125The Setouchi Islands in Japan offer a unique charm, unlike any other tourist destination. Here, you can explore small islands with serene ocean views and visit incredible art museums. Not only can you admire stunning artwork, but if you enjoy cycling, you’ll find scenic routes with breathtaking views that will make you want to stay longer.
The Setouchi Islands have become a globally recognized hub for contemporary art. The museums across these islands not only showcase extraordinary artworks but also offer visitors an immersive artistic experience. The museums feature unique architecture, captivating spatial arrangements, and integration with the surrounding nature, which creates a harmonious balance between art and the environment. Here are some museums you must visit in Setouchi:
Bizen Osafune Token Village is not just a museum; it's a dedicated complex for the art of traditional Japanese sword-making. In this complex, visitors can witness firsthand the intricate and detailed process of sword-making, from forging the steel to sharpening the blade. Additionally, this museum also boasts of a stunning collection of historical swords, offering deep insights into the history and craftsmanship of Japanese sword-making.
Located in the heart of Setouchi City, this museum features a diverse range of art collections, spanning traditional to contemporary artworks. Setouchi City Art Museum focuses on the works of local and regional artists, providing a platform for them to showcase their talent and creativity.
This museum also frequently hosts temporary exhibitions featuring works by national and international artists, making it a captivating art hub. Visitors can explore diverse the artistic styles and expressions while learning about artistic history of the Setouchi Region.
This museum is dedicated to a famous Japanese painter, Higashiyama Kaii. With Seto Inland Sea in the background, it creates a harmonious balance between art and nature. Higashiyama Kaii's artworks often depict serene and beautiful Japanese landscapes, perfectly complementing the scenery around the museum.
Visitors can feel the tranquility and serenity radiating from Higashiyama Kaii’s paintings while enjoying the breathtaking ocean view. That's why this museum is the perfect place to reflect on the beauty of Japanese nature and art.
For cycling enthusiasts, the Setouchi Islands are a paradise with breathtaking routes. With stunning ocean views, iconic bridges, and charming fishing villages, every cycling journey along these routes is an unforgettable adventure. Here are the most stunning cycling routes in the Setouchi Islands that will delight your eyes and soul:
This cycling route connects six islands in the Seto Inland Sea, linking Honshu and Shikoku while passing small islands like Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima, and Oshima via stunning bridges. This route stretches approximately 70 kilometers and is accessible only by foot or bicycle, which means it is separate from car lanes, making it a safe and comfortable path to travel.
Shimanami Kaido offers spectacular ocean views and a chance to explore traditional fishing villages, ancient temples, and a vast orange farm. This route has separate lanes from cars, making it safe and comfortable to travel.
Tobishima Kaido offers a more relaxed and peaceful cycling experience, with views of small islands and a lush rural atmosphere. This route crosses seven charming islands connected by seven bridges, linking Kawajiri in Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture, to Okamura Island, in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture.
Most of this route runs parallel to the coastline, offering a journey with breathtaking views. Tobishima Kaido also features some fascinating historical sites to visit, such as former naval shipyards and unique traditional Japanese houses.
This route connects three islands—Yumeshima, Sashima and Ikinajima—offering views of grand modern bridges and a unique industrial area. Unlike the previous routes, which offer coastal and natural scenery, Yumeshima Kaido is perfect for those who appreciate urban landscapes and modern architecture.
Kakishima Kaido is a route connecting Edajima City with Kurihashi, crossing several small islands in Hiroshima Bay. Although this route may be less well-known than others, it offers a peaceful coastal path, gentle hills, and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Along the way, you will pass through tranquil fishing villages, cross bridges connecting the islands, and ride past oyster farms, with the route spanning approximately 70 kilometers. Additionally, Kakishima Kaido is also known as the 'Oyster Route' because this area is famous for its delicious oyster production.
The Setouchi Islands is the perfect destination in Japan for those seeking a unique and unforgettable travel experience. With a blend of natural beauty, contemporary art, and stunning cycling routes, this place will surely captivate you and make you want to stay longer.
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