Understand

Yamaguchi City is a city with a rich history and a touch of elegance. Although not as big as some other cities, it holds the title of being the seat of prefectural government, making it the "capital" of the region. Its story begins in 1360 when the liege lord Hiroyo Ouchi chose this spot as the site of his government. Over time, the city developed, taking inspiration from the grandeur of Kyoto, the former capital of Japan. In its glory days, Yamaguchi was even hailed as the "Kyoto in the West." It flourished while Kyoto suffered the devastation of the Onin War. The city became a haven for cultured individuals and foreigners alike, almost as if it were the true capital of Japan. Unfortunately, the fall of the Ouchi family in 1551 marked the beginning of a decline for Yamaguchi. Nevertheless, traces of its medieval prosperity still linger within the city. Explore its streets, and you'll discover remnants of a bygone era, reminding us of Yamaguchi's fascinating past.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing