When I got to Shimonoseki, my first stop was Karato Market. The fresh fugu sashimi was sliced paper-thin, and there was also nigiri sushi and a huge variety of seafood on display.
But honestly, all I really wanted was a photo with the fugu.
Karato market | Review by 周黛西
Other Reviews by 周黛西
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Kanmon Bridge was wrapped in clouds and mist. It's a key transportation link connecting Honshu and Kyushu, and the Kanmon Straits run below it. There's also an undersea tunnel you can walk through.
Shimonoseki is the hometown of former Prime Minister Abe, and I unexpectedly came across his authentic calligraphy while dining at a restaurant. -
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The main building has a strong Japanese-Western architectural style, and the interior is clean and beautifully organized. Studying in a place like this must have felt wonderful, so it’s no surprise that it produced many outstanding figures of the Meiji Restoration.
Visiting Meirin Gakusha also brought back memories of many old school buildings in Taiwan, especially elementary schools built during the Japanese colonial period. It would be wonderful if they could also be preserved and managed in a similar way. -
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If you’re visiting Iwakuni in Yamaguchi Prefecture, you definitely shouldn’t miss Kintai Bridge, known as one of Japan’s Three Famous Bridges and one of its Three Unique Bridges. This five-arch wooden bridge has more than 300 years of history. Spanning the Nishiki River, it still stands strong today and showcases Japan’s refined traditional craftsmanship with its nail-free and rivet-free construction.
On a nice day, you can see Iwakuni Shrine in the distance on the hillside, or walk down to the riverbed to admire the graceful curves and wooden structure of the five arches from different angles. The surrounding old town, park, and local food also make it well worth another visit! -
