Sunday, March 10, 2024

Tsunoshima: Yamaguchi Prefecture

Tsunoshima is a 4 square kilometer, hourglass-shaped island located on the Sea of Japan and facing the straits of Tsushima.

Please check out Tsunoshima here on a map below:


Obviously the most sought after experience is the scenic coastal drive across Tsunoshima Bridge, a 1,780-meter-long, toll-free bridge connecting the westernmost tip of Yamaguchi to the picturesque Tsunoshima Island. The island is frequently used as a filming location for TV dramas and commercials because of its beautiful scenery and cobalt blue sea. When looking at all the cars from the observation point you can see immediately that people have come from afar to participate in this adventurous place. This attraction has garnered a lot of attention over the last 4 or 5 years and you can expect quite a bit more traffic on weekends and public holidays.


Please click on the pictures below to enlarge:














It is worth visiting the first Western-style lighthouse constructed in Japan is the Tsunoshima Lighthouse. The lighthouse opened in 1876 and is a designated National Important Cultural Property due to its historical and cultural value. It is one of only 16 lighthouses in Japan that can be climbed. Walk up the 105-step spiral staircase and take in panoramic views of the island and sea from the observation deck. However you must be warned, people like myself who are afraid of heights shouldn't climb to the top. Actually those who have issues with tight spaces are also not encouraged to enter the facility as well. If it wasn't for my professionalism (I only include locations on my itineraries that have been visited in advance) I would have skipped this climb to the top. I must admit that the views are spectacular but in all honesty it isn't something that I will do again, once is enough!


For those who don't feel the need to climb whether it be because of mobility reasons or because they don't want to risk injury (the lighthouse is well over 150 years old) there is an interesting museum to explore. There isn't a lot of information in English but it has many interesting facts and figures about lighthouses in general and specifically the lighthouse history in Japan.


Click on these photos below to see why and to enlarge:


















There are restaurants scattered around the island. Locally caught grilled squid is just one of the local specialties offering an authentic taste of Yamaguchi coastal life. Its crunchy texture and mouth-watering sweetness make it an unforgettable experience.

Tsunoshima offers an island escape where you can free your mind with natural scenery with it's beaches a massive highlight even out of summer.


Please click below to enlarge and see the magnificent scenery:












Please click on these videos before to see more about the attractions available on Tsunoshima Island:



















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