The Seto Inland Sea, known locally in Japan as Setonaikai, is a tranquil and exquisite area of Japan steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. A unique blend of fabulous landscapes, picturesque small islands, cultural heritage sites, and friendly local communities makes the Seto Inland Sea an alluring travel destination. This travel guide discusses how to enjoy a splendid tour around the Seto Inland Sea.
A Serene Natural Landscape
The Seto Inland Sea, Japan's largest inland sea, is nestled between three of the nation's main islands, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. This calm body of water is speckled with around 3,000 islands, big and small. The serene sea set against the backdrop of soaring mountains creates a picturesque landscape that changes with the seasons. The islands are blessed with mild climate and fabulous landscapes, while the waters of the sea are warm and teem with rich marine life. This captivating scenery offers numerous opportunities for exploration, adventure, and relaxation.
The best way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea is by taking a ferry ride, providing a panoramic view of countless islands, shimmering waters, and the play of light and shadows with the rising and setting sun. Additionally, several islands house hiking trails that lead to viewpoints offering breathtaking sunsets and vistas over neighboring islands and the sea beyond. The islands are also popular havens for cycling enthusiasts.
An Abundance of Art and Culture
The islands of the Seto Inland Sea not only provide scenic beauty but also house a treasure trove of contemporary art installations, traditional Japanese art and architecture, museums, and art festivals that attract art lovers from all corners of the globe.
Naoshima Island, also known as the "Art Island", is one of the most famous. It is home to several art museums, including the Chichu Art Museum, the Benesse House Museum, and the Lee Ufan Museum. The museums showcase a fascinating mix of Japanese and Western contemporary art installed both within museum walls and the island's natural environment. The island is also the site of the Setouchi Triennale, an international contemporary art festival held every three years that transforms the island into an open-air art exhibition.
Another island, Inujima, is famous for its Seirensho Art Museum. The museum is built on the ruins of a copper smelting plant and uses natural sunlight to light its interior – a stunning blend of industrial heritage and modern art. The Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum, on the other hand, displays an extensive collection of local traditional art alongside international contemporary art in Hiroshima city.
Historic Attractions of the Seto Inland Sea
The Seto Inland Sea's rich history is embodied in its numerous UNESCO world heritage sites, historic towns, shrines, and castles that tell tales of its past. A visit to Miyajima Island presents you with the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The shrine appears to float on the water at high tide – a sight that epitomizes elegance and tranquillity.
The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, located in Kurashiki city, Okyama Prefecture, is another site that embodies Japanese tradition. The preserved canal area, with its 17th-century wooden warehouses converted into museums, offers a glimpse into the Japan of the Edo period.
Furthermore, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, with its A-Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum, serves as a profound reminder of World War II and promotes the message of peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons.
Gastronomic Delights
No travel guide is complete without talking about the local food, and the Seto Inland Sea does not disappoint in this regard. The region is known for its fresh and delicious seafood. Hiroshima is particularly famous for its version of okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake). Moreover, the region affords you the opportunity to try the Kure beer at Kure Beer Factory in Hiroshima, and the locally brewed sake in Saijo, one of Japan's top sake-brewing districts.
Conclusion
The Seto Inland Sea is a charming combination of remarkable natural beauty, astonishing art, profound history, and culinary delights that all work in unison to create an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, the Seto Inland Sea area has much to offer. Embracing the profound serenity and the exquisite pleasures offered by this region can lead to unexpected discoveries and memorable experiences – a trip to the Seto Inland Sea is truly an immersion into the heart of Japan.
