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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Yanai.
Yanai is a delightful jewel nestled in the heart of Japan’s Yamaguchi Prefecture, beckoning visitors with its serene beauty and unforgettable experiences.
From jaw-dropping landscapes to cultural treasures and gastronomic delights, Yanai offers an eclectic mix of activities that will ignite your senses and leave you spellbound.
So, step into this kaleidoscope of culture and let Yanai wow you in ways you never imagined possible.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Yanai:
1. Yanai castle
Yanai Castle is a historic castle located in the city of Yanai, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved castle grounds and structures, including the beautiful castle tower and turrets. The castle offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the castle’s unique features, such as the oar-shaped windows and the wooden carvings on the sliding doors.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the springtime to see the castle surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Additionally, there are often cultural events and festivals held at the castle, so be sure to check the local calendar to plan your visit accordingly.
2. Yanai Nishigura (Traditional Japanese storehouses)
Yanai Nishigura is a cluster of traditional Japanese storehouses that date back to the Edo period, located in Yanai City, Yamaguchi.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the narrow paths between the storehouses, which now house various shops, cafes and museums.
The beautiful black and white timber exteriors of the storehouses are a sight to behold, and the quaint atmosphere of the area is a throwback to traditional Japan.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Yanai Folk Museum, located within one of the storehouses, which exhibits items from daily life in Yanai. Also, make sure to visit the Yanai Bikan Historical Area, which is located nearby and boasts many historically significant buildings.
Insider travel tips: Visit Yanai Nishigura during the Yanai Kikusui Festival, held annually in October, to see the storehouses beautifully illuminated at night and experience traditional Japanese festivities.
Additionally, make sure to try the local delicacy, Yanai Mikan mandarins, which can be found in many shops in the area.
3. Yanai Higashi-gura (Traditional Japanese storehouses)
Yanai Higashi-gura are traditional Japanese storehouses located in Yanai city, Yamaguchi prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore these historic storehouses, which were built during the Edo period (1603-1868). Each storehouse has a unique architectural design, and visitors can learn about their original use.
Don’t miss: One of the most impressive features of Yanai Higashi-gura is the intricate lattice work on the buildings. Visitors should also keep an eye out for the historic markers on each storehouse.
Insider travel tips: – To fully explore Yanai Higashi-gura, plan to spend at least an hour in the area.
4. Yanai Port
Yanai Port is a historic port town located in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visit the Yanai Salt Road, a traditional salt-making method that dates back to the Edo Period, and learn about the process.
Take a stroll through Yanai’s old town area and appreciate the beautiful architecture of the Machiya-style houses and the historical district’s traditional storefronts.
Explore the Shiroyama Park, which overlooks the city and offers an excellent view of the Seto Inland Sea.
Don’t miss: The Yanai Fireworks Festival, held annually on August 15th, is a vibrant celebration with breathtaking fireworks.
Insider travel tips: Visit between October and November to enjoy the stunning fall foliage, and don’t forget to try the local specialty, Yanai Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake made with various ingredients.
It’s also recommended to rent a bike and cycle around the town to discover hidden gems and soak in the local ambiance.
5. Kikugawa Eishindo (Traditional Japanese sweets shop)
Kikugawa Eishindo is a charming traditional Japanese sweets shop located in the historic town of Yanai, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of freshly-made Japanese sweets, including manju (sweet buns filled with bean paste), yokan (jellied desserts made from red bean paste and sugar), and dorayaki (pancakes filled with bean paste).
The shop also sells green tea and other Japanese treats.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss trying the shop’s signature sweet, the “Kikugawa Manju”, which has been a favorite in the area for over 120 years.
The soft, pillowy bun is filled with a delicious sweet bean paste, and makes for the perfect mid-day snack.
Insider travel tips: -The best time to visit the shop is on weekends when they often offer free samples.
6. Yanai Catholic Church
Yanai Catholic Church is a historic church located in Yanai City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture of the church which was built in 1936 and features a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles.
The church interior is equally stunning and visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere for prayer and reflection.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the beautiful stained glass windows which were imported from France and depict scenes from the Bible. Also, make sure to check out the beautiful garden surrounding the church.
Insider travel tips: – The church is open to visitors year-round, but it may be closed during certain events or for maintenance.
7. Yanai City Historical Folk Museum
Yanai City Historical Folk Museum is a well-curated museum located in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore and appreciate the rich history of the city through the impressive collection of artifacts, traditional handicrafts, and antique household items.
The displays are thoughtfully arranged in various exhibits across the museum’s two floors.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the intricate and impressive exhibitions showcasing the local culture, traditions, and history of Yanai. The museum also houses precious historical documents and photographs that provide a glimpse of Yanai’s evolution over time.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in local history, consider hiring a guide from the museum to give you a guided tour. It’s free and you’ll be able to learn interesting facts and stories about the exhibits.
The museum also has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans.
8. Yanai City Traditional Row Houses
Yanai City Traditional Row Houses are a group of restored historic homes located in Yanai, a picturesque city in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Yanai and admire the traditional Japanese architecture of the row houses.
Some of them are open to the public, allowing tourists to peek inside and get a glimpse of what life was like in the past.
