The Setouchi region of Japan, located in the heart of the country’s Inland Sea, invites travelers to embark on an unforgettable island-hopping journey, a carefully curated route across vibrant islands that offer a slow-paced escape filled with beauty, culture, and local charm. Whether a cultural explorer, nature lover, or seeker of authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, Setouchi's islands offer a diverse and enriching itinerary unlike anywhere else in Japan.
Ieshima Islands - The Living Echoes of Ancient Japan
Rich with archaeological treasures and historical depth, the Ieshima Islands tell stories spanning millennia, from Paleolithic settlements to imperial horse ranches in the early Heian era. The island features the beautiful contrast of sea and mountains - also characteristic of the Setouchi region. The local “Ieshima Shrine,” mentioned in ancient Heian documents, stands as a testament to the island’s spiritual and historical significance. Beyond its past, Ieshima offers a slow-paced relaxing escape with warm encounters with friendly locals, sweeping views of sea and mountains, vibrant local festivals, and an opportunity to taste the bounty of the Seto Inland Sea through its renowned seasonal seafood.
Iwai island - Where Time Slows and Tradition Endures
Located in the Suo-Nada Sea at Yamaguchi Prefecture’s southern tip, Iwaishima is a quiet island revered as sacred ground, even appearing in Japan’s oldest poetry collection, the Manyoshu. The island’s traditional fishing-village culture endures in its stone-lined fences, narrow alleys, and the millennia-old Kamimai ritual dances (held every four years). Visitors stroll narrow alleys flanked by stone fences, witness ancient rituals like the Kamimai dance, and enjoy the simplicity of island life in harmony with nature. For those seeking cultural immersion and quiet contemplation, Iwaishima offers a serene and authentic experience.
Awaji Island - Birthplace of Fragrance and Craftsmanship
At the heart of Japan’s incense culture lies Awaji Island, home to Kunjudo, a traditional incense maker founded in 1893. The island is recorded as the place where agarwood first drifted ashore in Japan, making it the origin of Japanese fragrance culture—allowing visitors to learn its history and aromas through a sensory experience. The island is also famous for its onigawara, which are demon-faced roof tiles made by local artisans known as onishi. At Tatsumi, guests witness firsthand the creation of these mythical guardians, preserving Japan’s aesthetic and spiritual heritage in clay and smoke. Both activities offer hands-on encounters with the craftsmanship and soul of Japan.
Shimanami Kaido - Pedal Through Art, History, and Scenic Splendor
Connecting Honshu and Shikoku across a stunning 70-kilometer cycling route, the Shimanami Kaido - recognized by CNN as one of the “7 Best Cycling Routes in the World” - uniquely combines outdoor exploration with rich cultural experiences. It is one of the few routes in Japan where visitors can cross the straits by bicycle or on foot, making it extremely popular. The route is marked with a blue cycling line and equipped with bike rental facilities and rest areas called “Cycle Oasis,” ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride for all levels. On Omishima Island, travelers can visit Oyamazumi Shrine where ~80% of Japan’s arms and armor designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties are preserved and displayed, marvel at cutting-edge architecture at the Toyo Ito Museum, and enjoy panoramic sea views along the way. WAKKA, a cyclist-friendly hub, provides guided tours, bike rentals, and modern accommodations. With panoramic sea views, cultural depth, and seamless bike access, the area promises a multifaceted and inspiring escape into the heart of Setouchi.
Naoshima - The Island Where Art and Daily Life Converge
World-renowned for its contemporary art scene, Naoshima, a naturally rich island in the Seto Inland Sea, transforms traditional spaces into open-air galleries. Home to iconic works like Yayoi Kusama’s Red Pumpkin and Tadao Ando’s architectural masterpieces, Naoshima’s contemporary art is deeply intertwined with the local community, offering visitors a special sensory experience. Through outdoor installations, architectural spaces, and interaction with locals, visitors can experience "art within daily life" beyond mere viewing. It is a highly valuable destination for Western travelers who value culture, nature, and dialogue.
Kyukamura Sanuki-Goshikidai – A Sky-Reflecting Sanctuary
Newly reopened in March 2025, Kyukamura Sanuki-Goshikidai crowns a hilltop overlooking the Inland Sea. Its vast terrace reflects the horizon in a tranquil water basin inspired by the famous Chichibugahama Beach. Guests enjoy open-air baths with sweeping views of island-studded seascapes, a local-flavor buffet, and access to the film set of Twenty-Four Eyes, shot on location nearby. For a luxurious sunset retreat, the new “Setouchi Terrace” premium room offers unmatched vistas over the Sanuki Plain and shimmering sea.
Exploring Setouchi: Ferry Culture & Island Connections
Navigating the Seto Inland Sea is both seamless and scenic. The region is famed for its well-connected ferry system that brings travelers from one island to another with ease - many offering breathtaking views of the sea and coastal landscapes along the way. Whether you're pedaling the Shimanami Kaido, sailing between islands, or catching a ferry from Awaji to the mainland, getting around is part of the adventure. For transportation options, ferry schedules, and recommended routes, please visit the official travel guide: Getting Around Setouchi.
For more information on any of these islands or experiences, please visit Setouchi Travel.
