Top Reasons to Visit

Top Reasons to Visit

Photogenic Icons

In a tidal basin beside the tiny island of Miyajima, the vermilion O-torii, or big gate, rises from the Inland Sea. One of Japan's most recognizable sights, it declares the entire island sacred and blessed by the sea gods. An hour from Matsue is the austere shrine of Izumo Taisha. Built 1,500 years ago, this Shinto shrine reputedly ensures marital happiness.

Fabulous Seafood

Great seafood abounds, from the famous oysters of Hiroshima (kaki-gai in Japanese) and anago or conger eel of Miyajima, to the succulent uni-don, or sea urchin on a bed of rice, popular in Hagi, and the mamakari, a sardine-like fish found in Kurashiki and Okayama. In Matsue are freshwater fish and little black shijimi clams from Lake Shinji.

Lessons of the Past

The charred Atomic-Bomb Dome of Hiroshima delivers a powerful visual sermon more powerful than any literal ones. Although its monuments to human disaster are held in great reverence and respect, the city has determined to embrace the future in a very big way. Here you will find an energy and multinational vibe that rivals that of Tokyo and Osaka.

Gardens

In the lively capital city of Okayama—sunniest of all Japan's prefectures—is one of Japan's top three gardens, the spacious and dazzling Korakuen, which surrounds the stunning black U-jo, or "Crow Castle."

They're Good People

The people here are among the friendliest and most unhurried in Japan. You may get stared at for being a foreigner, but locals who spot you looking at a map will whip out their cell phones to call their friends and parents to make sure they're giving you good advice.