New Encounters and Self-Reflection: Exploring Japanese Heritage Through the Echoes of History

*This article was sponsored by GOLDEN ROUTE to WEST JAPAN.

There’s So Much More to Discover in Japan!

Japan’s most iconic travel destinations include Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Mt. Fuji, and Hokkaido. While each of these areas is filled with charm, there are still many lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered, such as those along the western Japan route dubbed the "GOLDEN ROUTE to WEST JAPAN." These parts of Japan are currently gaining attention from travel-savvy trendspotters. Blessed with a mild climate, western Japan presents unique natural landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant food culture for visitors to experience the authentic essence of Japan. Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, the GOLDEN ROUTE to WEST JAPAN promises fresh and inspiring discoveries.

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Hiroshima Prefecture: A Must-Visit Destination with UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Hiroshima Prefecture, located in the Chugoku region, is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, also known as the Genbaku Dome. Hiroshima also boasts a rich food culture, with fresh seafood like oysters and conger eel from the Seto Inland Sea, as well as the famous okonomiyaki, an iconic pancake-like dish made with thin batter topped with shredded cabbage, pork, noodles, and other ingredients and drizzled with a special sauce.

▼Click here for detailed sightseeing information on Hiroshima Prefecture:
https://dive-hiroshima.com/en/

Click here to visit the official website for the "GOLDEN ROUTE to WEST JAPAN" for an authentic Japanese experience.

Miyajima and Its Majestic Vermillion Torii Gate Floating Over the Sea

When arriving at Miyajima, the first place you’ll want to visit is Itsukushima Shrine. In an era when the nobility held political power, Taira no Kiyomori became the first samurai warrior to rise to the highest ranks of government. Around 1168, Kiyomori built this shrine above the seawater in the style of a traditional noble residence, which was unlike other shrines of the time. The vermillion-lacquered shrine appears to float gracefully over the water, and the grand torii gate, located about 200 meters offshore, can be reached on foot during low tide.

The entire island of Miyajima itself is regarded as a sacred site, and the World Heritage designation extends to Mount Misen, which stands behind the shrine. From the summit of Mount Misen, at an elevation of 535 meters, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the numerous islands scattered across the blue Seto Inland Sea. If you take the ropeway, you can reach the peak in about 30 minutes on foot, so be sure to give it a try!

Wishing for World Peace at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

At 8:15 am on August 6, 1945, Hiroshima became the first city in the world to suffer the devastation of an atomic bomb. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was founded to promote the realization of lasting global peace and to convey the horrors of nuclear weapons, which indiscriminately claim countless innocent lives, to future generations. The museum exhibits a collection of approximately 22,000 artifacts, photographs, and documents that illustrate the destruction caused by the bomb. You’ll notice that each item tells a poignant story that speaks volumes about the tragic event. Audio guides are available in 15 languages.

After visiting the museum, take a 7-minute walk to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome), a World Heritage Site. Originally known as the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, the building stood just approximately 160 meters from the epicenter of the atomic blast. It was severely damaged by the explosion and intense heat, and the people working inside tragically lost their lives. The exposed steel frame and collapsed walls have been preserved in their original state as a reminder of the devastation.

Matsuyama City - Explore Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring and the Wonders of Its Castle Town

Situated along the Seto Inland Sea, Matsuyama City in Ehime Prefecture enjoys a mild, warm climate with relatively little rainfall throughout the year, making it a pleasant place to visit. At the heart of the city stands Matsuyama Castle, which preserves the atmosphere of a historic castle town. You can unwind in the famous Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring, or take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding hot spring neighborhood to experience this charming and historic area.

▼Click here for detailed sightseeing information on Matsuyama City      
https://en.matsuyama-sightseeing.com
https://www.visitehimejapan.com/en/
https://setouchi-travelguide.com/

Click here to visit the official website for the "GOLDEN ROUTE to WEST JAPAN" for an authentic Japanese experience.

Matsuyama Castle Featured in an Internationally Acclaimed Guidebook

Matsuyama Castle is an architectural wonder that took a quarter of a century to complete after its construction began in 1602. Today, 21 structures remain as Designated Important Cultural Properties. The main tower, or “tenshu,” is one of only 12 surviving towers in Japan built before the end of the Edo Period (1603 – 1867). Situated atop Mount Katsuyama at an elevation of 132 meters, Matsuyama Castle is divided into compounds which include Honmaru at the mountain summit, Ninomaru serving as the historical site garden at the foothills of the mountain, and Sannomaru now enjoyed as Shiroyama Park (Horinouchi District). Visitors can reach the castle via four climbing paths, a ropeway, or a chairlift.

The castle features impressive fortifications designed to prevent enemy infiltration, as well as remarkable decorative architectural details. Also worth noting is the stunning panoramic views seen from the top floor of the main tower at 161 meters above ground! The views are so captivating that they have been featured in a prominent international guidebook. Matsuyama Castle and the park at its foothills are also renowned for their beautiful cherry blossoms that visitors can enjoy from late March to early April.  

