Charm
Setouchi: a land of beautiful Nature and life-changing experiences
Setouchi is a must-see spot in Japan! Famous for its beautiful scenery, mild climate, and the warmth of its local people, it has been loved by both Japanese people and foreigners for generations!
Setouchi is located in Western Japan and it refers to the coastal areas and more than 700 islands embraced by the Seto Inland Sea.
This charming maritime area is full of bustling cities like Hiroshima, Himeji and Kobe, as well as less-touristy destinations like Megijima (the Island of Ogres) and Takehara (a city preserved as 200 years ago).
It also hosts the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage, the largest in Japan, featuring 88 temples and sacred sites. Here, you can discover yourself in a life-changing spiritual path while also experiencing the well-known Shikoku’s hospitality and local foods, such as udon noodles, fresh fish and much more!
If you are a nature lover, you will surely enjoy the numerous island-hopping excursions by cruises, the “Setonaikai National Park”, the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Experience and spectacular natural phenomena like the Naruto Whirlpools!
Immerse yourself in this unique territory where you can experience Tradition, Art, and Culture without being surrounded by the crowds of bigger cities like Kyoto or Tokyo. Create unforgettable memories in Setouchi!
Area
Authentic Katana making
The occupation of a Japanese swordsmith has a history of over 1000 years.
Japanese katana swords were originally weapons, but many Japanese people regarded them as works of art.
Hayamitsu Kikyo, a swordsmith with over 20 years of experience, shares that he has yet to create the perfect sword.
World Heritage Himeji Castle
Walk on the same wooden floors that samurai stepped and immerse in one of the most well-preserved feudal-era castles in Japan! Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also known as Shirasagi-jo or the “White Heron Castle” for its resemblance to a heron spreading its wings. It has over 400 years of history and survived also during World War 2! With an impressive defense system, Himeji Castle is designed as a maze of paths with numerous wooden gates that ultimately lead to the hilltop main building.
Ningyoza Awaji Puppet Theatre : Performance and Backstage Tour in a theatre with 500 years of History!
If you’re interested in Japanese tradition, you’ve probably heard of Noh Theatre, but are you familiar with a traditional performance where the main characters are extremely detailed puppets? This art form is called “Ningyo Joruri” (or Puppet Theatre in English) and consists of three main elements: puppetry, storytelling, and music.
Panoramic Point
From Mt. Washu to Seto Ohashi Bridge - Photo provided by Okayama Prefecture Tourism Federation
Mt. Washu, a representative scenic spot in the Seto Inland Sea National Park and designated as a national beauty, offers a peaceful view of the islands in the Seto Inland Sea and the majestic Seto Ohashi Bridge. It is a popular viewpoint where you can also overlook Shikoku Island on the opposite shore.
Megijima, the Island of Ogres
This island, located just 20 minutes by boat from Takamatsu, is mostly known for its connection to the myth of Momotaro and for its Cave full of Art Works and Ogres statues. This island is not only famous for its folklore creatures but also for the kindness of its local people, who are fighting to preserve this natural paradise and welcome tourists who bring vitality to the territory!
A Jump into the Past! A City Preserved as in the Edo Period.
Takehara is a unique city because it is preserved just as it was in the past!
Let your mind transport you back in time and you will start to hear the gentle sound of geta sandals on the ground, catch glimpses of people dressed in kimonos, and witness the bustling activity of rickshaws transporting wealthy merchants, just as it was during the prosperous Edo period when the city thrived on the salt and sake trade.
The Hidden Face of Japan
Explore with us the off-the-beaten path of Japan that would be difficult to discover (and reach) without the help of a local contact. Be ready to be surprised by breathtaking sceneries that are still unknown to tourists!
The Pirates of Setouchi
In the Setouchi Islands, where the currents are strong and unpredictable, only skilled navigators could survive. These were the Setouchi Pirates!
Embark in an exciting cruise to retrace the steps of these mysterious figures and visit the Murakami Kaizoku museum.
Setouchi from Above
One of the must-see attractions in the Setouchi region is Kirosan Observatory Park.
This place is renowned as the perfect spot to capture the best photos of the Shimanami Kaido, a scenic road suspended over the sea that connects the islands of Setouchi!
Nature and Symbolism meet in the Japanese Garden
Get ready to explore Nakatsu Banshoen, a traditional Japanese garden in Marugame city! As you cross the red bridge suspended over the water, you'll enter a symbolic world created by the harmony of natural elements.
Get ready to walk through an authentic work of art!
A Life-changing Experience: Shikoku's Pilgrimage
Shikoku's Pilgrimage is the largest in Japan, featuring 88 temples scattered throughout the entire region! Embark on a journey to retrace the steps of the legendary monk Kukai while wearing traditional white robes of the pilgrims. Engage in various activities such as reciting sutras, lighting candles, burning incense, and offering prayers.
✓English Explanation provided
