The Seto Inland Sea is the largest of Japan’s inland seas. The entire region, including the sea and the coastal areas around it, is often collectively called “Setouchi”.The appeal of this region of Japan is obvious: the beauty of the sea, a mild climate, and its fascinating islands with so much to offer visitors.Setouchi’s volcanic islands rising out of the calm green waters form a stunning natural artwork. No wonder Japanese gives us the word tatoubi — literally, the beauty of a broad horizon studded with islands.Though, if the archipelago’s high ranking in the New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2019 is any indication, the rest of the world is fast catching on to the allure of these islands. Yet not to be outdone by mother nature, a group of islands in the east of Setouchi have recreated themselves as art havens, attracting world-class architects and renowned contemporary artists. Spearheaded by Kagawa prefecture’s Naoshima island, this art-filled archipelago provides a fascinating array of projects, sculptures, installations, and breathtakingly designed museums. Nearby Takamatsu Port offers easy ferry access to the art islands. And if you can coincide your trip with the Setouchi Triennale, you’re in for a special treat. Held every three years, the Setouchi Triennale delivers the cutting edge in contemporary art at museums, galleries, and installations across a dozen islands. For those on a short visit, or travelers wanting to maximize their time in this fascinating part of Setouchi, we recommend flying directly to Takamatsu Airport. Takamatsu not only gives easy access to the art islands, but places many of Setouchi’s other attractions within comfortable reach as well. After landing, you can wander around Ritsurin Garden, Japan’s largest traditional Japanese garden; visit Kotohira-gu shrine, one of Japan’s most storied shrines; or hit up Konpira Grand Theatre, the oldest — and one of the most famous — theaters in Japan. Of course, no trip to Kagawa would be complete without a bowl or two of thick white udon noodles.
