Yamaguchi City

Yamaguchi City is situated at the center of Yamaguchi Prefecture acting as the prefectural capital known as the “Kyoto of the West”. During the 14th century, Yamaguchi prospered under the rule of the Ouchi clan with international trading routes mainly towards China. Today, the city is filled with a wide spread of important cultural properties including temples and shrines.

The most notable religious sites of Yamaguchi belong to the Rurikoji Temple and the Saint Francis Xavier, which was regarded as one of the first areas responsible for the widespread of Christianity in Japan. The five-storied pagoda and designated national treasure of Rurikoji Temple stands as one of three most famous pagodas’ of Japan alongside Daigoji and Horyuji Temple. While at the Saint Francis memorial church, visitors can view the Christian artifacts including paintings, religious items and maps which reveal the route of the spread of Christianity through Xavier’s journey. Visitors can participate in the Yamaguchi Gion Festival which takes place at the branch of Yasaka Shrine located west of the main shrine in Kyoto. Festive performances including dances, ceremonies and floats are carried on the streets, a traditional matsuri celebrated for centuries in Japan. Be sure to try out some of the prefectural signature dishes like the Shirouo Ryouri and the Fugu cuisines for the more adventures travelers which Yamaguchi Prefecture is famous for.

Things To Do in Yamaguchi City