In this guide, we introduce 7 carefully selected Hiroshima okonomiyaki spots by area—from around Hiroshima Station and Peace Memorial Park to Okonomimura and beloved local institutions. Whether it’s your first time in Hiroshima or your fifth, this guide will help you find the perfect plate without getting lost.

How to Get to Hiroshima

Hiroshima Station is a major Shinkansen stop, making it easy to access from across Japan.

What Is Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki? How Is It Different from Osaka’s?

The defining feature of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is its layered preparation method. Osaka-style okonomiyaki mixes all ingredients into the batter before cooking, but in Hiroshima, a thin crepe-like base is topped with a large amount of cabbage, bean sprouts, pork belly, tempura bits, and yakisoba noodles (or sometimes udon), all stacked in layers and finished with an egg on top. The local style is to cut it into bite-sized pieces with a spatula and eat it directly from the hot teppan grill.

The final touch is Hiroshima’s famous Otafuku sauce. This rich, sweet-savory sauce pairs beautifully with the crunch of vegetables and the crisp texture of the noodles. Another reason people love Hiroshima okonomiyaki is that one plate gives you vegetables, meat, and carbs in a satisfying balance.

Near Hiroshima Station | Great for Eating Right After Arrival

1. Reichan | A Long-Established Favorite Connected Directly to Hiroshima Station

If you want to eat okonomiyaki as soon as you arrive at Hiroshima Station, Reichan is one of the best choices. Located inside ekie DINING by JR Hiroshima Station, it’s easy to reach right after exiting the ticket gates. This long-established restaurant has built its reputation on a distinctive grilling technique and a commitment to fresh cabbage.

At the counter seats, you can watch skilled chefs prepare each okonomiyaki right in front of you, which makes it especially fun for first-time visitors. Takeout is also available, and you can reserve a pickup time by phone. It’s a classic “first meal in Hiroshima” choice, especially popular with travelers using spare time between Shinkansen connections.

2. Denkousekka Ekimae Hiroba Branch | Fluffy Dome-Shaped Okonomiyaki with a Modern Twist

Just a 5-minute walk from Hiroshima Station, Denkousekka is famous for its dome-shaped okonomiyaki, which turns the traditional Hiroshima style into something visually striking and uniquely fluffy. Instead of pressing the vegetables flat on the grill, the ingredients are steamed while holding air inside, creating a light texture you won’t find elsewhere.

The restaurant is also particular about ingredients, using Hiroshima-produced fresh noodles from Isono Seimen and locally sourced bean sprouts from Tanaka Shoten. It’s a favorite on social media thanks to its dramatic appearance and satisfying flavor. If you want a photogenic Hiroshima okonomiyaki experience, this is the place.

Peace Memorial Park / Hatchobori Area | Perfect with Sightseeing

3. Nagataya | Just 10 Seconds from Peace Memorial Park

Located right by Peace Memorial Park, Nagataya is in one of the most convenient sightseeing locations in Hiroshima. Its signature menu item, Nagataya-yaki, is a luxurious version of Hiroshima okonomiyaki loaded with pork, egg, shrimp, squid tempura, green onions, and yakisoba noodles—an excellent way to taste Hiroshima’s signature flavors all in one plate.

The restaurant uses Hiroshima’s iconic Otafuku sauce, and the noodles are fresh Isono Seimen noodles pre-seasoned with tonkotsu broth. The sweetness of the cabbage, the fragrant noodles, and the mellow egg create rich layers of flavor in every bite. Lunch hours often come with long lines, but the turnover is fairly quick and well worth the wait.

4. Micchan Sohonten Hatchobori Main Branch | The Original Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki Pioneer

No discussion of Hiroshima okonomiyaki history is complete without Micchan Sohonten. The story began in 1950, when founder Mitsuo Ise opened a street stall called “Mikasaya.” The now-standard Hiroshima style with noodles inside and sweet-savory okonomi sauce is widely said to have been developed here.

The Hatchobori main branch is conveniently located just a 4-minute walk from the Hatchobori streetcar stop. You can enjoy this time-honored taste, passed down for more than half a century, in a modern and clean dining space. If you want to experience the “origin” of Hiroshima okonomiyaki, this is one of the best places to start.

Okonomimura | A Multi-Story Okonomiyaki Building with 25 Shops

5. Okonomimura | The Best Place to Compare Different Styles in One Spot

Located in Shintenchi, the heart of Hiroshima’s entertainment district, Okonomimura is a true okonomiyaki theme park. On the 2nd to 4th floors of the building, you’ll find around 25 okonomiyaki restaurants, each with its own style and personality. The biggest appeal is being able to compare different flavors in one place. Another plus for travelers is that reservations are not required, so it’s easy to drop in casually.

Here are a few popular shops inside Okonomimura:

Momotaro (2F) is a long-established restaurant founded in 1961, known for its signature “Momotaro Deluxe,” topped generously with pork, egg, shrimp, squid, and green onions. Hassho (3F) is loved for its thin batter, crisp noodles, and use of organic vegetables, creating a simple yet elegant flavor that highlights the quality of the ingredients. Yamachan (3F), founded in 1965, continues to serve a classic Hiroshima taste and is especially popular for its traditional yakisoba-filled style.

Best Local Favorites Loved by Hiroshima Regulars

6. Yagenbori Hassho | The Legendary Hiroshima Okonomiyaki Worth Waiting in Line For

Among serious Hiroshima okonomiyaki fans, Yagenbori Hassho is often spoken of as the best of the best. It has been selected for Tabelog’s “Top 100 Okonomiyaki Restaurants” multiple times and has also earned Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition. On weekends, waiting more than two hours is not unusual.

Its biggest strength is the overwhelming amount of cabbage. The cabbage is steamed slowly in a towering pile, bringing out its natural sweetness, which then balances perfectly with the crisp noodles and savory pork belly. Each okonomiyaki is cooked carefully over time, resulting in a level of flavor and texture that feels truly special. Since it opens from late afternoon, it works best as an early dinner stop. English menu available.

7. LOPEZ | A Unique Yokogawa Favorite with a Latin Twist

Located in the Yokogawa area, LOPEZ is a one-of-a-kind okonomiyaki restaurant run by Mr. Lopez, who comes from Latin America, together with his wife. What makes this place even more interesting is that Mr. Lopez trained at the famous Yagenbori Hassho. He combines authentic Hiroshima technique with a Latin-inspired touch, creating a style that has earned devoted fans among both locals and international travelers.

One of the house specialties is okonomiyaki with udon noodles topped with jalapeños. The spicy kick and fresh aroma match surprisingly well with the sweet-savory okonomiyaki sauce. The restaurant is small and counter-only, so long lines are common, but the food and warm personality of Lopez himself make it a memorable Hiroshima dining experience.

MAP

Conclusion

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki began in the street-stall culture of the 1950s and has grown into one of Hiroshima’s most iconic soul foods, beloved by travelers from all over the world. You can grab a quick and satisfying plate at Reichan right after arriving at the station, explore the roots of Hiroshima okonomiyaki at Micchan Sohonten, wait in line at Hassho for a truly elite version, or enjoy comparing multiple styles at Okonomimura.

Between visits to major attractions such as Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine), make time for Hiroshima’s teppan-grilled specialty. In every plate of okonomiyaki, you’ll find a taste of Hiroshima’s history, culture, and local pride.

The clear blue sea, the impressive scenery woven by numerous islands, and the local gourmet food and warm people you meet on each island. A journey away from the urban hustle, riding a bicycle while feeling the sea breeze, will surely become an unforgettable memory. So, let’s embark on a cycling trip feeling the wind of the Seto Inland Sea!

Tours are available here.

What is the Shimanami Kaido? A Detailed Explanation of the Cyclist’s Holy Land

The Shimanami Kaido is a cycling path built alongside the “Nishiseto Expressway,” which connects Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture and Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture. It connects six islands (Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima, Oshima) with seven bridges, stretching approximately 70km in total. Along the way, a blue line called “Blue Line” is drawn on the road to guide cyclists without getting lost, allowing even beginners to enjoy cycling safely.

Safe for Beginners! The Charms of Shimanami Kaido Cycling

You might be wondering, “Can I really cycle 70km?” But the Shimanami Kaido has many features that make it enjoyable even for beginners.

• Few ups and downs: Most sections are flat, and the inclines on the bridges have gentle slopes designed specifically for bicycles.
• Excellent rental cycle options: There are rental cycle terminals at multiple locations, and one-way drop-off (for an extra fee) is also possible. You can choose to cycle just one way according to your physical strength and time.
• Support system: Rest areas, toilets, and places to buy refreshments are set up at appropriate intervals. There are also “Cycle Oases” to assist in case of trouble.
• Option to leave mid-way: If you get tired or run out of time, you can use buses or boats from each island to get to your destination.

Enjoy the Shimanami Kaido with Model Courses!

