The architect Kengo Kuma is receiving a lot of attention for his design of the New National Stadium. He has also designed a few buildings in Yamaguchi Prefecture, but not many people seem to know about them, not even the locals.

In this article, I’m going to introduce Sol Poniente – a Spanish restaurant located oceanside at Yakeno Beach, Sanyo-Onoda City, Yamaguchi Prefecture.

One Of The Best Sunsets In Japan

One of the greatest charms of the seaside is without doubt the stunning sunsets. Even if I came here every single day, I would not tire of the shifting clouds and the color of the sky. The sky is expansive and if you face west, you can see all the way to Shimonoseki, Kitakyushu and the gentle sloping mountains of Oita. The scene of the evening sun setting behind the ridges of the mountains has been chosen as one of the best 100 sunsets in Japan.

Sol Poniente is Spanish for “Setting Sun”. In order to allow guests to enjoy the fantastic sunset together with their delicious cuisine, the walls of the dining room are made completely of glass. The photograph above does the 180° panoramic view no justice at all !!

An Eye For Detail

Now excuse me while I ramble on a bit.
The characteristic feature of this building is its perforated bricks. The brick wall has a reddish brown color and a warmth to it that gives it a peculiar kind of material feeling that suits the area.

The name of the piece is “Sea / Filter”. As the walls of this building, which stands between the ocean and the land, are holed, it gives it a certain transparency and…. Oh! I’m sorry. I’d better leave it at that.

An Evening Of Indulgence

I had the 2-hour dinner course and enjoyed every moment of it.

This is Mr. Fukui, who sliced the Iberico pork for me. His technique and warm welcome helped create an even more comfortable atmosphere.

The rich dinner course consisted of great food and drinks. The paella is something everyone has to try when they come here!

I have been to Sol Poniente on several occasions, and every time it seems time passes slowly. In today’s busy world you don’t often have a chance to enjoy two hours of a stunning sunset and night view. Incidentally, there is also a bar next door, which is perfect for those that just want to have a snack or a little bit to drink.

The cuisine and sunset at Sol Poniente are a gift to yourself, and should be enjoyed with that someone special.

Sol Poniente
Address: Kirara Beach Yakeno, Sanyo-Onoda City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Business hours:
Restaurant
Lunch – Mon-Fri 11:30 – 14:30 (last orders).
Sat-Sun-public holidays 11:00 – 14:30 (last orders).
Dinner – Mon-Fri 17:30 – 20:30 (last orders). (17:00 – 20:30 in Oct-Feb)
Sat-Sun-public holidays 17:00 – 20:30 (last orders).
Bar
Mon-Fri 11:00 – 17:30 (last orders)
Sat-Sun-public holidays 10:30 – 17:30 (last orders).
Closed: Tuesdays (If Tuesday is a public holiday, the following day will be closed instead)
Tel: 0836-89-0080
http://www.sol-poniente.co.jp/

Setouchi Finder Photo-writer: Shinji Otokura