Hagi and Tsuwano
Hagi was once a castle town, while Tsuwano is a city on the water that has many waterways and canals. Nishikigoi (fancy carps) of various colors swim in waterways set in front of samurai houses in Tsuwano.
Historical Samurai Town: Hagi, located in Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a beautifully preserved historic town known for its rich samurai heritage. The town’s well-preserved streets, traditional houses, and ancient castle ruins offer visitors a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
Hagi Castle Ruins: Hagi was once home to the ruling Mori Clan, and its castle was a symbol of power during the Edo Period. Though the castle itself no longer stands, the Hagi Castle Ruins remain, offering a serene park-like setting with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Samurai Residences: Hagi is renowned for its well-preserved samurai residences, known as “ch samurai-dwellings”>J samurai-dwellings>/a>. These stately homes showcase traditional architecture and beautiful gardens, providing insights into the lives of the samurai class.
Hagi Pottery: The town has a long history of pottery craftsmanship. Hagi-yaki, the local pottery style, is cherished for its simple, rustic beauty and unique glazes. Visitors can explore local pottery studios and shops to acquire these exquisite ceramics.
Cherry Blossom Tunnel: During the cherry blossom season in spring, Hagi’s streets are adorned with a breathtaking cherry blossom tunnel. The cherry trees form a canopy over the roads, creating a magical atmosphere for hanami (flower viewing) enthusiasts.
How to Reach Hagi:
By Air: The nearest major airport to Hagi is Yamaguchi Ube Airport (IATA: UBJ). From the airport, you can take a train or bus to reach Hagi.
By Train: Hagi has a train station served by the Sanin Main Line. You can take a train from cities like Hiroshima or Shimonoseki to reach Hagi.
Special Points about Tsuwano:
Little Kyoto: Tsuwano, also known as “Little Kyoto,” is a charming town in Shimane Prefecture. It is famous for its well-preserved Edo-era streets, traditional houses, and nostalgic ambiance.
Tsuwano Castle Ruins: The town’s castle was once a formidable fortress but was unfortunately destroyed. The Tsuwano Castle Ruins offer picturesque views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Tonomachi Historic District: Stroll through the Tonomachi district to see rows of traditional merchant houses and historical buildings. This area retains its authentic Edo-period atmosphere.
Tsuwano Catholic Church: A unique highlight of Tsuwano is the Catholic Church, a striking red-brick building amidst the traditional Japanese architecture. It adds an interesting contrast to the town’s cultural landscape.
Tsuwano Yabusame Festival: The town hosts the Tsuwano Yabusame Festival, a traditional horseback archery event held in spring. It showcases impressive archery skills performed by mounted archers in traditional attire.
How to Reach Tsuwano:
By Air: The nearest major airport to Tsuwano is Hiroshima Airport (IATA: HIJ). From there, you can take a train to Tsuwano, with transfers at Hiroshima and Masuda stations.
By Train: Tsuwano is served by the JR Yamaguchi Line. You can take a train from cities like Hiroshima or Shin-Yamaguchi to reach Tsuwano.
Both Hagi and Tsuwano offer an authentic and nostalgic experience of traditional Japan, with their well-preserved historic streets, cultural landmarks, and picturesque landscapes. Visit these towns to immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Japan’s past.