Shimonoseki Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Shimonoseki with our comprehensive travel guide. Find information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Shimonoseki

Shimonoseki is a city located in Yamaguchi prefecture, on the western tip of the island of Honshu in Japan. The city is situated at the narrowest point of the Kanmon Strait and is known for being a major fishing port, as well as for its historical landmarks and beautiful natural scenery. With its diverse attractions and cultural offerings, Shimonoseki is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan.

List of Places to Visit in Shimonoseki

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Shimonoseki has a rich history and is home to several important cultural sites that are worthy of a visit. The following are some of the top museums and historical places to see in Shimonoseki:

  • Akama Shrine: Built in honor of the Heike warriors who lost the Genpei War, this shrine is known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
  • Karato Market: A popular fish market offering a wide range of fresh seafood, including the local delicacy, fugu.
  • Kanmon Bridge: A breathtaking suspension bridge that spans the Kanmon Strait, connecting Honshu and Kyushu.
  • Shimonoseki City Museum: A fascinating museum showcasing the history, culture, and art of Shimonoseki.
  • Mimosusogawa Park: A picturesque park featuring a cherry blossom viewing spot and a traditional Japanese garden.

Natural Attractions of Shimonoseki: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Shimonoseki is known for its stunning natural scenery, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the area. Here are some of the best natural attractions to visit in Shimonoseki:

  • Hinoyama Park: A scenic park that offers stunning views of the city, including a panoramic view of the Kanmon Strait.
  • Kaikyo Yume Tower: An observation deck perched on top of a tower that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Tsunoshima Island: A beautiful island known for its beaches, lighthouse, and scenic views.
  • Genkai Quasi-National Park: A sprawling nature reserve that offers hiking trails, camping sites, and stunning views of the sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shimonoseki

Shimonoseki is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Hinoyama Park: A popular hiking spot that offers stunning views of the city.
  • Tsunoshima Island: An ideal destination for cycling, with several cycling routes offering stunning views of the island’s beaches and lighthouse.
  • Mimosusogawa Park: A great spot for a leisurely stroll or bike ride, with a scenic cherry blossom viewing spot and a traditional Japanese garden.

Best Things to Do in Shimonoseki: Activities and Tours

Shimonoseki offers a wide range of activities and tours to suit every interest. Here are some of the best things to do in Shimonoseki:

  • Fugu Tasting: Shimonoseki is known for its delicious fugu (pufferfish), so why not try some for yourself? Several restaurants in the city offer a fugu tasting experience.
  • Kanmon Strait Cruise: Take a cruise through the Kanmon Strait and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
  • Karato Market Tour: Take a guided tour of the famous Karato Market and learn about the local seafood industry.
  • Satsuma Pottery Making: Participate in a pottery making class and create your own unique piece of Satsuma pottery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shimonoseki

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Shimonoseki, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1: Explore the city center and visit Akama Shrine and the Shimonoseki City Museum. Day 2: Take a day trip to Tsunoshima Island and enjoy the beaches and lighthouse. Day 3: Visit Hinoyama Park and Genkai Quasi-National Park for some scenic views and outdoor activities. Day 4: Take a Kanmon Strait cruise and visit the Karato Market. Day 5: Participate in a Satsuma pottery making class and explore the Mimosusogawa Park. Day 6: Visit the Kanmon Bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the Kanmon Strait. Day 7: Take a relaxing day to enjoy the hot springs and traditional Japanese spa treatments at a ryokan (Japanese inn) in the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Shimonoseki

Must-Try Dishes

Shimonoseki is known for its delicious seafood, and there are several dishes that you must try when visiting the city:

  • Fugu: Shimonoseki is famous for its fugu, a type of pufferfish that is served in various ways, including sashimi, hot pot, or grilled.
  • Karashi Renkon: A type of lotus root filled with a spicy mustard paste.
  • Ankake Yakisoba: A popular local dish consisting of stir-fried noodles with a thick, starchy sauce and vegetables.
  • Shimonoseki Ramen: A traditional noodle soup that is a must-try for any ramen lover.

