The Chugoku Region is a perfect area for campervan travel, with rich nature such as the Seto Inland Sea and the Tottori Sand Dunes, and spots dotted around Izumo and Itsukushima that evoke a sense of long history. In this issue, we introduce five recommended locations for enjoying the Chugoku region. Each spot is also introduced along with the best time of day, spots to stay overnight in the car, nearby hot springs, delicious local food and specialities, and roadside stations and markets to stop off at.
1. Tottori Sand Dunes ,Tottori Prefecture
The dynamic landscape of the largest sand dunes in Japan is an attraction. If you are visiting with a camper, you can enjoy sightseeing in comfort in the spacious parking lot.
- Recommended time: Early morning or evening is best. The dunes can get too hot during the daytime, so it is best to visit during the cooler time of day.
- Parking: Tottori Sand Dunes Parking (24-hour parking, within walking distance to the dunes)
- Nearby Hot Springs: Tottori Onsen (located in the city center, with a spa town to enjoy)
- Local Foods & Specialties: Tottori wagyu beef and fresh crab dishes are a must-try. Be sure to try the dune soba noodles.
2. Daisen ,Tottori Prefecture
Daisen, with its seasonal scenery, is perfect for those who enjoy mountain climbing and nature observation. The best part of the trip is to visit the most scenic spots while traveling by campervan.
- Recommended time of day: Afternoon is best, when the daylight beautifully illuminates the mountain.
- Parking spot: Daisenji Temple parking lot (overnight parking available and easy access to the trailhead)
- Nearby hot springs:Goenyuin (a hot spring located at the foot of Mt. Daisen to relieve mountain climbing fatigue)
- Local food and specialties: Daisen soba noodles and Daisen chicken dishes are excellent. Fresh dairy products are also a must-try.
3. Kintai Bridge Yamaguchi Prefecture
Kintai Bridge, one of the three most famous bridges in Japan, is known for its beauty and historical value. Campers can also visit Iwakuni Castle and Yoshika Park together.
- Recommended time of day: When the morning light softly illuminates Kintai Bridge.
- Overnight spot: Yoshika Park parking lot (available 24 hours a day and within walking distance to the bridge and castle).
- Nearby hot springs:Yuda Onsen (30 minutes by car, hot spring with beautiful skin that makes your skin smooth and smooth)
- Local Foods and Specialties:Iwakuni-zushi, locally caught ayu (sweetfish) dishes, and Uiro, a specialty of Iwakuni.
4. Itsukushima , Hiroshima Prefecture
Itsukushima Shrine, registered as a World Heritage site, is located here, and its torii gateway floating on the sea is worth seeing. If you are visiting with a camper, you can freely tour the surrounding tourist spots.
- Recommended time of day: From evening to night, when the shrine is lit up with lights, it is a fantastic sight.
- Overnight spot: Parking lots around the Miyajima Ferry Terminal (convenient for crossing to the island by ferry).
- Nearby hot springs:Miyahama Onsen (15-minute drive from the island, with hot springs overlooking the sea)
- Local foods and specialties:Hiroshima oysters, ana gohan (rice cooked with a hole in the middle of the rice), and momiji manju (steamed buns) are not to be missed.
5. Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Hagi City, which retains the atmosphere of a castle town, is a must-see area for history buffs. With a campervan, you can freely tour the castle town and sightsee at your leisure.
- Recommended time of day: The quiet castle town in the early morning and the townscape at dusk are especially beautiful.
- Car-parking spot: Hagi Castle Ruins Parking Lot (24-hour parking available, convenient for sightseeing).
- Nearby Onsen: Hagi Honjin Onsen (relaxing moments at a hot spring inn with a sense of history)
- Local Foods and Specialties:Hagi’s famous “Hagi summer oranges,” local seafood, and Hagi ware are highly recommended.
Conclusion
The Chugoku region has many ideal places for campervan travel, and no matter where you choose to go, you will be satisfied with your trip. Enjoy a luxurious trip where you can experience nature and history while savoring delicious local foods.
＜PR＞