In addition, there are several charming cafes and shops in the area where travelers can take a break and grab a bite to eat.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Ruriko-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist temple that dates back to the 6th century. Its five-tiered pagoda is an iconic symbol of Yanai and one of the most beautiful in Japan.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the Yanai Kirara Matsuri (Yanai Glitter Festival) in October, when the city is illuminated with thousands of glowing lanterns.
Also, try the local specialty, Yanai sasamaki, a type of sushi that is wrapped in bamboo leaves and filled with seafood and vegetables.
9. Yanai Shoho-ji temple
Yanai Shoho-ji is a Buddhist temple located in Yanai City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture of the temple, which was built in 1394 and has been designated as a National Treasure of Japan.
The main hall, bell tower, and drum tower are particularly impressive. Visitors can also participate in meditation and calligraphy classes that are held on the temple grounds.
Don’t miss: The gardens surrounding the temple are a must-see.
The tea garden, in particular, is a serene and beautiful spot to relax and enjoy some traditional Japanese sweets and tea.
Visitors can also explore the nearby historic streets of Yanai, which have been preserved in their original Edo-period style.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring some yen coins to offer at the temple’s main hall and to ring the temple bell. The temple is accessible by train and is about a 10-minute walk from JR Yanai Station.
It is also possible to rent a bicycle from the station and explore the area. Visiting during the autumn foliage season is highly recommended, as the colors of the surrounding trees are stunning.
10. Yanai City Canal (Yanai-ji)
Yanai City Canal, also known as Yanai-ji, is a scenic waterway located in Yanai City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the canal, enjoying the idyllic sights of the wooden houses and stone warehouses lining the water’s edge.
Boat rides and yakatabune dining experiences are also available, offering a unique perspective on the city’s graceful scenery.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the weeping cherry trees in full bloom during spring. The vibrant pink blossoms contrast beautifully with the tranquil green waters of the canal.
Insider travel tips: For the best viewing experience, it’s recommended to visit during the early morning or evening when the light is softer and the area is less crowded.
Additionally, be sure to check out the Yanai-ji Museum, which offers exhibits on the history and culture of the canal and its role in the local community.
11. Yanai Machinami Exchange Center
Yanai Machinami Exchange Center is a cultural center located in Yanai, Japan.
What to see or do: The center offers various cultural experiences such as calligraphy, tea ceremony, and traditional dance classes. Visitors can also explore the center’s exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Yanai.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the beautiful garden on the premises. It’s a peaceful oasis that provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning about Japanese culture, this center is a great place to start.
The staff is very knowledgeable and welcoming, and they offer hands-on activities that allow you to learn and immerse yourself in Japanese traditions.
Plan to spend at least a few hours here to fully experience everything the center has to offer.
12. Yanai Ten-gu Shrine
What to see or do: Visit the main shrine building, walk around the tranquil grounds, admire the intricate wooden carvings on the shrine gates, and participate in traditional Japanese rituals such as making offerings and drawing omikuji (fortunes).
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view of the Seto Inland Sea from the shrine grounds.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the shrine has many stairs and slopes. Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and witness the serene beauty of the shrine.
If possible, plan your visit during the annual Yanai Tenjin Festival held on July 25th, where the shrine is decorated with hundreds of lanterns and there are various performances and events.
13. Yanai Traditional Crafts Museum
The Yanai Traditional Crafts Museum is a small museum located in Yanai City, Japan that is dedicated to showcasing the city’s traditional crafts.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibitions and learn about the history and techniques of the local crafts, such as pottery, lacquerware, and weaving.
There are also interactive displays where visitors can try their hand at some of the crafts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the intricate and delicate pieces of lacquerware on display, which are some of the museum’s most prized possessions.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should also take some time to explore the charming streets of Yanai City, which are lined with traditional houses and shops selling locally-made crafts.
And, if you’re a fan of Japanese sake, be sure to sample some of Yanai’s famous locally-produced sake while you’re in town.
14. Yanai-senbei-no-sato (Rice cracker factory)
Yanai-senbei-no-sato is a famous rice cracker factory located in Yanai city in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the whole process of senbei (rice cracker) making from mixing the ingredients to baking the crackers. In addition to watching the process, visitors can also try their hand at making their own rice crackers.
Don’t miss: The chance to taste freshly made senbei, which come in various flavors such as soy sauce, miso, and seaweed.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds. The rice cracker factory can get quite busy, especially during weekends and holidays.
Also, don’t forget to bring home some senbei as souvenirs for friends and family!
15. Yanai Culture Museum
Yanai Culture Museum is a small museum located in Yanai city, Japan that showcases local art and history.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of regional pottery, paintings, sculptures, and calligraphy. The exhibits showcase the artistic works of various local artists throughout history.
Don’t miss: The museum’s most impressive feature is the preserved samurai residence adjacent to the museum, which is considered an important cultural property of Japan.
Visitors can walk through the traditional house and see how samurai families lived during the Edo period.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in Japanese history and culture, a visit to Yanai Culture Museum should be on your list. Make sure to check out the seasonal exhibitions, which highlight different aspects of Japanese art and culture.
Consider exploring Yanai city itself, which offers stunning scenery and local cuisine.