Starting in Hyogo Prefecture and traveling southwest to Kagoshima Prefecture, Western Japan is a remarkable part of the country that remains largely undiscovered by tourists.
In this article, we will follow two routes across Western Japan to uncover its diverse attractions. These two model courses—centered on the San’in and Setouchi regions—will focus on hot springs and unique cultural experiences. At the article’s end, you will feel inspired to follow the path less traveled. Let’s jump in!
Model course #1: San’in
The San’in region in Western Japan roughly encompasses Shimane and Tottori Prefecture. This region is best known for its natural beauty, hot springs, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine.
For this model course, we will start in Kobe—which you can easily access by plane or bullet train from Tokyo or Osaka—and then explore the San’in region.
Kobe, Hyogo
Kobe is the central city of Hyogo Prefecture, offering seasonal beauty from the mountains to the sea stunning panoramas, art, enchanting nightscapes, and delicious cuisine—including the iconic Kobe beef. Just 30 minutes by train from Shin-Kobe Station, Arima Onsen invites you to relax in one of Japan’s most famous and oldest hot spring towns.
This rare hot spring town is home to two distinct water types, the tea-colored kinsen (golden spring), an iron-rich source popular for its moisturizing properties, and the clear ginsen (silver spring), a carbonated spring that promotes blood circulation. In between the wafting hot spring steam, the town’s narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings—including the main street, Yumoto-zaka—whisk you away to the Edo period (1603–1868). Enjoy walking tours, footbaths, cultural wares, carbonated rice crackers, which are said to have originated from the use of natural carbonated spring water, and an enduring geiko culture.
For more outdoorsy types, Mount Rokko and the surrounding area offer several hiking trails that introduce the prefecture’s tranquil nature. Along the trails you can enjoy autumn foliage and waterfalls, and at the summit, there are a variety of attractions, such as scenic viewpoints, a ranch, and botanical gardens. You can also catch a quick ride on the Rokko Arima Ropeway to marvel at the breathtaking mountain from above.
Himeji, Hyogo
Resting on Hyogo’s southern border, Himeji is a vibrant city best known for Himeji Castle. This castle is about two hours by train from Arima Onsen and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With over 400 years of history, Himeji Castle is characterized by its dazzling white exterior, which many people compare to a white heron spreading its wings—resulting in the castle’s nickname “White Heron Castle.”
Roughly an hour away by bus from Himeji Castle, Shiota Onsen, a nearly 300-year-old hot spring town, provides an utterly therapeutic retreat, and the long-established Kamiyama Ryokan epitomizes the town’s legacy. Founded over 150 years ago and set amidst lush mountains, this accommodation offers restorative hot spring soaks and carefully prepared meals—creating a nourishing getaway for both the mind and body.
Okayama Prefecture
Sharing an eastern border with Hyogo Prefecture, Okayama Prefecture is a photographer’s paradise. Starting at Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, this meticulously preserved area offers snapshots of traditional Japan, blending white-walled storehouses, Western-style buildings, willow-lined rivers, and the criss-cross elegance of namako walls. From Himeji, this area is about 45 minutes away via shinkansen and local train. The atmospheric quarter is also home to the Ohara Museum of Art, which hosts Japan’s leading collections of modern and contemporary art.
For an otherworldly view of history and nature, we recommend visiting Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, nicknamed the “castle in the sky.” Located in Takahashi and about an hour by train from Kurashiki, this majestic structure is Japan’s only mountaintop castle. Between September and April, the view takes on an ethereal ambience when low-hanging clouds (unkai) occasionally form around the castle, making it appear as though it is floating in the sky.
Okayama City, Okayama
About an hour by train from Bitchu-Takahashi Station, Okayama City features the stunning Okayama Castle. It is a prime location to don a kimono and take elegant photos. Nearby, Okayama Korakuen Garden—recognized as one of Japan’s three great gardens—further envelops you in the captivating aura of historic Japan.
After you explore the castle and garden, dine on some refreshing seasonal fruits. Okayama is regarded as the “Fruit Kingdom” of Japan!
If you visit Okayama during winter, you will not want to miss the Saidaiji Eyo Festival (Hadaka Matsuri), held annually on the third Saturday of February. Thanks to its massive crowds of nearly naked men, this over 500-year-old festival is designated as one of Japan’s Three Great Strange Festivals. During the celebration, roughly 10,000 men clothed in loin cloths compete to capture one of two sacred sticks (shingi), showcasing an exhilarating side of Japanese culture.
Tottori Prefecture
Conclude your adventure in Tottori Prefecture with a soak in its radium hot springs, which are rich in radon and believed to promote health. Misasa Onsen is particularly famous for its waters that are said to boost metabolism, immunity, and the body’s natural healing power.
For stunning views, visit Kaike Onsen and unwind in hot springs with mesmerizing ocean vistas. Many hotels in the prefecture also offer private baths, making them ideal for families and first-time hot spring bathers.
While in Tottori, you cannot skip the Tottori Sand Dunes—one of Japan’s largest sand dunes, covering approximately 16 square kilometers. Facing the Sea of Japan, these impressive dunes boast a unique landscape shaped by the elements and host memorable activities, like camel riding and sand dune yoga. At night, the sea’s horizon glitters with the lights of fishing boats, creating a magical scenery that melds the dune’s sloping silhouettes with the sparkling sea.