One-Day Enjoyment Course (Onomichi to Ikuchijima Round Trip approx. 40km)

This course is recommended for beginners or those with limited time. You’ll cross from Onomichi to Mukaishima, pass through Innoshima, and cycle to Ikuchijima and back. On Ikuchijima, you can visit Kosanji Temple, home to the “Hill of Eternal Hope,” a spectacular art space made of white Italian marble, and enjoy local gourmet dishes featuring lemons.

• Highlights: Kosanji Temple – Hill of Eternal Hope, Setoda Lemon Gourmet
• Duration: Approx. 4-6 hours (including sightseeing and breaks)

The Hill Of Hope(Miraishin No Oka), An Instagrammable Spot in HiroshimaThe white world reminiscent of Santorini Island in Greece is a popul...

1-Night, 2-Day Relaxed Traverse Course (Onomichi to Imabari approx. 70km)

For those who want to cycle the entire Shimanami Kaido route, a 1-night, 2-day course is recommended. On the first day, cycle to around Omishima and stay overnight. On the second day, head for Imabari. You can leisurely enjoy the unique culture and food of each island along the way.

• Day 1 Highlights: Tatara Bridge’s “singing dragon” experience, Oyamazumi Shrine, Hakata Island’s salt soft-serve ice cream
• Day 2 Highlights: Dynamic scenery of Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, Imabari Towel Museum

Shimanami Kaido’s Highlights & Scenic Spots

The Shimanami Kaido is not just about cycling; the unique spots dotted across each island are also a major attraction.

• Tatara Bridge: One of the world’s leading cable-stayed bridges. You can experience the “singing dragon” phenomenon by clapping your hands on the bridge.
• Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge: A triple suspension bridge spanning approximately 4km. It’s the world’s first triple suspension bridge, and its grandeur is breathtaking. The sunset view from the bridge is exceptional.
• Kosanji Temple – Hill of Eternal Hope: An Instagrammable art space made of white marble on Ikuchijima.
• Dolphin Farm Shimanami: A facility on Hakatajima where you can interact with dolphins.
• Oyamazumi Shrine: Located on Omishima, it is the head shrine of Oyamazumi and Mishima shrines nationwide. Numerous national treasure-class armor and swords donated by samurai warriors are displayed here.

Preparation and Precautions for Shimanami Kaido Cycling

Shimanami Kaido Rental Cycle Information

A Special Trip to Japan on the “Shimanami Kaido”

Cycling the Shimanami Kaido is not just a sports activity. It’s a journey that stimulates all five senses, allowing you to connect with the beautiful nature of the Seto Inland Sea, the history and culture of its islands, and the warmth of the people who live there. From beginners to advanced cyclists, everyone will find their own way to enjoy it.

Forget the daily hustle and bustle, cut through the wind on your bicycle, and ride through the spectacular scenery of the Seto Inland Sea. This unique experience is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan. We highly recommend trying Shimanami Kaido cycling on your next visit to Japan!

This white marble garden covers an area of 5,000 square meters.

Each of the marble towers and paths created by sculptor Ittou Kuetani are filled with thoughtfulness, and there is plenty to see!

In addition, you can spend an elegant time in the marble cafe “Cafe Cuore” on the premises.

The admission fee to Mirai Shin Oka also includes admission to the Kozanji Temple precincts and the Kongo Museum, where you can see the Kozanji family’s art collection, so be sure to allow plenty of time for your visit.

Overview of Mirai Shin no Oka

Mirai Shin no Oka is located on Ikuchijima Island in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture.

Ikuchijima is an important island on the Shimanami Sea Route, and in the old days it developed as a base for the navy, which grew in power in the Seto Inland Sea.

Today, the island is known for its fishing industry and cultivation of lemons and navel oranges.

The Setoda Biennale, an art project that started in the late 1980s, has transformed the island into an “art museum for the whole island,” with the Kosanji Museum, the Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art, which displays the works of Hirayama Ikuo, a painter from the island, and many other artworks scattered throughout the island.

The most famous of these is “The Hill Of Hope” (The Hill Of Hope).

The 5,000-square-meter garden is lined with marble sculptures created by the world-renowned sculptor, Ittou Kuetani.

At the age of just 20, Kazuto Kuetani was selected for the Nitten exhibition, and since then he has been selected eight times in a row.

He is currently active mainly in Italy, and is an international artist who once had an audience with the Pope at the Vatican Palace.

The Hill Of Hope is made of marble mined in Cuttura, Italy, where Kazuto Kaitani has his workshop, transported by container ship, and displayed as various monuments in the plaza.

At the “The Hill Of Hope” visitors can not only enjoy looking at the artworks, but can actually touch them with their hands and play with them in harmony with nature.

Of course, you can also enter the pure white sculptures and take photos of them.

History of “Hill of Future Hearts

Kozanji Temple is a temple of the Honganji sect of the Jodo Shinshu sect.

The founder of the temple is Kozo Kozanji, an engineer and businessman who used to run a large special steel pipe manufacturing company in Osaka.

Kozanji is also known as the “Nikko of the West,” a place where various arts, crafts, and cultural assets are gathered.

The temple’s precincts are lined with the Koyomon Gate, a replica of Nikko Toshogu’s Yomei-mon Gate, and the main hall, a replica of Byodoin’s Phoenix Hall.

15 buildings are registered as Tangible Cultural Properties, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Seto Inland Sea.

As part of its efforts to promote artistic activities on the island, the temple started construction of “Miraishin No Oka”, which is now a popular tourist spot visited by many people.

How to get to Miraishin no Oka

Car

To get to Kozanji Temple, where Miraishin No Oka is located, drive from Onomichi Interchange or Fukuyama Nishi Interchange via Nishi-Seto Onomichi Interchange and Ikuchijima Kita Interchange.

It takes about 13 minutes from the Ikuchijima Kita Interchange.

If you use the Shimanami Kaido Highway, it is about 13 minutes from the Imabari Interchange via the Ikuchijima Minami Interchange.

Taxi

It takes about 40 minutes from Onomichi Station, about 32 minutes from Shin-Onomichi Station, and about 50 minutes from Fukuyama Station.

Ferry/Boat

You can also take a boat, which takes about 40 minutes by regular boat from Onomichi Port, about 25 minutes by rapid train from Mihara Port, and about 10 minutes by foot from Setoda Port.

From Mihara Sunami Port, it is about 28 minutes by ferry, and a 13-minute walk via Sawa Port.

Others

Or, the island bus from Setoda BS is about 20 minutes away.

If you are coming from Imabari or Matsuyama, the bus is a convenient way to access the island.

“Miraishin no Oka” and Instagram

When you actually visit “Miraishin No Oka”, you will be amazed at the majestic white marble sculptures that cover the entire area.

It is sometimes compared to the Greek island of Santorini, which is also lined with white buildings, but while most of the buildings on Santorini are houses, the buildings on Miraishin no Oka are huge columns, stairs, and monuments.

It is rather majestic, reminiscent of the huge ruins of Greece.

In addition, the Seto Inland Sea where Miraishin No Oka is located has a blue sky, and the contrast between the white of the sculptures and the blue of the sky is so beautiful that it exploded in popularity on Instagram.

Even now, it is gaining popularity among many people in search of Instagrammable photos.

Photo spots at the Hill of Future Spirit

There are many monuments and objects with different themes in the Miraishin No Oka.

One of the most popular photo spots is the “Komei no Tou(Tower of Light),” which stands at the highest point of the hill.

The Tower of Light is a popular place for couples to stand under the tower and take pictures with the sky in the background.

The “Kaze no shiki(Four Seasons of Wind)” is also popular for those who want to take a different kind of photo.

These marble screens represent the winds of the four seasons, each with its own image to match the season.

This marble folding screen has a hole in it through which you can see the sea of the Seto Inland Sea.

This is a place where you can take a variety of Instagrammable photos depending on your ideas.

In addition to this, “Miraishin No Oka” is made of marble everywhere, so there is no shortage of photo spots to take pictures.

Popular cafes in Miraishin Hill

If you visit Miraishin No Oka, you should definitely go to the cafe, Cafe Cuore, which looks like a marble border.

Not only the exterior of the building, but also the inside of the cafe is made of pure white marble, and the view of the Seto Inland Sea from there is like the Mediterranean or Aegean Sea.

The furniture in the cafe is also an original design by Kazuto Kaitani.

The grapes carved into the marble and the figure of Venus, the goddess of beauty, make it look like a restaurant in a high-end European resort.

You can enjoy cappuccino, cafe au lait, and Italian beer, but what you must try is the menu using the island’s specialty citrus fruits.

In particular, the lemon squash here is a real treat with lemon pulp.

The lemon squash made with Setoda lemons, a specialty of the island, is a refreshing drink with a unique aroma and taste that you won’t find anywhere else.

The gelato here is also a popular menu item.

You can find the standard ones such as vanilla and green tea, but the citrus gelato and sorbet made from the famous summer tangerines are also exceptional.

When the weather is nice, the terrace is a great place to sit.

Spending time under a white parasol looking out at the marble garden is a great way to feel like you are at a resort.

10 Recommended Spots in Hiroshima, Avoid Population Density for COVIDWhat are the best places to avoid dense travel in Hiroshima? Whet...

