Unlike the major cities of Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka... the Chugoku and Shikoku regions possess rich nature, easy access to the peaceful inland waters of Seto and the steep mountain ranges, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).
From October to November, the leaves change color to bright red, making these two regions an ideal destination for a trip to Japan in the fall.
Here are 3 outstanding tourist destinations in Chugoku and Shikoku for visitors to fully enjoy the autumn atmosphere without having to worry about crowded scenery.
Kitsurin Garden
Located in Takamatsu city, Kagawa prefecture, Ritsurin garden is a traditional Japanese garden with a history of nearly 400 years, recognized as a Special Cultural Heritage of Japan. The garden is about 16.2 hectares wide, including many ponds and small hills, where visitors can relax and admire the rich natural scenery.
From late November to early December, the rows of trees covered in brilliant red and yellow, giving visitors the opportunity to feel the very unique autumn atmosphere of Japan. Visitors can enjoy the scenery here in many different ways, such as sitting on a traditional Japanese boat to watch the red leaves shining on the lake, or relaxing at a coffee shop with matcha and wagashi sweet cakes.
In addition, the garden is brightly lit at night. In a magical space, completely different from daytime, visitors will be immersed in the beauty of the profound autumn in Japan.
In addition, Kagawa Prefecture is also famous for Sanuki Udon noodles - the culinary symbol associated with the name of this land. Around Ritsurin garden, there are many famous udon restaurants, visitors can easily visit and enjoy the original flavor of this famous noodle dish.
How to get there: From Okayama Station, take the JR Seto-Ohashi route to Takamatsu Station. Then transfer to the JR Kotoku route and land at the JR Ritsurin Koen- Kitaguchi station.
Yuushien Garden
Located on Daikon Island in Shimane Province, Yuushien is a garden with a strong historical imprint and will officially celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025. In November, the red leaf season, the garden attracts people and tourists to visit. More than 300 maple trees and lychee trees in the campus simultaneously turned red and yellow, contributing to creating a brilliant, vibrant scene for the entire garden.
During the day, visitors walk and immerse themselves in the autumn scenery. When night falls, the garden is sparklingly lit, the bright red canopy of leaves shine under the lights and reflect magically on the water surface, creating a completely different scene from day. Coming to Yuushien garden, visitors can also admire the monochord flowers blooming all year round, although this flower usually only blooms in spring.
After walking around the Yuushien garden, visitors can enjoy traditional lunches made from local ingredients, along with rich soba noodles or dishes made from eel at nearby restaurants.
How to get there: From Okayama Station, take the JR Sanyo Main Line to Matsue Station. From there, continue taking the Matsue city bus and getting off at Yuushien station.
Karato market
The port city of Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi Prefecture, located in the far west of Chugoku Prefecture, is a famous destination loved by many tourists thanks to its delicious seafood dishes. Every weekend and holiday, food stalls will be held here.
Coming to Karato market, visitors have to try sushi, Kaisendon (bottle with raw seafood) or sashimi, hotpot, fried foods made from Fugu (top fish) in the bustling atmosphere of the market while enjoying the flavors of Japanese autumn.
Most notably is Kawara Soba - a typical dish of Yamaguchi province. This dish is prepared by placing soba tea, beef, and eggs on a heated piece of tiles, then grilling directly until fragrant. Kawara Soba is enjoyed while still hot, with a unique rich flavor.
How to get there: From Fukuoka Airport, take the Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line metro to Hakata Station. Continue to the JR Kagoshima Main Line and go to Kokura Station. At Kokura, continue to transfer trains to Shimonoseki Station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi for about 7 minutes to get there.
