Shimonoseki City

Yamaguchi
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Located at the westernmost tip of Honshu and flourishing as a gateway to Kyushu, Shimonoseki City is a "city of history and straits" surrounded by sea on three sides. Historical spots from the Genpei War and the Meiji Restoration are dotted throughout the city, letting you encounter stories of Japan's turning points as you walk. Additionally, "Karato Market," where you can enjoy fresh seafood starting with "fugu" (pufferfish)—of which Shimonoseki boasts the highest handling volume in Japan—is a sanctuary for international food lovers. Dynamic scenery such as the Kanmon Bridge spanning the strait, the underwater pedestrian tunnel, and coastlines with beautiful sunsets are also attractive. Combining urban convenience, old castle town emotion, and world-class seafood, it's an energetic city concentrating Yamaguchi's sightseeing highlights.

Shimonoseki City

Favorite

FUN！SHIMONOSEKI（日本語＋英語）

FUN！SHIMONOSEKI（日本語＋英語）

Shimonoseki Convention & Visitors Bureau

歴史・文化・絶景！下関の1年をまとめたイベントダイジェスト / Experience Shimonoseki: Festivals, Fireworks & Sports Events!

歴史・文化・絶景！下関の1年をまとめたイベントダイジェスト / Experience Shimonoseki: Festivals, Fireworks & Sports Events!

Drone School Shimonoseki

海峡と歴史のまち下関 ~しものせきのイベント~【ドローンスクール下関】

海峡と歴史のまち下関 ~しものせきのイベント~【ドローンスクール下関】

Drone School Shimonoseki

やまぐち映像図鑑 NO.013 瓦そば［下関市］| Kawarasoba [ Shimonoseki-city ]

やまぐち映像図鑑 NO.013 瓦そば［下関市］| Kawarasoba [ Shimonoseki-city ]

Yamaguchi Prefectural Tourism Federation

やまぐち映像図鑑 NO.150下関のふく［下関市］ | Shimonoseki Blowfish [ Shimonoseki-city ]

やまぐち映像図鑑 NO.150下関のふく［下関市］ | Shimonoseki Blowfish [ Shimonoseki-city ]

Yamaguchi Prefectural Tourism Federation

やまぐち映像図鑑 NO.075 下関のあんこう料理［下関市］ | Shimonoseki Anglerfish Cuisine [ Shimonoseki-city ]

やまぐち映像図鑑 NO.075 下関のあんこう料理［下関市］ | Shimonoseki Anglerfish Cuisine [ Shimonoseki-city ]

Yamaguchi Prefectural Tourism Federation

Shimonoseki City

Address: 3-3-1 Buzenda-cho, Shimonoseki-shi, Yamaguchi
Website: https://www.stca-kanko.or.jp/
Operator: Shimonoseki Convention & Visitors Bureau

Shimonoseki City Spots List

Chofu Mori Residence Wind Chime Painting
Shimonoseki Fishing Park
Tsunoshima Island
Kameyama Hachimangu Shrine
Kawatana Onsen
Kanmon Strait
Ichinomata Sakura Park
Hinoyama Park (Cherry Blossoms)
Karato Market
Kanmon Tunnel Pedestrian Path
Sino-Japanese Peace Treaty Hall
Kaikyo Yume Tower
Chofu Mori Residence
Tsunoshima Lighthouse Park (Narcissus)
Kaikyokan (Shimonoseki Aquarium)
Akama Jingu Shrine
Mimosusogawa Park
Tsunoshima Bridge
Chofu Castle Town
Kozanji Temple

Chofu Mori Residence Wind Chime Painting

Chofu Mori Residence Wind Chime Painting

At the "Chofu Mori Residence," a high-grade Japanese architecture once visited by Emperor Meiji, you can experience "Wind Chime Painting" during the summer. Painting your own patterns or messages on transparent glass wind chimes while looking at the beautiful Japanese garden is a quiet, creative time unique to a historic residence. The cool sound of the completed wind chimes will bring a moment of respite to the Japanese summer. Walking through the dignified rooms and corridors of the Mori family, a branch of the Choshu Domain, and leaving your own colors there will become an elegant memory that overlaps history...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shimonoseki Fishing Park

