1. BECAUSE IT IS NOT MAJOR TRAVEL DESTINATIONS EVEN FOR THE JAPANESE
Shikoku, unlike in Tokyo or Kyoto, you will never be crowded by people, unless you visit when large events like the Setouchi Art Festival or the Awa Odori Festival are taking place. Shikoku is the smallest of the main Japan islands. From here, you can enjoy visiting many islands offshore, in the Seto Inland Sea. If you avoid doing so during the tourist season, you may well be able to enjoy your stay in a relaxed manner, surrounded by beautiful nature.
2. BECAUSE IT IS HIGHLY PRAISED FOR ITS MAGNIFICENT SCENERY
Seto Inland Sea is an ocean of tranquility. The waveless sea, studded with islands, presents stunning scenery that has impressed Thomas Cook and many other tourists from abroad. It is also worth noting that some areas across the Okayama, Hiroshima and Kagawa prefectures were designated as Japan's first national park in 1934.
3. BECAUSE YOU CAN RELAX AND ENJOY THE QUIET ENVIRONMENT OF THE INLAND SEA
The islands of Seto have a laid-back atmosphere. Here, you can fully enjoy life at a slow pace. Immerse yourself in the nature-based lifestyle of the locals, spend some time watching the sun set over the sea or do nothing and simply enjoy the tranquility of night.
4. BECAUSE IT HAS MANY INTRIGUING STORIES FROM THE PAST
In the past, pirates of the Seto Inland Sea were given autonomy by the Shogun and functioned as a naval force. The prosperous pirates also played an active role in securing the safety of major trading centers and the significant sea trading lane at the time, and took charge of commerce and distribution within the area. The cities once ruled by these pirates still exist today, reflecting their historical prosperity.
5. BECAUSE YOU WILL BE WARMLY WELCOMED BY THE LOCAL PEOPLE
The people of the Inland Sea, which once prospered as a key trading junction, inherited the open-minded and friendly natures of their ancestors. They smile back at you when you greet them and will try to make you feel welcome using simple English and body language. Spending quality time with the locals will certainly be an unforgettable part of your journey.
6. BECAUSE YOU CAN ENJOY LOCAL GOURMET FOOD
The seafood of the Inland Sea is known for its rich flavor. The sea is blessed with specific conditions that nurture tasty fish and clams. The sunlight shines down on the shallow water and generates abundant plankton, while nutrient-rich rivers pour into the sea from the surrounding mountains. As a result, the ocean is filled with healthy, fleshy fish. In addition to the seafood, locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables can also be enjoyed by tourists throughout the year.
7. BECAUSE YOU CAN ENJOY ISLAND-HOPPING AT EASE
The Seto Inland Sea comprises more than 3000 islands of various sizes, among which roughly 300 are inhabited. Easy access is available to Shodoshima, Naojima, Teshima, Oghijima and Meghijima by taking a ferry from Takamatsu Port, which will deliver you to your destination within an hour. Ferries and high-speed boats also operate between these islands.
Why don’t you go a little further and fully enjoy the dazzling views of the island chain in the Seto Inland Sea?
Why don’t you go a little further and fully enjoy the dazzling views of the island chain in the Seto Inland Sea?
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