Whether you want to enjoy activities in nature or take a stroll through the city, where you can travel without being dense.

Just make sure you follow your new travel style by wearing a mask, washing your hands, and staggering your visit if it’s crowded!

1. Shimanami Kaido / Onomichi City

The Shimanami Kaido, which is attracting attention from cyclists not only in Japan but also around the world, is perfect for a trip without the dense.

You can also rent bicycles that can be dropped off at various locations along the Shimanami Kaido, making cycling a more casual experience.

2. Itsukushima Shrine / Hatsukaichi City

Itsukushima Shrine, located on the World Heritage Site of Miyajima island, is a popular sightseeing spot that should not be missed during your visit to Hiroshima.

In addition to worshipping at Itsukushima Shrine, there are many other things to do, such as eating at the Omotesando shopping street and climbing the sacred mountain, Mt. Misen

The most common way to get to Miyajima is by ferry from Miyajima-guchi, but it is also recommended to consider a less crowded route such as a high-speed boat from Ujina Port in Hiroshima City or a pirate ship from the outlet mall Marina Hop.

For the time being, the Marina Hop Miyajima service only operates on weekends and holidays.

3. Peace Memorial Park / Hiroshima City

The Peace Memorial Park is a large park in the center of Hiroshima City, built in the hope of world peace.

The park is home to the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome, and is visited by tourists from all over the world.

If you stand in front of the Cenotaph for the Atomic Bomb Victims, you can see the “Peace Light” and the Atomic Bomb Dome lined up in a straight line across the roof of the Cenotaph.

4. Hiroshima Castle / Hiroshima City

Hiroshima Castle, built by the Mori clan, the hegemons of Sanin and Sanyo, is a very tall and powerful castle with a total height of about 39 meters.

The current building is a reconstruction of the exterior after it was destroyed by the atomic bomb.

The best time to enjoy Hiroshima Castle without the dense crowd is in the evening when there are fewer people.

If you stroll around the grounds after visiting the castle tower, you can see the beautiful reflection of the castle lit up in the moat.

5. Array Karasukojima / Kure City

Kure region, once called the best military port in the East, is still home to the Kure base of the Maritime Self-Defense Force, and the port of Kure is lined with a variety of ships, including submarines and destroyers.

Array Karasukojima Park, located south of Kure Port, is the only park in Japan where you can see an active submarine up close.

The bus stop named “Submarine Force Mae(sen-suitai-mae)” is also unique to Kure.

It is also a great place to relax in the park with Kure’s famous melon bread in hand.

6. Teishakukyo Gorge/ Shobara City

Teishakukyo Gorge, a national scenic beauty, is an 18-km-long canyon located in the center of the Chugoku Mountains.

The huge natural bridge “Onbashi”, which was formed by the erosion of limestone caves and mountain streams, is a representative scenic spot of Teishakukyo and is one of the “three major natural bridges in the world” along with Prebisch in Switzerland and Rock Bridge in the United States.

It is one of the three largest natural bridges in the world.

According to folklore, the bridge is said to have been built by an ogre, and when you look up at the bridge from the downstream side, you can see the unevenness of the bridge like the face of an ogre, which is very impressive.

7.Kosanji Temple / Onomichi City

Kosanji Temple, located on Ikuchijima Island along the Shimanami Sea Route, is a great place to see a replica of the five-story pagoda of Muroji Temple in Nara and a replica of Nikko Toshogu’s Yomei-mon Gate.

Fifteen of the halls and towers have been designated as “Tangible Cultural Properties of Japan.

At the top of the site, there is a marble garden called “Mirai Shin no Oka,” which is a popular photo spot.

The Hill Of Hope(Miraishin No Oka), An Instagrammable Spot in HiroshimaThe white world reminiscent of Santorini Island in Greece is a popul...

8. Sera Kogen Farm / Sera Town

Sera Kogen Farm is a vast farm facility where you can enjoy seasonal flowers such as tulips in spring, sunflowers in summer, dahlias in autumn, and candlelight nights in winter.

Each season’s elaborate decorations are rapidly becoming famous as an instagramable spot.

You can enter the park with your pet, making it a great spot to take cute pictures of your dog.

The opening period of the park changes each season, so please check the opening date before you go.

9. Takehara Townscape Preservation District / Takehara City

The Takehara Townscape Preservation District, which is full of atmosphere as if you were transported back to the Edo period (1603-1868), is a tourist spot where you can see the residences of wealthy merchants who flourished in the salt and sake industries, as well as historic temples.

It is often talked about as a filming location for many movies, such as the NHK TV series “Massan,” the movie “Rurou Kenshin,” commercials and anime.

It is also a popular course to visit together with Okunojima, a paradise for rabbits, located in Chukai station, about 10 minutes by car.

Going to "Rabbit Island"! How to enjoy on Okunoshima Island, Hiroshima-PrefectureA small "Rabbit Island", floating on the Seto Inland Sea, where it i...

10. Tomonoura / Fukuyama City

Tomonoura, which flourished in the Edo period as a port for waiting for the tide, is often used as a location for movies and TV dramas due to its retro landscape.

In addition to the filming locations, there are many other interesting places to visit, such as Japan’s largest standing night light that has remained since the Edo period, temples and shrines, and Sensuijima, a power spot where you can see Japan’s only five-colored rocks.

The area is large and not too crowded, making it a good spot for a relaxing stroll.

These are the best sightseeing spots to avoid dense on your trip to Hiroshima!

The recommended sightseeing spots in Hiroshima introduced here are all places where you can avoid the densities because they are mostly outdoors.

You can also make your sightseeing in Hiroshima even more comfortable by finding the best means of transportation and time of day to get there.

Please enjoy your trip to Hiroshima by paying attention to infection control measures, such as checking the website in advance for precautions and business hours.

This information is current as of June 2021.

Please check the official website for the latest information.

With the Kanmon Straits in front of you and the Karato Market for fresh fish, it’s a great location for sightseeing in Shimonoseki.

However, as of April 2020, the hotel is not accepting overnight stays, and many events that were scheduled to take place at the event space have been cancelled.

I hope you will come to Shimonoseki when the situation is under control and we can go sightseeing.

So, in this article, we will tell you all about the charm that uzuhouse.

As soon As You Cross Kanmon Straits, You’ll Arrive uzuhouse

Get off the highway at the Shimonoseki IC near the Kanmon Straits and drive for 6 minutes. The guesthouse “uzuhouse” is located 5 minutes on foot from Karato Market and is marked by a cute blowfish symbol.

The “uzuhouse” is a guest house born in August 2016.

It was reborn after a total renovation of a 43 year old Japanese restaurant inn by the first class architect, Mr. Mitsuwa Okino, the representative of uzuhouse.

Let’s take a look at the inside of uzuhouse.

Spectacular View From the Rooftop

When I walked out onto the roof of the uzuhouse, I saw the ocean in front of me.

It’s like being on a boat.

The Kanmon Bridge across the Kanmon Straits.

On the other side of the sea is Mojiko Port.

Spend Best Night in Mojiko Retro with Nightscape, Kitakyushu CityMojiko Retro, Kitakyushu City, a popular sightseeing place is a dati...

And the sound of ships and whistles coming and going.

The Kanmon Strait is a navigable waterway, so you can enjoy the dynamic scene of large ships passing by at a great speed at close range.

Where did this ship come from?
What’s this ship carrying?

I could spend hours gazing out at the ocean with that in mind.

The view is delightful with such movement.

By the rooftop terrace, there is a kitchen and dining area for guests.

Guests can cook and eat here.

The rooftop was originally a space for guests only.

But now (April 2020), due to the spread of the new coronavirus, guests can take their purchases from the cafe to the roof to enjoy.

Deluxe Rooms Are Like a Resort!

Uzuhouse is the best place to stay in Shimonoseki if you want to stay as cheaply as possible.

Here is an introduction to the accommodations.

A Deluxe Room Like a Resort Hotel Suite

I was surprised when Okino-san showed me to the deluxe room.

It was so far from what I had imagined a guest house to be.

The spacious living and dining room.

A bedroom with bedding made by Kyoto-based company Iwata.

A luxurious bathroom.

iconHow much does it cost to stay here?

iconMs. Okino: For 1 to 4 people, it starts at 25,000 yen.

iconEhh! Does that mean 4 people start at $6,000 per person? That’s bad …….

Who would have thought a guesthouse would have such a luxurious room? Of course, you can see the sea outside the window.

If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see such a big ship.

It would be great to spend some time here, watching the ships go by the sea. ……

Superior Room, Which Can Accommodate up to 4 People

The Superior Room has two bunk beds side by side and can accommodate up to four people.

It’s nice to have a sofa and a small table as well as a bed.

It’s also good for a group of women traveling together.

You can’t see the ocean from the windows, but you can see the Akama Shrine. At night, you can see it beautifully lit up.

Spacious 14 Tatami-mat Room “Japanese Style”

The Japanese-style room is spacious with 14 tatami mats.

It can accommodate from 2 to 5 people and you can enjoy the view of the Akama Shrine from the window.

