Recommended Itineraries
in Setouchi

Setouchi is best known for the Seto Inland Sea, but hidden gems, historic sites, and natural wonders will capture any visitor's imagination throughout the region. Start your trip with a visit to Akiyoshido Cave, one of the largest limestone caves in Japan. Continue your tour to Iwakuni, home of the famous Kintai Bridge, before traveling to the island of Miyajima where you'll find Mt. Misen, one of the highest peaks in Hiroshima Prefecture. Cap this adventure with a relaxing visit to the onsen town of Yuki before heading onwards to the dramatic Sandankyo Gorge. End your mesmerizing trip around Setouchi with a cycling tour on Oshima Island, culminating with a visit to the beautiful Imabari Castle, one of Japan’s most famous Edo era monuments, complete with sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea.

The Setouchi regions one of the most distinctive areas in Japan. On this comprehensive tour you’ll see some of the region’s most popular and impressive places. Start your journey at Okayama Castle, a striking monument and one of the most famous spots in Setouchi. From here, enjoy a short car and ferry journey to Teshima Island and discover some of the region’s most iconic artistic treasures. Next on the itinerary is the strange but beautiful Nagoro Scarecrow Village, where over 100 scarecrows stand poised awaiting your arrival to this hauntingly peaceful attraction. Finally, complete your tour on the beautiful Awaji Island.

Although Buddhism and Shintoism play a part in the life of Japanese, there isn't, it would be fair to say, any real strong adherence to mainstream religion here. That's not to say that Japanese don't identify as spiritual or have a love of nature and health and well-being. They do. Very much so. In the prefectures of Hyogo, Kagawa, Tokushima, and Okayama you will find examples of Zen retreats and how Zen Buddhism runs as a subtle leitmotif through life in Japan.

Deep dive into some of the Western Japan's top sightseeing spots along the Setouchi region. Join us as we follow the coastline starting in western Yamaguchi before circling around to Ehime — a ferry ride to the south from Hiroshima Prefecture. Take in local cuisine, spectacular scenery and unique culture on this unforgettable journey.

Cycling is an ideal way to travel the islands and coastlines of the Seto Inland Sea. The Shimanami Kaido route comes with a designated cycling lane and crosses 70 km of islands and bridges. It connects Onomichi on the mainland to Imabari and Shikoku in the south. This itinerary will take you on a journey through some of the finest scenery in the region. Breathe in the fresh sea air, climb on your bicycle, and set off on your voyage of discovery.