Setouchi Japan offers a variety of immersive hands-on adventures that allow guests to actively participate in the cultural traditions and natural beauty of the Setouchi region. Rather than simply observing visitors are encouraged to get involved, try new skills, meet local experts and engage directly with the landscapes and communities that make Setouchi unique.
Onsen and Samurai Experience
In Okayama Prefecture the mountain-framed town of Yunogo Onsen in Mimasaka City is the perfect gateway into Japan’s ancient hot spring traditions and the legendary spirit of the samurai.
Visitors can participate in historic hot spring dipping that dates back 1,200 years soaking in the moisturising sodium-calcium chloride waters which can help promote relaxation, improve circulation and ease fatigue. Women are said to travel far and wide as it is said that the waters have also have a beautifying effect! The peaceful town of Yuata is perfect for exploring with its nearby museums, cafes and outdoor footbaths.
For those seeking adventure Yunogo offers a rare chance to step into the world of Miyamoto Musashi who was born in Mimasaka and remains one of Japan’s most revered Samurai swordsmen. The Samurai Project allows visitors to train in iaido techniques and samurai etiquette at the historic Koryokan Martial Arts Hall. Participants don samurai attire and under expert guidance learn foundational sword etiquette and practise drawing and sheathing movements. Those wanting to take it a step further can opt for the tameshigiri challenge, cutting a target with a live sword. A session costs 8,000 YEN (approximately £39) based on one person. The tameshigiri challenge costs an additional £25.
Oyster Harvesting
On the waters of Hiroshima’s Seto Inland Sea, Shimada Suisan offers a hands-on journey into the world of oyster farming that few get to see. Join a local fishing boat at dawn and glide across the calm morning sea toward the oyster rafts (ikada). Here, ten-metre-long ropes thickly covered with oysters rise dramatically from the water, a spectacle unique to Hiroshima. Back on shore guests can witness the speed and precision of master oyster shuckers in action and enjoy a well-earned bowl of warm fisherman-style oyster porridge.
Early-morning harvest tours run Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am for around one hour costing 3,000 YEN (approximately £14.60) per person. Afternoon tours start at 11:00 or 14:00 and offer a lighter experience without oyster porridge costing 2,000 YEN (approximately £9.75)
Indigo Dying and Pottery
In Yamaguchi Prefecture AIMA in Hofu City offers architect-designed glamping-style lodging and the opportunity to learn the ancient craft of natural indigo dyeing. Guests join in stirring fermentation vats and witness the fabrics transform into Japan’s iconic deep blue crafting a personal creation to take home. Room only prices start from 8,800 YEN (approximately £43).
Whilst in Yamaguchi travellers can also dive into the ancient world of Hagi-yaki, a pottery tradition more than 400 years old. In the historic town of Hagi guests can join hands-on pottery workshops at the Hagi-yaki Kaikan or visit active kilns such as Okada Kiln where artisans still shape clay with techniques passed down through generations. The experience is enriched by walking the atmospheric Edo-period streets of Hagi Castle Town where historic buildings and world heritage sites reveal the town’s rich past. Here pottery is not just made but lived, allowing visitors to witness its evolution through touch craft and local connection.
Awa Odori Performance
In Tokushima the Awa Odori Kaikan pulses with energy inviting visitors to jump straight into one of Japan’s most dynamic performing arts. After watching dancers move in vibrant unison guests are encouraged to take the stage themselves learning the steps to a dance that has electrified Tokushima for over four centuries. With live music historical exhibits and nearby access to the Mt Bizan Ropeway the experience lifts travellers into the heart of Tokushima’s spirited culture. Prices start from 1,300 YEN (approximately £6.40) per adult.
Why Setouchi Now?
With direct flights from the UK to Osaka and Tokyo, and easy access via Japan’s iconic bullet trains, Setouchi is being discovered by travellers looking beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you’re an art lover, nature seeker, or wellness enthusiast, Setouchi offers the chance to slow down, tune in, and be transported, all through the power of extraordinary places to stay.
The Setouchi Region is located in western Japan and surrounds Japan’s largest inland sea. To access the region from the UK there are direct flights to Tokyo from London Heathrow with British Airways, All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines. From Tokyo it is a 3 – 5 hour journey via Shinkansen and other means of transport to stations in the region including Shin-Kobe, Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima, Shin-Yamaguchi and Shikoku (Kagawa, Ehime and Tokushima).