Private Bunk Bed “Western-style” Room

The Western-style room is a small private room with bunk beds that can accommodate one to two people.

It’s nice to have a small sofa and table.

Since it’s a private room, I think it’s easy for those who have never been to a guest house before to come and go.

You can see the Kanmon Straits from the window here.

Convenient “Dormitories” for Traveling Alone

This is the kind of dormitory you’d expect to find in a guesthouse.

The beds are separated from each other by curtains, and once inside the room is surprisingly spacious and comfortable.

In addition to the men’s and women’s rooms, there are women-only rooms for your peace of mind.

Reading lights, personal power outlets, and lockers for valuables are available from 2,250 yen per person.

Uzuhouse’s Cafe and Bar

The first floor of “uzuhouse” is also open for business as a cafe.

Not only tourists, but also locals seem to use it.

The restaurant has been remodeled into a modern and stylish atmosphere, so much so that you can’t feel that it used to be a traditional Japanese restaurant.

There is a beautiful wall art inside the restaurant. It is the work of Saori Kanda (@SAORI_An), an artist who works as a “dancer”.

In addition to drinks, the café prepares snacks such as cheesecakes, terrine chocolates and salsa and chips.

Cheesecake 420 yen

There is also a cafe space on the second floor, and the atmosphere is completely different between the Kanmon Straits side where you can see the ocean and the Akama Jingu Shrine side along the road.

Akama Jingu side

The Akama Jingu side is based on white and has a bright atmosphere.

You can sit on the sofa and relax while enjoying cafe time.

The bookshelves are lined with a variety of novels, comics, and practical books for you to read at your leisure.

Kanmon Straits side

This is a chic space, which is the complete opposite of the Akama Shrine side.

There are more seats than the Akama Jingu side and the tables are spacious.

If you are in a group of several people, I recommend this side of the Kanmon Straits side.

It’s this spectacular view from the window.

There’s another big boat going by.

Let’s go out to the balcony.

The breeze feels great!

This is already a resort.

This is a cafe space, so you can drink anything here, no matter what you like.

Even if it’s cold, it’s exceptionally good.

You can buy alcohol at the cafe on the first floor, so you can drink beer here.

It’s great!

Uzuhouse is a cafe that many customers use just for its café.

Be sure to stop by this café during your visit to Shimonoseki.

Uzuhouse’s Shared Office and Event Space

The uzuhouse also has a shared office and event space.

Shared Office with Ocean View

The uzuhouse also has a shared office space where you can work while taking in the spectacular view.

There are 12 fixed desks and 8 free desks.

There’s also a multifunctional printer and meeting space, making this the perfect place to work.

The free desk plan is available for a whopping 800 yen per day.

It’s a great place to work when you’re in Shimonoseki.

For more information, please visit the official “uzehouse” website.

Open-plan Event Space

The event space is large enough to accommodate about 40 people.

Of course, out the window, as we’ve shown you so far, is the Kanmon Straits!

A wide range of events have been held here so far, including yoga classes, overnight seminars, and JAZZ concerts.

How will Corona Affect? The Future of “Sharing” that Uzuhouse Consider

After touring the guest house, I asked the head of uzuhouse, Mr. Okino, for a few words.

iconIt’s a very nice place, isn’t it!　Did you originally want to open a guesthouse in Shimonoseki?

iconMs. Okino: I’ve worked on share houses and guesthouses before. It was a coincidence that I wanted to do something local.

iconDid you always have the idea to do something local?

iconMs. Okino: I am a university graduate from Tokyo. Every year when I return to Shimonoseki during the New Year’s holidays, I feel that there are fewer and fewer people in the city. I began to wonder if there was anything I could do to revitalize the city.

iconI see. So that thought led to the birth of uzuhouse. What was the deciding factor for you to choose this house?

iconMs. Okino: It’s near the ocean, and you can see the ocean from every floor. That’s the deciding factor.

iconYou’re right. It’s just that the ocean is really beautiful, and it’s great!

iconMs. Okino: The other deciding factor is that the view of the ocean is not just an ocean view, but a typical Shimonoseki view.

iconThat’s true. The Kanmon Straits, Moji Port, and Karato Market and a big ship. There are so many hints of Shimonoseki, aren’t there? Tourists are surprised.

iconMs. Okino: But we don’t have many tourists anymore.

iconI guess the spread of the new coronavirus has had a big impact.

iconMs. Okino: That’s true. We’re looking for things to do every day. It’s a waste of space, so we’re thinking about how we can use the space. We’re also proposing to rent out the private rooms to the café space.

iconI see. ……. This is a place where the space is meant to be shared, so it’s not so easy.

iconMs. Okino: Yes, ……. Even if the spread of the disease has been contained, I think we need to change our mindset before and after the corona.

iconEven after the spread of the disease is over, I have a feeling that there will still be some lingering fears about infectious diseases. Values will change a lot, won’t they?

iconMs. Okino: I think people’s perceptions are changing. The idea of sharing is changing. I’m thinking that even if we do exactly the same thing as before, it may not work.

iconI’m thinking that it might not apply in exactly the same way as before. Do we still do it with the idea that sharing is a good thing? …….

iconMs. Okino: I still think it’s fun for people to come together and talk. I don’t think that’s going to change.

iconYes. And I think it’s unavoidable that “people don’t get involved with other people” as long as they’re alive. I don’t think a virus can take away the fun of interacting with people.

iconMs. Okino: Yes. That’s why I think “uzuhouse” should not be a place where people gather as it has been. In order to do that, it can’t continue as it is now, so I’ll continue to think about what to do from now on.

iconI see. When the spread of the new coronavirus is under control and I am able to travel again, I will definitely visit the “Deluxe Room”. Thank you!

Must-see Spots in Shimonoseki Around Uzuhouse

Let’s take a look at some of the spots in Shimonoseki near “uzuhouse”.

Karato Market, Enjoy Fresh Seafood

Karato Market is a large market where you can find a variety of fish caught in the seas around the city, including the famous puffer fish.

Just looking around the market is a lot of fun with fresh fish sold at market prices.

In addition to seafood, the market also has a direct sales area for agricultural products, and you’ll find a variety of delicious foods.

Incidentally, the best place to eat fresh fish from the market is at the restaurant in Karato Market.

Yoshi set meal 1,600 yen

“Ichiba Shokudo Yoshi” is a very popular place to eat with the market workers.

You can enjoy excellent meals with fresh fish at local prices.

Yoshi set meal is a value-priced set meal that includes deep fried pufferfish and fried shrimp, as well as sashimi.

The fried pufferfish is made with fresh pufferfish and is very tender and delicious!

The sashimi was also very fresh and delicious.

There are other menu items that you can only find at the market, such as raw sea urchin set menus and seafood rice bowls, so if you’re ever in Karato Market, be sure to stop by.

Akama Shrine in front of Uzuhouse

The Akama Shrine is a shrine that can be seen from the window of “uzuhouse”.

It enshrines Emperor Antoku, who entered the water at the Battle of Dannoura.

In the precincts of the shrine, there is the Emperor Antoku’s Amidaji Mausoleum, the grave of the Heike Clan, Hoichido Hall where a wooden statue of “Hoichi the Earless” is enshrined, and the Treasure Hall with valuable documents such as “Genpei Battle Picture”.

When the weather is nice, you can see the sea from the temple grounds and it is a good spot for a walk from uzuhouse.

Please visit the shrine.

“Kaikyokan” , an Aquarium

Kaikyokan is an aquarium located about a 10-minute walk from “uzuhouse”.

The aquarium has a large, powerful tank and the world’s largest display of pufferfish species on display is a sight to behold.

A variety of puffer fish, including the tiger puffer, Harisenbon, and the headfish (the headfish is also in the pufferfish family), are on display, and you’ll feel Shimonoseki’s commitment to them.

The penguin exhibit is one of the largest in Japan and is a must-see.

The dolphin and sea lion show, which is rare in Japan, is also very popular.

What makes Yuda Onsen even more appealing are the inns(ryokan).

There are many unique and wonderful inns in Yuda Onsen, including interesting inns with a famous landlady and inns associated with patriots of the Meiji Restoration.

In this article, I will introduce three inns in Yuda-Onsen that I especially recommend, as well as sightseeing spots in the area!

What kind of hot spring is Yuda Onsen?

Yuda Onsen Station is located 15 minutes by train from Shin-Yamaguchi Station.

It is close to the center of Yamaguchi, so it is an easy place to stay when visiting Yamaguchi.

This hot spring area has a history of about 800 years, and is known as a “hot water for beautiful skin” because of its clear, colorless, alkaline simple spring water.

The symbol of Yuda Onsen is the white fox

There is a legend that the white fox used to come to Yuda Onsen to heal wounds, and you can see statues and illustrations of the white fox in various places.

The “white fox” is a symbol of Yuda Onsen.

Access to Yuda Onsen

You can get Yuda Onsen Station in 15 minutes by train from Shin-Yamaguchi Station on the Shinkansen.