Experience the Timeless Charm of Japan’s Traditional Hot Springs at Dogo Onsen

Boasting a history of nearly 3,000 years, Dogo Onsen is the oldest hot spring district in Japan, with the Dogo Onsen Honkan standing as its iconic landmark. Here, brochures are available in multiple languages for visitors.

The three-story wooden structure currently standing was constructed in 1894 and features two bathing facilities: the spacious Kami-no-yu and the luxurious Tama-no-yu. The annex, Asuka-no-Yu, opened in 2017 and incorporates the architectural style of the Asuka period (circa 592 – 710). In its special bathing rooms, guests can enjoy a bath while wearing a robe called “yucho”.

After a nice soak in the onsen, a leisurely stroll through the nearby Dogo Shopping Street is highly recommended. The street spans 250 meters and is lined with around 60 souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy local treats, including juices and gelato made with citrus, a specialty of Ehime Prefecture.

Shimonoseki City, the Gateway Connecting Japan’s Main Island and Kyushu

Shimonoseki City in Yamaguchi Prefecture is located at the westernmost tip of Japan’s main island. It was the site of the Battle of Dannoura, which took place around 800 years ago, and is home to numerous historical landmarks related to the Meiji Restoration. This political revolution in the late 19th century marked the transition of power from a feudal society under the shogunate to a capitalist society centered around the emperor.

Surrounded on three sides by the waters of the Kanmon Strait, Suonada Sea, and Hibikinada Sea, Shimonoseki is also renowned for its abundant seafood. One of the local delicacies is pufferfish, or “fugu,” served in a variety of delicious ways, including sashimi, hotpot, and deep-fried dishes.

▼Click here for detailed sightseeing information on Shimonoseki City.
https://shimonoseki.travel/en/
 

Click here to visit the official website for the "GOLDEN ROUTE to WEST JAPAN" for an authentic Japanese experience.

In the Mood for Fresh Seafood? Head to Karato Market!

Karato Market is a unique seafood market where local fishermen sell their freshly caught fish directly to consumers. This type of sales model is rare in Japan, and the market attracts culinary professionals and food specialists not only from Shimonoseki but also Northern Kyushu, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere. Recommended for tourists is the “Iki-Iki Bakangai” event held on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays. During this event, seafood stalls line the market offering a variety of fresh dishes like nigiri sushi, seafood bowls, fugu soup, and more, made with seafood caught that very day. After making a purchase, visitors can head outside to enjoy the meal in front of the market or on the lawn rooftop while feeling the refreshing breeze from the Kanmon Strait.

The Striking Red and White Contrast of Akama Shrine

In the Battle of Dannoura in 1185, the Minamoto clan defeated the powerful Taira clan, ending their dominance. Emperor Antoku, whose mother was from the Taira family, perished at sea when he was only eight years old. The Akama Shrine was later constructed in his honor. The Suitenmon Gate, with its beautiful contrast of white and red, was designed in the image of an underwater sea palace, inspired by the legend that Emperor Antoku’s grandmother assured him that there was a paradise at the bottom of the ocean as they entered the waters together, never to return. Within the grounds of the shrine is the Treasure Hall where visitors can admire dynamic paintings on folding screens depicting dramatic scenes from the Battle of Dannoura, as well as the moment of Emperor Antoku’s final leap into the sea.

Beppu City, a Hot Spring Paradise with a Variety of Unique Springs

Beppu is a renowned hot spring town, having one of Japan’s largest numbers of hot spring sources and the highest flow rates. The eight hot spring districts within the city all come from varying spring sources, allowing visitors to enjoy their unique qualities. Among these, the Kannawa and Kamekawa districts offer unique landscapes created by the fumaroles, geothermal mud pools, and boiling waters that have been active for over a thousand years. Once considered “Hell,” where no one could set foot, these areas have now become popular tourist attractions.

▼Click here for detailed sightseeing information on Beppu City
https://enjoyonsen.city.beppu-jp.com/

Click here to visit the official website for the "GOLDEN ROUTE to WEST JAPAN" for an authentic Japanese experience.

Take the Beppu Jigoku Tour and Experience the Hot Springs with All Five Senses

The bluish water of the Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) is known for its intense steam and roaring sounds. The water’s color changes with the angle of the sun, creating an interesting phenomenon. At Oniishi Bozu Jigoku (Rock-like Monk’s Head Hell), enjoy the mud pool as large bubbles form and disappear while making unique popping sounds. Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Stove Hell) features boiling water of 100℃ straight from the source along with a variety of “hells” including blue and orange springs. At Oniyama Jigoku (Ogre Mountain Hell), crocodiles are raised in a pool of geothermal water, while Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell) features a serene thermal pond surrounded by a Japanese-style garden. All five of these “hells” are located within walking distance of one another.The final two “hells” are a short 10-minute bus ride away.

