Sightseeing Day in Yamaguchi City

As far as travel destinations in Yamaguchi Prefecture go, the capital city of Yamaguchi tends to get overshadowed by the picturesque Hagi to the north. In our books though, the home of the Ouchi Clan, one of the most powerful clans in 12th century Japan, Yamaguchi City has plenty of locations to keep the journey exciting with a good mix of history and culture. Here are some of our recommendations for a day of sightseeing in this charming city.

Sightseeing Day in Yamaguchi City

The day in Yamaguchi has to start with a visit to Rurikoji Temple and its five-storied pagoda, one of Japan’s National Treasures and probably the number one sightseeing destination in the city. The pagoda, built around the 15th century, is a beautiful piece of art. At 31 meters tall, this huge structure stands out in its surrounding of luscious trees. Sat at the edge of a pond, it creates a magical scene worthy of its high-ranking place amongst the top three pagodas in Japan. Head over to Rurikoji bright and early to witness the pagoda being bathed in the light of the rising sun. During autumn the few momiji trees give the scene a colourful and picture-perfect touch.

Sightseeing Day in Yamaguchi City

After getting a close look at the Ruriko-ji pagoda, the next stop on your itinerary should be Park Road. This wide streets begins near the Old Castle Gate which remains standing to this day. After a couple of necessary snapshots you can make your way down the road making sure to stop by the Prefectural Museum and the Yamaguchi Art Museum along the way where you can learn the ins and outs of the prefectural history. The exhibition halls at the Art Museum require a small fee but if you want a free taste of art, you can also head to the back of the museum and check out the eye-catching sculptures in the Forest of Kenbi.

Sightseeing Day in Yamaguchi City

Behind Park Road and the museum, another architectural piece of art awaits only a few minutes’ walk away. Claiming to be the first city in Japan where Christmas was celebrated, Yamaguchi City cannot be without its own catholic church, and a beautiful church it is. Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Church was first built in 1952 in commemoration of St. Francis Xavier’s visit to the city 450 years prior but was rebuilt in its current form after being destroyed by a fire in 1991. Religious beliefs aside, this church is an alluring site that cannot be missed while in the city.

Sightseeing Day in Yamaguchi City

For a hunger call, the place to stop at is Rubino Cafe. This quaint café hidden in the narrow streets behind the prefectural office building is run by a group of welcoming young women who prepare homely dishes using fresh, local produce. We’ll skip the savoury recommendation and jump to the dessert. If you make it to Rubino, make sure you try their mouthwatering matcha roll cake. Made in house, this is a treat you’ll want to savour slowly until the very last mouthful of cream.

Sightseeing Day in Yamaguchi City

Before heading off to your next destination, do not leave Yamaguchi City before checking out the Yamaguchi Center for Arts and Media, also known as YCAM. This is a multi-use cultural facility and is one of the newest architectural jewels in the city. The YCAM offers a variety of art exhibitions, live performances, and film screenings, along with several other cultural activities. YCAM is free to access and is a great place to connect with local artists. As an added bonus, there is a nursery service of up to two hours available for visitors traveling with kids.

Sightseeing Day in Yamaguchi City

Yamaguchi(Yamaguchi)

Yamaguchi Pref

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Kokusai Hotel Yamaguchi

1-1 Nakagawara-cho Yamaguchi

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The Five-storeyed Pagoda of the Ruriko-ji Temple (a National Treasure)

Yamaguchi Pref. Yamaguchishi Kouzanchou 7-1 Inside of Kayama Park

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Kokusai Hotel Yamaguchi

1-1 Nakagawara-cho Yamaguchi

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Park Road

Yamaguchi Yamaguchi-shi

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Yamaguchi Prefectural Yamaguchi Museum

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Yamaguchi Yamaguchi-shi Kasugacho 8-2

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Kokusai Hotel Yamaguchi

1-1 Nakagawara-cho Yamaguchi

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