Or in 10 minutes by car from the Ogori Interchange on the Chugoku Expressway or the Yamaguchi Interchange on the Sanyo Expressway.

It is a hot spring resort with easy access.

“Nishi no Miyabi Tokiwa”, Unique inn in Yuda Onsen

The first inn in Yuda Onsen that you must visit is Nishino miyabi Tokiwa.

This inn is famous for the landlady’s “landlady theater” where the landlady herself stands on the stage, and it is so popular that it is taken up on TV.

Check in and Meet the Famous Landlady

When I arrived at the Nishino miyabi Tokiwa, I found a sign for the old and tasty landlady theater.

This alone is enough to make its presence felt.

What kind of landlady will I be able to meet?

I’m looking forward to meeting the landlady.

While I was waiting in the lobby, the landlady, Takami Miyagawa, appeared and I had a quick chat with her.

I had a vague image of a good-natured, jocular person, but it’s not like that at all.

I felt the power of his extraordinary determination to perform on stage.

I would like to see the way of life of the landlady at the “Landlady Theater”.

Go to Guest Room

The attraction of Tokiwa is not only the landlady theater.

They showed me the room.

Spacious Japanese style room.

The scent of tatami mats makes you feel at home.

If you open the shoji, you can see the whole view of Yuda Onsen from the window.

An illustration of the landlady of the tea confectionery.

It is indeed a famous landlady.

6 Different Baths at Nishino Miyabi

At Tokiwa, there are six different types of baths, each with a name associated with Yuda Onsen or Yamaguchi.

The men’s and women’s baths change between evening and morning, so guests can enjoy all the baths in one night.

This is the Ishin Remei no Yu.

The Ishin Remei no Yu was originally an open-air bath that was built by renovating the garden of Shinagawa Shrine, which is dedicated to the deity of Yajiro Shinagawa.

Visitors can enjoy a bath while gazing at the beautiful garden.

The dressing room still retains the atmosphere of the building from that time.

It is said that in the period just before the Meiji Restoration, many samurai, who were considered to be emperors, gathered in Yuda Onsen to devise a secret plan to defeat the Tokugawa shogunate.

This is the most elegant bath among the many baths in Nishino Miyabi.

“Yamaguchi Nontanoyu” is an indoor bath with a unique gourd-shaped bathtub.

The bath is a mixture of Western and Japanese styles, and you can see stained glass windows in the bathtub.

There are six other baths to choose from in total, including the half open-air bath “Sanzoukino-yu,” the “Yang Kiki-Bath,” and the “Bamboo Forest Open-air Bath Wakatake”.

The landlady says, “I think it is more fun to have many baths.”

As she says, it’s fun to have many baths, and you’ll feel as if you’ve been to many inns.

This is an interesting feature of Nishi no Miyabi Tokiwa that is not found in other inns.

Meals are Excellent Kaiseki Cuisine

I went to the dining room at the designated time and found the meal ready to be served. (*This is usually a restaurant-style dining hall.)

Excellent sashimi.

It would be great to have it with a beer.

Here’s a colorful, Yamaguchi specialty: kawara-soba.

The tea-soba is grilled with tiles and then dipped in a dipping sauce with grated radish.

Delicious!

The hamo nabe finishes up nicely as I taste the tile soba.

I was happy and busy.

The hamo were fluffy and soft.

The hamo had a strong flavor, but it didn’t have a bad smell at all.

The hamo dashi was so good in the soup that I drank it all at once.

To finish the dish, let’s have some takikomi gohan (rice cooked with vegetables).

There were clams in the takikomi rice.

There was also some burnt rice in some places, and it was very tasty.

I was very happy to be able to eat so much delicious food from Yamaguchi.

Good rooms, plenty of baths, good and hearty meals.

I’m completely satisfied, but the night in Tokiwa has a long way to go.

Specialty of Yuda Onsen!”Landlady’s Theatre” Begins

The performance at the Landlady Theater starts at 8:45 p.m.

Oh, they’ve already taken the front seat.

I knew I should have come sooner.

I could tell how popular it was by the conversations of the customers.

As soon as the show started, the landlady appeared on stage with a big smile on her face.

She brings the audience up to the stage one after another, communicates with them actively, and dances with them to the music.

She also does some illusionary magic tricks…….

There was also a “water trick” in which the performers skillfully manipulated water with music.

I was completely overwhelmed by the many entertaining performances that included not only amazing tricks, but also de-stressing tricks that left me breathless.

The landlady’s drumming skills were also excellent.

For the last trick, she dipped ink in her hair and drew a calligraphy with a hair brush.

The landlady was very popular afterwards, surrounded by customers.

The year was 1964.

The landlady theater has been held every night since the year the last Olympics were held in Tokyo.

The landlady’s theater is also her “theater of life”.

In the shop, you’ll find outstanding items for the landlady.

You can enjoy talking about the landlady while eating her sweets.

It’s wonderful???!!!

When you visit Yuda Onsen, I hope you will have a hot and elegant time at Tokiwa, Nishinoga.

“Ume-no-ya” Homemade Food and Onsen

There are still many good inns in Yuda Onsen.

Ume-no-ya is an inn with a 100% flowing hot spring and home-made dishes that emphasize the importance of ingredients carefully selected by the landlady and head chef, who is a vegetable sommelier.

The hot spring is a mix of their own good quality hot spring containing sulfur, which is good for the skin, and the Yuda hot spring.

They are proud of the hot spring which is not heated by water addition or heating at all.

The open-air baths are tasteful and you will be healed by the hot water from the hotel’s own source.

You can enjoy a variety of dishes such as hamo and fugu.

I recommend this inn for those who want to enjoy the hot water and cuisine of Yuda Onsen to your heart’s content.

Matsudaya Hotel with Charming Garden

Matsudaya Hotel has a rich history, and many of the leading figures in the Meiji Restoration gathered here.

The bath tub in the “Restoration Bath” was built in 1860.

It is said that patriots of the Choshu, Satsuma and Tosa emperors are said to have bathed in the bathtub.

Historically Great men may have bathed in the bathtub.

Many history fans visit the Matsudaya Hotel to see this bathtub.

The hotel has many materials related to the patriots of the Meiji Restoration.

The hotel also has a room called the “Restoration Materials Room” where visitors can see a variety of interesting documents.

It’s a great space for history funs.

The Japanese garden at the hotel was also very impressive.

This garden is registered as a national monument (a cultural asset).

In the garden, there are historically valuable cultural assets such as the red pine tree, which appears in Ryotaro Shiba’s book, and the meeting place for Saigo, Kido, and Okubo, so I recommend checking in early and taking a walk in the garden before the sunset.

Sightseeing spots to Around Yuda Onsen

Yunoya, Experience Yuda’s Hot Springs

Yunoya is located almost opposite Ume-no-ya.

It is one of the seven onsen sources managed by the Yuda Hot Springs Association, and was renovated from a dilapidated facility for tourism purposes.

Through a viewing window in the onsen building, you can see how the source of the hot water is pumping 125 liters per minute.

Experience the energy of Yuda Onsen!

In the onsen building, there is a drinking fountain, where you can drink the source of the Yuda Onsen.

The water here is very hot, so be careful not to touch it.

There is also a “hot water river” where you can feel the steam and aroma of the hot spring, but be careful, it is not a footbath.

This is a free spot that doesn’t take a long time to visit and you can easily stop by.

The 7.8-meter high tower is lit up at night, making it a great place for a nighttime stroll.

“Kitsune no Ashiato(Fox Footprints)” Footbath Cafe

Kitsune no Ashiato(means Fox Footprints) is a spot that has been designated as a Yuda-Onsen Tourist Information Center.

It provides information on how to enjoy Yuda Onsen, such as seeing, eating, and shopping.

Inside the facility is a cafe where you can enjoy drinks and desserts.

But the highlight of the cafe is here, footbath.

At Kitsune no Ashiato, you can enjoy a footbath while enjoying the cafe’s menu.

If you wish to use the footbath, please pay 200 yen for adults and 100 yen for elementary and junior high school students at the reception desk.

You can use a coin-operated locker key and an oshibori (hand towel) to wipe your feet.

Change into a pair of lending clogs and enjoy the various types of footbaths.

At the outdoor Shiki no yu(Four Seasons Bath), you can enjoy the feeling of an open-air bath.

You can enjoy the seasonal attractions such as cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, and at night it is lit up.

At “Kotone no Yu”, located in a different building from the main building, you can enjoy a footbath and a cafe menu while listening to soothing music.

These are Nakaya’s Cafe Latte (420 yen) and Gogitsune Baum (600 yen).

“Chuya Latte” is a unique latte with a portrait of Chuya Nakahara, a poet born in Yuda Onsen, Yamaguchi City.

The Kogitsune Baum is a moist baumkuchen with ice cream in the shape of a cute fox on top, which is so cute!

When you eat something cold when you’re feeling warm and fuzzy, the ice cream tastes even better than usual because it’s cooler than usual.

I think it’s the “finest” of “ice cream in a kotatsu” for Japanese.

It was perfect.

I highly recommend you get in the footbath and eat it while it’s still warm and crispy!

