Yamaguchi

“Far less imposing than the hustle and bustle of many of Japan’s larger cities, Yamaguchi is a quieter more refined city.  Great for a relaxing day trip; but to truly appreciate everything the city has to offer it is worth staying a night or two”

Mark Johnson - Travel Consultant

It’s easy to see how Yamaguchi city gained the title "Kyoto of the
west".  Set in beautiful surroundings, Yamaguchi is a charming city with
a rich history and quiet relaxed atmosphere.  What sets Yamaguchi city
apart from other similar sized cities in Japan is its distinct lack of
imposing neon lights, its wide open tree-lined streets and its boulevard
of small boutique shops and coffee shops.

The most striking feature of Yamaguchi city is its famous five storey
Ruriko-ji pagoda located in Kozan Park.  Commissioned by Lord Ouchi a
prosperous feudal warlord in the fifteenth century, the story goes that
the warlord’s lonesome wife so missed Kyoto that she set about
recreating her favourite city in Yamaguchi.  Today this beautiful pagoda
(ranked as one of the three most beautiful in Japan) has been designated
as a national treasure and is well worth a visit.

Every year Yamaguchi city hosts its own version of Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri
festival, so be sure not to miss this if you are travelling through
Yamaguchi prefecture in July.  The Yamaguchi Gion Matsuri festival is
renowned for its performance of the Sagimai dance - a traditional dance
representing the courting dance of the heron.

Famous throughout Japan, a great souvenir from Yamaguchi is a set of
Ouchi dolls.  Representing the Emperor and Empress of the Ouchi clan, it
is said that these beautifully carved lacquerware round dolls were
commissioned by the emperor himself as a gift to his wife.

Being centrally located within Yamaguchi prefecture next to Shin
Yamaguchi on the bullet train line, the city is an ideal stop-off point
when travelling through Yamaguchi Prefecture.  Nearby Yuda Onsen hot
springs are also well worth a visit – don’t forget to take a towel and
make use of the free open-air foot spas dotted along the main high street.