Perched on the edge of Honshu, Yamaguchi Prefecture's Shimonoseki possesses a wealth of history and culture entwined with the sea that laps at its shores. Busy with the hum of daily life, commuters pass over and beneath the Kanmon Straits — home to historic battles that shaped Japan and a delicacy that made the city famous. As a bright and busy port town with a thriving fresh fish market, a world-recognized aquarium and beautifully restored temples, lovers of fresh fish are indulged, history lovers immersed and casual travelers can dip their toes into the city's wealth of experiences.
While strolling through the streets of Shimonoseki, you'll find yourself drawn in admiration to the sea, be it through views from the mountain, the lure of the market or simply the lingering idea of an ice cream. The best sights are all along the water's edge, with a path easily followed from the station to Mount Hinoyama, with a bus loop available too.
Not long after stepping foot in the city, you'll notice the ubiquitous mascot appearing in myriad forms, be it a larger-than-life statue, a not-so-subtle Shrine plaque or even an embellished manhole cover. The puffer fish is a full-time obsession of Shimonoseki, and with good reason. More than 80 percent of the country's puffer fish supply is sourced here, with some calling the city Japan's fugu capital.