Things To Do
in Setouchi
Setouchi is a coastal region in Japan known for its stunning sea views and picturesque islands. It is famous for its art and cultural festivals, including the Setouchi Triennale, which attracts visitors from around the world. The region is also known for its delicious seafood, particularly oysters and mikan (mandarin oranges).
Setouchi offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to a local market to sample fresh seafood and specialty products. Then, try your hand at making sushi in a fun workshop.
Visit a nearby island to enjoy a leisurely bike ride, taking in the stunning coastal views and charming villages. Stop for lunch at a seaside café that serves regional delicacies.
End the day with a sunset cruise around the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy the breathtaking views and perhaps a traditional kaiseki dinner onboard.
Rent a bike and explore the Shimanami Kaido, a scenic cycling route with panoramic views of the ocean. Stop at rest areas to enjoy local snacks and take photos.
Cycle to one of the hidden beaches for a relaxing swim or sunbathing session. Don't forget to have lunch at a local eatery serving freshly caught fish.
Ride back to town and enjoy a casual dinner in a bustling izakaya. Try some unique regional dishes paired with local sake.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful scenery, with stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and numerous islands.
- Rich cultural heritage, including historical sites and traditional festivals.
- Delicious local cuisine, famous for fresh seafood and unique regional specialties.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring picturesque landscapes.
- Warm climate, making it an attractive destination year-round.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may have fewer English-speaking services, posing a challenge for non-Japanese visitors.
- Tourism infrastructure might not be as developed in some remote regions.
- Seasonal weather can be humid and hot in summer, making outdoor activities uncomfortable.
- Potential for overcrowding during peak tourist seasons, especially in popular areas.
Best Activities in Setouchi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic islands and bridges of the Seto Inland Sea on this 70-kilometer cycling route.
Enjoy the natural beauty and diverse landscapes of this national park, which includes mountains, forests, and coastline.
Discover hidden coves, sea caves, and marine life while paddling through the crystal-clear waters of the Seto Inland Sea.
Tours
Uncover the best of Setouchi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Setouchi
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its historic canal area with picturesque old buildings and bridges, offering great photo opportunities
Famous for its contemporary art museums and outdoor installations, providing unique and artistic photo opportunities
Home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its 'floating' torii gate, creating stunning photo backdrops
Food in Setouchi
Setouchi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pancake made with cabbage, pork, and noodle, topped with a special okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, seaweed, and bonito flakes. One of the best places to try this dish is at Okonomimura in Hiroshima.
Must-Try!
A local delicacy of grilled conger eel served over rice, commonly found in traditional restaurants and coastal towns like Uwajima.
Setouchi is famous for its sweet, juicy mikan (mandarin oranges), particularly in the citrus groves of Ehime Prefecture. Visitors can enjoy freshly picked mikan at local orchards or at fruit stands along the roadside.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
While cycling along the scenic Shimanami Kaido route, make sure to stop at the various food stalls offering a variety of local snacks such as fresh seafood, fried oysters, and citrus-flavored treats.
Located in Onomichi, this alley is a haven for ramen lovers, featuring small shops serving different variations of this beloved Japanese noodle soup.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Setouchi, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when waiting in line or in crowded areas. Bowing slightly when greeting or thanking someone is also a common gesture of respect.
When entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments such as ryokan (Japanese inns) or temples, it's customary to remove your shoes. This practice helps maintain cleanliness and shows respect for the space.
Setouchi is rich in traditional customs and rituals, such as tea ceremonies, festivals, and religious celebrations. Observing and respecting these cultural practices demonstrates sensitivity and appreciation for the local way of life.
Safety
Tipping in Setouchi
Ensure a smooth experience
In Setouchi, Japan, tipping is not a common practice and it is generally not expected. It is considered polite to provide excellent service as part of the overall experience without the need for additional monetary compensation.
Payment in Setouchi, Japan is primarily done using cash, although major credit cards are also widely accepted, especially in hotels, department stores, and larger restaurants. It's important to have sufficient cash on hand as some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms, mild temperatures, and the Setouchi Triennale art festival.
Ideal for beach activities, island hopping, and enjoying local summer festivals.
Great for autumn foliage, participating in harvest festivals, and cooler weather for outdoor activities.
Visitors can experience winter illuminations, enjoy hot springs, and participate in local New Year's traditions.
Setouchi at Night
Hiking in Setouchi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park offering trails with views of olive trees and the surrounding landscape. Ideal for those who enjoy walking amidst nature.
Part of the Hyogo Prefectural Rokko Mountain range, offering various hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Accessible by ferry, Oshima is known for its hiking trails that take you through lush forests and along rugged coastlines.
A small island known for its beautiful hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding islands.
While primarily an historical area, there are nearby walking and hiking paths that lead through the beautiful landscapes of the region.
A fantastic spot for walking or cycling, with stunning views of the bridge and the sea which can be explored via walking paths nearby.
Located near Setouchi, it offers various trails ranging in difficulty and is known for its stunning views from the summit.
Aiports
How to reach Setouchi by plane.
Located in Osaka, Kansai International Airport is one of the largest international airports in Japan, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.
Located in Okayama Prefecture, this airport serves domestic and a few international flights, providing access to the Setouchi region.
Situated in Hiroshima Prefecture, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, connecting to major cities in Asia.
Located in Kagawa Prefecture, this smaller airport caters primarily to domestic flights, but also offers limited international services.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, Itami serves mainly domestic flights but connects with regional international flights, located near the Setouchi area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Setouchi, representing the majority of the population.
A minority group, consisting of residents with Korean heritage, including both long-term residents and recent immigrants.
Another minority group, including both long-term residents and recent immigrants from China.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups such as Filipino, Vietnamese, and others, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Setouchi, with local teams and high school tournaments. The area has produced many professional players.
Soccer has been gaining popularity in Setouchi, with local clubs and schools participating in regional competitions.
Basketball is a popular sport for both youth and adults in Setouchi, with many schools having competitive teams.
Various forms of martial arts, including Judo and Karate, are practiced widely in Setouchi, with numerous dojos and competitions.
Fishing is a popular pastime in Setouchi due to its coastal location, attracting both recreational and competitive anglers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Setouchi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, some restaurants in Setouchi offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for establishments that specialize in shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) or those that cater to international visitors.
Finding gluten-free options in Setouchi may pose a challenge, but some restaurants are beginning to accommodate this dietary preference. Communication with the staff and chefs about gluten-free requirements is essential to ensure a safe dining experience.