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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Seto.
Nestled in the heart of Japan lies a treasure trove of delights waiting to be explored.
Seto, like a precious jewel, boasts a myriad of activities that will capture your heart and leave you enchanted.
From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, this city has an abundance of things to do that will satisfy even the most discerning traveler.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Seto:
1. Urakuen Garden
A traditional Japanese garden located in Seto City, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the meticulously landscaped garden filled with lush greenery, calming water features, and traditional Japanese architecture. Admire the cherry blossom trees in spring and the vibrant maple trees in autumn.
Don’t miss: The tea ceremony experience in the authentic tea house, which includes traditional matcha green tea and Japanese sweets.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as some of the paths can be steep and uneven. Enjoy the garden’s beauty at different times of the day as the lighting can change the atmosphere dramatically.
Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.
2. Seto-Gura Museum
Seto-Gura Museum is a traditional warehouse turned into a museum, dedicated to pottery production in Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the history of pottery production in Seto, and visitors can explore the traditional kilns and pottery-making tools. There are also many exhibitions of pottery and ceramic artworks, ranging from ancient times to the present day.
You can also try your hand at pottery-making in the museum’s workshop.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the chance to see the vast collections of ceramics and pottery artefacts, including national treasures, that the museum has to offer.
Insider travel tips: – If you visit during the Setouchi Triennale art festival, you can see unique contemporary art exhibitions displayed in combination with the museum’s traditional atmosphere.
3. Kinko Bay
Kinko Bay is a picturesque bay located in the Seto Inland Sea of Japan.
What to see or do: Take in the stunning views and enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, sailing, and kayaking. Visit surrounding islands like Shodo Island, famous for olive oil production, and explore their unique culture and natural beauty.
Don’t miss: The iconic view of the Great Seto Bridge, which connects Honshu and Shikoku islands, as well as the sunset over the bay.
Insider travel tips: Visit during spring or autumn for milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Take a ferry from Takamatsu or Okayama for a scenic ride across the bay.
Try the local seafood, especially the Sanuki udon noodles, a regional specialty.
4. Toga Shrine
Toga Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Seto, Japan, situated on top of Mount Toga.
What to see or do: The shrine is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a stunning view of the city below.
Visitors can stroll through the grounds and admire the traditional architecture, including the vibrant red torii gate that marks the entrance.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Toga Shrine is the Tenman-gū, the main shrine building which houses the deity associated with scholarship and learning.
It features intricate details and a peaceful atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a steep hike up the mountain to reach the shrine. It is best to visit during the fall season when the foliage is at its peak.
Additionally, the nearby Nagoya Ceramic Museum is a great place to visit for those interested in the local pottery tradition.
5. Kosanji Temple
Kosanji Temple is a grand and ornate temple complex located in the picturesque town of Seto in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to Kosanji Temple can marvel at the intricate architectural details of the temple buildings, which were constructed using ancient building techniques.
The complex includes stunning gardens, a museum, and a replica of the famous Sistine Chapel ceiling.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the “Hell’s Valley” exhibit, which is a vivid and terrifying depiction of the Buddhist idea of the afterlife.
You can also stroll through the sprawling gardens, which feature a variety of decorative elements ranging from traditional Japanese lanterns to ancient Greek statues.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit Kosanji Temple during the springtime when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
The temple can be quite crowded during peak tourist season, so try to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Additionally, be sure to bring a camera to capture the beauty of this incredible attractions.
6. Seto City Historical Museum
The Seto City Historical Museum is a small local museum in Seto City, Japan, dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the region.
What to see or do: The museum exhibits a variety of artifacts and documents related to the local history, such as pottery, traditional crafts, and ancient tools.
Visitors can learn about the Seto City’s development over time, from the Jomon period to the modern era. There are audio and visual displays that help enhance the experience.
Don’t miss: The museum’s collection of pottery, including many fine examples of Seto ware, for which the city is renowned.
The pottery exhibits showcase traditional techniques that have been handed down through generations and highlight the evolution of the craft over time.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is not very big, so it can be covered in an hour or so.
7. Okishima Island
An island located in the Seto Inland Sea, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the car-free island and admire the picturesque views of the sea and surrounding islands. Visit the Okishima Museum to learn about the island’s history and culture.
Take a dip in the sea and enjoy the clear waters.
Don’t miss: The annual Okishima Festival celebrated in July, featuring traditional music and dance performances. The delicious seafood served at the island’s restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Access to the island is by boat only, and there are limited passenger boats available, so it’s best to plan ahead.
The island is an ideal destination for a day trip, but if you wish to stay overnight, there are several traditional Japanese guesthouses available.
The island is off the beaten path, making it a perfect escape from the hectic pace of city life.
8. Seto Ohashi Bridge
Seto Ohashi Bridge is a series of double-decker cable-stayed bridges that connect the islands of Honshu and Shikoku in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can drive, bike, or walk across the bridge and enjoy stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. You can also take a sightseeing boat tour to get a unique perspective of the bridge from below.
