Things to do in Hofu

Activities, attractions and tours

A traditional Japanese temple with a multi-tiered roof, ornate decorations, and a statue of a woman at the entrance.
A traditional Japanese torii gate with a rope and hanging figures.
A traditional Japanese temple with a red and green roof, a large statue of a deity, and a stone staircase leading to the entrance.
A calm river with a concrete embankment and a bridge in the background.
Photo by KUNIO MIURA (Creative Commons Attribution 3.0)
A traditional Japanese temple with a curved roof, wooden structure, stone lanterns, and a stone pathway leading to the entrance.
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What to do in Hofu

Stay near popular Hofu attractions

Hofutenmangu Shrine

8.4/10 (28 reviews)
Japan's first Tenmangu shrine, established in 904, honours the deity of learning with intricate carvings and serene grounds. Visit in February when 1,100 plum trees bloom, transforming the shrine into a fragrant paradise.
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Where to stay in Hofu

Find the best Hofu areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Daido

Daido might not have many top sights, but Sho Hachiman-gu Shrine and Hofutenmangu Shrine are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A calm sea with several islands and distant mountains under a clear sky.

Tonomi

When in Tonomi, you can plan a visit to Shiosai-ichiba Hofu Roadside Station and Mori Museum and Garden, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Mitajiri

While Mitajiri isn't home to many top sights, Hofutenmangu Shrine and Shiosai-ichiba Hofu Roadside Station are some notable places to visit nearby.

A rocky shoreline with debris, calm water, and a distant island.
Photo by KUNIO MIURA
Open Photo by KUNIO MIURA

Nakanoseki

While there might not be top attractions in Nakanoseki, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Shiosai-ichiba Hofu Roadside Station and Hofutenmangu Shrine.

Two snow-covered monkeys sitting in the snow.

Yamaguchi

A traditional Japanese garden with neatly trimmed bushes, stone lanterns, and a tiled-roof building.

Shunan

Frequently asked questions

Is Hofu worth visiting?
Known for its views and walking trails, finding awesome things to do in Hofu is easy. Don't forget to add Ohirayama Ropeway to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Hofu?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hofu Science Museum and Kaiten Museum. Then, tour other parts of Hofu for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Hofu?
Don't go home without exploring Ohirayama Ropeway, rated the top tourist attraction in Hofu.
Is three days enough to stay in Hofu?
Three days will give you enough time to check out many city sights, including Ohirayama Ropeway, Hofu Science Museum and Hofutenmangu Shrine. The average stay in Hofu is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Yamaguchi isn't far away.
Is Hofu a walkable city?
That comes down to what you plan to see and do in Hofu. Several top sights, such as Ohirayama Ropeway and Hofu Science Museum, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Hofu's neighbourhoods, Yuno Onsen is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Mitajiri is 0.32 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Hofu with kids?
If you're searching for sights and tours for all the family, have a look at these great ideas for what to do in Hofu with kids.

What to do in Hofu for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or fan of nature, there are many things to do in Hofu for adults.
Are there free things to do in Hofu?
One of the simplest ways to discover free things to do in Hofu is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without reaching for your wallet. Hofu Science Museum is one sight that doesn't charge an admission fee.