In the far west of Japan’s main island of Honshu, northern Yamaguchi Prefecture offers one of the country’s most stunning coastal drives. Here, the emerald waters of the Sea of Japan are crossed by the striking Tsunoshima Bridge, and the vivid vermilion torii gates of Motonosumi Shrine line the cliffs along the coast. These iconic sights are often featured in photographs and on social media—but the best way to truly experience them is behind the wheel, with the sea breeze in your face and the open road ahead.
Your journey begins from Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi’s main city, or from Shin-Yamaguchi Station on the bullet train line. With a rental car, you can comfortably explore both Tsunoshima and Motonosumi Shrine in a single day. The drive along Route 191, which hugs the coastline northward, is smooth and scenic, with few traffic lights—making the drive itself one of the highlights.
Your first destination is Tsunoshima Bridge, about 90 minutes by car from central Shimonoseki. This 1,780-meter-long bridge, which connects mainland Honshu with the island of Tsunoshima, appears to float just above the sea’s surface. Its elegant design and breathtaking surroundings have made it a popular location for films and commercials.
Before crossing, several viewpoints offer picture-perfect perspectives of the bridge. One of the best is from Amagase Park, where on clear days, the sky and sea blend into a brilliant panorama that far exceeds anything seen through a car window. Once on the island, take a break at Tsunoshima Ohama Beach, with its white sands, or visit the stately Tsunoshima Lighthouse—ideal spots to relax and enjoy the coastal charm at your own pace.
Next, head toward Motonosumi Shrine, located on the Sea of Japan coast in the city of Nagato. About an hour’s drive from Tsunoshima along a winding coastal road, the shrine comes into view as a mesmerizing line of 123 bright red torii gates, stretching dramatically along the cliffs toward the sea. The sight is nothing short of breathtaking. Walking through the gates, surrounded by the sound of crashing waves and the scent of the sea breeze, you enter a space where nature and spirituality blend in quiet harmony.
Within the shrine grounds, you’ll find one of Japan’s most playful sacred quirks—a donation box perched high atop a torii gate, famously known as “the most difficult offering box to reach in Japan.” Trying to toss a coin into it adds a lighthearted charm to your visit, blending tradition with a sense of fun.
On your return journey, consider stopping at scenic spots like Senjojiki Plateau or Omi Island, both known for their stunning sunsets. Northern Yamaguchi is refreshingly uncrowded, allowing you to savor the shifting hues of sky and sea at your own pace. Ending the day by watching the sun set behind Tsunoshima Bridge, silhouetted against the glowing horizon, is a moment that lingers long after the drive ends.
This road trip through Tsunoshima and Motonosumi Shrine is more than a tour of photogenic landmarks—it’s an immersive encounter with landscapes that stir the soul. The changing views from your window, the quiet power of the coast, and the rhythm of the road invite you to slow down, reconnect with your senses, and rediscover the joy of the journey. At the far edge of Yamaguchi, unforgettable scenery awaits.