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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Shimonoseki sharing quite a few of those!
Shimonoseki is a gem waiting to be discovered, a treasure trove of hidden delights just waiting to be explored.
From savoring fresh seafood to experiencing local culture, this vibrant city has myriad experiences to offer.
So, step into a world of wonder and discovery, as we take you on a tour of the most amazing things to do in Shimonoseki.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Shimonoseki:
1. Karato Market
Karato Market is a popular seafood market located in the city of Shimonoseki, Japan.
What to see or do: The market offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, including squid, sea bream, shrimp, and locally caught fugu (blowfish).
Visitors can see the vendors expertly filleting and preparing the fish, and there are also many small restaurants and food stalls serving up delicious seafood dishes.
Don’t miss: One of the most famous dishes to try is “karato yaki,” grilled squid skewers with soy sauce and vegetables.
The market also sells Shimonoseki’s famous “kawara soba,” which is a type of cold noodles served on a hot tile slab.
Insider travel tips: – The market is busiest in the mornings when the seafood is fresh, so it’s best to visit early.
2. Kaikyokan aquarium
Kaikyokan is a large aquarium located in Shimonoseki, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the different themed areas of the aquarium, which house a vast variety of marine life from the Sea of Japan and other regions.
Some of the highlights include the massive Kuroshio tank, home to sharks and rays, and the dolphin and sea lion shows.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the jellyfish exhibit, which is beautifully lit and mesmerizing to watch. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to touch a starfish or sea urchin in the touch pool area.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and catch the dolphin and sea lion shows before they get too crowded.
Additionally, consider purchasing a combination ticket that also includes admission to the nearby Karato fish market.
3. Tsunoshima Island
Tsunoshima Island is a small island located off the coast of Shimonoseki city in Yamaguchi prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, and scenic views.
What to see or do: – Enjoy the stunning view of the arch-shaped Tsunoshima Bridge, which connects the island to the mainland.
Don’t miss: The Tsunoshima Island Tourist Center, where you can learn about the island’s history, nature, and culture, and get information about transportation and accommodations.
Insider travel tips: – The island can only be reached by car or bus, so plan your transportation ahead of time.
4. Akama Shrine
Akama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture.
It is dedicated to the gods of the sea and also serves as a memorial for Emperor Antoku, who drowned during the battle of Dan-no-ura, which was fought in the waters nearby.
What to see or do: Visitors can first explore the stunning torii gate located offshore, which is the largest wooden gate in Japan and a popular photo spot.
Then, they can walk through the precincts of the shrine, which includes several pavilions and halls that exhibit artifacts related to the battle of Dan-no-ura.
Don’t miss: The most popular attraction at Akama Shrine is the Hall of Emperor Antoku, where visitors can see a replica of the imperial regalia, the sword, mirror, and jewel, which were lost in the sea during the battle.
Additionally, the scenic overlooks at the shrine offer breathtaking views of the Kanmon Straits.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Akama Shrine is during the Sakura Matsuri (cherry blossom festival) in late March and early April when the cherry trees bloom throughout the shrine’s grounds.
5. Kozan-ji Temple
Kozan-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. It’s considered a National Treasure and famous for its beautiful garden and architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple’s grounds, admire its stunning garden, and take in the architecture of the buildings, including the Main Hall and Inner Sanctuary.
One of the highlights of Kozan-ji Temple is the famous Dragon Ceiling painting in the Main Hall.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the beautiful garden, which features a pond, waterfall, and a variety of plants, including cherry blossoms and maple trees.
The Dragon Ceiling painting is also a must-see attraction.
Insider travel tips: Visit in autumn to see the stunning fall foliage in the garden. The temple can get crowded, so arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Photography is not allowed inside the Main Hall.
6. Kanmon Bridge
Kanmon Bridge is a suspension bridge that connects the cities of Shimonoseki and Kitakyushu in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk or drive across the bridge, which offers stunning views of the Kanmon Strait and the surrounding landscape. The bridge is also beautifully lit up at night, making it a popular spot for an evening stroll.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stop at the Kanmon Straits Museum near the bridge’s southern end. Here you can learn about the region’s history, ecosystem, and the construction of the bridge.
Insider travel tips: If you’re driving across the bridge, be prepared to pay a toll, which varies depending on the size of your vehicle.
The toll is only collected when heading towards Shimonoseki. Additionally, the bridge can get quite windy, so be sure to hold onto any loose items you may have.
7. Hinoyama Park
A beautiful park located in Shimonoseki, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely walk among the gardens, ponds, and cherry blossom trees. Enjoy the scenic views of the nearby mountains and sea.
Visit the Shirasu monument and the historical Ryoma Sakamoto statue.
Don’t miss: The stunning seasonal displays of flowers, including cherry blossoms in spring and cosmos in autumn. Also, check out the free-roaming rabbits and guinea pigs in the petting zoo.
Insider travel tips: Bring a picnic and relax on one of the lawns. Visit during the early morning and late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Take a stroll to the nearby Karato Fish Market for freshly caught seafood.
8. Attema-no-Yu Onsen
Attema-no-Yu Onsen is a hot springs resort located in the city of Shimonoseki, Japan.
