Hofu City, located in the south-central region of Yamaguchi Prefecture and adjacent to the Seto Inland Sea, is a city with a population of approximately 117,000 and boasts the highest population density in the prefecture. This time, from among the many sightseeing spots in Hofu City, we’ve carefully selected four enjoyable and memorable places to visit.
Hofu City gained attention through the NHK Taiga drama Hana Moyu. One of Japan’s three major Tenmangu shrines, Hofu Tenmangu, is the first Tenmangu ever built in Japan and is famous for its 1,100 blooming plum trees. If you're considering a trip or are curious about visiting Yamaguchi Prefecture, this article will be a helpful travel guide.
1. Traditional Sightseeing Spot in Hofu: “Mitajiri Ochaya (Eiunsou)”
Located about 6 minutes by bus from JR Sanyo Main Line Hofu Station and a 2-minute walk after getting off the bus, Mitajiri Ochaya (Eiunsou) was historically used as a lodging place during domain inspections or sankin-kotai (feudal lord's alternate attendance), and for entertaining other clans. It was donated to Hofu City in 1939 and was named Eiunsou after the Buddhist name of a head priest.
The building was renovated in conjunction with the Taiga drama Hana Moyu and is now open to the public. Hofu was an important base on the Seto Inland Sea side and was known as Mitajiri during the Edo period. Inside, on the first floor, there is a large hall called “Goshoin-no-Ma” where you can see the study room, tokonoma alcove, restored lighting, and fusuma sliding doors.
Other highlights include the private room wing of the Mouri clan's head, the entrance, and the kitchen building. When you visit, sitting upright on the tatami floor and immersing yourself in Edo-period history is a wonderful experience.
Name: Mitajiri Ochaya (Eiunsou)
Address: 10-21 Ochayamachi, Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Official Site: https://sites.google.com/view/eiunsou1654
2. If You Visit Hofu, Start Here! Machi-no-Eki “Umeterrace”
About 5 minutes by car or 15 minutes on foot from JR Hofu Station, Umeterrace is visible to the left of Hofu Tenmangu Shrine. It features cafes, restaurants, and a souvenir shop with a wide selection of local goods not just from Hofu but throughout the prefecture.
One standout is Cafe Sweet Home, popular for its monthly set meals, chicken nanban lunch, and various sweets.
For travelers, this is a great first stop to pick up brochures and local information. If you're walking from the station, renting a bicycle for 300 yen for 6 hours is also a convenient option.
Name: Hofu City Machi-no-Eki “Umeterrace”
Address: 1-20 Matsuzakicho, Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Official Site: https://ume-terrace.jp/
3. A Must for Cat Lovers: The Popular Tourist Destination “Nojima (Akanejima)”
Located about 15 km southeast offshore from Hofu City, Nojima (also known as Akanejima due to its once brilliant crimson azaleas) is a small island with a population of about 200 and an area of roughly 730 square meters. With no public transportation, it’s a quaint and compact island.
One highlight is the island's iconic Laughing Kannon, built on August 8, 1996 (symbolizing "Ha Ha Ha"). Also noteworthy is Yatate Shrine, which features a torii gate facing the sea and is designated as an Intangible Important Cultural Property—a deeply spiritual site.
In addition, the fishing port overrun with cats is a dream for feline lovers. You can also enjoy swimming at the blissful beach or view full-bloom azaleas around May. Although the island is small, there’s much to see, and all sites are within walking distance—making it perfect for a day trip.
Name: Nojima
Address: Nojima, Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Official Site: https://www.city.hofu.yamaguchi.jp/site/noshima-kom/nosima-osusume.html
4. Learn Science in a Fun Way! “Hofu Youth Science Museum Solar”
About 4 minutes by car from JR Hofu Station, Solar is the only science museum in the prefecture with a science show themed around the sun. It was established in 1998 to promote scientific knowledge.
The museum features many easy-to-understand exhibits for children, allowing them to explore various aspects of science. Outdoors, there is a Pascal Bench that demonstrates buoyancy, and a parabola exhibit on radiation in the Science Park.
For families, it's a facility that greatly encourages children's curiosity. Attractions include a haunted house based on science, and even using microscopes to search for "Chirimen Monsters." With different events held regularly, it's a place you can enjoy visiting multiple times.
Name: Hofu Youth Science Museum Solar
Address: 6-41 Kotobukicho, Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Official Site: https://solar-hofu.com/
◎ Summary of Tourist Spots in Hofu City
This time, we introduced four carefully selected famous and hidden tourist spots in Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Hofu is a place where you can experience the seasons throughout the year. In spring, you can enjoy Ehime Ayame, cherry blossoms, hydrangea festivals, and irises. In early summer, approximately 100,000 azaleas bloom on Mt. Ohirayama. Autumn brings colorful foliage, and in winter, plum blossoms.
No matter the season, Hofu offers seasonal flowers and enjoyable sightseeing. For your next long weekend, why not visit with your family, your partner, or your friends? Refresh your body and mind with a trip to Hofu!