Things to see and do Chūgoku

Itsukushima-jinja is established on the island of Miyajima, at the foot of Mount Misen. The great Torii of Miyajima has existed since the renovation of the shrine by Taira no Kiyomori in 1168. Cleared at low tide, the main shrine consists of the Hai Den and the main hall, the Hon Den. A platform hosts the bugaku dance. The first shrine was built in the 6th century in 593, although this date is questioned by scholars who favour 811. Kiyomori Taira renovated the shrine and raised the vermilion-colored torii into the sea. It was restored several times, notably in 1168, 1241 and 1571. The shrine is dedicated to the three daughters of Susano'o, characters from Shintō mythology who are said to have caused another of their sisters, Amaterasu, to withdraw into a cave. The stage of the Nō Theatre dates from 1680, making it one of the oldest in Japan. It is located further south. The treasure pavilion contains sutras and also the Heike no Kyō, consisting of 33 volumes of sutras. These are purely Buddhist texts, with the exception of one volume devoted to the vows made by Taira no Kiyomori. At the back, on the hill to the north, one can see the Thousand Tatami Pavilion, the Senjō Kaku. This pavilion, built in 1587, was donated by Hideyoshi Toyotomi. Miyajima has many other temples such as, for example, Daigan-ji, which is said to date from 1201 and is located south of the shrine.

Built between the arms of the Ota-gawa River, the Heiwa Kinen Kōen (Peace Memorial Park) was designed by architect Kenzō Tange, while the two bridges are the works of Japanese-American sculptor Noguchi Isamu. The Cenotaph and the Flame monument feature an inscription, "Remain in peace so that the mistake will not be made again." The lists of the victims are kept in the stone coffin in the cenotaph monument.

Classified as remarkable landscapes, these gorges are located in Nishi Park, only 1 hour drive from Hiroshima. Renowned for their beauty, they are also famous for their glowing maples in autumn. Powerful streams, deep pools, steep walls and waterfalls follow one another. This 13 km long area stretches from the entrance of Sandankyo to Lake Hijiri. The five beautiful views of Kurobuchi include the cliff and primary forest, Sarutobi, the narrow passage between the rocks and the waterfalls Nidan-daki, Sandan-daki and Mitsu-daki.

Close to the seaside resort of Ushimado, which is left by boat, the island of Kuroshima, rises there. At a low tide it is within walking distance of Venus road. This strip of sand actually connects three islands, which lovers travel preferably at sunset.

Mont Washuzan offers an exceptional view of the Setonaikai National Park, the first Japanese national park. The park is advised for the view it offers on the Seto Grand Bridge. The view from the summit offers a panorama on the Inland Sea. You will see about islands and Shikoku on the opposite shore. The observatory also offers a picturesque resting place. The sunset on the Seto Sea is considered one of Japan's 100 most beautiful.

On Sensui-jima island in addition to swimming in summer, you will be able to participate in several recreational activities, such as hiking, table salt, or small traditional objects. There is also a spa, a onsen in the hotel managed by the city. There is also possibility of camping on site. Information from Tomonoura Tourist Office at ✆ +81 84 982 3200.

The gorges, carved by the Abu River, are among the most beautiful in Japan. It is located about 20 km northeast of Yamaguchi. With a total length of 12 km, the canyon is located in the central part of the prefecture. The gorge has also been selected as one of the 100 most famous sights in Japan. Along the Abugawa River there is a hiking trail with a total length of 5.5 km. The starting point is about a 5-minute walk from the station, making it an easy and accessible excursion.

You can see wild monkeys in a park located in the Choshi-kei valley.

The Kanka-kei Gorge can be reached with the Kanka-kei cable car, from which you can also see the sea. It is considered one of the three most beautiful valleys in Japan. They offer a landscape of cliffs, some of which are over 100 meters high. The lush vegetation of the valley becomes even more beautiful in autumn. At the top, there are several observatories as well as starting points for walks. In addition to the cable car, there are two hiking trails that lead to both stations.

Under this intriguing name lies a small strip of sand that connects the coast to three pretty little islands. This one appears only twice a day, at low tide. It is a place where couples traditionally come for a walk, as legend has it that walking together along this sandy path is the promise of a happy and prosperous relationship. But the scenery is really worth it, whether you are alone, with friends or family of course. You should check the tide times at the tourist information office in Tonosho harbour.

A few kilometers from Okayama is Inujima. Today dedicated to art, this island was for decades dedicated to industry. Its foundry chimneys are still visible. With its galleries occupied by the Inujima Art House Project, as well as numerous art objects and other attractions, the island offers a unique artistic journey. The Seirensho Art Museum, housed in the ruins of an old foundry built a century ago, is the jewel in the crown. Every three years, the island hosts the triennial Setouchi Art Festival.