Western Honshu
The main attractions of Western Honshu are to be found along the coasts, namely the Inland Sea Coast (Sanyo) and the Japan Sea Coast (Sanin). The gleaming white walls of Himeji Castle dominate the city of Himeji. Known as the ‘White Heron Castle’, it is the best-preserved and most beautiful castle in Japan. The pleasant city of Okayama is known for its black castle and the Korakuen Stroll Garden, considered one of the three most beautiful in the country. Nearby is the pottery town of Bizen and wonderfully preserved Kurashiki with its historic merchants’ quarter, now housing numerous museums and craft galleries. Further west, Hiroshima was the target of the world’s first atomic bomb during World War II but has risen from the ashes to become a thriving modern city. The bombing is commemorated by the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Nearby is the beautiful island of Miyajima, its famous red Shinto torii gateway seemingly floating on the sea at high tide. Itsukushima Shrine, the cable car up the central mountain for panoramic views and the tame deer are all major attractions. Iwakuni is known for its five-arched bridge while Hagi, on the western Japan Sea Coast, is famous for its pottery and will appeal to history buffs. The sand dunes of Tottori, ancient Izumo Taisha Shrine and the famous coastal panorama of Amanohashidate are the most famous attractions along this northern coastline.
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