Hagi Travel Tips

Recommended

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1 of 1 in Yamaguchi Prefecture

Hagi (萩), a serene former castle town on the Sea of Japan coast in Yamaguchi Prefecture, captures the essence of Japan’s feudal history. Once the capital of the powerful Mori Clan, Hagi played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration. Today, it is 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 most esteemed ceramic traditions. Spared from natural disasters for centuries, this charming town 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 centrally located and offers better connections. The best way to explore the city is by rental bike, as Hagi is a bit too spread out to explore comfortably on foot. Bicycles can be rented in front of Higashi-Hagi Station and at various locations around the city for about 200–300 yen per hour or 1,000–1,500 yen per day.

Another convenient 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 AM and 5:30 PM. A single ride costs 100 yen, or you can purchase a 1-day pass for 500 yen or a 2-day pass for 700 yen. If you plan to visit multiple historic houses, a special combination ticket is available for 310 yen, granting access to nine old residences across the city, valid for one day.