Shimonoseki Fishing Park

A sea fishing park located at the western end of the Kanmon Strait, designed so that everyone from beginners to experts can enjoy fishing safely. Since it is a pier-style facility extending into the sea, you can target various fish throughout the seasons, such as horse mackerel, sea bream, and oval squid, even without a boat. Rental tackle and bait are also available, so you can stop by empty-handed, which is a great point. While feeling the dynamic tidal currents and sea breeze of the Kanmon Strait, the moment you catch a fish is exceptional. It is an ideal spot...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tsunoshima Island

Tsunoshima Island

Located in the northwestern part of Shimonoseki City, this island floats in the emerald green sea. The "Tsunoshima Bridge," which continues straight toward the blue horizon, is famous as one of Japan's top driving spots, and its overwhelming beauty has been used in many commercials and movies. After crossing the bridge, you will find a landscape where the white sand "Cobalt Blue Beach" and the historic "Tsunoshima Lighthouse" made of granite harmonize beautifully. Walking along the coast while feeling the sea breeze, looking at the setting sun coloring the sea, or enjoying fresh seafood, you can spend a moving time...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kameyama Hachimangu Shrine

Kameyama Hachimangu Shrine

Located in Shimonoseki City, this is a historic shrine known as the "Guardian of the Kanmon Strait," enshrining Emperor Ojin and others. Known for having the world's largest granite torii gate, the sight of it standing against the backdrop of the sea and the Kanmon Bridge is grand. Inside the precincts, there are many spots associated with history, such as monuments related to the Taira clan and the world's largest pufferfish (fugu) statue. Since the Shimonoseki "Akama Shrine" and "Kamonwharf" are nearby, it is perfect for a stroll while feeling the sea breeze. It is a place widely loved by...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kawatana Onsen

Located in Shimonoseki City, this is a historic hot spring resort said to have been discovered by a Zen monk 800 years ago, following a legend of a "Blue Dragon." Known as a place loved by the drifting poet Santoka Taneda and the world-famous pianist Alfred Cortot, a calm and poetic atmosphere drifts through the area. The hot springs, with their gentle touch, effectively warm the body to its core and are highly rated as a "bath for longevity." A specialty of this area is "Kawara Soba," where tea soba and ingredients are placed on a heated roof tile; its...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Accommodation
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Spring
Summer
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Kanmon Strait

The Kanmon Strait separates Honshu (Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi) and Kyushu (Kitakyushu, Fukuoka), with a width of only about 700 meters at its narrowest point. It is one of the world's leading maritime traffic hubs, with about 700 ships of all sizes passing through each day. Historically, it has been the stage for numerous legends, such as the final battle of the Genpei War, "Dan-no-ura," and the duel between Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojiro on "Ganryujima." The dynamic landscape, with the massive Kanmon Bridge spanning the sky and a pedestrian tunnel running under the sea, is overwhelming. While watching the rapid currents...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ichinomata Sakura Park

Ichinomata Sakura Park

Ichinomata Cherry Blossom Park in the mountains of Shimonoseki City is a "hidden spectacular view spot" known for its fantastical landscape woven by submerged dead trees, clear water surfaces, and cherry blossoms blooming in spring. Cherry trees line the shores of the dam lake, and on clear, windless days, the cherry blossoms and dead trees reflect upside down in the mirror-like water, creating a mysterious scene as if from a fantasy movie. Since it is still not very well-known, it's a perfect location for those who want to quietly face nature and enjoy photography. Away from the city hustle, you...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring

Hinoyama Park (Cherry Blossoms)

Hinoyama Park (Cherry Blossoms)

