The Setouchi region of Japan continues to be a hub for art enthusiasts and culture seekers, offering a unique blend of modern creativity and ancient traditions. With a landscape that beautifully merges the serene Seto Inland Sea with untouched natural surroundings, Setouchi invites travelers to discover its long-standing history and vibrant cultural scene from multiple perspectives—both modern and ancient.
Art on the Move: La Malle de Bois Sightseeing Train
Japan’s focus on rail innovation has led the country to have one of the safest, most reliable and fastest railway networks in the world. In Japan, there is not only this high-speed rail network, but also many sightseeing trains that deeply incorporate regional characteristics from it, allowing travelers to enjoy their journeys as they travel. In the Setouchi area, sightseeing trains are popular, offering one-of-a-kind scenic journeys accompanied by unique cuisine and local history.
One of the best ways travelers can explore the region is aboard the La Malle de Bois sightseeing train, which began operation in 2016. The Okayama Line operates on five routes (1) Uno, (2) Onomichi/Mihara, (3) Hinase, (4) Kotohira, and (5) Niimi (for a limited time only), all starting from Okayama Station and connecting to a different tourist destination. Okayama Station is also a Shinkansen stop, making it easily accessible from major cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto.
Inside the train at La Mar de Bois, there is space for contemporary art and a bike storage area for those who want to explore the landscape on two wheels. For cyclists,the bike storage space reservations can be secured one month prior up to three days before use, ensuring a seamless journey through Setouchi’s scenic landscapes. Travelers can enhance their journey by pre-ordering meal services that offer seasonal fruits, sweets and lunches from Okayama. This train not only connects key locations like Okayama, Uno, Mihara, Hinase, and Kotohira but also promotes sustainable travel by providing an environmentally friendly transportation option while offering a unique ‘art on the move’ experience.
Experience Art and Architecture in Izushi, Okayama
The Okayama City Cultural Zone, particularly the Izushi town area, offers travelers a one-of-a-kind experience where art, architecture, and nature converge. Here, visitors can stay at A&A HOTEL, a unique accommodation facility that stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to art and cultural preservation. This rental accommodation, created in collaboration with world-renowned contemporary artists and leading Japanese architects, is part of a broader initiative by the Ishikawa Foundation to revitalize the local community through art. The A&A JONATHAN HASEGAWA hotel is distinguished by its minimalist design and immersive art experiences with stunning views of Setouchi’s natural landscape, while A&A LIAM FUJI blends contemporary architecture, incorporating the wood produced in Okayama. Staying at A&A HOTEL is more than just a lodging experience; it is an opportunity to live within a work of art, surrounded by the serene beauty of Setouchi’s landscape.
Discover Shikoku’s Rich History and Culture in Kagawa
A visit to the Kagawa area provides an enriching dive into the historical and cultural depths of Shikoku Island. The ancient Kotohira-gu Shrine is a must-see for travelers. This shrine, dedicated to the god of the sea, has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries, symbolizing the deep connection between Setouchi and maritime culture. The pilgrimage, known as “Konpira Mairi,” offers panoramic views of the Sanuki Plain, the largest plain in Shikoku and the Seto Inland Sea at the top of the 1,368 stone steps.
The area is home to the Old Konpira Grand Theatre (Kanamaru-za), Japan’s oldest existing kabuki theater, just off the Kotohiragu Shrine. Built in 1835, the Old Konpira Grand Theatre (Kanamaru-za), still hosts the Shikoku Konpira Kabuki Oshibai each spring, drawing audiences from across Japan to witness traditional kabuki performances in an Edo-period atmosphere.
The Kagawa area is also home to the Art Island of Setouchi, which originated from the Benesse Art Site Naoshima that began in 1985. Primarily on Naoshima but also extending to Teshima and Inujima, this art project has seen the creation of numerous facilities that merge architecture with contemporary art. As the Setouchi Triennale began in 2010, these islands have become vibrant stages for art, drawing visitors from around the world.
For a luxurious stay amidst this artistic environment, Naoshima Ryokan ROKA allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the island’s art scene by being surrounded with contemporary artworks throughout the ryokan.
Explore a Merchant Town Preserved in Time
Nestled in the heart of Hiroshima Prefecture, Takehara City offers visitors a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the authentic atmosphere of an old Japanese merchant town. Once a prosperous hub for salt and sake production during the early Edo period, Takehara has preserved its historic charm through the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area and is recognized as a national Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings since 1982. To fully appreciate Takehara’s blend of history and craftsmanship, a visit to the Takehara City Museum of History and Folklore is a must. Open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., this museum offers insights into the town’s storied past, with exhibits that delve into the lives of the wealthy merchants who once thrived here.
Takehara is not only known for its historic townscape but also for its rich tradition of bamboo craftsmanship. The region’s abundant bamboo resources have been expertly utilized for centuries, giving rise to a thriving bamboo industry that played a significant role in supporting both land and sea industries in Hiroshima and continues to be an integral part of the local culture. Visitors can explore the Machinami Takekobo Bamboo Craft Workshop to learn about the various uses of bamboo in daily life and decorative arts. The facility produces bamboo crafts such as bamboo baskets and ornaments and offers a “bamboo craft experience” for making crafts.
“Setouchi is a destination like no other, where travelers can experience both the region’s stunning natural beauty and its deep-rooted cultural heritage,” said Mr. Akimoto, a member of Setouchi DMO. “From the La Malle de Bois train offering a dynamic ‘art on the move’ experience to the vibrant art islands and historical treasures, Setouchi provides countless ways for visitors to engage with the local creativity, history, and environment.”
