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West Japan
The highlights of the west Japan area are the many streets that let you experience the appearance of Japan from the good old days. You will be busy with many experiences such as Kanazawa which is known as “Little Kyoto,” the Japanese traditional culture of Hagiyaki pottery, Izumo-Taisha Grand Shrine that is very special to Japanese people, and onsen. The Hokuriku Shinkansen, convenient for a trip in the Hokuriku region, and the sightseeing trains with designs that evoke Japan will beautify your journey.
List
Fukui is located roughly in the center of the Japanese archipelago, facing the Sea of Japan. It is dotted with scenic natural landscapes and historical spots, and is also famous for traditional crafts such as washi paper and lacquerware. While in Fukui, you can also enjoy fresh seafood such as Echizen crab.
Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture still has carefully-preserved historic streets, nature, and culture. Please enjoy the beautiful appearance of Japan from the good old days here. On the other hand, the city also has museums where you can drop in to enjoy modern art.
Okayama City is located in the southeastern part of Okayama Prefecture and serves as a key transportation hub connecting the Kansai, Chugoku, and Shikoku regions. Thanks to the Setouchi area’s mild climate, the city is known for its abundance of agricultural and seafood products. It is also famous as the setting for the legend of Momotaro, the “Peach Boy” who vanquishes marauding demons.
Hiroshima is the largest metropolis in the western region of Chugoku-Shikoku. You can spend valuable time appreciating peace at the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Park. We also recommend you enjoy Hiroshima’s famous local cuisine, okonomiyaki, and the beautiful scenery as the area faces the Seto Inland Sea.
Yonago is a scenic town that faces the Sea of Japan. It is nestled in the center of the expansive San’in region, so it is convenient for touring both Tottori and Shimane Prefectures. Experience the abundant nature and rich culture this region has to offer. Beautify your body and mind staying in the Kaike Onsen Resort, with a hot-spring source boiling up from the sea.
Noto is the northern part of Ishikawa Prefecture, a peninsula jutting out into the Sea of Japan and an area rich in natural splendor. Wakura Onsen is the perfect base for sightseeing in Noto. Explore this area on a tourist train that incorporates the motifs of hanayome noren, a bridal curtain tradition handed down in Ishikawa Prefecture.
Osaka is one of Japan’s largest cities and has long been a center of economic and cultural activities. It is home to many cultural heritage sites such as Osaka Castle, as well as newer sightseeing attractions. Osaka is also well known for its thriving food culture.
Hagi in Yamaguchi Prefecture produced many of the important players in Japan’s Meiji Restoration. You can experience Japanese culture here, including in the castle town built about 400 years ago and at the World Heritage registered Shoka Sonjuku.
There are many must-see historic buildings in Izumo, including Izumo-Taisha Grand Shrine, a Shinto shrine that is very special to Japanese people, and Matsue Castle which still has shopkeepers from the time it was built. After walking around the city, heal yourself in an onsen.
Trains through West Japan
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Hokuriku Shinkansen
Full of the latest technologies and Japanese charm, the Shinkansen (Bullet Trains) expand your travel options
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La Malle de Bois
Unique Sightseeing Train “La Malle de Bois” – a Perfect Match for Art Lovers and Cycling Enthusiasts
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etSETOra
Island-gaze from the comfort of this train
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WEST EXPRESS GINGA
A new long-distance train that accommodates to a variety of travelers
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HANAYOME NOREN
A train that allows you to enjoy the Japanese traditions and beauty of the Hokuriku region
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Kansai-Airport Express “HARUKA”
The limited express train connects Kansai International Airport to major cities in the Kansai area
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Ametsuchi
A sightseeing train derived from the legends of the San’in Region
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Marumaru no Hanashi
A train that goes to Hagi (Ha), Nagato (Na), and Shimonoseki (Shi)!