A park spreading across the summit of Mt. Hinoyama at an altitude of 268 meters in Shimonoseki City. From here, you can enjoy an overwhelming panorama overlooking the Kanmon Strait, Kanmon Bridge, and as far as Kyushu on the opposite shore. Especially in spring, cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom brilliantly as if coloring the entire mountain, and the contrast between the blue sea and sky and the vivid flowers is breathtakingly beautiful. You can reach the summit by ropeway, enjoying the spectacular view while taking a walk in the sky. At night, you can enjoy the city lights referred to...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring

Karato Market

Karato Market in Shimonoseki City is a lively fish market known as "Kanmon's Kitchen," while also boasting a leading handling volume of pufferfish in Japan. On weekends and holidays, an event called "Iki-iki Bakangai" is held, where many sushi battles and seafood stalls line up. Freshly caught pufferfish, sea bream, yellowtail, and more are provided as sushi or bowls at surprisingly reasonable prices, and the energetic atmosphere is the best stage to experience a "Japanese Fish Market." The experience of eating what you bought on the seaside wooden deck while gazing at the view of the Kanmon Strait is the...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kanmon Tunnel Pedestrian Path

Kanmon Tunnel Pedestrian Path

A world-rare "undersea pedestrian tunnel" connecting Shimonoseki City in Yamaguchi Prefecture on Honshu and Kitakyushu City in Fukuoka Prefecture on Kyushu. The 780-meter long tunnel passes under the seafloor of the Kanmon Strait, and in the middle, there is a boundary marker showing the border between Yamaguchi and Fukuoka Prefectures, making it a prime photo spot. Descending about 60 meters underground by elevator from the surface and walking through the quiet seafloor path to reach another island in just about 15 minutes is a very unique experience and a great travel memory. Unaffected by weather, you can enjoy the excitement...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Sino-Japanese Peace Treaty Hall

Sino-Japanese Peace Treaty Hall

A museum located in Amidaiji-cho, Shimonoseki, that preserves and opens the venue where the peace treaty ending the Sino-Japanese War (Treaty of Shimonoseki) was signed in 1895. Adjacent to Akama Jingu Shrine, the museum displays the actual tables, chairs, and furnishings used in the treaty negotiations in their original arrangement. You can witness the stage of negotiations that greatly moved the history of modern East Asia and feel the weight of history firsthand. The building, which retains its architectural beauty of the time, and the materials regarding Hirobumi Ito and Li Hongzhang who were involved in the negotiations are also...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kaikyo Yume Tower

Kaikyo Yume Tower

A 153-meter total length observation tower standing as a landmark of Shimonoseki. The observation room on the top floor has a unique spherical shape, from which you can overlook the Kanmon Strait, the mountains of Kyushu, and the two seas—the Sea of Japan and the Seto Inland Sea—in a 360-degree panorama. The view from dusk to night is particularly spectacular, and the brilliance woven by the lights of ships coming and going in the strait and the city's night view is beautiful enough to be selected as a "Japan Night View Heritage" site. There are also romantic spots inside the...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Chofu Mori Residence

Chofu Mori Residence

A heavy mansion built in the castle town of Chofu, Shimonoseki, by the 14th head of the Chofu Mori family, Mototoshi. The grand main house, which strongly retains Meiji-era architectural styles, and the beautifully arranged Japanese garden are in harmony, and stepping inside conveys the elegant lifestyle of the aristocracy of that time. The "Goshinsyo" (Imperial Sleeping Quarters) where Emperor Meiji stayed is also preserved, making its historical value extremely high. The time spent drinking matcha in a Japanese room while gazing at the garden showing seasonal expressions is a blissful moment that makes you forget the fatigue of your...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tsunoshima Lighthouse Park (Narcissus)

Tsunoshima Lighthouse Park (Narcissus)

