Shimonoseki

Shimonoseki is a vibrant port city in a strategic location along the Kanmon Straits, and connected to Kyushu via the Kanmon Bridge. Surrounded by water on three sides, Shimonoseki is famous for its seafood, specifically fugu (pufferfish), which can be sampled at the bustling Karato Market. Other attractions in town include the Kaikyokan Aquarium, the Kaikyo Yume Tower, and the gorgeous European-style buildings from the Meiji Era lined along the waterfront – evidence of Shimonoseki’s role as a major trading hub.

Akiyoshidai

Located near Mine City, Akiyoshidai is the largest karst plateau in Japan, characterised by rolling grasslands dotted with limestone formations. This magnificent landscape began as a coral reef over 300 million years ago, and was pushed upwards over the years. Winding trails run through this rocky grassland plateau, making for a picturesque walk. Every February, a controlled burning of the area known as “Akiyoshidai Yama-yaki" is conducted, where locals set fire to the grasses to prepare the land for new sprouts.

Hagi Hot Spring Village

Boasting 8 different hot spring areas populated with countless hotels and bathhouses, Hagi once prospered in the 17th century as a castle town and still retains its old townscape today. Explore Hagi Castle’s ruins and well-preserved streets lined with historic samurai and merchant houses, and ancient sites relating to the Meiji Restoration. End the day with a soothing soak at Hagi Kanko Hotel; set on a hill overlooking the sea, it’s a classic hot spring hotel with rooms and outdoor baths accentuated by gorgeous views of Hagi port.

Tsuwano

Known as “Little Kyoto of the San-in Region,” Tsuwano is a castle town dotted with historic buildings housing sake breweries, art galleries, and craft stores. Home to the important Taikodani Inari Shrine, it is also the embarkation point of the SL Yamaguchi, a steam locomotive that chugs through the unspoiled countryside. Ride a chairlift up the hill to the ruins of Tsuwano Castle and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the entire town.

Masuda

Manpukuji Temple

This is a family temple of the Masuda clan, the lords of Masuda Nanao Castle, and is famous for its stone garden created by the Master Artist Sesshu, which has been designated as a National Historic Site. You will also find the Shinji-ike, a pond designed in the shape of the Japanese character for ’heart’.

Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine

Iwami Silvermine Museum

The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine thrived from the 16th to 18th century and used to produce almost one-third of the world’s silver. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site largely due to it having co-existed with nature. Take a walk through the ruins or head over to the Iwami Silvermine Museum to check out the tools and materials concerning the mines.

Matsue

Known as a “water city,” Matsue is a castle town crossed with many canals and is attractively located along the shores of Lake Shinji, Lake Nakaumi, and the Sea of Japan. The city is essentially divided by the Ohashi River, with the northern section dominated by Matsue Castle and its samurai district, while the southern section is dotted with many ancient shrines and temples.

Tamatsukuri Onsen

Dating back to the 8th century, Tamatsukuri Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring areas, with resorts lining the Tamayu River in the centre of town and its waters famous for beautifying skin. The town is founded on the production of jewel-shaped magatama agate beads which are thought to hold spiritual powers. Many visitors also come here to wish for romantic luck at various spots around town, or stroll along the picturesque tree-lined riverbank.