative god of "matchmaking," with over 10 million people visiting the shrine every year to pray for a good match. The main shr...»

Miraishin no Oka

5,000 square meter marble garden

This marble garden is located in the precincts of the temple Kosanji.It is 5,000 square meters in area, 25 meters in elevation, and 3,000 tons of marble from Carrara, Italy, is used for this environmental art. The hilltop overlooks the town of Setoda and the Seto Inland Sea, and the entire hill is dotted with more than 10 monuments of various sizes, including "Bishamonten" and "Koumei no To (Towe...»

Matsue Castle

National Treasure and the only one of the 12 surviving castle towers

Matsue Castle is the only surviving castle with a castle tower in the San'in region.It is one of the five castles designated as a National Treasure (the others are Inuyama Castle, Matsumoto Castle, Hikone Castle, and Himeji Castle). The ruins of the castle are designated as a national historic site. The Matsue Clan was established in 1600 as a result of its success in the Battle of Sekigahara.Th...»

Kintai Bridge

Beautiful wooden bridge with five arches

This is one of the best wooden bridges in Japan, spanning the clear waters of the 200-meter-long Nishiki River.It is one of the three most famous bridges in Japan and one of the three most unusual bridges in Japan. The wooden bridge with five rows of arches is rare even in the world. It was built in 1673 during the Edo period by the lord of the Iwakuni domain. The bridge is 193.3 meters long and ...»

Tsunoshima Bridge

The Tsunoshima Ohhashi Bridge is one of the longest bridges (1,780 m) on a remote island in Japan that can be crossed free of charge. Straddling the cobalt blue Amagase, which is unique to this area, the bridge is the most scenic spot on the Nishinagato Coast, with its majestic appearance in harmony with the landscape....»

Atomic Bomb Dome

Designed by Czech architect Jan Retzl and opened in 1915. It is the former site of the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, which once stood in the city's downtown area. The building has been permanently preserved to show the actual atomic bombing of August 6, 1945.It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996....»

Onomichi Taihozan Senkoji Temple

Many natural attractions, such as oddly shaped rocks and scenic spots

Senkoji Temple is located in Senkoji Park, halfway up Senkoji Mountain. Senkoji Ropeway to the top of Senkoji Temple. The vermilion main hall and the Ryugu-zukuri bell tower are representative of Onomichi's scenery, and the giant and oddly shaped rocks, such as Jade Rock and Mie Rock, on which a shining pearl is said to have once been placed, are a must-see. According to temple legend, the templ...»

Hiroshima Castle

Hiroshima Castle was built by Terumoto Mori in 1589. The castle was called "Koi Castle," and the castle tower and other castle buildings survived until 1945, when the castle tower was completely destroyed by the atomic bomb. The castle tower and other castle buildings were reconstructed after 1958, and the castle is now a history museum that mainly introduces samurai culture. ◎Mouri Terumoto (15...»

Motonosumi Shrine

A vermilion torii gate leads to the wild sea.

The shrine stands on a basalt cape with sea-eroded terrain.The 123 vermilion torii gates stand in a row for more than 100 meters, creating a beautiful contrast between the red of the torii gates, the blue of the Sea of Japan, and the green of the surrounding vegetation. In the sea-eroded cave below the cliff, visitors can see the "tidal blast of Ryugu," a phenomenon in which seawater blows up hig...»

Tamatsukuri Onsen

Beautiful skin with a hot spring comparable to lotion

Tamatsukuri Onsen is a sulfate spring that contains a good balance of sulfate ions and metasilicic acid, and is comparable to a lotion in its moisturizing properties. It is said to have opened in the Nara period (710-794), and was known as the hot spring of the gods, as described in Sei Shonagon's Pillow Book (circa 1000) as "hot spring of Nanakari, hot spring of Tamatsukuri, and hot spring of Ar...»

Korakuen Garden

Korakuen Garden is one of the three most famous gardens in Japan and is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, the highest level of garden design. It is also highly acclaimed overseas, being ranked three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japon. The garden was built by order of the feudal lord of Okayama, Ikeda Tsunamasa, and was completed around 1700. Although the garden was modified by...»

