Top Yamaguchi Prefecture Car Tours

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover the highlights of Shimonoseki efficiently, in a private vehicle accompanied by a government-licensed, English-speaking guide! Shimonoseki sits at the western tip of Honshu, where the Kanmon Strait separates it from Kyushu. Sample the city's famous fugu (pufferfish) at the lively Karato Market, take in the soaring Kanmon Bridge, and visit Akama Shrine, steeped in the legends of the Heike clan. Wander the historic castle town of Chofu with its samurai streets and Kozanji Temple, enjoy sweeping strait views from Hinoyama Observatory and the Kaikyo Yume Tower, and drive out to the brilliant turquoise waters beneath Tsunoshima Ohashi Bridge. We welcome you to come and explore the unique history, scenery and flavors of Shimonoseki with us! Note 1: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government and requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

This tour is designed for travelers who visit Shimonoseki by cruise ship. We will pick you up at Shimonoseki Port or hotels near the port. This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Shimonoseki. Enjoy a 6-hour private tour with your own guide and vehicle, customized to your interests. From the bustling Karato Market famous for fugu and fresh sushi to the dramatic Kanmon Strait with its great bridge, the vermilion Akama Shrine, the historic castle town of Chofu, and the breathtaking views from Mount Hino, you will discover the very best of this storied port city at the western tip of Honshu. You can choose 3-4 sites from the itinerary list, and your guide will tailor the route to make the most of your limited time in port. Sit back, relax, and let your private guide handle all the logistics for a stress-free and memorable day in Shimonoseki.

Dressed in original costumes and riding a white horse as the Shogun, the procession of 20 people, including extras, will parade through the Ōdono area, which retains the historical atmosphere to this day. Afterward, the procession will move to Sansuien Garden, a National Registered Tangible Cultural Asset, where guests can enjoy Yamaguchi’s traditional performing arts and savor the Ōuchi Feast, faithfully recreated from the historical banquet. Please enjoy Yamaguchi City, which has been selected by The New York Times as one of the “52 Places to Go in 2024.”

This tour is conducted in your own private car. Departs from Hakata Station or Fukuoka City hotel lobby by chartered car. Due to the long travel distance, a professional driver and English-speaking guide will accompany you. At Karato Market in Shimonoseki City, located on the border between Kyushu and Yamaguchi prefectures, you will enjoy weekend-only sushi made with fresh fish landed that day. The tour will then take visitors to four scenic spots representative of Yamaguchi Prefecture created by nature. Amagase Park with a view of Kakushima Ohashi Bridge, Motonosumi Shrine with its impressive red torii gate and dynamic sea, Akiyoshidai, one of the largest karst formations in Japan, and Akiyoshido Cave with its cool year-round temperature of 17°C. This tour will take you to these unique sights.

The spectacular sight of 123 bright red torii gates at Motonosumi Shrine, stretching toward the deep blue Sea of Japan — a truly unforgettable photo opportunity. At Senzaki Kitchen, we plan to serve kawara soba, Yamaguchi Prefecture’s signature local dish. Conclude your journey at Akama Shrine, with its striking red gate and historical ties to the legendary Battle of Dan-no-ura. After a day of scenic views, cultural discoveries, and local flavors, return comfortably to the Shimonoseki Cruise Terminal with memories to treasure long after your visit.