What to see or do: The resort offers guests a chance to soak in the natural hot springs, which are said to have healing properties for various ailments.
There are indoor and outdoor baths available, as well as private baths for couples or families. The resort also has a restaurant serving traditional Japanese cuisine, a massage salon, and a gift shop.
Don’t miss: Make sure to try out the outdoor bath, where you can relax in the hot water while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Insider travel tips: To fully enjoy the hot springs experience, it is recommended to follow traditional Japanese bathing etiquette.
This includes washing yourself thoroughly before entering the bath area, and keeping the bath water clean by not bringing any soaps or shampoo into the water.
Also, be sure to bring a towel with you as they are not provided at the resort.
9. Shimonoseki Station
A major train station located in Shimonoseki, Japan.
What to see or do: Shimonoseki Station serves as a transportation hub for the city and surrounding areas, making it a popular spot for travelers and commuters alike.
While there isn’t a tremendous amount to see or do within the actual station itself, there are plenty of attractions and activities to be found nearby.
Don’t miss: The Kanmon Bridge, which connects Japan’s Honshu and Kyushu islands, is just a short distance from the station and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
The Karato Fish Market is also nearby and is a great spot to sample some of the region’s famous seafood.
Insider travel tips: If you’re traveling to or from Shimonoseki Station, be sure to make advance reservations for your train tickets.
The station can get quite busy, especially during peak travel periods, so having your tickets arranged in advance will help you avoid any unnecessary stress or delays.
Additionally, be sure to keep an eye on your belongings while in the station and on trains, as pickpocketing can be a problem in some areas.
10. Kintaikyo Bridge
Kintaikyo Bridge is a historical wooden arch bridge located in Shimonoseki, Japan. It spans over the Nishiki River and is composed of five wooden arches.
What to see or do: Take a stroll on the bridge and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding greenery and river. Visitors can also explore the Kikko Park, where the bridge is located, and learn about the history of the area.
Don’t miss: Witness the bridge at night when it is illuminated, creating a picturesque atmosphere, perfect for capturing some stunning photos.
Insider travel tips: Visit during autumn when the surrounding trees burst into hues of red, orange and yellow. It is also wise to wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding park area has a lot of walking paths.
Additionally, arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and have a more serene experience.
11. Chofu Mori Residence
What to see or do: Take a tour of the traditional Japanese house and learn about the history of the Mori family, who were prominent figures in Japanese politics.
Don’t miss: The beautiful garden surrounding the house, which is a great example of traditional Japanese landscaping.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to book a tour in advance, as they can fill up quickly.
Also, wear shoes that are easy to take off and put on, as you will be asked to remove them inside the house.
12. Shimonoseki City Art Museum
Shimonoseki City Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in the heart of Shimonoseki City, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases a wide range of contemporary art from both local and international artists. The exhibitions change regularly and cover a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and video.
Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s beautiful architecture, which blends traditional Japanese and modern design elements.
Don’t miss: One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the permanent collection of works by local artist, Kusanagi Hiroshi. His intricate and colorful sculptures are a must-see for any visitor to the museum.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is open from 9am to 5pm and closed on Mondays and holidays.
13. Kaikyo Yume Tower
Kaikyo Yume Tower is a stunning observation tower located in Shimonoseki, Japan.
It is famous for being the tallest tower in Western Japan and provides breathtaking views of the Kanmon Strait and the surrounding mountains.
What to see or do: The main attraction of Kaikyo Yume Tower is its observation deck, which is located on the 28th floor and offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Visitors can also enjoy a delicious meal at the tower’s restaurant, which serves local delicacies and international cuisine.
Don’t miss: The tower’s glass-floor observatory, which is located on the 29th floor, is a must-visit attraction.
It provides a unique opportunity to look down at the city from a different perspective and is sure to give visitors an unforgettable experience.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning a visit to Kaikyo Yume Tower, try to time your visit with the sunset.
This will give you the chance to see the city and the sea bathed in warm hues of orange and pink.
Also, consider taking the tower’s elevator to the top floor, as it ascends at a surprisingly fast speed and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.
14. Ginrin Koi Farm
Ginrin Koi Farm is a koi breeding farm located in Shimonoseki, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the farm to see the breeding process and learn about the different varieties of koi.
The farm has a shop where visitors can purchase koi, as well as koi-related products such as food, filters, and pumps.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to witness firsthand the beautiful and vibrant colors of the koi. Additionally, visitors can take part in feeding the fish or have a photoshoot with them.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring appropriate footwear as the area around the ponds can be slippery.
Visitors should also check the weather conditions before visiting as the ponds may be covered in snow during the winter months.
It is advisable to inquire about the availability of the tours in advance.
15. Mimae Koryukan Museum
Mimae Koryukan Museum is a small museum dedicated to the traditional music and dance of Shimonoseki area in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various types of instruments, costumes, and videos showcasing the regional music and dance performances. A highlight of the museum is the opportunity to try some of the instruments and learn some dance moves.
Don’t miss: The museum hosts performances by local musicians and dancers on weekends and holidays. Check the schedule in advance to catch a live show.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is small, so it won’t take up much of your time.
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