Shimonoseki – Where Two Seas Meet and Cultures Collide

#cityplaybook #familytrip #localguides #stunningview Post: At the southwestern tip of Honshu, Shimonoseki is a coastal city defined by water—where the Sea of Japan and the Seto Inland Sea converge, and where culinary, cultural, and historical currents have long mingled. It’s a city with edge and flavor, often overlooked but full of character. I started at Karato Market, Shimonoseki’s bustling waterfront fish market. The energy here was addictive—stalls packed with fresh sushi, grilled seafood, and the city’s famed delicacy: fugu (pufferfish). I tried it sashimi-style, delicately sliced and artfully arranged. Nervous? A little. Delicious? Absolutely. Across the water, I visited Ganryūjima Island, made famous by the legendary duel between samurai Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojirō. Standing on the windblown beach, I imagined the clashing of swords where silence now reigns—a moment frozen in time. Back in town, Akama Shrine stood gracefully at the edge of the sea, its bright red torii and dragon motifs honoring Emperor Antoku and echoing tales from the Genpei War. The view of the Kanmon Straits Bridge, with ships gliding through, was striking and serene. One of the most memorable moments was walking through the Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel—a unique experience that lets you walk under the sea from Honshu to Kyushu. It felt like stepping between worlds, with signs marking the border between prefectures midway through the tunnel. Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer clear views and pleasant temperatures. The Fugu Festival in February is a local favorite. Helpful Tips: Try fugu only at licensed restaurants—safety is key, and quality is top-notch. Head up to Hinoyama Park for panoramic views of the strait and both islands. Consider combining your visit with nearby Mojiko on the Kyushu side—just minutes away. Location: Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Honshu, Japan Hashtags: #shimonosekistories #fugufeast #kanmonstraits #karatomarket #ganryujimaisland #samurailegends #hiddenhonshu #underseatunnel #seafoodcapital #slowtraveljapan