Japan has no shortage of scenic spots in all corners of the country, but some of them are better known than others. British newspaper The Times recently curated a list of their ten most beautiful places in Japan, and while a few are reasonably well-known, others fall pleasantly into the hidden gem category. Among them is Hagi, a historic town in Yamaguchi Prefecture that often flies under the radar for international visitors.
Known for its remarkably preserved samurai and merchant districts, Hagi offers a glimpse into everyday life from Japan’s feudal past. Although its original castle was dismantled in the late 1800s, the town’s network of narrow streets, traditional black-and-white walled residences, and latticed storehouses remains largely intact. Today, many of these old buildings house museums, shops, and local restaurants, making it easy to explore the town’s heritage on foot or by bicycle.
Hagi is also a must-visit destination for pottery fans. The town is famous for Hagi-yaki, a style of ceramics prized for its understated, rustic beauty and subtle glazes that change character with use. There are countless workshops and galleries around town where visitors can buy pieces ranging from tea bowls to sake cups, or even try making their own. For anyone interested in Japanese tea culture or traditional crafts, exploring Hagi’s pottery heritage adds another layer of depth to a visit.
For more information on things to see, do, and eat in Hagi, please visit our dedicated page right here on Japan Travel.
