What to know
During the Edo Period (1603–1867), Hagi flourished as a castle town and served as the capital of the Mori Clan, one of the most powerful clans of the era. The Mori lords governed present-day Yamaguchi (then known as Choshu) for over 250 years and played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration (1868). The lord, his family, and his closest retainers lived within the castle, while samurai, craftsmen, and merchants resided and worked in the town to the east.
Having escaped major disasters since the Edo Period, Hagi's original town layout remains intact. Although only the ruins of Hagi Castle survive, several downtown streets are beautifully preserved, featuring white walls from the feudal age, former samurai mansions, and merchant quarters. Many of these mansions, along with other attractions such as museums and temples, are open to the public.
The former castle town is about two kilometers from Higashi-Hagi Station. It can be reached in about ten minutes by bicycle or 30 minutes on foot from the station. The Maru Bus also provides access.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:45)
- Closed
- December 31
- Admission
- 650 yen (~$4.16)
- English name
- Hagi Museum
- Original name
- Former Castle Town
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.