Tour Famous Sites and Tranquil Islands in the Seto Inland SeaOkayama / Kagawa / Tokushima / Hyogo

Okayama Castle, dating to the Sengoku Period, is recognized among the castles in Japan for its distinctive features, including black-lacquered outer walls and gold-leaf tiles. Located on the banks of the Asahi River, the castle is reflected in the quiet waters below, a striking scene that greets visitors to this special monument. It’s free of charge to enter the surrounding grounds of Ujo Park (the castle itself comes with a fee), and from here it’s possible to take in the many features that make Okayama Castle, often referred to as Crow Castle in light of its black façade, so special. Inside the castle grounds, you can learn how to make traditional Bizen yaki pottery, while delving into its history and techniques. Finally, for a fun memento of your visit, get dressed up in a costume inspired by the Lords and Ladies of the castle and have your photo taken. If one of the aims of your trip is to visit a castle in Japan, you won’t find many finer examples than Okayama.

The Seto Inland Sea is littered with islands ripe for exploration. One of the most captivating is Teshima Island. Sprouting from the serene waters of Japan's inland sea, this picturesque island is rich and abundant. Farmers grow a wide variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the year, and fishermen and seaweed cultivators thrive, thanks to the nutrient-rich groundwater and favorable weather conditions on the island. Yet, the raw, pristine nature that defines the island doesn’t just support its abundant agriculture. Artists have been drawn to this remote beauty spot, turning it into one of Japan’s most important centers for contemporary art. The best way to take in the scenery and discover the many artistic sights is by bike. You’ll find bike rentals available at the port, so you can start your journey of discovery as soon as you disembark the ferry.

Nagoro Scarecrow Village is a strange and wonderful place. More than 300 scarecrows are scattered around Nagoro Village, a quiet, calm place that today has more scarecrows than residents. Every single scarecrow was created by Nagoro Village resident Ayano Tsukimi. She began crafting these scarecrows primarily to ward off crows and for her own enjoyment, but the village has unexpectedly become a draw for tourists, adding a distinct charm that captivates visitors. While many of the scarecrows, more dolls really, are just regular people, Ayano has also created likenesses of famous celebrities from inside and outside of Japan. If you visit the area on the first Sunday of October, you’ll witness the annual Scarecrow Festival, where Ayano’s creations are put on public display. After your visit to this doll village, Japan reveals its eccentric side. An element of Japanese culture that celebrates the efforts of dedicated artisans however they chose to express their creativity.

Awaji Island or Awajishima, is home to one of the most famous shrines in Japan. Considered in mythology to be the first island of Japan to be created by the gods, Awaji Island is a truly stunning location, surrounded by deep blue waters and connected to the mainland by the world’s second longest suspension bridge, Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge (3,911m). Visitors to the monument can learn about the Japanese creation myth in what is thought to be the oldest shrine in the country. The story goes that a divine couple called Izanagi and Izanami drifted down from heaven and together formed several islands. Eventually those islands were connected, and the island nation of Japan was born. For many years, Awaji Island was not often featured on tourist itineraries, but today it is a firm fixture on any itinerary that incorporates the beautiful Seto Inland Sea.