You can also enjoy local Yamaguchi sake while soaking in a footbath with the “Tasting Set” (500 yen).

It was great too!

You can rent a free “footbath Yukata” for the footbath.

This is recommended for those who find it difficult to enjoy the footbath in skirts.

Inoue Park, Hot spring Resort Area with Sense of History

Inoue Park was built on the birthplace of INOUE Kaoru, one of the former orders of the Meiji Restoration, and is home to a statue of INOUE Kaoru.

A bronze statue of INOUE Kaoru stands in the park to commemorate his achievements.

He looks stylish holding a walking stick in his hand.

There are various stone monuments in the park, including a poetry monument by Nakahara Chuya and a monument to Taneda Santoka, which reminds us of the history of the park.

There is a footbath in Inoue Park with a hot spring water source.

It is open from 10:00-22:00.

Children can play to their heart’s content on the playground equipment, so parents can take a break and let their children play.

The white fox, the symbol of Yuda Onsen, can be seen on the playground equipment.

There is also a resting place called “Kaen-tei” in the park, which is available for free.

It was built at the end of the Edo period for Sanjo Sanetomi to stay at the residence of Inoue Kaoru’s brother, Inoue Gorosaburo, who was the brother of Kaoru Inoue.

Visitors can rest on tatami mats and enter free of charge.

The current building was newly built in 2015 based on the original layout of the house.

Yuda Onsen is a pleasant hot spring town with a historical flavor

Yuda Onsen is a fun hot spring town with historical romance and a series of unique inns.

It’s close to the center of Yamaguchi, so stop by Yuda Onsen on your trip.

Today, the curtain will rise again at 8:45 p.m. at Nishino Miyabi Tokiwa, with the “Landlady Theater”.

Legendary landlady will continue performing.

16 travel spots for Yamaguchi TourismIn 2015, Yamaguchi Prefecture, the westernmost part of Honshu,  the ...

MAP of Yuda Onsen

It is the cat island that I’d been wanting to visit.

I found out that there were guest houses on the island, and it was possible to make a reservation, so I decided to go for two days and one night.

How to get to Iwaishima Island

You can cross to Iwaishima Island by boat from Yanai Port in Yamaguchi Prefecture.

If you’re going by car, you can also drive to Murotsu, the station on the way to the boat, and get on the boat from Murotsu.

There are two benefits: you can enjoy the scenery of the peninsula while driving around, and the boat fare is cheaper.

I boarded the boat from Murotsu this time.

It was allowed to park cars in the parking lot near the roadside station.

It seems that there are also places to park near Yanai Port.

The ship is a route of Yanai Port -> Murotsu -> three other ports of call to Iukaishima, and the time of travel from Yanai Port to Iukaishima. is about 1 hour and 10 minutes away. It is about 45 minutes from Murozu.
The ship’s timetable was below as of May 2018. Please check the website for details.

Timetable (Going To Iwaishima)

■Morning Sea freight

9:30 departure from Yanai Port→10:00 Murozu→10:40 arrival at Iukaishima

Fare: 1,580 yen(The fare from Murotsu is 920 yen)

■Afternoon Sea freight

15:45 departure from Yanai Port→16:15 Murozu→16:55 arrival at Iukaishima

There is an early morning Sea freight from Murotsu directly to Iwaijima, leaving at 6:10 a.m. (Iwaijima 6:38 a.m.)

Timetable (Returning To Yanai port)

■Morning service

6:45 departure from Iwaijima→7:25 Murozu→7:55 Yanai Port

Fare is the same as above

■Afternoon Sea freight

12:30 departure from Iwaijima→13:10 Murozu→13:40 arrival at Yanai Port

■Evening Sea freight

17:05 Iwaishima→17:45 Murotsu
(The evening freight stops at Murotsu.)

You can go on a morning sea freight and come back on an evening sea freight for a day trip.

At Murotsu Port

It’s Golden Week, but I arrived at Murotsu Port earlier than planned because the highway was free.

Old houses are lined up in the narrow alleys unique to the port town.

As expected, there is a cat.
A very friendly cat.

She is a little shy brownish white.

A brown tiger is sleeping all the time.

A cat-covered state as if I’m on the cat island.

Time passed in the blink of an eye, so it was time to get on the boat.

There is a ticket office like a shed, so you may not recognize it unless people are in line.

The picture below shows the boarding area of the Murotsu boat.

The boat is quite big, so I was a little relieved to see it.

Arrived Iwaishima and Stayed Kunihiro Guest House

I boarded the packed boat and arrived at Iwaishima within 30 minutes.

I was expecting to see a cat waiting for passengers near the harbor like other cat islands, but there was no sign of it.

On the way to the guest house, I met a cat.

This is my first cat on Iwaishima.

After that, I met some cats, but they were all cautious.

When I arrived at the guest house, I had a very nice encounter.

A cat pictured below, was in front of the guest house.

And he was very friendly! (The picture is a yawn, not angry.)

This time I was stayed “Minshuku Kunihiro“.

It was run by a nice couple and I felt very happy.

The meals were full of fish.

It was 7,000 yen for one night with two meals.

I walked around the island a lot, but it wasn’t like full of cats.

So I’d like to introduce some pictures of cats and kittens near the breakwater of Iwaishima Island

Cats on the Beach

A three minute walk from the harbor where the liner arrives is the cat density area of east Iwaishima.

The photo is in the evening.

Cats gathered at the breakwater.

The cats in this area are accustomed to people, and they din’t run away even if you point a camera at them.

Cats on the back of the breakwater.

I saw between the tetrapods.

They look nice in the sea breeze.

Time to Leave Iwaishima Island

I got on the boat at 12:30 for the return trip, so this trip will be over after the morning walk.

I couldn’t take any pictures of the scene I had in mind, but I could meet some friendly cats.

Compared to Sanagijima Island and Manabeshima, where I’ve been, the cat density on Iwaishima Island was a little lower…

Also, with the exception of certain areas, there were many wary cats, which left me with the impression that it was somewhat difficult to photograph them.

For the last part of the trip, I went to the friendly cats!

This is a cat I met on the first day at the guest house.

He came to meet me while I was taking my morning walk.

He’s rolling around and is happy to see me again?

The cats on the beach in the morning are like this in the daytime.

They don’t seem to be alert.

They were sleeping.

I left the island, feeling the cats’ eyes on me, just as I did when I arrived.

That’s the story of my cat trip to Iwaishima Island.

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This island is also known for its many cats.

It is also famous for being used as a filming location for movies.

I introduced the access to Sanagijima Island from Tadotsu Port on Shikoku, but to get to Manabeshima Island, it’s convenient to take a boat from Kasaoka Port in Okayama Prefecture.

The island is here.

There is also a parking lot at the Port of Kasaoka in Okayama Prefecture.

I don’t remember how much it costs.

It’s either free or 1000 yen per day.

Check the boat schedule and fare here.

Access and Time Table of Boat

Here is time tables of Manabeshima Island

Kasaoka port ⇒ Manabeshima Island

Manabeshima Island ⇒ Kasaoka port 

You can visit Sanagijima Island too.

Check here for more information.

Good Cat Density

Manabeshima Island has quite a high cat density.

There are cats all over the town, the harbor, the seashore, and everywhere, so you can take pictures of them in various scenes.

I found a cat on the roof.

I could feel the presence of the cats.

Parent and a child sleeping proudly on the side of the road too.

It’s a unique scene on Cat Island.

I went to the peak of the birth in June, so there was also scene like this.

Welcomed by Many of Cats at Motoura

There are two villages in Manabeshima Island.

The one with the highest population and cat density is Motoura, and the slightly smaller one is Iwatsubo.

As I introduced above, there are two types of boats from Kasaoka to Manabe: high speed boats and ordinary boats, and ordinary boats offer direct access to Iwatsubo.

It takes about 20 minutes to get to Iwatsubo on foot from Motoura.

This time I decided to go around the two villages because I had time to spare.

From Motoura first.

When I got off the fast boat, I saw cats…

Further across the pier, cats everywhere!

A woman with a convenience store bag was surrounded by cats, apparently thinking that tourists with bags will feed them.

According to the islanders.

Cats don’t come to us islanders. They only come to those who feed.

Amazing Sashimi Set Meal

It was close to noon I entered the restaurant “Funade“, which was the only one? on the island.

There are normal menu such as curry udon noodles for a few hundred yen, but since I was here, I had a sashimi set meal!

I heard a rumor that the food was fresh and delicious, so I had high expectations.

Okoze, octopus and abalone.

The okoze and the octopus are still moving!

In addition to this sashimi, rice, salad, mini-o-den, tempura and fish soup is included in the price of 2,000 yen.

There are two to three servings of sashimi.

Cheap and delicious, it’s a maximum charge for both mind and body.

Cats near Motoura Port

After I had a full stomach, I took pictures of the cats around the Motoura area.

There is another shop near the restaurant “Funade”.

Cats looking into the fish tank there.

Fish are swimming in the net, but they can’t seem to catch them.

A cat on the bench in front of the store.

