Sea inside
The Seto Inland Sea
 The broad channel of water between Honshu and Shikoku known
as the Seto Inland Sea contains over 300 islands and harbours
uncounted places to relax, opportunities for outdoor or water
sports and a varied mix of the old and the new Japan — and it’s
all just a short trip from the Kansai by local train, Shinkansen,
long-distance ferries or highway buses.
Don’t expect Mediterranean-style beach resorts, but rather an
abundance of small beaches, homely minshuku (Japanese style
pensions), hiking courses with breathtaking views from the island
tops, fresh seafood, old port towns, cycling tours from island to
island.
Two islands have become especially popular. Naoshima Island,
reached from Okayama City by train or bus and ferry, is home
two famous art museums and hotels designed by Tadanao Ando,
but also features some fascinating art projects in an old-style
Japanese village. On the other hand, Shiraishi Island, close to
Kasaoka City, offers cheap accommodation in an international
villa and some minshuku right on the beach, a beach bar, surfing
and sailing trips with English speaking guides.
 When I first arrived in Japan from a northern country many years
ago, I took to the beach as soon as the sun became warm enough,
which for me was May. I still remember how surprised I was to
have the beaches all for myself until July. Given the mild climate,
gentle waves and soft breezes, marine leisure is less popular than
might be expected. However, sea kayaking has caught on quite
rapidly, and you can have a kayak tour tailored just for you
starting from different locations like Shodoshima or Onomichi.
Less than one hour on the Sanyo train line from Kobe, Kiba
Marina in Himeji offers sailing classes and cruising trips. You
can also enjoy the water from above: cycle along the Shimanami
bridges connecting Honshu and Shikoku — hand back your
rental cycle at one of the many cycling terminals along the route.
Last but not least, if you speak some Japanese, history freaks
will be delighted by the rich legacy of pirates, traders, Korean
delegations and others who traveled this area when it was still
the main artery for Japan’s trade and culture.
The islands are an ideal getaway, but sometimes not so easy to
get to. However, a special homepage has started to offer English
information on the area. It is provided by two NGOs active in the
area, Setouchi Anchorage Network and NPO Holistic Life Okayama.
So, most information comes directly from locals of the places
introduced.
Information is organized in activities like kayaking, sailing, visiting
old port towns, and in areas centering on major train stations
like Hiroshima, Matsuyama, Okayama etc. Links provide access
to further information on sightseeing, transport, accommodation
facilities and leisure activities. While many places have no English
homepage, it is often possible to make enquiries by e-mail.
Text: Carolin Funck
Photos: Murakami Kayak, Carolin Funck, TAK
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