The Setouchi Region - Japanese Encyclopedia

Setouchi Region - Basic Information

Prefectures comprising the Setouchi region.

Setouchi refers to the region in western Japan that surrounds the Seto Inland Sea. It is composed of seven prefectures: Hyogo, Okayama, Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Tokushima, Kagawa, and Ehime.

With 700 islands dotting the sea, Setouchi is famous for its stunning scenery. In 1860, the German geographer Ferdinand von Richthofen remarked that the scenery was unmatched anywhere else in the world.

The Setouchi has plenty of historical and cultural sites, including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Itsukushima Shrine. However, it's also home to the Setouchi Triennale, the largest contemporary art festival in Japan, held every three years.

The History of Setouchi

Miyajima Island, home to Itsukushima Shrine

The Seto Inland Sea has long been the center of Japan's shipping industry.

During the late Heian Period (794 - 1185), Tairo no Kiyomori—a powerful military leader—established a port to trade with the Song Dynasty in China. Then during the Edo Period (1603 - 1868), several ports were built for cargo ships connecting Osaka with northern Japan.

Since the Meiji Era (1868 - 1912), the region has flourished as a center for shipbuilding. The town of Kure is also the backdrop of the hit anime movie "In This Corner of the World."

With its rich history and culture, Setouchi has a variety of unique places that are worth visiting.

Sightseeing Spots in Setouchi

Hiroshima: The Peace Memorial Museum and A-Bomb Dome

The Peace Memorial Museum and Atomic Bomb Dome are located in Hiroshima. The city continues to testify about the horrors of war and the importance of peace.

Hiroshima: Itsukushima Shrine and Miyajima Island

Picture from Home Of The Gods - Itsukushima Shrine, A World Heritage Site

A scenic view in Japan, Itsukushima Shrine is known for its iconic torii gate standing in the water. Founded in 593, the shrine was built to its current scale during the rule of Taira no Kiyomori.

Kagawa, Okayama: The Setouchi Triennale and Contemporary Art

Picture from Explore Megijima - Art And Cafes On A Unique Island Destination In Japan

Known as the mecca of modern art, the islands of Kagawa and Okayama are venues for the Setouchi Triennale. This tri-annual festival is popular for its unique blend of modern aesthetics and local culture.

Okayama: Visit Unique Sites in Kurashiki

Once a prosperous commercial town, Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture has several notable sites. The traditional buildings in the Bikan Historical Quarter have a distinct appearance with their white walls. Meanwhile, the Ivy Square is a shopping center renovated from a cotton mill. The Ohara Museum of Art displays works by renown artists such as El Greco, Picasso, and Monet.

Hiroshima, Ehime: Shimanami Kaido

Picture from The Perfect View: Everything About The Shimanami Kaidō

The Shimanami Kaido is a scenic road connecting Hiroshima and Ehime Prefectures. It was even featured in CNN's "7 Best Bike Routes in the World." This beautiful cycling route includes seven bridges that extend across six islands.

Naruto Whirlpools, Dogo Onsen, and Chichibugahama Beach

Photo by Pixta

In addition to the places already covered, Setouchi has many other sightseeing locations. The Naruto Whirlpools are a spectacular sight to see. Dogo Onsen is said to be Japan's oldest onsen. And of course, Chichibugahama Beach is ranked one of the most beautiful sunset spots in Japan.

Taste Local Dishes From Setouchi

Oysters

Photo by Pixta

The gentle waters make the Seto Inland Sea an ideal environment for oyster farms. In particular, Hiroshima is famous for this delicacy.

Udon Noodles

Picture from Udon Noodle Guide: Varieties And Where To Eat In Japan

Getting the least amount of rain in Setouchi, Kagawa has long been a major producer of wheat. As a result, one of Kagawa's staples is Sanuki udon noodles.

Citrus Fruits

Picture from A Gorgeous Sunset! 5 Ways To Enjoy Chichibugahama Beach In Kagawa

Citrus fruit grows abundantly in Setouchi's temperate climate. Okayama is known for peaches and grapes, Ehime for mandarins, Hiroshima for lemons, and Shodo Island for olives.

Getting Around Setouchi

If you plan on traveling by train, we recommend using the JR-West Rail Pass.

For those with extra time, we recommend crossing the Seto Ohashi Bridge between Kojima, Okayama, and Sakaide, Kagawa. It is one of the world's largest road-rail bridges. Enjoy the view of the Seto Inland Sea as you travel across by train or car.

Boats are another mode of transportation. You can take a ferry out to Shodo Island and Naoshima Island or reach smaller islands via a high-speed craft. Another option is booking a cruise, such as guntû. You are sure to have an unforgettable experience!

Main image: View from Mt. Shiude in Mitoyo, Kagawa