Hidden Gems Places To Visit in Chugoku, Japan

4.5 Inujima Seirensho Museum (98 reviews)
- Absolutely a must
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Speciality Museums

It’s an expensive ferry ride from Naoshima (¥1880 one way) but very well worth it. We took the first ferry at 920 am from Miyanoura port and arrived at 1015. We got our tickets and went straight to this museum. We were the first to arrive so we had the place to ourselves. We were really impressed with how they incorporated the artwork with the former copper refinery. After walking through, there is a path outside that leads you around the back of the refinery which most people don’t bother checking out. We would definitely make another trip here in the future. See more..
4.5 Uradome Coast (96 reviews)
- Majestic White Sand, Clear Waters and Rock Formation
Bodies of Water • Beaches

Although the waves seem to be strong, the view is spectacular because of the white sand and clear water. The rock formations are also startling. I visited during winter that is why I was not able to enjoy the waters, but they said that families go there during summer. See more..
4.5 Kumano Taisha Shrine (93 reviews)
- This is BIG
Religious Sites

Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the three Kumano shrines, situated a few kilometers inland from the coastal hot spring resort of Katsuura. The shrine is part of a large complex of neighboring religious sites that exemplify the fusion of Buddhist and Shinto influences that is particular to the Kumano region. The site has the tallest waterfall in Japan. It is the place where Japan was geographically and spiritually born. See more..
4.5 Tsuwano Castle (86 reviews)
- Great views
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

I took the 5 minute fairly basic chair lift (¥700 round trip or ¥400 one way) up the hill – it is quite close to ground for most of the way. As it was later in the afternoon, the staff on the chair lift helpfully advised the time to return by to get back down. I then walked another 15-20 minutes (some of the hilly/rocky path was being rebuilt in 2019) to the ruins (free to enter) where you can get great views of Tsuwano and the Takatsu river valley and of course remnants of the castle foundations as the remaining castle keep was demolished in 1878. (It takes about 30 minutes to walk up to the lower station of the chair lift through the shrine and torii gates from Tsuwano Station.) See more..
4.5 Kozan Park (84 reviews)
- Such a Wonderful Area, The Pagoda and Temple are Gorgeous!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Kozan Park is absolutely beautiful! I came here mainly to see the Pagoda, unaware of all the other gems in this park. First, the Pagoda is beautiful! The backdrop of the mountains and pond in front makes for great photos. The Temple here is just as gorgeous. After visiting the temple and pagoda, I recommend walking toward the cemetery to view the tomb and then walk down toward the old houses that are open for viewing. After my wife and I visited all the sites here, we sat on a bench and just enjoyed the beauty of the park. I hope to get back here during the fall, I expect it is quite lovely. See more..
4.5 Akiyoshidai Safari Land (81 reviews)
- Feed Lions, Tigers, and Wild Hawks
Sunday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Zoos

Zoos are fun, but can be depressing, because I feel guilty and sad for animals trapped in small cages. But this one is different. I was in a cage! Animals roam free in this Safari, and they look happy, and little bit too happy and lazy. It is similar to San Diego Safari (Escondido), but it seemed bigger and more exciting. If you take a bus tour, you can also come back with your own car for free. Take the bus tour first, feed lions, tigers, and you will lose a few pieces of meat to Wild Hawks, which are a lot more fit than those lazy kings of animals. Once you are a bit more comfortable, bring your car, keep the window closed (check in your dogs at office if you brought them) and drive the safari. It is not cheap, but you will see why they have to charge us so much... This place is in business since 1978! They have tons of rides, too. The restaurants were decent, so you can eat here if you want to save time. See more..
4.5 Mihonoseki (76 reviews)
- Anime in real world
Neighborhoods

It was very interesting. visiting Mihonosekicho drag me into some places in Japan animation movie which I had ever watched. The old design of the town is great. It was wonderful even we can see the sea. I like this place. See more..
4.5 Hinomisaki Coast (71 reviews)
- Great view on a fine day
Bodies of Water • Beaches

Visited here on a sunny day. Started from the lighthouse, on the maintained nature paths, from a parking to the parking. Some local food shops, and souvenir shops. The main feature is the ocean view. Nice experience. See more..
4.5 Shoji Ueda Museum of Photography (65 reviews)
- The minimalist museum in the middle of idyllic scenery
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Museums

"Ueda Shoji Photography Museum is a private art museum of photographer Shoji Ueda located in Sakai-cho, Nishikori-gun, Tottori Prefecture. Shoji Ueda is one of the most watched Japanese photographers in the world. The hotel is located at the foot of Oyamayama, which is rich in nature, and from the hall designed by architect Takamatsu Shin, you can enjoy the "upside-down Oyama" reflected on the water surface. " See more..
4.5 Kuniga Bay (63 reviews)
- Breathtaking coastal walk
Bodies of Water • Beaches

