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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Sanyo-Onoda.
Nestled in the heart of Yamaguchi prefecture, Sanyo-Onoda is a treasure trove of cultural and scenic delights waiting to be explored.
From majestic mountains to serene gardens, and everything in between, there is something for everyone in this city of wonders.
So, whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life, Sanyo-Onoda is the perfect destination for you.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Sanyo-Onoda:
1. Shunan Bamboo Garden
A stunning bamboo garden located in Sanyo-Onoda in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Walk along the narrow paths amidst a sea of bamboo stalks that tower overhead and rustle in the wind. Relax and soak in the tranquil ambiance of the picturesque garden that stretches out over an area of 16 hectares.
Marvel at the bamboo sculptures, exhibitions, and crafts on display.
Don’t miss: The stunning sights of the bamboo garden as the sun sets, when the colors of the sky change to deep oranges, pinks, and purples, and the glow of the bamboo groves create a magical atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Get here early to enjoy the pristine beauty of the garden, and avoid the crowds that tend to pour in later in the day.
Don’t forget to try the local bamboo shoots, bamboo tubes, and bamboo leaf sushi for a unique gastronomic experience.
2. Joka Machi Hinadan
Joka Machi Hinadan, also known as the Doll Festival, is an annual event held in Sanyo-Onoda, Japan, featuring a parade of intricately crafted dolls.
What to see or do: During the event, decorated dolls of historical and mythical figures are displayed in ornately decorated miniature stages called hinadan.
The main parade takes place on March 3rd, where the hinadan are carried through the city to the sound of traditional music.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the three-tiered royal hinadan, which features dolls representing the Imperial Family. There are also many food vendors selling traditional Japanese snacks and sweets to enjoy during the festivities.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, and consider bringing a picnic blanket to sit on. Also, be respectful of the event and do not touch or disturb the hinadan.
Finally, bring cash as many vendors may not accept credit cards.
3. Hinomisaki Lighthouse
Hinomisaki Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the southern coast of Sanyo-Onoda City in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the 134 steps to the top of the lighthouse tower for stunning views of the crystal-clear Sea of Japan.
There is also a museum on site with exhibits on the history of the lighthouse and the local marine life.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Hinomisaki Shrine with its striking red torii gate at the top of the cliff.
The shrine is dedicated to the god of the sea and is said to offer protection to fisherman and sailors.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is in late fall or winter when there are fewer crowds and clearer skies for optimal views.
4. Onoda City Museum of History and Folklore
A museum dedicated to the history and folklore of Onoda City, located in Sanyo-Onoda.
What to see or do: The museum showcases a range of artifacts highlighting the culture and traditions of the area. Visitors can view traditional clothing, household items, and tools used by locals over the years.
There are also exhibits on the development of the city’s industry and economy.
Don’t miss: The museum’s collection of Hina dolls, which are traditionally displayed during Hinamatsuri, a spring festival in Japan. These dolls are beautifully crafted and provide a unique insight into Japanese culture.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers audio guides in multiple languages to enhance the experience. Visitors can also take part in hands-on activities such as calligraphy and Japanese tea making.
If you’re interested in local history and culture, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
5. Saikoji Temple
Saikoji is a serene Buddhist temple located in Sanyo-Onoda, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture, the beautiful Japanese gardens, and the serene atmosphere of the temple grounds. Saikoji is particularly famous for its autumn colors and cherry blossom viewing.
Don’t miss: The main hall, which houses an impressive 10-meter tall statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of healing. The temple also has a small museum showcasing various historical and cultural artifacts.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs and steep slopes around the temple grounds.
It is also recommended to visit during the cherry blossom season in April or the autumn foliage season in November for the best viewing experience.
6. Ruriko-ji Temple
A beautiful Buddhist temple located in Sanyo-Onoda, Japan.
What to see and do: Visitors can enjoy strolling through the temple grounds and taking in the stunning architecture. The temple is known for its impressive five-storied pagoda, which is illuminated at night, providing a breathtaking view.
Inside the temple, visitors can admire the decorated ceiling and the stunning mural paintings.
Don’t miss: The chance to ring the temple bell, which weighs about 2.5 tons.
It’s believed that ringing the bell brings good luck and helps fulfill wishes.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
Visitors should also wear comfortable shoes, as there are quite a few stairs to climb to reach the top of the pagoda.
Finally, don’t forget to try some of the delicious local snacks sold by vendors near the temple.
7. Kaiten Museum
The Kaiten Museum is a memorial museum dedicated to the Japanese navy’s suicide torpedo squadrons, known as kaiten.
What to see or do: Visitors can see several restored kaiten and learn about their history and development. The museum also features displays of personal items and letters from kaiten pilots.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the short film depicting the kaiten’s final mission, as well as the outdoor area with a large kaiten installation.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check out the gift shop for kaiten-inspired souvenirs. If you’re interested in military history or World War II, the Kaiten Museum is definitely worth a visit.
