Setouchi Islands
2 tours available
Why Visit Setouchi Islands
The Setouchi Islands are scattered across the calm, sheltered waters of Japan's Seto Inland Sea between Honshu and Shikoku. This archipelago of over 700 islands offers a rare combination of contemporary art installations, ancient pilgrimage routes, terraced citrus groves, and fishing villages where daily life has changed little in generations.
The Shimanami Kaido cycling route — a 60-kilometre bridge-hopping path connecting Onomichi to Imabari — is one of the world's great cycling experiences. Meanwhile, islands like Teshima and Inujima complement nearby Naoshima with their own distinctive art projects, and smaller islands such as Ogijima reward visitors with cat-filled alleyways and hand-painted murals.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March – May) — Mild weather, cherry blossoms on the islands, and calm seas make this the ideal season for cycling and island-hopping by ferry.
Autumn (October – November) — The Setouchi Triennale art festival often holds its autumn session during this period. Clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
Winter (December – February) — The quietest season with fewer ferries, but mild Inland Sea temperatures and almost no crowds reward adventurous visitors.
Insider Tips
- Rent a bicycle at either end of the Shimanami Kaido and drop it off at the other — one-way rental is available and highly convenient.
- Check ferry schedules carefully. Services to smaller islands can be infrequent, and missing the last boat means an unplanned overnight stay.
- Teshima's Les Archives du Cœur by Christian Boltanski lets you record your own heartbeat and store it forever on the island.
- Bring cash. Many small island shops, cafes, and ferry ticket counters do not accept credit cards.
Tours Visiting Setouchi Islands
Artful Setouchi & Japan's Timeless Hot Springs
Setouchi Island Hopping
Discover Setouchi's art islands, Himeji Castle, and onsen towns. 12-day self-guided tour with ryokan stays and scenic trains.
Setouchi Shores & Shikoku Heartlands
Setouchi Island Hopping
Island-hop through Setouchi's famous art islands, explore hidden gems like Tomonoura and Onomichi,and unwind in hot spring ryokans.15-day self-guided tour.
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Region
Shikoku
Location
Available Tours
2 tours