Shunan City is located in the southeastern part of Yamaguchi Prefecture. The gateway to Shunan City is JR Tokuyama Station. In this article, we will introduce recommended tourist spots in Shunan City, focusing on Tokuyama, which is bustling as an urban area.
1. Tokuyama Zoo
Located about 10 minutes by bus from JR Tokuyama Station via the Bocho Bus Kongo route (bound for Aeon Town Shunan), Tokuyama Zoo has a calm, traditional Japanese atmosphere. Despite being a relatively small zoo, it’s home to many large animals like lions, giraffes, and polar bears, making it a popular tourist spot in Tokuyama, Shunan City.
The zoo’s famous animals are the elder Malayan bears, Tsuyoshi and Maya! Watching them compete for sleeping spots or relax at their own pace, even when surrounded by visitors, is heartwarming. Inside the zoo, there’s also a bridge leading to an area inspired by the poet Michio Mado, featuring an elephant pond that’s a favorite among children. The zoo also offers hands-on programs for school groups, such as kindergartens and elementary schools, making it a community-focused attraction.
Name: Tokuyama Zoo
Address: 5846 Tokuyama, Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Official Website: https://tokuyama-zoo.jp/
2. Kaiten Memorial Museum
Located about 10 km from Tokuyama Station in Shunan City, the Kaiten Memorial Museum allows visitors to feel the unimaginable tragedy and emotions of those who lived through that time.
"Kaiten" refers to human torpedoes—special attack weapons where brave soldiers sacrificed their lives during World War II. As many as 104 courageous soldiers fought and gave their lives until the end of the Pacific War. The museum displays artifacts, relics, and materials related to Kaiten, along with panels showcasing life at that time and the historical context.
For those of us living in peaceful times, visiting the Kaiten Memorial Museum may take courage. However, we owe our current lives to the sacrifices of these brave warriors who endured harsh and unreasonable conditions. It’s a place I truly believe you should visit at least once with your loved ones and family.
Name: Kaiten Memorial Museum
Address: 1960 Otsushima, Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Official Website: https://www.city.shunan.lg.jp/site/kaiten/
3. Toishi Hachimangu Shrine
Located about 2 km from Tokuyama Station, Toishi Hachimangu Shrine was built as a branch shrine of Usa Hachimangu during the era of Empress Suiko. Although it’s situated in the city, the shrine is surrounded by lush nature and offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
Since the Heian period, the shrine has been visited by many worshippers praying for family safety, traffic safety, business prosperity, victory, and safe childbirth. With over 1,300 years of history, Toishi Hachimangu is also registered as a tangible cultural property. It’s said to attract the largest number of New Year visitors in Shunan City, and hosts many cultural and music events throughout the year. Feel free to visit anytime, regardless of the season!
Name: Toishi Hachimangu Shrine
Address: 2-3-1 Toishi, Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Official Website: https://toishi.co.jp/
4. Takase Gorge
About an hour by bus from JR Tokuyama Station, Takase Gorge is an extraordinary scenic spot located upstream of the Shimajigawa River. In autumn (around November), the colorful leaves attract many visitors, while in spring, the fresh greenery is breathtaking. Tourists from outside the prefecture often visit during these seasons. You can refresh both body and mind by hiking along the roughly 2 km promenade next to the gorge, listening to the sound of clear streams and enjoying the view of massive rocks.
Although there’s no official parking lot, there are pull-off spots along the way, making it ideal for a scenic drive. There’s no admission fee, and you can explore freely. On a sunny day, it’s a wonderful place to stretch your legs and climb up to the peak filled with refreshing negative ions.
Name: Takase Gorge
Address: Takase, Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Official Website: https://www.city.shunan.lg.jp/site/kanko/2986.html
◎ Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots Around Tokuyama, Shunan City
When people think of Yamaguchi Prefecture, they often associate it with fugu (blowfish) and sake brands like Dassai, giving it a reputation as a place known for good drinks. But as you can see, there are also plenty of tourist spots to enjoy, such as family-friendly zoos, romantic date spots, places to admire autumn leaves, and facilities where you can learn about history and peace.
Additionally, the island areas of Shunan City in Yamaguchi Prefecture are part of the Setonaikai (Seto Inland Sea) National Park, preserving their beautiful scenery.
Why not take this opportunity to visit the charming and nature-filled areas around Tokuyama in Shunan City?