This is one of the most popular sightseeing spots of Nishinoshima Island. At the bay you can enjoy seeing different rock formations in various shapes. One of them is Kannon-iwa Rock. Some say it looks like a standing statue of Kannon (a Buddhist deity). When the sun is directly over the rock it looks as if a halo is put over him. Some also say that it looks like a candle floating over the sea. The time to enjoy the sunset at the spot is from mid-April to early-June, then again from late-August to mid-September. See more..
4.5 Kamba Falls (62 reviews)
- Fun day trip
Waterfalls

I was lucky to get the chance to see the monkeys because it doesn’t happen every day. They are very chill and doesn’t bother people at all, so you can take as many pictures as you want! The water fall is beautiful too! See more..
4.5 Kinojo Iwaya (60 reviews)
- Historical gem
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Nice walking path and panoramic views from this historical excavation site See more..
4.5 Mt. Mitoku (49 reviews)
- challenging climb
Mountains

At Mt. Mitoku you can climb up to Sanbutsu-ji. There is not much information online, at least not in English. Be aware that the climb is challenging, over roots, rocks and partly 90 degrees up clinging to a chain. All in all, until arriving at the peak shrine it takes about one hour. You are only allowed to go up if you are two or more. Have VERY good climbing shoes, no sticks, flexible clothing, wear gloves (would at least help), bring a towel, maybe spare t-shirt and take plenty to drink and/or energy drink or energy bar (1 l per person) as you'll probably sweat like mad. You can borrow straw shoes (was surprised how effective they are) but would prefer my own grip shoes next time. It is definitely not a walk or an easy hike; it's doable, if you are prepared and equipped; plus the gate closes around 4.30 pm, so better do not leave later than 1 pm to avoid time pressure and you might like to enjoy the beautiful view, wondering how the monks were able bring up all the logs and build the shirnes hundreds of years ago without the help of machines. See more..
4.5 Inujima (47 reviews)
- Try Uki Cafe
Islands

Writing under this subject as seems no individual item for this excellent restaurant Will see sign ~50 metres after leaving pier Restaurant near heart of island - try visiting museum and other art projects first and you will likely end up naturally close to it Excellent food, try pasta with tomato and octopus!\ Restaurant very relaxing atmosphere See more..
4.5 Kinojo Castle (45 reviews)
- 眺望が素晴らしい
Castles

眼下に岡山平野、その先に瀬戸内海、さらにその向こうの四国の山々まで一望できます。主に土塁で作られた城壁一周の2.8kmはちょっとした登山。しっかりした靴が必要。ビジターセンターには自販機はないので麓のコンビニとかで買っていくことオススメします。 See more..
4.5 Kibi Plain Bicycle Route (43 reviews)
- Beautiful bike ride--bring your own helmets
Biking Trails

This 15-km long route runs past ancient burial grounds and temples. See more..
4.5 Matengai Cliff (38 reviews)
- Beautiful and Serene Walk
Spent < 1 hour Geologic Formations

This dynamic 257m cliff is a must see! It is one of the highest sea cliffs in Japan. Walk along the clifftop amongst the grazing cows and horses. Attention: If frightened cows and horses can be dangerous. Please keep a safe distance away. Access: 25 min by car from Beppu Port Free parking and toilet available See more..
4.5 Shiraishi Island (37 reviews)
- Relax and Moo!!
Islands

Shiraishi, a tiny island with a population of 800 on the Seto Inland Sea, is only accessible by ferry. See more..
4.5 Mt. Ojigadake (36 reviews)
- must go
Mountains

The scenery of Seto Inland Sea from here is so woderful. 王子が岳からの景色は本当に世界に誇れると思います。今まで何度も県外のお友達などを連れていっていますが、みんな口を揃えてキレイ！と言います。 See more..
4.5 Daigo Zakura (36 reviews)
- One thousand years old cherry blossom tree.
Points of Interest & Landmarks

It took 2 hours to get to this cherry tree by car since many cars were crowded. So, me and my husband walked an up-hill road for 40 minutes. So tired, but this tree was worth seeing. Great, beautiful,wonderful!!! See more..
4.5 Okutsu Valley (35 reviews)
- 面白い渓谷ですが川には降りられません
Valleys

紅葉の季節でなかったが、新緑の中散策しました。auのCMで桃太郎の桃が流れてくるところの撮影場所の由で大きな石を縫って流れる川の眺めは面白いです。だだ河原で水遊びをするような場所ではなく自然を眺めながら散策路を歩く場所です。売店などはありません。 See more..

What's a Hidden gem?

We call places hidden gems that are new, extremely good, but are not that popular yet - you should check them out. The criteria is to have a rating of 4.5 or more and more than 20 reviews and less than 100 reviews.

Hidden Gems Places To Visit in Chugoku, Japan

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