Okayama Castle

Construction of the castle began in 1573 by Ukita Naoye and was completed in 1597. The castle tower was destroyed by fire during the war, but has been rebuilt and the interior is used as an exhibition hall. In the northwestern corner stands a turret that survived the fire and reminds us of the days when the castle was worth 315,000 koku. ◎Ukita Naoye (1529-1582)Ukita Naoye initially served Urak...»

Mizuki Shigeru Road

Encounter with bewitching and fun yokai

The street is lined with 177 bronze statues of yokai, including Kitaro, along an approximately 800 meter stretch of road from Sakaiminato Station to the Mizuki Shigeru Memorial Museum. There are also many stores selling food and goods related to yokai, and even costumed yokai make daily appearances. In addition, there is a stamp rally and special sticker giveaways, making it a fun place to searc...»

Kurayoshi Shirakabedozogun

A unique landscape full of tradition and elegance

Along the Tamagawa River, which runs along the foot of Mt. Uchibuki, are storehouses with red Ishizhu tiles, white plaster walls, and black grilled cedar slats. Many of the buildings date from the late Edo period to the early Showa period, and the townscape is divided into Honmachi-dori, mainly consisting of merchant houses, and the Tamagawa riverfront landscape, mainly consisting of storehouses....»

Sightseeing and travel guide for Chugoku

Chugoku is a beautiful region in Japan, comprising Hiroshima, Okayama, Shimane, Tottori, and Yamaguchi prefectures. Here are some recommendations for sightseeing, dining, lodging, hot springs, activities, and souvenirs in Chugoku:

Sightseeing:
1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Pay a visit to this significant site commemorating the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, including the Peace Memorial Museum and the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome.
2. Miyajima: Explore the scenic island of Miyajima, known for its floating torii gate, Itsukushima Shrine, and beautiful hiking trails.
3. Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden: Admire the stunning Okayama Castle and stroll through the exquisite Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens.
4. Adachi Museum of Art: Visit the renowned Adachi Museum of Art in Shimane, showcasing a beautiful collection of contemporary Japanese art and breathtaking gardens.
5. Tottori Sand Dunes: Experience the unique landscape of Tottori Sand Dunes, the largest dune system in Japan, and enjoy activities like sandboarding or camel rides.

Dining:
1. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki: Try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with ingredients such as cabbage, noodles, and various toppings.
2. Tsuyama yakisoba: Sample Tsuyama's specialty yakisoba, a stir-fried noodle dish featuring thick wheat noodles and a flavorful sauce.
3. Izumo soba: Enjoy Izumo soba, a type of buckwheat noodle dish popular in Shimane, known for its hearty flavors and chewy texture.
4. Tottori crab: Indulge in fresh crab delicacies, such as Matsuba and Snow crabs, which are specialties of Tottori.

Lodging:
1. Hiroshima city hotels: Choose from a range of accommodations in Hiroshima city, including luxury hotels, business hotels, and budget-friendly options.
2. Ryokans in Miyajima: Experience traditional Japanese hospitality by staying in a ryokan on Miyajima Island, offering a serene atmosphere and breathtaking views.
3. Onsen resorts in Shimane: Relax in hot spring resorts in Shimane, where you can unwind in therapeutic waters surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes.

Hot Springs:
1. Misasa Onsen: Visit Misasa Onsen in Tottori, known for its radon-rich waters and healing properties, making it one of Japan's top hot spring destinations.
2. Yunotsu Onsen: Immerse yourself in the historic atmosphere of Yunotsu Onsen in Shimane, an old hot spring town with traditional ryokans and charming streets.

Activities:
1. Hiroshima Carp baseball game: Catch a baseball game featuring the Hiroshima Carp, a popular professional baseball team with a passionate fan base.
2. Cycling the Shimanami Kaido: Embark on a cycling adventure along the Shimanami Kaido, a scenic route connecting islands between Hiroshima and Ehime prefectures.
3. Sandboarding in Tottori: Experience the thrill of sandboarding on the Tottori Sand Dunes, enjoying the unique landscape and adrenaline rush.

Souvenirs:
1. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki kits: Bring home DIY kits for making Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, allowing you to recreate the dish at home.
2. Miyajima momiji manju: Purchase momiji manju, a maple leaf-shaped sweet filled with various flavors like red bean paste or custard, as a popular Miyajima souvenir.
3. Shimane crafts: Look for local crafts such as Izumo Taiko drums, lacquer

ware, or traditional pottery.