Visit Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell), where the spring waters are an intense red, and Tatsumaki Jigoku (Dragon Geyser Hell), where you’ll witness 150℃ hot water and steam shooting from a natural geyser. This exciting tour is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the dynamic energy of the Earth up close.

Indulge in a Unique Culinary Experience Using Geothermal Steam at Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa

In Beppu’s Kannawa Hot Springs, there is a traditional cooking method known as “jigokumushi” ––literally “steaming in hell” ––which is recorded in documents dating back to the Edo Period (1603 – 1867). This technique uses 98°C hot spring steam, powered entirely by geothermal energy, and can be experienced at Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa. The steam, which contains sodium, quickly cooks the ingredients, trapping and enhancing their natural umami flavors. Vegetables, meat, seafood, and other ingredients cooked with this method come out tasting incredibly delicious.

There’s a variety of ingredients to choose from, including local specialties from Oita, so be sure to give them a try!

Next to Jigokumushi Kobo is a facility offering foot steams, utilizing the hot spring steam, a foot bath area accessible to wheelchair users, and a place where visitors can drink hot spring water.

Explore the Mythical and Historical Wonders of Miyazaki City

Miyazaki Prefecture is a tropical region with a warm climate, averaging about 17°C annually. At the heart of the prefecture is Miyazaki City, easily accessible from the airport and train stations, and brimming with tourist attractions including the ocean, mountains, and entertainment. Miyazaki is also home to historical sites tied to Japanese mythology, one of which is the Aoshima Shrine, where evidence of ancient prayer rituals has been discovered. At night, Miyazaki’s entertainment district, Nishitachi, comes alive, offering culinary delights like local “jidori” chicken, Miyazaki beef, and other regional specialties to be paired with shochu, a Japanese distilled spirit.

▼Click here for detailed sightseeing information on Miyazaki City
https://www.miyazaki-city.tourism.or.jp/en

Click here to visit the official website for the "GOLDEN ROUTE to WEST JAPAN" for an authentic Japanese experience.

Aoshima Shrine Nestled Within a Sacred Island

The entire island of Aoshima is considered the grounds of the shrine, with the main shrine standing at its center. Visitors can cross the Yayoi Bridge to reach the island. Aoshima is believed to be the place where a male and female deity united, and it is said to bring blessings for love and happy marriages. The island is home to a variety of subtropical plants, and at the heart of it stands the Motomiya, the original shrine. Ritualistic artifacts from the Yayoi period (3rd century BC - 3rd century AD) have been uncovered at the site, confirming that ancient people also offered prayers at this very spot.

After visiting the shrine, be sure to take some time to explore the island. One of the highlights is the “Devil's Washboard,” rugged, wave-like rock formations surrounding the island. These formations were created by layers of mudstone and sandstone that were deposited underwater approximately 7 million years ago. Over time, the softer mudstone was eroded by waves, leaving the harder sandstone in striking ridges. The beautiful beach spreading out from the island is perfect for enjoying activities like sea kayaking and other marine sports.

Digital brochures available in English, Chinese, and Korean

https://www.miyazaki-city.tourism.or.jp/pamphlet

 

Savor Miyazaki’s Local Cuisine at Nishitachi District, Home to 1,200 Eateries!

The Nishitachi district is a lively entertainment area centered around Nishitachibana Street in the heart of Miyazaki City. Numerous lanterns sway gently along both sides of the street, creating a nostalgic, retro atmosphere. Here, you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving Japanese style barbeque of Miyazaki beef, a premium brand of beef that has won the prestigious Prime Minister’s Award, along with sushi made from the region’s fresh, seasonal seafood. Must-try local specialties are chargrilled jidori chicken and udon noodles. At Gunkei Main Branch Kakushigura, jidori chicken thighs are seasoned only with salt and quickly grilled over charcoal to bring out its robust flavor. The chicken’s rich umami fills your mouth with each bite and pairs beautifully with a refreshing drink.

Though udon noodles vary across Japan, those from Miyazaki are characterized by their soft texture. Togakushi is a popular udon restaurant where patrons can enjoy noodles that are soft and slightly but wonderfully springy in texture. Adding their house-made yuzu citrus paste in the soup brings a refreshing, zesty flavor that is delightful. It’s the perfect after-drink dish to finish off the night.

That concludes our journey through historical sites spanning ancient times, the Middle Ages, and the modern era, each marking significant milestones in Japan’s history, along with landmarks that offer a glimpse into the lives of its people. Visiting these sites with an understanding of their historical context allows you to appreciate not only the beauty of the architecture but also to gain new insights. Use this guide as inspiration for your next trip and be sure to visit the areas that interest you most!