Masuda City: Enjoy History and the Sea of Japan at the Gateway to Iwami

Masuda: The Birthplace of Sesshu and Iwami Culture

Masuda City in Yamaguchi Prefecture, near the border with Shimane Prefecture, is a city in western Yamaguchi Prefecture. Known as the birthplace of Muromachi-period ink painting master Sesshu (1420–1506), the "Ikoji Temple Garden" and "Manpukuji Temple Garden" said to have been designed by Sesshu are designated as national Special Scenic Beauties.

Places Associated with Sesshu

Karesansui (dry landscape) gardens designed by Sesshu remain at "Ikoji Temple" and "Manpukuji Temple" in Masuda City, carefully protected as national Special Scenic Beauties. The delicate garden beauty like an ink painting conveys Sesshu's artistic spirit to the present. The Masuda City Sesshu's Hometown Memorial Museum allows learning about Sesshu's footsteps and works.

Scenic Views of the Sea of Japan

Masuda City faces the Sea of Japan, and the "Takatsu River" is a highly transparent river that has been selected as Japan's clearest river multiple times. The area near the mouth of the Takatsu River and surrounding coastline is popular as summer swimming spots.

Places Associated with Kakinomoto no Hitomaro

In Masuda, where Man'yoshu poet Kakinomoto no Hitomaro is said to have been posted as provincial governor, is "Kakinomoto Shrine" enshrining Hitomaro. Locally affectionately called "Hitomaro-san," it is also venerated as a deity of matchmaking.

Access

City sightseeing possible from JR Masuda Station. Convenient for travel to and from Shimane Prefecture along the San-in Main Line. Iwami Airport (Hagi-Iwami Airport) is nearby with Tokyo flights (Haneda) in service.