Yamaguchi
Welcome to the Capital in Western Japan, Yamaguchi
Surrounded by deep green mountains, the Five-story Pagoda of Joruri-ji Temple (National Treasure) proudly displays its beautiful Hiwada-buki roof made with cypress bark. Fallen petals of cherry blossoms flow along the serene stream of the Ichinosaka River in spring and fireflies flutter on summer evenings. Once, Yamaguchi used to be called “The Capital in Western Japan” where its own Ouchi Culture flourished, as if competing with that of Kyoto. The seasonal and historical attractions of Yamaguchi still lie waiting in this beautiful city.
Sightseeing Highlights in Yamaguchi
Five-story Pagoda of Joruri-ji Temple (National Treasure)
This National Treasure is the largest relic of the time of the Ouchi Clan.
※Repair work will be performed until March 2026.
Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Church
Restoed in 1998 commemorating the 400th anniversary since Francis Xavier, a missionary from Spain, brought Christianity to this area.
Joei-ji Temple Sesshu Garden
The samurai governor, Masahiro Ouchi, had a master of Japanese ink painting, Sesshu, design this garden. National Scenic Beauty Spot.
Ryufuku-ji Temple (Old Site of the Ouchi Family Residence)
A temple where the graveyard of Yoshitaka Ouchi is located. The Ouchi Family resided in this house for 200 years and ruled over the area.
Yuda Onsen Hot Spring
Claimed to be the best onsen hot spring in the Sanyo region with the Byakko (white fox) legend. There are six free foot baths in the area.
Chogen-no Sato Village
Recreating the former scenery of the early 20th century in Japan. Seasonal flowers welcome people and visitors can try traditional craft experiences.
Gochu-an
A small hut in which a Japanese poet, Santoka Taneda, lived is recreated at the same location.
Yamaguchi Prefecture Kiarara Beach Natural Park
People can enjoy observing a variety of wildlife such as the wild birds living around the Kirara Beach and migrant birds in the pleasant environment.
Important Annual Events in Yamaguchi
Yuda Onsen Byakko Festival
Byakko (legendary white fox) parade, Baykko torch procession and many other events will be held for two days.
Firefly Watching WEEK!
Enjoy watching wild Genji-botaru fireflies (National Natural Monument) around Ichinosaka River.
Yamaguchi Gion Festival
On the 20th, Sagi-mai Dance (Prefecture’s Intangible Folk Culture property) will be performed for the deity. Mikoshi portable shrine will be carried by half-naked men.
Yamaguchi Tanabata Lantern Festival
Over 10,000 red lanterns will be set along the shopping streets to create a mysterious world. Mikoshi portable shrines and a procession will parade around the area.
Aio Eighty-eight Odaishi Pilgrimage
Local people welcome visitors on March 20 and 21 (in the lunar calendar) which is the death anniversary of Kobo Daishi. Many people visit the town on the Ohenro pilgrimage.
Yamaguchi Tenjin Festival
Hanamiko maiden procession and Yakko Gyoretsu parade will go around the city. The Sonaetate Procession which recreates the alternate attendance by a daimyo in Edo (present-day Tokyo) will join too.
Aio Shrimp Catching World Competition
Large shrimps are released on the beach and people compete to catch as many as possible.
Japanese Christmas Begins from Yamaguchi
Yamaguchi is said to be the place where the celebration of Christmas first started in Japan. A variety of Christmas events will be held around the city.
Traditional Crafts of Yamaguchi
Ouchi Lacquer
During the time the Ouchi Family ruled the region, Ouchi Lacquer was one of the most valued items in the trading with the Ming Dynasty in China. Lacquer is used for dolls, trays and flower vases.
Yamaguchi Hagi-yaki Ceramic
Very simple in form and color, with almost no decoration, Hagi-yaki ceramics are loved by many people as they change color after being used for a number of years.
Food & Specialties of Yamaguchi
Yamaguchi Uiro
Uiro is a jelly-like sweet made from warabi bracken starch. It is a well-known local specialty from Yamaguchi.
Kuroma Ebi Shrimp
Aio is the place where the cultivation of Kuruma Ebi shrimp began. Now, the advanced cultivation technology makes it possible to enjoy tasty shrimps throughout the year.
Ato Beef
Cattle are raised freely and can relax on this vast farm. Their meat is very tender and savory.
Apple
Tasty apples grown in ample sunlight on the apple farm in Tokusa (about 15,000 trees).
- Access
- Yamaguchi Station on JR Yamaguchi Line
- Contact
- Yamaguchi Tourism Convention Association
- TEL：083-933-0088 / FAX：083-933-0089
- E-mail： info@yamaguchi-city.jp
- URL： http://yamaguchi-city.jp/