Enjoy your exploration of Chugoku, Japan, and have a fantastic trip!

Chugoku Gourmet and Souvenir Guide

Chugoku, located in western Japan, offers a diverse range of culinary delights and cultural experiences. Here's some information about the specialties, local foods, recommended restaurants, and souvenirs to enhance your trip:

Specialties and Local Foods:
1. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: Hiroshima is famous for its unique style of okonomiyaki, a savory pancake made with layers of cabbage, noodles, meat or seafood, and topped with a sweet and savory sauce.
2. Fugu (Blowfish): Chugoku is known for its fugu cuisine. Fugu is a delicacy that requires careful preparation due to its poisonous parts. Enjoy it as sashimi or in hot pot dishes.
3. Tsuyama Nijisseiki Pear: Tsuyama City in Chugoku is renowned for its juicy and flavorful Nijisseiki pears. They are often enjoyed fresh or used in various desserts and jams.
4. Izumo Soba: Izumo soba is a type of buckwheat noodle dish popular in Shimane Prefecture. The noodles are usually served cold and accompanied by a dipping sauce and various toppings.
5. Momiji Manju: Momiji manju is a popular sweet treat in Hiroshima and Shimane. These maple leaf-shaped cakes are filled with sweet bean paste and come in various flavors.

Highly Rated Restaurants:
1. Okonomi-mura (Hiroshima): Located in Hiroshima, Okonomi-mura is a multi-story building dedicated to okonomiyaki. It houses several specialized stalls where you can savor different variations of this beloved dish.
2. Taishu Sakaba Katsu (Okayama): This restaurant in Okayama specializes in local cuisine and offers a wide range of dishes, including traditional izakaya fare and regional specialties.
3. Ajihei (Tottori): Ajihei is a renowned restaurant in Tottori that serves high-quality sushi made with fresh local seafood.
4. Shunpanro (Matsue): Shunpanro is a long-established restaurant in Matsue known for its delectable seafood dishes, particularly its fugu preparations.
5. Kisuke (Miyajima): Located on Miyajima Island, Kisuke is a popular restaurant offering a variety of local dishes, including Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and fresh seafood.

Souvenirs:
1. Tottori Sand Craft: Tottori is famous for its sand dunes, and you can find unique sand art and sand-themed souvenirs crafted by local artisans.
2. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki Kits: Bring home a DIY okonomiyaki kit, complete with the necessary ingredients and sauces, to recreate the Hiroshima-style dish.
3. Local Sake: Chugoku is known for its sake production, so consider purchasing bottles of local sake as souvenirs.
4. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter Crafts: Kurashiki, located in Okayama, is known for its historical quarter filled with traditional architecture. Look for crafts and artworks made by local artisans in this area.
5. Izumo Soba Noodles: Purchase packs of Izumo soba noodles to enjoy the distinct flavor of this regional specialty at home.

While exploring Chugoku, be sure to try local street food, visit local markets, and ask locals for recommendations to fully immerse yourself in the local flavors and find unique souvenirs. Enjoy your trip and the culinary delights of the region!

Seasonal festivals and events in Chugoku

Chugoku, a region in western Japan, offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant festivals throughout the year. Here are some festivals and events held in Chugoku during each season, along with their special features:

1. Spring:

- Hiroshima Flower Festival (April): Held in Hiroshima City, this festival celebrates the arrival of spring with colorful parades, music performances, dance shows, and flower exhibitions. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and the beauty of blooming flowers.

- Okayama Castle Cherry Blossom Festival (Late March to early April): Okayama Castle, also known as "Crow Castle," hosts a cherry blossom festival with illuminations, traditional performances, and food stalls. Admire the picturesque scenery and the castle's striking appearance amidst the cherry blossoms.

2. Summer:

- Saijo Sake Festival (October): Taking place in Saijo, Hiroshima Prefecture, this festival showcases the region's renowned sake (rice wine). Visitors can sample a variety of sake from local breweries, participate in sake tastings, and enjoy lively street performances.

- Mitani Sumiyoshi Festival (August): Held in Mitani, Hiroshima Prefecture, this festival features traditional dances, music performances, and a grand parade. Witness the vibrant summer spirit and the local traditions of the region.

