Shimonoseki

The friendly, pufferfish crazy, coastal city of Shimonoseki occupies the westernmost tip of Honshu (Japan’s main island) and is a delightful place to explore. Looking out on Kyushu, over the Kanmon Strait, it is a major shipping hub and is famous for its seafood, in particular fuku (pufferfish), which can be eaten cheaply at many restaurants throughout the city. Sushi lovers should pay a visit to Karato fish market, located in a large warehouse on the seafront. Other sights of interest include an impressive aquarium and the Chofu district, which has the impressive Chofu Mori Residence with its delightful garden, the zen-style Kozanji Temple and Iminomiya Shrine.