8. Mizuki Shigeru Road
Mizuki Shigeru Road is a street dedicated to the famous Japanese manga artist Mizuki Shigeru, known for creating the beloved character GeGeGe no Kitaro.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll along the street filled with bronze statues of Mizuki’s characters, including Kitaro, Medama Oyaji, and Nurikabe.
There are also several museums and galleries showcasing Mizuki’s life and work, including the Mizuki Shigeru Memorial Museum and the GeGeGe no Yokai World.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local specialty cuisine, “Kitaro Natto,” a dish made from fermented soybeans and named after the popular manga character.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual Kitaro Festival in August, where the streets come alive with parades, live performances, and plenty of Kitaro-themed food and souvenirs.
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking and a camera to capture all the unique and quirky sights along the way.
9. Yamaguchi Prefectural Museum of Art
Yamaguchi Prefectural Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum located in Sanyo-Onoda city in Yamaguchi prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum features a diverse collection of contemporary art, primarily focused on modern Japanese art and artists who have connections to Yamaguchi.
The permanent collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and videos from 20th-century artists, including Yayoi Kusama, Jiro Yoshihara, and Yoko Ono. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring various contemporary artists from Japan and around the world.
Don’t miss: One of the standout pieces is Yayoi Kusama’s “Pumpkin”, a large yellow-and-black polka-dotted sculpture located near the entrance of the museum.
Also, don’t miss out on the beautiful outdoor garden area, which features a variety of sculptures and installations.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum during the weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
The Art Museum is located in the same complex as a beautiful park, which is a great place to have a picnic and relax after exploring the museum.
Additionally, check out the museum’s website before visiting to see what exciting temporary exhibitions are on display.
10. Kintai Bridge
A historic wooden arch bridge located in Sanyo-Onoda City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge and admire the picturesque views of the Nishiki River and surrounding mountains. Visitors can also explore the nearby Kikkawa Family Residence, a traditional samurai house turned museum.
Don’t miss: Seeing the bridge at night when it is illuminated, for a unique and romantic experience.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays. Wear comfortable shoes as the bridge can be slightly uneven in some places.
Be sure to bring your camera as there are countless photo opportunities.
11. Tsunoshima Bridge
Tsunoshima Bridge is a stunning bridge in Sanyo-Onoda, spanning 1,780 metres across the crystal blue waters between the Tsunoshima island and the mainland.
What to see or do: Drive or walk across the Tsunoshima Bridge and enjoy the serene view of the Sea of Japan below. There are also several lookout points along the bridge to take pictures.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Tsunoshima Lighthouse, located on the island. It offers an incredible panoramic view of the surrounding sea and landscape.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Tsunoshima Bridge is during sunset when the sky takes on captivating hues of red and orange.
12. Akiyoshidai Plateau
A vast plateau located in the western part of Yamaguchi prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The plateau offers stunning natural landscapes and a unique karst topography featuring limestone formations that have been eroded over time.
Visitors can explore the Akiyoshi Cave, one of the largest limestone caves in Japan, and marvel at the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites found inside.
The plateau also offers hiking trails with scenic views, as well as the opportunity to observe wildlife such as deer and rabbits.
Don’t miss: The Akiyoshi-do Museum, which showcases the geology and natural history of the plateau and the Akiyoshi Cave.
Insider travel tips: It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and clothes as the terrain can be uneven and rocky. Visitors should also be prepared for sudden weather changes and bring a jacket or sweater.
To avoid crowds, it is recommended to visit during weekdays and avoid national holidays.
13. Iwakuni Castle
A historic castle located in Sanyo-Onoda, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s various exhibits, including samurai armor and weapons, traditional Japanese art, and historical artifacts.
Take in the stunning views from the castle’s tower, which offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside and the city below.
Don’t miss: The castle’s beautiful gardens, which feature a variety of native and exotic plants, as well as a tranquil koi pond. Be sure to visit during cherry blossom season when the gardens are particularly stunning.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day to avoid long lines and crowds. Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many steps and steep inclines to navigate.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the castle gardens.
14. Akiyoshido Cave
Akiyoshido Cave is a natural limestone cave located in Sanyo-Onoda city in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk through the underground cave and marvel at the stunning rock formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is well-lit and the walkways are well-maintained, making it easy for visitors to explore.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the cave is the “Underground Waterfall,” a rare underground waterfall that drops 30 meters from the cave ceiling.
Visitors can also see the “Otoshibuta” formation, which resembles a hanging wooden boat.
Insider travel tips:
15. Yamaguchi Glass Art Museum
A museum dedicated to contemporary glass art.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful collection of glass art from renowned artists all around the world. Explore the six galleries and marvel at the stunning creations, including delicate glass flowers and intricate sculptures.
Don’t miss: The outdoor garden, which showcases numerous installations of glass art among natural Japanese scenery. The museum shop also offers a selection of unique glass art pieces for purchase as souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for upcoming exhibitions and events, as they often feature temporary installations from both domestic and international artists.
The museum is closed on Mondays and holidays, so plan your visit accordingly. On a hot day, bring water as the museum may get warm due to the large windows.