Local Beverages

Japan’s drinking culture is famous around the world, and Shimonoseki has several local beverages that are worth trying:

  • Shochu: A distilled spirit made from sweet potatoes or barley, commonly consumed in Japan.
  • Sake: A type of rice wine that is famous in Japan and enjoyed around the world.
  • Awamori: A distilled spirit made from long-grain rice that is unique to Okinawa prefecture.

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

Shimonoseki offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Shimonoseki:

  • Dormy Inn Shimonoseki Hot Spring: A popular hotel located in the city center that offers traditional Japanese hot springs.
  • Katsuragi no Sato: A traditional Japanese inn located near Hinoyama Park.
  • Shimonoseki Grand Hotel: A luxury hotel located near the Kanmon Bridge.
  • Guesthouse Yadocurly: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in the city center.

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

There are several souvenirs and local products that you can bring home from Shimonoseki, including:

  • Fugu-related Products: Shimonoseki is famous for its fugu, and you can find several fugu-related products, including keychains and magnets.
  • Satsuma Pottery: Shimonoseki is also known for its Satsuma pottery, a type of ceramic that is often decorated with intricate patterns and designs.
  • Local Sake and Shochu: Bring home a bottle of the local sake or shochu as a unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Shimonoseki

Shimonoseki has a rich culture and history that is still evident in the daily life of its residents today. Here are some of the local customs and etiquette rules to keep in mind when visiting Shimonoseki:

  • Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, a temple or a shrine.
  • When eating, it is customary to say “Itadakimasu” before the meal and “Gochisousama deshita” after finishing.
  • It is impolite to blow your nose in public.
  • Tipping is not a common practice in Japan.

Best Time to Visit Shimonoseki

The best time to visit Shimonoseki is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Spring is also an excellent time to view cherry blossoms in the parks around the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shimonoseki

Do:

  • Bow when meeting someone new.
  • Wear appropriate clothing when visiting temples or shrines.
  • Take your shoes off when entering someone’s home.
  • Carry a handkerchief in case you need to sneeze or cough.

Don’t:

  • Eat or drink while walking in public.
  • Be loud or rowdy in public places.
  • Tip in restaurants or other facilities.
  • Be late for scheduled appointments or meetings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shimonoseki

Shimonoseki is a relatively safe city with a low crime rate. However, as with all cities, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft or crime. It’s also a good idea to carry identification and emergency contact information with you at all times.

Health in Shimonoseki

Japan has excellent healthcare facilities and Shimonoseki is no exception. Visitors can expect high-quality medical care in the event of an illness or injury. It’s important to note that medical treatment in Japan can be expensive, so visitors should purchase travel health insurance before arriving.

Getting to Shimonoseki: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shimonoseki can be easily accessed via several transportation options. Here are some of the best ways to get to Shimonoseki:

  • By Air: Yamaguchi Ube Airport is the nearest airport to Shimonoseki, located about 40 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to the city center.
  • By Train: Shimonoseki Station is served by several train lines, including the JR Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen.
  • By Bus: Shimonoseki can be reached by bus from several cities in the region, including Hiroshima and Fukuoka.

How to Get Around in Shimonoseki

Shimonoseki is a relatively compact city, and many attractions can be easily accessed on foot or by bicycle. The city also has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. Taxis are also readily available in the city center.

Where to Go Next from Shimonoseki: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that are worth visiting from Shimonoseki, including:

  • Kitakyushu: A city located across the Kanmon Strait in Kyushu, offering a fascinating mix of modern and traditional Japanese culture.
  • Hagi: A historic castle town located on the Sea of Japan, known for its traditional samurai houses and impressive castle ruins.
  • Miyajima: A small island located near Hiroshima, home to the famous Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conclusion

Shimonoseki is a fascinating destination with a unique culture and rich history. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s museums and historical landmarks, enjoying the natural beauty of the area, or trying delicious local dishes, Shimonoseki has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the best of Yamaguchi prefecture.

Fugu: so life-threatening, but so delicious Fugu: so life-threatening, but so delicious View along the coast of Shimonoseki View along the coast of Shimonoseki Map of central Shimonoseki Map of central Shimonoseki Akama Jingu Akama Jingu Kaikyo Yume Tower (153m) Kaikyo Yume Tower (153m) Launch your own bombardment Launch your own bombardment