- Diverse Island Experiences: The Setouchi region offers a range of island experiences, including historical sites on Ieshima, traditional culture on Iwai, fragrance and craftsmanship on Awaji, and contemporary art on Naoshima.
- Unique Travel Activities: Travelers can engage in cycling on the Shimanami Kaido, cultural immersion through ancient rituals, hands-on craft experiences, and art exploration within natural settings.
- Emphasis on Local Culture and Nature: The islands provide opportunities to experience authentic Japanese traditions, local cuisine, interaction with residents, and appreciation of coastal and mountain landscapes.
- Accessible Island Hopping: The Seto Inland Sea is facilitated by a well-connected ferry system, making inter-island travel seamless and scenic for visitors.
The Setouchi region of Japan, located within the Inland Sea, offers an island-hopping experience focusing on culture, nature, and local charm. This curated route provides a slower-paced travel option for those seeking authentic and off-the-beaten-path experiences across diverse islands.
The Ieshima Islands feature archaeological sites and historical depth, with mentions in ancient Heian documents. The area combines sea and mountain landscapes, local festivals, and seasonal seafood. Iwai Island, in Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a quiet destination known for its traditional fishing-village culture, including stone-lined fences and the millennia-old Kamimai ritual dances held every four years. It offers a serene experience focused on cultural immersion.
Awaji Island is central to Japan’s incense culture, home to traditional makers like Kunjudo, established in 1893. The island is noted as the origin of Japanese fragrance culture, and visitors can engage with its history and aromas. Awaji is also known for its onigawara, demon-faced roof tiles created by local artisans, offering hands-on experiences with Japanese craftsmanship. The Shimanami Kaido is a 70-kilometer cycling route connecting Honshu and Shikoku, recognized for its scenic views and cultural sites. It provides bike rental facilities and rest areas, with Omishima Island featuring Oyamazumi Shrine and the Toyo Ito Museum.
Naoshima is known for its contemporary art scene, integrating art into traditional spaces and community life. It features works by artists like Yayoi Kusama and architecture by Tadao Ando, offering an experience of “art within daily life.” Kyukamura Sanuki-Goshikidai, reopened in March 2025, is a hilltop sanctuary overlooking the Inland Sea, providing open-air baths and a local-flavor buffet. The region’s ferry system connects the islands, facilitating scenic travel between destinations like Awaji and the mainland, making navigation an integral part of the adventure.