Chugoku

Chūgoku is the westernmost region of Honshu, Japan, traditionally encompassing five prefectures: Hiroshima, Okayama, Shimane, Tottori, and Yamaguchi. The name, derived from historical usage, is used to designate the western part of the island in modern geography.

Geography and climate

The region is bounded by the Sea of Japan to the north and the Seto Inland Sea to the south. The inland lies along the Chūgoku Mountains, which run northwest to southeast and separate the San’in (Sea of Japan side) from the San’yō (Seto Inland Sea side). The climate varies from humid subtropical along the coast to cooler, more rainfall-dependent conditions inland and on the Sea of Japan side.

History and culture

Chūgoku has a long history of inland and coastal trade, feudal domains, and cultural exchange. Hiroshima is a major economic center and symbol of peace after World War II. Shimane and Tottori boast historical towns and sites such as the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while Yamaguchi features karst landscapes and coastal heritage. The region is known for distinctive cuisine, including Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and fresh seafood such as oysters from Hiroshima Bay.

Notable places

Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima Prefecture is a prominent cultural site, and the Kintaikyo Bridge in Iwakuni (Yamaguchi) is a famous historic pedestrian bridge. The Akiyoshidai plateau and Akiyoshi-do cave in Yamaguchi offer notable geological features. Matsue in Shimane and coastal cities across the region provide museums, castles, and scenic coastal views.

Transportation

The Sanyo Shinkansen connects major cities like Hiroshima and Okayama to Osaka and beyond, while local rail lines, highways, and the Seto Inland Sea routes facilitate regional travel.