Chugoku Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay and how to get around in Chugoku, Japan. Read our travel guide for tips on cultural attractions, natural wonders, food and more.


Introduction to Chugoku

Nestled in the southern part of Japan’s main island of Honshu, Chugoku region is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the picturesque towns dotted with historical monuments to the stark yet stunning sand dunes of Tottori Prefecture, there is no shortage of things to experience in Chugoku.

List of Places to Visit in Chugoku

Whether you are looking to delve into Japan’s rich cultural heritage or explore its natural wonders, Chugoku has got you covered. Here are some of the top places to visit in Chugoku:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum
  2. Hagi Castle Town
  3. Matsue Castle

Natural Attractions of Chugoku: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Miyajima Island
  2. Sand Dunes of Tottori
  3. Adachi Museum of Art

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chugoku

  1. Mt. Daisen
  2. San’in Kaigan Geopark in Tottori

Best Things to Do in Chugoku: Activities and Tours

  1. Attend a tea ceremony in Okayama
  2. Visit the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island

Week-Long Itinerary for Chugoku

If you are planning to spend a week in Chugoku, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum
Day 2 Explore Hagi Castle Town
Day 3 Take a day trip to Miyajima Island
Day 4 Hike Mt. Daisen
Day 5 Visit the Adachi Museum of Art
Day 6 Explore the Sand Dunes in Tottori
Day 7 Attend a tea ceremony in Okayama

Food and Drink Scene of Chugoku

Chugoku is also known for its delicious food and unique drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of Chugoku:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Okonomiyaki (a savory pancake)
  2. Fugu (pufferfish)
  3. Hiroshima-style tsukemen (dipping noodles)

Local Beverages

  1. Saijo-Sake (from Hiroshima)
  2. Dassai Sake (from Yamaguchi)

Where to Stay in Chugoku: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. ANA Crowne Plaza in Hiroshima
  2. Guesthouse R inn Kotohira in Kagawa for budget travelers
  3. Hotel Nikko Kurashiki in Okayama

What to Buy in Chugoku: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Bizen-yaki pottery from Okayama
  2. Kurashiki Seto-mono (seedless grapes)
  3. Japanese sake, either Saijo-Sake or Dassai-Sake

Local Culture and Customs of Chugoku

When visiting Chugoku, remember to remove your shoes when entering Japanese houses and local temples. Additionally, it is customary to bow in greeting instead of shaking hands.

Best Time to Visit Chugoku

The best time to visit Chugoku is from late spring to early autumn (May-November), as the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chugoku

Do:

  1. Try local food and beverages.
  2. Respect Japanese customs and culture.
  3. Take your time exploring the region.

Don’t:

  1. Touch the deities or artifacts in local shrines and temples.
  2. Speak loudly or disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of sacred places.
  3. Neglect to remove your shoes when entering homes or holy places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chugoku

Chugoku is a safe area to travel in, however, travelers should still be mindful of their belongings and surroundings.

Health in Chugoku

No specific vaccinations are required to visit Chugoku, though it’s always wise to check the current health recommendations for travelers.

Getting to Chugoku: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chugoku

  1. Hiroshima Airport
  2. Okayama Airport
  3. Yamaguchi Ube Airport

Bus Stations Near Chugoku

  1. Hiroshima Bus Center
  2. Kurashiki Bus Terminal

Other Options

  1. Take a train to Hiroshima or Okayama and transfer to a local train to your Chugoku destination.

How to Get Around in Chugoku

The best way to explore Chugoku is by car, but if you don’t have the option to rent a car, buses and trains are available.

Where to Go Next from Chugoku: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Shikoku Island- a short ferry ride away
  2. Osaka and Kyoto- easily accessible by train

Conclusion

Chugoku is a fascinating region in Japan that offers a diverse range of experiences, from cultural sites to outdoor adventures. Travelers should take their time and explore this gem of a destination at their own pace. Don’t forget to try the delicious food and get a unique souvenir to remember this incredible trip.

Bridges in Shukkei-en Garden, Hiroshima Bridges in Shukkei-en Garden, Hiroshima National Treasure, Matsue Castle National Treasure, Matsue Castle Korakuen Garden Korakuen Garden Sanbutsuji Temple Sanbutsuji Temple Tsuyama's Joto Street Tsuyama's Joto Street Akiyoshi-do Cave Akiyoshi-do Cave Tamatsukuri Onsen Area Tamatsukuri Onsen Area


    Hiroshima (prefecture)
    Okayama (prefecture)
    Shimane
    Tottori (prefecture)
    Yamaguchi (prefecture)