Model Course #2: Setouchi
Western Japan’s Setouchi region encompasses several prefectures that border the Seto Inland Sea, featuring stunning coastal views, lush islands, and a wealth of history and culture.
Takamatsu, Kagawa
Start your trip at Ritsurin Garden. This Michelin three-star garden is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and showcases landscaped ponds, hills, and trees set against lush mountains. In the morning, it serves tasty rice porridge, and throughout the day, you can enjoy matcha at its many teahouses. The garden is about two hours by plane and bus from Tokyo and two hours by shinkansen and local transport from Kyoto and Osaka.
If you are feeling inspired after your garden visit, consider picking up a Takamatsu bonsai since the city is famous for its bonsai production.
Next, embark on a spiritual and wellness-focused journey at Shione Onsen Village. Founded roughly 1,300 years ago, this village has a long history of therapeutic bathing. It is designated as a National Health-Onsen Area and has many hot springs that soothe fatigue and promote overall health.
Matsuyama, Ehime
About three hours by train from Takamatsu, Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama is one of Japan’s most photogenic spots, featuring traditional Japanese charm and unparalleled hot spring experiences.
Dogo Onsen is said to be Japan’s oldest hot spring, with a history of approximately 3,000 years. Dogo Onsen is said to be Japan’s oldest hot spring, with a history of approximately 3,000 years. Its symbolic landmark, Dogo Onsen Honkan (Main Building), is known as Japan’s only public bath that has a room reserved solely for the Imperial Family. Although this royal bath is no longer in operation, you can still tour the lavish facility. Outside, the nostalgic architecture and streets filled with yukata-clad visitors make for a unique photo opp and leisurely stroll.
Nearby, Matsuyama Castle is home to one of Japan’s few surviving, samurai-era main keeps. In addition to the site’s historic and cultural appeal, the main keep also offers breathtaking views of the city and Seto Inland Sea.
Hiroshima Prefecture
From Matsuyama, travel by ferry (2h 40m) or high-speed ferry (70m) to Hiroshima.
Once you arrive, start your visit with a ride on the Shimanami Kaido, a famous cycling route. This course stretches about 60 km across several islands and connects Japan’s main island of Honshu to Shikoku. The experience brings you closer to the locals and grants spellbinding panoramas of blue seas, verdant islands, and impressive bridges.
The prefecture is also home to one of the country’s most beloved destinations—Miyajima. This sacred island is about two hours from the Shimanami Kaido, reachable from Onomichi on the Honshu (Hiroshima) side by ferry and train. Its most iconic landmark is Itsukushima Shrine’s massive torii (gate), which rests off shore and appears to float on the rippling waters. During low tide, the ocean recedes, offering you a chance to walk under the cherished gate.
Around Miyajima, the island-dotted sea also provides a perfect setting for a tranquil cruise.
Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi
About one hours by shinkansen from Hiroshima, Shimonoseki is a hotspot for high-quality fugu, or pufferfish.
One of the best places to savor this cuisine is Fuku Ryoan Shimosho-Kaikan, a long-established restaurant that has been perfecting the art of fugu for over 75 years. Enjoy the fish’s delicate, refined flavor and unique, firm texture in a variety of dishes, including fugu sashimi, fried fugu, and fugu hot pot. In addition to its cuisine, Fuku Ryoan Shimosho-Kaikan also offers an exclusive cultural workshop that guides you through the ceremonial movements of the Sentei (Former Emperor) Festival, an elegant Shinto ritual.
After indulging in this treasured cuisine, heal your mind and body in a naturally immersive sauna at a facility registered as a National Tangible Cultural Property. Located about an hour by car from Shimosho-Kaikan, Nabeya Village’s tent sauna uses the pristine waters of the Utanogawa River, creating a rejuvenating experience enveloped by nature’s seasonal beauty.
Kitakyushu, Fukuoka
End your journey in Kitakyushu, where rich marine resources, bustling markets, and a skilled workforce have earned it the nickname, the “Sushi Kingdom.”
Surrounded by three distinct seas, Kitakyushu is blessed with a variety of fish year-round. Its central wholesale market is located at the heart of one of Western Japan’s major fishing ports and thus, is filled daily with high-quality seafood. The city’s sushi culture is built on freshness, craftsmanship, and local collaboration, with fishermen and chefs working closely to produce some of the country’s freshest sushi.
Just like its diversity of seafood, the city is also home to an array of sushi restaurants—from high-end eateries known globally to local sushi spots. Be sure to try its local Kokura-mae style of sushi, which pairs sushi with salt or citrus rather than soy sauce. After witnessing the city’s vibrant market, fresh ingredients, and expert chef’s, why not try making sushi yourself? You will gain insight and a delicious meal.
Authentic travel experiences await in Western Japan
For your next trip to Japan, consider stepping outside the country’s major tourist areas and follow an unforgettable journey across Western Japan, where nourishing hot springs and rich cultural attractions meet breathtaking nature and delectable cuisine.
Local government resources
Kobe City
Himeji City
Okayama Prefecture
Okayama City
Tottori Prefecture
Takamatsu City
Matsuyama City
Hiroshima Prefecture
Shimonoseki City
Kitakyushu City