Famous for interesting historical sites, a longstanding pottery culture, and photographer's favorites like Tsunoshima Bridge and Motonosumi Inari Shrine, Yamaguchi Prefecture has plenty to offer the intrepid traveler. It's also blessed with plenty of natural beauty, including some gorgeous coastlines.
Visit in spring, and you'll also get to enjoy seasonal blooms – this guide covers five spots to get your floral fix.
Tokiwa Park
Yamaguchi's Tokiwa Park is home to approximately 3500 cherry trees in several varieties including the Somei Yoshino, Yaezakura, Mamezakura, and Kawazuzakura types. During the blooming season a cherry blossom festival is held, which also includes evening illuminations so visitors can enjoy the blooms after dark. The park has been listed on Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom viewing spots, and typically the best time to plan a visit is from the late March to mid April period.
3 Chome-4-1 Norisada, Ube, Yamaguchi 755-0003
Yamaguchi Flower Land
Home to hundreds and thousands of blooms throughout the year, Yamaguchi Flower Land really shines during spring. The grounds are divided into twenty-one themed flower beds, with nanohana, nemophila, tulips, and Iceland poppies just some of the seasonal highlights.
500-1 Shinjo, Yanai, Yamaguchi 742-8787
Kintai Bridge
One of Japan's most iconic sights is Yamaguchi's Kintai Bridge, which has a history dating back to 1673. It's made up of five wooden arches on four stone piers, and was designated as a National Treasure back in 1922. As well as being beautiful in and of itself, the surrounds are equally scenic - approximately 3000 cherry trees can be found around the bridge area and at the neighboring Kikko Park, adding a wonderful splash of color.
2 Chome-6-51 Yokoyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081
Hinoyama Park Tulip Garden
With an incredible view out over the Kanmon Strait, Hinoyama Park is well worth a visit at any time of year. During spring, however, you can pair the amazing view with rows and rows of tulips in different colors and varieties.
Fujigaya, Mimosusogawa-cho, Shimonoseki-shi, Yamaguchi 751-0813
Mount Ohira
Yamaguchi's Mount Ohira sits at just over 600 meters in height, and conveniently, visitors are able to drive right up to the top of it. During spring, specifically around mid-May, the summit is home to an impressive number of azaleas in bloom. Along with the beautiful flowers to appreciate, heading to the top of Mount Ohira also offers some great views out over the surrounding Hofu city area and the Seto Inland Sea.
163-59, Mure. Hofu, Yamaguchi 747-0004
