Seto Inland Sea

Must Do Experiences

• Cruise over to Miyajima to witness the stunning floating torii gate of the World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine and meet the friendly wild deer.

• Explore Kure City to see the massive submarine at the Iron Whale Museum and the impressive naval exhibits at the Yamato Museum.

• Take a high-speed boat ride across Hiroshima Bay to enjoy panoramic oceanic views and spot local marine life along the coastline.

• Step back in time at Etajima by visiting the historic Old Naval Academy and learning about Japan's maritime heritage.

Hidden Gems

• The ferry ride between Hiroshima and Miyajima offers spectacular sunset views over the water that most tourists miss by taking the standard train route.

• Etajima is often overlooked by international travellers but features incredibly peaceful coastal walking paths and fantastic local oyster dishes.

• Riding the high-speed boats early in the morning provides glass-like water reflections and a completely crowd-free experience of the inland sea islands.

What Makes it Special

• The unlimited hop-on hop-off flexibility across five distinct Setouchi Sealine routes allows you to craft a completely personalized island-hopping itinerary in a single day.

• It seamlessly combines natural beauty with deep cultural and military history, linking a sacred Shinto shrine with fascinating naval museums.

• The inclusion of the Kansai and Hiroshima Area Rail Pass in special editions makes it an unbeatable value for extensive regional exploration beyond just the bay.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to embark on this cruise is during the crisp, clear days of autumn or the blooming spring season, avoiding the humid and rainy summer months. Aim to catch the first boat of the morning to beat the crowds at Miyajima, and plan your return ferry ride for late afternoon to catch a spectacular sunset over the Seto Inland Sea.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine during high tide for the best reflections, checking the local tide charts beforehand.

• Head to the upper decks of the ferry during the golden hour just before sunset to photograph the silhouettes of the inland sea islands against a vibrant orange sky.

• When photographing the exhibits inside the Yamato and Iron Whale museums, ensure your flash is turned off to protect the artifacts and avoid glare on the glass displays.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the sacred island of Miyajima, remember that it is a revered Shinto site, so dress modestly and behave respectfully near the shrines. It is also a local custom not to feed the wild deer that roam the island, as they are considered sacred messengers of the gods and human food can harm their health.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Miyajima hosts the stunning Kangensai Festival in summer, featuring ancient court music and beautifully decorated boats on the water.

• The Setouchi Triennale contemporary art festival occasionally transforms the islands with temporary outdoor installations, making island-hopping even more exciting.

• During autumn, the maple trees on Miyajima turn brilliant shades of red and orange, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the shrines and coastal walks.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always remain seated while the high-speed boats are in motion and hold onto the handrails when moving around the cabin to prevent falls from sudden waves.

• Apply sunscreen and wear a hat when standing on the outdoor decks, as the sun reflects intensely off the water and can cause unexpected sunburns.

• Pay close attention to the crew's safety briefings and locate the life jackets upon boarding, especially if you are travelling with young children.