They look like cats with hay fever.

There are many benches on Manabe Island, but I got the impression that more cats are using them than people.

Eventually the cats will take over the benches.

Lots of cats near the harbor, too.

A good friend of the cat is taking a walk.

They move together, sometimes expressing affection.

In the morning, I could interact with many cats in the mild spring weather at Motoura.

Cats on the Beach

Well, speaking of Cat Island, the sea and cats.

I’ve taken some of those scenes again.

The area under the boat by the sea is a summer resort for cats.

It’s a summer resort for cats, and it’s one of the places where many cats gather.

Speaking of summer resort, here’s a group of cats under a table on the beach…

Manabeshima’s scenery and An Impression of Cats

I introduced cat island, Manabeshima this time, but when I was sorting through the photos, I thought, “there were more towns than the ocean“.

If you want to take a picture with a cat in the town’s landscape, I can highly recommend.

By the way, I also stopped in Onomichi, Hiroshima on my way back from Manabeshima to look for cats, but there were quite a few fewer cats!

Onomichi was also introduced as a place where you can often see cats, so please refer to it.

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In this article, I’ll introduce you 15 spots that I recommend to photographers such as Sho Takano, who has a great view of the sunset and is a popular spot for young couples.

And, Yamaguchi is close to Fukuoka so it’s also good to visit from Fukuoka for one day trip.

Let’s take a look at some of the best spots in Yamaguchi Prefecture!

The journey begins as soon as you arrive at Yamaguchi Ube Airport!

I recommend you to rent a car or take taxi in Yamaguchi Prefecture because there is a lot to see and do in the area.

Still, There many places where you can visit via public transportation.

From Yamaguchi-Ube Airport, you can take public transportation to Kusae Station on the JR Ube Line, which is about a 7-minute walk.

If you take a few trains, you can access Hagi, Iwakuni, Shimonoseki and Tsunoshima area.

The flight between Haneda and Yamaguchi-Ube Airport takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

It is served by two major domestic airlines and Star Flyer.

Star Flyer, based in Kitakyushu, is an airline with cool interiors and exteriors and a premium atmosphere.

There are plenty of comfortable facilities that you wouldn’t expect from a domestic flight, such as ample seating space.

And yet, the price is sometimes cheaper than other companies, which is surprising.

With Star Flyer, there are no classifications and you will receive high quality hospitality in every seat.

The leather upholstered seat pitch is one of the largest in the economy class.

Touch monitor, AC power supply, USB socket, footrest, etc.

The emergency exit seat has a recliner and headrest that can’t be moved, but a lumbar cushion is provided.

Once you get on board, you will be addicted to it.

“Kiwa La Beach” Recommended to go at low tide

Yamaguchi Prefecture is dotted with many stunning spots, but first I’ll introduce you a beach not far from the airport.

Kiwa la Beach is a shallow beach to visit at low tide.

The wave-shaped sandy beach that naturally forms when the tide goes down and the reflection of the setting sun are photogenic.

It takes about 20 minutes by car from Yamaguchi Ube Airport and Shin-Yamaguchi Station on the Shinkansen.

At low tide, one of the largest sandbars in Japan appears, about 2km wide and 700m deep.

The east area of the beach has a collection of large rumbling rocks, which can be used effectively to take interesting pictures.

You can easily take instagrammable photos if you take them when it’s windless.

On a windy day, enjoy the wave patterns.

I also recommend visiting before sunrise or during magic hour after sunset!

Kirara Beach Yakeno, one of the top 100 sunsets in Japan

Kirara Beach Yakeno is located about a 20-minute drive west of Yamaguchi-Ube Airport.

Kiwa La Beach is facing east, so you can enjoy the west side of the beach in the opposite direction.

The setting sun over Kyushu on the opposite shore is so beautiful that it has been selected as one of the “100 best sunsets in Japan”.

The photo was taken from the walkway in front of the Kirara Exchange Center toward the monument on the central jetty.

The silhouette over the setting sun looks like a scene from a drama.

Of course the setting sun is beautiful, but please enjoy the view after the sun goes down.

The ever-changing color of the sky is a must-see.

At the Spanish restaurant “Sol Poniente“, you can enjoy a romantic dinner while watching the sun set over Kirara Beach Yaeno.

Lots of sunflowers! A sea of flowers(Hana no umi)

San-yo Onoda City in Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Hana no Umi, one of the largest system farms in western Japan, is located near Hanyu fishing port overlooking the Kanmon Strait.

As the name implies, the sight of a vast field covered with flowers in full bloom every season is truly a sea of flowers.

The summer sunflower fields are planted at different times of the year, so you can enjoy them from the end of July to the end of August.

The “Sea of Flowers” can be enjoyed throughout the year, and in autumn, you can enjoy the sight of cosmos all over the place.

After enjoying the flower garden, be sure to stop by the management facility.

You can also enjoy sweets made with fruits from the “Sea of Flowers”.

Local farmers and seasonal vegetables harvested from the farm are sold at reasonable prices in the direct sales section.

UBE Biennale, where you can enjoy art and forest bathing

The UBE Biennial, a biennial open-air sculpture public exhibition held in front of the Tokiwa Museum of Greenery, Flowers and Sculpture in Tokiwa Park, is an art event with a history that began in 1961.

It’s held every two years.

After the exhibition, the top winning works will be moved to the city, parks and schools, and the city will always have a chance to view 200 arts from the past years.

The “Ant Castle”(Arino shiro) in the photo was created in 1962 and is a memorable object that all Ube residents have known for a long time.

The exhibition space on the lawn hill changes every year, but this work has been on display for nearly 60 years.

Stylish art that makes you want to take a picture!

In Tokiwa Park, there is a tropical botanical garden, a zoo and an amusement park, which are popular among families.

I recommend lounging on the lawn or taking a walk.

In the spring, it also becomes a cherry blossom viewing spot.

Crispy with tiles? Kawara-soba, a specialty of Yamaguchi

Kawara soba is a specialty of Kawadana Onsen in Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. 

Original Kawara Soba Takase Honkan has a lovely garden and an atmosphere of an old private house.

The South and East Main Building are also located nearby, so you can use them depending on the crowds and group use.

Kawara soba is an Instagrammable local gourmet dish with tea soba and other ingredients on top of a Japanese tile used as a roof.

Soba made with Uji green tea and Hokkaido buckwheat flour is topped with a vibrant egg, thinly sliced beef, seaweed and lemon slices.

The look and feel of this restaurant is impressive, but the taste is elegant and delicious to the end.

It is slightly sweet and can be dipped in tsuyu (Japanese dashi broth).

Tiles have a far-infrared effect, and because they have excellent heat retention properties, soba can stay hot over time.

The soba noodles gradually become crispy, which is another point of enjoyment.

Tsunoshima Ohashi Bridge, which stretches across the emerald green sea

The Tsunoshima Bridge is a very popular photogenic spot in recent years.

It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive north from Yamaguchi-Ube Airport.

The bridge leads to Tsunoshima Island, but there is a free parking lot and observation deck in front of the bridge, so stop by by all means.

From the elevated view, you can see not only the Tsunoshima Bridge but also the beautiful sandy beach nearby.

There are restrooms and shops in the parking lot, and a little further to the east is the restaurant “Gabbiano” where you can enjoy lunch and sweets.

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Sunset view with Tsunoshima Lighthouse

If you go deeper into Tsunoshima, you will come to the Tsunoshima Lighthouse.

This lighthouse has a long history as it was the first Western-style lighthouse on the Sea of Japan, which was lit up for the first time in 1907.

You can climb to the top if you pay a visit donation.

The northwest side of the lighthouse is maintained as “Tsunoshima Lighthouse Park“.

The area around the park is also home to “Hamayu”, a flower of the higanbana family that blooms from July to September, so it will be more photogenic to take pictures with the setting sun.

The rows of torii are a sight to behold! Motonosumi Shrine

In March 2015, Motonosumi Shrine was named one of CNN’s “31 Most Beautiful Places in Japan” in the United States.

The view of the 123 bright red torii that were dedicated from the top of the cliff to the rocky ground is breathtaking.

You can go inside to the rocky area, so please try to go down there.

If the conditions are good, you can also see the phenomenon of the rising tide, called “Ryugu Squirting”.

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Emotional reflections! “Higashi ushirobata Terraced rice Fields”

The “Higashishi ushirobata Terraced Rice Field” is a popular photogenic spot with a view of the sea.

Usually, terraced rice paddies are located in mountainous areas, but in this area, the hills on the peninsula are close to the coast, so you can see the Sea of Japan and Aburaya Bay below.

The setting sun and the reflection of the sun on the terraced rice paddies is a magnificent sight!

The terraced paddy fields are beautiful all year round, but the best time to see them is from early May to mid-June when the rice planting is finished.

Emerald green! Beppu Benten Pond, one of the 100 most famous waters in Japan

Beppu Benten Pond has been selected as one of Japan’s top 100 famous water spots, and it is a spot where very clear water springs up.

It is located in the precincts of Beppu Itsukushima Shrine.

