Western Japan: Discovering the Charm of Chugoku and Shikoku

Western Japan, encompassing the Chugoku and Shikoku regions, offers visitors a rich tapestry of history, nature, and unique cultural experiences. From sacred islands to ancient castles, and from stunning gardens to spiritual pilgrimages, this area showcases a less-traveled but deeply rewarding side of Japan.

Highlights of the Chugoku Region

1. Hiroshima

• Peace Memorial Park and Museum: World-renowned site for peace education
• Itsukushima Shrine: Famous floating torii gate on Miyajima Island
• Hiroshima Castle: Reconstructed castle showcasing samurai history

2. Okayama

• Korakuen Garden: One of Japan’s three great gardens
• Okayama Castle: Known as “Crow Castle” due to its black exterior
• Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter: Well-preserved canal district

3. Tottori

• Tottori Sand Dunes: Japan’s largest sand dunes
• Mitoku-san: Mountain temple with the mysterious Nageiredo Hall

4. Shimane

• Izumo Taisha: One of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines
• Matsue Castle: One of Japan’s few original surviving castles
• Adachi Museum of Art: Famous for its stunning Japanese garden

Exploring the Shikoku Region

1. Kagawa

• Ritsurin Garden: One of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens
• Naoshima: Contemporary art island with unique museums and installations
• Kotohira-gu Shrine: Mountaintop shrine with 1,368 stone steps

2. Tokushima

• Awa Odori: Famous summer dance festival
• Naruto Whirlpools: Natural whirlpools visible from sightseeing boats

3. Ehime

• Matsuyama Castle: One of Japan’s twelve original castles
• Dogo Onsen: One of Japan’s oldest hot springs, inspiration for “Spirited Away”

4. Kochi

• Kochi Castle: One of only twelve Japanese castles to survive the post-feudal era intact
• Katsurahama Beach: Scenic beach with a statue of Sakamoto Ryoma

Unique Experiences in Western Japan

1. Embark on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, visiting some of the 88 sacred temples
2. Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki
3. Experience zazen meditation at a Buddhist temple in Hiroshima
4. Enjoy a traditional cormorant fishing demonstration on the Nagara River
5. Soak in the healing waters of Dogo Onsen
6. Visit the Murakami Library at Yamaguchi University, designed by Tadao Ando

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring: Cherry blossoms at Matsue Castle and Ritsurin Garden
• Summer: Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony
• Autumn: Fall foliage at Miyajima and Ritsurin Garden
• Winter: Snow-covered landscapes in rural Chugoku, winter illuminations in major cities

Travel Tips for Western Japan

1. Consider purchasing a JR West Hiroshima-Yamaguchi Area Pass for extensive train travel
2. Use the Setouchi Area Pass for island-hopping in the Seto Inland Sea
3. Try local specialties like Sanuki udon in Kagawa and Kobe beef in Hyogo
4. Book accommodations in advance during festival periods, especially for the Awa Odori
5. Rent a car to explore rural areas with limited public transportation

Western Japan offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. From the poignant reminders of the past in Hiroshima to the artistic wonders of Naoshima, and from the sacred pilgrimage routes of Shikoku to the stunning gardens of Okayama, this region provides a diverse and enriching Japanese experience off the typical tourist path.