Hagi Travel Tips

Recommended

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1 of 1 in Yamaguchi Prefecture

Hagi (萩), a serene former castle town on Yamaguchi's Sea of Japan coast, captures the essence of Japan’s feudal history. Once the capital of the influential Mori Clan, Hagi played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration. Today, it’s celebrated for its beautifully preserved Edo-era townscape, where samurai and merchant residences transport visitors back in time.

Hagi is also renowned for its exquisite Hagiyaki Pottery, one of Japan's finest ceramic traditions. This charming town, spared from disasters for centuries, offers an authentic glimpse into Japan's rich past, making it a captivating destination for history and art lovers alike.

Getting around

In Hagi, the main train station is actually Higashi-Hagi Station, not Hagi Station. It’s more central and offers better connections. The best way to explore the city is by rental bike, since Hagi is a bit too big to walk easily. Bikes can be rented in front of Higashi-Hagi Station and around the city for about 200–300 yen per hour or 1000–1500 yen per day.

Another easy option is the Maru Bus, a tourist loop bus that connects the train stations with all major sights. There are two routes (East and West), each running every 45 minutes between 7:00 and 17:30. A single ride costs 100 yen, or you can get a 1-day pass for 500 yen or a 2-day pass for 700 yen. If you plan to visit several historic houses, a special combination ticket is available for 310 yen, giving access to nine old residences around the city, valid for one day.