Even with the naked eye, you can fully enjoy the vivid emerald green color.

This color is unique to the spring water, which has few impurities.

You can see the bottom of the pond, so it seems shallow, but the water in the center of the pond is about 4 meters deep.

The creek that leads from Beppu Benten Pond is red!

This is a color from an endangered species of algae called “red tara”.

The contrast between blue and red is also an interesting sight.

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Cafe with a view of the karst plateau in Akiyoshidai

Akiyoshidai, Japan’s largest karst plateau in central and eastern Japan, was declared a national park in 1955 and designated as a special natural monument in 1964.

It takes about 20 minutes by car from Beppu Benten Pond.

Next to the Akiyoshidai Karst Observatory at the top of the mountain, there is a tourist information center “Mine Akiyoshidai Geopark Center Karstar” where you can rest for free and use a cafe.

How about take some sweets break?

Gelato made with locally picked vegetables, fruits, and Ono tea is one of best  products.

Also, be sure to check out the local sweets, such as pear castellas and pear softcream, made with pears from Akiyoshi Town!

A staple spot in Yamaguchi! Iwakuni “Kintaikyo Bridge”.

The “Kintaikyo Bridge” in Iwakuni City is a must-see attraction in Yamaguchi Prefecture.

The unique wooden arch bridge is worth a look!

Crossing the bridge is also good, but if you take a picture from the riverbank, you can get the whole view!

If you like, go directly under the bridge as well.

The view looking up from below is also photogenic.

The tollbooths at both ends of the bridge are staffed from 8am to 5pm (until 6pm during the tourist season and 7pm during the summer), but when the bridge is unmanned, please fill in the toll boxes and cross the bridge.

You can enter the bridge 24 hours a day, but the light up are on at night until 22:00.

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Making goldfish lanterns at Yanai Nishigura in Yanai City

Yanai City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, about a 45-minute drive south from Kintai Bridge, is a spot famous for its “goldfish lanterns,” a folk craft.

Goldfish lanterns hanging from the eaves welcome you at the “white-walled cityscape”, one of Yanai’s most popular sightseeing spots.

The vivid shades of red and white are striking in the retro townscape, and the graceful swimming figure is very cool.

It is also popular as a photogenic spot.

The one and only goldfish lantern in the world can be made in about 30 minutes.

You can also take home a unique goldfish lantern as a souvenir.

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Mt.Dakezan, an Instagrammable spot where many couples gather

Mt.Dakezan, located on Suo Oshima Island, is a must-visit spot on a clear day.

At the summit observation area, you can not only enjoy a great view but also take Instagrammable selfies.

The words “TAKE OFF” and the white line are very instagrammable, and this is a hang glider/paraglider launcher stand.

There is no fence, so you need to be careful, but you can enjoy a great view of the open space!

The islands on the northeast and Hiroshima sides spread out below you.

There’s also a launcher stand on the other side, so don’t miss it!

Here you can see the southwest/oita direction.

Also, from the observatory where you can enjoy a 360-degree view, you can see Matsuyama Castle in Ehime if you have a good view, so why not use a zoom lens to aim it?

The road to the summit is surprisingly long, narrow and winding, so please be careful if you are not good at driving, or if you are driving a big car.

The parking lot with a toilet in front of the observatory is relatively large.

Gang rice bowl of “Aloha Orange” eaten in Hawaii in the Seto Inland

Suo Oshima has a sister island partnership with Kauai, Hawaii, so there are many shops and beaches where you can get a glimpse of the essence of Hawaii.

This shop is one of them.

Aloha Orange is a popular Hawaiian restaurant where you can feel the Hawaiian atmosphere from the name of the restaurant and there is a long line at lunchtime.

The popular menu item “Gang Don (Normal)” is a bowl of fresh domestic beef thighs grilled over high heat in one sitting, cut into just the right thickness, and topped with a sweet and spicy sauce.

The owner and staff were engaged in the meat processing business, and this is a dish that could only be made possible.

It is characterized by a quality that cannot be easily tasted in other restaurants by the skill of identifying the high quality ingredients and cooking them quickly and carefully.

The generous portions of meat served in an overflowing bowl look great on Instagramable!

Not only does it look great, but it tastes great too.

It’s red meat, so it’s not too salty, and you can eat it in a small size in the photo.

Between the rice and the meat, there’s shredded cabbage.

In addition to the normal dishes, there are also variations such as Japanese style Mizore, Aburi (aburi) and Yuke-style pickles, and you can also order half and half.

You won’t want to miss out on the Hawaiian cuisine created by our authentic Hawaiian chefs!

Since it is not possible to make a reservation and it is a popular restaurant, it is recommended to go there at the same time as the opening as possible.

Next trip is to photogenic Yamaguchi!

In addition to the stunning photogenic spots and Instagrammable spots we’ve introduced here, there’s more to see, such as Hagi with its historic townscape, Shimonoseki near Kyushu with its delicious fish, and the hot spring spots scattered throughout the area!

It’s about an hour and a half from Haneda using a great value Star Flyer.

Why not visit photogenic Yamaguchi Prefecture on your next trip?

This information is current as of August 2019. Please check the latest information.

16 travel spots for Yamaguchi TourismIn 2015, Yamaguchi Prefecture, the westernmost part of Honshu,  the ...

MAP

The cobalt-blue spring, which is crystal-clear to a mysterious extent, is vividly colored like a tropical sea!

In recent years, it has been attracting a lot of attention as an Instagrammable spot and a hidden vortex.

In this article, we will introduce the charm of Beppu Benten Pond, the secret of its blue color, and how to access the pond.

Cobalt blue? Emerald green? Mysterious Instagrammable spring!

Beppu Benten Pond is located in the precincts of Beppu Itsukushima Shrine at the foot of the nationally famous scenic spots of Akiyoshidai and Akiyoshido.

It has also been selected as one of the “100 best waters in Japan” designated by the Environment Agency.

The beauty is also called cobalt blue like a tropical sea, or emerald green like a jewel!

Its mysterious colors are sure to make anyone stare at it.

Many people are taking pictures with their smartphones to capture the beauty of this beauty on their cameras.

Why is it blue?

The secret of this blueness lies in the unique karst topography of the region, which is made up of limestone.

In Beppu Benten Pond, there is a clear, calcium-rich water that gushes out.

The spring water is illuminated by sunlight and reflects only blue light, giving it such a mysterious blue appearance.

One theory is that very clear water appears to be blue due to the properties of light and minerals dissolved in the water, but the reason for this has not yet been clarified.

The weather in which the pond looks most beautiful is sunny, where the light tends to reflect.

But depending on the time of day, the shadows of the trees are too unnecessarily reflected in the pond, so the lightly cloudy weather is good.

When the wind is not too strong and there is no wind, the surface of the pond will not be undulating and will look more beautiful.

This photo was taken under clear skies, and the previous photo was taken under light cloudy skies.

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You can even drink the spring water and take it home

Beppu Benten Pond gushes an abundance of 11 tons per minute, and the water temperature remains constant at 14-15 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

You can also drink from the spring water and there is a dedicated water station.

It is said that “one drink will keep you alive for a year, two drinks will keep you alive for two years,” and that it is also a vortex where you will be blessed with treasures.

The taste is adult, with a slight tangy bitterness that lingers on the tongue, perhaps because of the calcium content.

However, it is soft in the throat and the taste makes you want to drink more than one cup.

You can also put spring water on your face and hands to moisturize and keep your skin moisturized.

Beppu Benten Pond is a famous water that is good for your health from the inside and outside.

The largest karst plateau in Japan, Akiyoshidai, is also spectacular!

About 10 kilometers east of Beppu Benten Pond (about 15 minutes by car), you will arrive at Akiyoshidai, Japan’s largest karst plateau, with 4502 hectares designated as a national park and 1384 hectares designated as a special natural monument.

The countless limestone rocks from ancient coral reefs are dotted around the site, and the view is superb, which cannot be experienced anywhere else.

It is a wide range of scenic spots.

The photo shows the view from the Karst Lookout.

It’s a scene of endless grasslands and limestone, with a panoramic 360-degree view.

Access:How do we get there?

It takes about 40 minutes by car from Shin-Yamaguchi Station where the Shinkansen stops.

The Beppu Benten Pond is located a short distance away from the main tourist attractions in the vicinity, Akiyoshidai and Akiyoshido.

Basically, it’s impossible to get around on foot.

Buses can be used for transportation, but since they are used by local residents rather than tourists, it is not suitable to visit every tourist spot.

I highly recommend a car for sightseeing in this area.

Basic Information on Beppu Benten Pond

Address: Beppu Minakami, Akiyoshi-cho, Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture

Access: (By Car) 20 minutes from the Mine IC on the Chugoku Expressway

(By Train or Bus) Transfer to the Sentetsu Bus from Ofuku Station on the JR Mine Line.

Get off at Katada bus stop and walk 8 minutes.

This information is current as of October 2017. Please check the latest information.

16 travel spots for Yamaguchi TourismIn 2015, Yamaguchi Prefecture, the westernmost part of Honshu,  the ...