Hagi

Hagi is a former castle town off the major transport ways along the tranquil Sea of Japan coast in Yamaguchi Prefecture, and it is known by its local Hagiyaki Pottery which ranks among Japan's finest. One of the crucibles of the revolution that ended samurai rule in Japan, the city is home to five World Heritage sites that chronicle the birth of Japanese industrialization.

Kikuya Family Residence

It is in the old the castle town of Hagi, built in the 17th century, is among the oldest surviving examples of merchant architecture of the Edo Period as well as being one of the best preserved, so its not surprising that five of the buildings are registered as Important Cultural Properties.

Tokoji Temple

Tokoji Temple (東光寺, Tōkōji) was founded in 1691 and belongs to the Obaku school of Japanese Zen Buddhism. Its beautiful wooden temple buildings stand within the tranquil woods east of downtown Hagi, offering visitors a moment of serenity.

Mount Kasayama

Mount Kasayama is a short mountain.At its summit is a small crater of that measures just 30 meters in diameter and depth, which visitors can descend into via a flight of stairs or circle around via a short path. There is also an observation deck which affords good views over the Sea of Japan.

Shoin Shrine

Shoin Shrine (松陰神社, Shōin Jinja) enshrines Yoshida Shoin, an important figure from Hagi who inspired revolutionary ideas during the twilight years of Japan's feudal age (mid 1800s).

Former Castle Town

During the Edo Period (1603-1867), Hagi prospered as a castle town and served as the capital of the Mori Clan, one of the most powerful clans of the time.

Shokasonjuku Academy

Under the tutelage of Shouin Yoshida, students and disciples were educated in military arts and politics. Notable graduates of Shouka Sonjuku include Gensui Kusaka, Shinsaku Takasugi, and Hirobumi Itō. These men are revered throughout Japan as Persons of Cultural Merit who rendered a great service to the nation.

Aibagawa Waterway

The Aiba Waterway is a canal flowing southeast of Hagi's former castle town. It was constructed in the 18th century for nearby residents' daily purposes. The canal was used by small boats for the transportation of goods such as firewood and rice, and used for farming and fire prevention.

Hagi Uragami Museum

The Hagi Uragami Museum is housed in a modern building within short walking distance from the former castle town. It exhibits art works of Hagiyaki Pottery, ukiyo-e and contemporary art. On showcase are valuable Hagiyaki pieces, some of which have been preserved for centuries.

Hagi Glass Art Studio

Hagi Glass Art Studio stands out from other places that manufacture glass as it consistently uses ore made from the volcanic rock andesite in the production process.

Hagi Seaside Market

the oceanfront “Kitchen of Hagi”, where local producers supply only the freshest ingredients.