Overview
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 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.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Private vehicle
- Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
- Customizable Walking Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'Itinerary' list.
What's Not Included
- You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
- Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
- Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under Itinerary
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
Karato Market is Shimonoseki's bustling seafood market on the Kanmon Strait, nicknamed the "Fish Kitchen of Kanmon." It is especially famous for fugu (pufferfish), and on weekends the market transforms into a lively street food festival where visitors can enjoy fresh sushi and sashimi by the waterfront.
Stop 2
The Kanmon Bridge is a striking suspension bridge spanning the Kanmon Strait, connecting Honshu at Shimonoseki with Kyushu. From the viewpoints below and the nearby Mekari area, visitors can admire the elegant bridge while watching ships pass through one of Japan's busiest and most historic waterways.
Stop 3
The Kanmon Kaikyo, also known as Straits of Shimonoseki, is a narrow strait that separates Yamaguchi prefecture from Fukuoka prefecture into Kyushu Island of Japan. You will be able to walk through the Kanmon Tunnel, built under the Kanmon Kaikyo, which is about 55 meters (60 yards) below sea level. The tunnel was completed in 1958 and took a total of 21 years to build! The recommended photo taking spot in the tunnel is at the borders of Fukuoka prefecture and Yamaguchi prefecture; it's not often will you be able to stand right at the border of two huge islands! It will take you about 15 minutes to walk through the 780 meter (853 yard) long tunnel, and once you are out, you will be greeted by a fantastic view of the Kanmon Kaikyo as well as the Kanmonkyo Bridge that connects Yamaguchi and Fukuoka prefecture.
Stop 4
Akama Shrine is a beautiful vermilion-and-white Shinto shrine overlooking the Kanmon Strait. The shrine enshrines Emperor Antoku, who died during the Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185. Its distinctive Ryugujo-style gate is inspired by the legendary Dragon Palace beneath the sea, and the grounds also contain memorials dedicated to the Heike Clan.
Stop 5
Jokamachi Chofu is the beautifully preserved former castle town of the Mori Clan. Visitors can stroll along peaceful streets lined with traditional earthen samurai walls, historic temples, and the elegant Chofu Mori Residence and Garden, experiencing the atmosphere of Japan's Edo period.
Stop 6
Hinoyama Observatory is located at the summit of Mount Hinoyama and offers one of the region's finest panoramic views. Accessible by ropeway or car, the observatory overlooks the Kanmon Strait, Kanmon Bridge, Shimonoseki City, and Kyushu beyond.
Stop 7
Ride to the top of Kaikyo Yume Tower to enjoy spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the Kanmon Strait, the city of Shimonoseki, and neighboring Kyushu.
Stop 8
Drive to the iconic Tsunoshima Ohashi Bridge, a long bridge stretching across crystal-clear turquoise waters to Tsunoshima Island. It is considered one of Yamaguchi Prefecture's most scenic coastal landmarks and is a favorite destination for photography.
Stop 9
Visit Kozanji Temple, a peaceful Zen temple located in the historic Chofu district. The temple is home to a National Treasure-designated Buddhist hall and tranquil grounds that reflect the rich samurai-era history of the area.
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.
- Please contact us should you need a child or infant seat.