3. Fall:

- Kurashiki Ivy Square Illumination (November to January): Kurashiki City in Okayama Prefecture hosts a mesmerizing illumination event at Ivy Square. The historic buildings covered in ivy are adorned with thousands of lights, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.

- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony (August 6th): Commemorating the victims of the atomic bombing in Hiroshima, this ceremony is held at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. It is a solemn and significant event that promotes peace and remembrance.

4. Winter:

- Daisen White Illumination (December to February): Mount Daisen in Tottori Prefecture is illuminated during the winter months, creating a magical winter wonderland. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountain and the enchanting illuminations.

- Okayama Korakuen Garden Winter Illumination (December to February): Okayama Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, is adorned with enchanting winter illuminations. The combination of traditional architecture, serene ponds, and illuminated landscapes creates a captivating ambiance.

Special Features:
1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to promoting peace and remembrance. Explore the Peace Memorial Museum, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Peace Memorial Hall, all of which provide insights into the history and impact of the atomic bombing.

2. Miyajima Island: Located in Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima is known for its iconic Itsukushima Shrine and the "floating" torii gate. Explore the island's natural beauty, ancient temples, and friendly deer population.

3. Okayama Korakuen Garden: Discover the exquisite beauty of Okayama Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's three great gardens. This traditional Japanese garden features meticulously designed landscapes, serene ponds, and historic teahouses.

As you plan your trip to Chugoku, be sure to check the specific dates and details of the festivals and events, as they may vary each year. Enjoy your sightseeing adventure, embracing the culture, natural wonders, and warm hospitality of the Chugoku region!

Temperature and weather conditions in Chugoku

Chugoku, located in western Honshu, is one of the regions of Japan that offers diverse landscapes and attractions. Here's an overview of the climate and temperature in Chugoku throughout the seasons:

1. Spring (March to May):
Spring in Chugoku is generally mild and pleasant. The average temperature in March is around 10°C (50°F) and gradually increases to approximately 18°C (64°F) in May. Cherry blossoms usually bloom in late March or early April, creating a captivating sight across the region. Many parks and historical sites, such as Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Okayama's Korakuen Garden, are popular for cherry blossom viewing.

2. Rainy Season (June to July):
The rainy season, known as "Tsuyu," arrives in Chugoku from mid-June to mid-July. During this period, the region experiences increased rainfall and higher humidity levels. Temperatures range from around 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F). It's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during this time. The lush greenery and rice fields create a serene and picturesque landscape.

3. Summer (July to September):
Summers in Chugoku are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (90°F) in July and August. Coastal areas provide some relief with cool sea breezes, but the inland regions can be quite hot. The region offers various summer festivals, fireworks displays, and traditional events. Popular summer destinations include Miyajima Island, Okayama's Seto Inland Sea, and the sand dunes of Tottori.

4. Fall (October to November):
Autumn in Chugoku is a delightful season with comfortable temperatures and stunning foliage. In October, the average temperature is around 17°C (63°F), gradually dropping to approximately 11°C (52°F) in November. The region's parks, gardens, and mountainous areas display vibrant autumn colors, making it a perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Places like Okayama's Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter and Hiroshima's Itsukushima Shrine are popular during this season.

5. Winter (December to February):
Winters in Chugoku are relatively mild but can still be chilly, especially in the mountainous areas. The average temperature ranges from 6°C (43°F) in December to 4°C (39°F) in February. While snowfall is limited in most parts of Chugoku, the region's higher elevations, such as the Chugoku Mountains, offer opportunities for winter sports and scenic snowscapes. Okayama's Korakuen Garden during winter presents a serene and tranquil ambiance.

Special features:
- Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to promoting peace and commemorating the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
- Miyajima Island, known for the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its "floating" torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Okayama's Korakuen Garden, considered one of Japan's three great gardens, offering breathtaking landscapes and traditional tea houses.
- Tottori's Sand Dunes, the largest sand dunes in Japan, providing a unique desert-like experience.

Chugoku offers a blend of historical landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and cultural experiences. From Hiroshima's poignant history to the natural beauty of Miyajima Island and the sand dunes of Tottori, the region promises diverse attractions and captivating sights for sightseeing and exploration.