Experience more Japan
Discover lesser-known Western Japan
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No matter how many times you visit, there’s more to Japan than you have ever imagined.
Travel with us through Western Japan as we explore its hidden delights, rich history, culture and breathtaking natural beauty.

■TripNotes

Spot1:Kintai Bridge
A wooden arch bridge runs over the Nishiki River that flows through the city of Iwakuni; a sight that can only be seen in Yamaguchi. The bridge was built without using a single nail and it is known as an extremely rare type of construction. Kintai Bridge’s beauty changes with time and seasons. The bridge was also featured in an Ukiyo-e painted by Hokusai Katsushika.
Kikko Park sits on the other side of the bridge. Many historical wooden buildings still stand erect in the surrounding areas.

Spot2:Iwakuni Castle
You can take the ropeway from Kikko Park to Iwakuni Castle. This is one of the top 100 castles in Japan. It has traditional white walls and natural moats.
The interiors of the castle are decorated with samurai armors and handicrafts. From the observation deck you can enjoy the beautiful view of Iwakuni and the surrounding areas. Hike to the peak to experience the untouched nature.

Spot3:Akiyoshidai Plateau
Akiyoshidai plateau has serene landscape and the largest limestone caves in Japan. It used to be a coral reef 300 million years ago, of which the limestone remained to form the largest Karst Plateau in Japan. Feel the beautiful nature with fresh greens, blue skies and white rocks while hiking through the grass fields.

Spot4:Akiyoshi Cave
At the base of Akiyoshidai plateau, is Akiyoshi cave; the most prominent limestone cave in Japan. Water flows through the cave, so the whole cave experience is a nature’s treat for your ears as much as your eyes. When you walk through the flowing water and enter Akiyoshi cave, you can see limestones and stalactites, stalagmites. Among them, “”hundred plates”” which looks like huge dishes stacked up, and a stalactite named “”golden pillar”” with a height of 15 m are the highlights.

Food:Local Sake/Iwakuni Sushi
It is well known that Yamaguchi is famous for its sake. In addition to the famous “”Dassai,”” there are also many other famous local sake brands. Try out different sake, compare, and choose your favorite one.

“”Iwakuni-zushi”” is a local dish of the Iwakuni city of in Yamaguchi. It is a fresh-looking pressed sushi. Don’t forget to try it when you visit Iwakuni.

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