Don’t miss: The Seto Ohashi Bridge Museum is a must-visit spot for those interested in the construction and history of the bridge. It has interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the engineering feats and challenges of building this remarkable structure.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to plan your visit during sunset or sunrise, as the views are spectacular and make for great photo opportunities.
Also, try the local specialty dish- “Setouchi lemon cake” while savoring the scenic views.
9. Aeon Mall Seto
A popular shopping mall located in Seto, Japan.
What to see or do: Aeon Mall Seto boasts a variety of shops, ranging from fashion boutiques to electronics stores.
Visitors can also catch a movie at the mall’s cinema or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.
Don’t miss: The mall’s rooftop garden, which offers a stunning view of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds and take advantage of the free parking. Be sure to check out the mall’s website for any special events or promotions before your visit.
10. Mt
Mt. Seto is a beautiful mountain located in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain climbing on the trails, taking in the breathtaking scenic views, and exploring the forests.
Don’t miss: The stunning views from the top of the mountain are a must-see, especially during autumn when the foliage changes color.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit during the week to avoid crowds, pack comfortable shoes and clothing, and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Additionally, be sure to check the weather forecast before visiting and plan accordingly.
11. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
The Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology is a museum located in the city of Seto, Japan.
It was established in 1994 to showcase the technological developments of the Toyota Group and its impact on the industrial world.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s interactive exhibits, which cover the history of Toyota’s textile machinery, automobile production, and other technological innovations.
The museum showcases a range of machines, from early textile looms to modern robotics, and offers hands-on activities and demonstrations that explain the inner workings of these machines.
Don’t miss: The museum’s “Toyota Kaikan Exhibition Hall,” which features a wide array of Toyota cars, including the company’s first production model, the AA Sedan.
The “Technoland” exhibit is also worth a visit, as it offers a glimpse into the future of automotive technology.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and during the New Year’s period. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, as the museum can be quite busy on weekends and holidays.
Be sure to check out the museum shop, which offers a variety of Toyota-related souvenirs and gifts.
12. Seto Art Festival
Seto Art Festival is an annual art event held in the Seto Inland Sea region of Japan, featuring a wide range of contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and installations.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various galleries and venues displaying contemporary art, including sculpture, painting, photography, and more. Additionally, numerous outdoor installations and performances are also organized throughout the region.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see unique artworks created specifically for the festival, as well as experiencing traditional Japanese culture in the region.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the official website for the festival schedule and information on transportation options. Additionally, if you’re interested in seeing a particular artist’s work, plan to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Finally, consider staying in one of the quaint towns or villages in the Seto Inland Sea region, as accommodations can be scarce during the festival.
13. Seto Ceramic and Glass Art Center
The Seto Ceramic and Glass Art Center is a contemporary museum dedicated to the art of ceramics and glass, located in Seto city, Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various exhibitions showcasing modern and traditional ceramic and glass art. The museum also offers workshops where visitors can create their pottery or glasswork with the help of professional artists.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the “Seto-mono” exhibition, which displays the history of pottery production in Seto city, known for its excellent quality of ceramics for centuries.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in creating your unique ceramics, book a workshop session well in advance.
Also, visit the museum store to buy souvenirs such as personalized ceramic pieces, tea sets, and decorative glass art created by the museum’s artists.
14. Nabana no Sato
Nabana no Sato is a flower park located in Mie Prefecture in Seto, Japan.
What to see or do: The park is famous for its stunning flower displays, particularly its winter illumination event that takes place from mid-November to early May each year, with over 8 million LED lights decorating the park.
You can also visit the onsen (hot spring) inside the park, take a walk in the beautiful gardens, or enjoy seasonal events such as a sakura (cherry blossom) festival and a tulip festival.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Nabana no Sato is undoubtedly the winter illumination event, where you can stroll through tunnels of sparkling lights, see illuminated displays of flowers and trees, and watch a spectacular light and sound show on the water.
In spring, make sure to catch the sakura festival, where thousands of cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, and enjoy Japanese culture through various performances and food stalls.
Insider travel tips: – Visit on weekdays if possible to avoid the crowds.
15. Kano Castle
Kano Castle is a historical landmark located in the city of Seto, Japan. The castle was built in the 16th century and was a significant strategic location during Japan’s feudal period.
What to see or do: Visitors will enjoy exploring the castle grounds, which include several historic structures like the castle keep and the Kano family residence.
The castle also has beautiful gardens and ponds for visitors to stroll through.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the Kano-machi Museum, which gives an in-depth look into the history of the Kano family and their role in governing the castle.
Also, don’t miss the observation deck, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April) as the castle’s gardens are particularly beautiful during this time.
It’s also best to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking to do on the castle grounds.
If you’re interested in history, make sure to take a guided tour as there is a lot of fascinating information to learn about Kano Castle and its significance in Japanese history.
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