Located at the northwestern tip of Tsunoshima Island across the bridge, this lighthouse park boasts some of the best beauty in Japan. The stone "Tsunoshima Lighthouse," designed by a British engineer in the Meiji era, still lights the sea today and is designated as an Important Cultural Property due to its historical value. Climbing the spiral staircase rewards you with an overwhelming 360-degree panorama of the emerald green sea. Especially from winter to early spring, about 50,000 wild narcissi bloom around the park, enveloping the area in a sweet scent. The contrast between the blue sky and sea, the white...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kaikyokan (Shimonoseki Aquarium)

Kaikyokan (Shimonoseki Aquarium)

Located right in front of the Kanmon Strait, this aquarium is full of dynamism. It boasts the world's largest collection of "fugu" (pufferfish), a symbol of Shimonoseki, with over 100 unique species on display. The biggest highlights are the large tank recreating the currents of the Kanmon Strait and "Penguin Village," one of Japan's largest penguin exhibits. The experience of watching penguins swimming powerfully through an underwater tunnel gives you an immersive feeling as if you are in the sea. Additionally, the dolphin and sea lion show performed with the strait in the background is a spectacular entertainment unique to...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
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Akama Jingu Shrine

Akama Jingu Shrine

Akama Jingu, with its vivid vermilion "Suiten-mon" gate reflecting beautifully on the sea, is a shrine dedicated to Emperor Antoku, who tragically died young in the "Battle of Dan-no-ura" in 1185. Its appearance is modeled after the undersea "Dragon Palace Castle" (Ryugu-jo), and the contrast with the blue Kanmon Strait in the background is incredibly photogenic. Within the grounds are "Hoichi-do," dedicated to the famous "Earless Hoichi" from Lafcadio Hearn's ghost stories, and "Nanamori-zuka," mourning the fallen Taira clan, carving a tragic history deep within its gorgeous beauty. In the "Sentei-sai" festival held every May, Oiran (courtesans) in magnificent traditional...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Mimosusogawa Park

Mimosusogawa Park

This historical park faces "Hayatomo-no-Seto," the narrowest point of the Kanmon Strait separating Shimonoseki and Moji. It overlooks the site of the "Battle of Dan-no-ura," which marked the end of the Heian period, and features dynamic bronze statues of Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Taira no Tomomori. It is also the site of the "Dan-no-ura Battery Ruins," where the Choshu Domain fought off foreign ships at the end of the Edo period, and massive replica cannons line up facing the sea. While observing the rapid tides flowing like a river, you can feel the pulse of history where Japan's ancient and...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tsunoshima Bridge

Tsunoshima Bridge

This is a magnificent suspension bridge with a total length of 1,780 meters that stretches in a straight line through the emerald green sea. As a bridge that is free to cross, it is one of the longest in Japan and is world-famous as a filming location for car commercials and movies. The transparency of the sea on both sides of the bridge is surprisingly high, and on sunny days, you can enjoy a sense of openness like a tropical resort. From the observation spot on the mainland side, you can capture a panorama of the beautifully curved bridge and...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Chofu Castle Town

Chofu Castle Town

Chofu in Shimonoseki City is an atmospheric castle town that has been a stage for history since ancient times. Samurai residences from the Edo period still remain, and walking through the old streets lined with earthen walls makes you feel as if you have slipped back in time to the Edo period. Dotted with spots like Kozanji Temple, which holds a national treasure, and the Chofu Mori Residence with its beautiful garden, you can quietly enjoy the depth of history. Recently, modern cafes and general stores renovating traditional buildings have increased, allowing you to enjoy a city walk that blends...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kozanji Temple

Kozanji Temple, located in the Chofu castle town, is a prestigious temple with a Buddha hall (National Treasure) that conveys the architectural style of the Kamakura period. It is also known as the place where Shinsaku Takasugi, a hero of the late Edo period, raised an army that sparked the Meiji Restoration, making it a "sanctuary of change" for history fans. The grounds are enveloped in silence, and in autumn, spectacular colorful leaves decorate the old temple buildings. The fusion of dignified architectural beauty and the story that feels the heat of the moment when Japanese history moved greatly gives...

Yamaguchi
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
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