Visitors to the Setouchi Region of Japan can explore five distinctly Japanese approaches to connecting with nature. The destination’s rich natural environment and cultural heritage make it a prime destination for the whole family to experience the wild and wonderful outdoors tied to the concepts of satoumi, mono no aware, ganbaru, yūgen and the Shinto reverence for nature. Traditional beach fishing, rafting, island trekking, tidal whirlpools and sunset reflection provide the opportunity to jump right in to gain a deeper understanding of island life, spirituality and the natural phenomena of the Seto Inland Sea.
Satoumi – Teshima Beach Seine Fishing: The Teshima Beach Seine Fishing Experience offers a hands-on opportunity to get close-up and personal with the bounty of the sea, while discovering satoumi, the Japanese concept of a harmonious relationship between coastal communities and the maritime environment. In this program guided by local fishermen, traditional net fishing is made accessible to all ages, right off the beach of Teshima Island in Kagawa Prefecture. Participants use a specialised beach fishing net, which can be handled by groups as small as two people, from children to adults. Along the way, they gain an insight into the local knowledge of the sea, from traditional fishing methods to the various species of fish found in the waters around Teshima. The experience comes full circle in the meal-inclusive option when guests can prepare and enjoy their catch in traditional Teshima style with the locals; a fresh meal of sashimi and grilled fish, accompanied by rice cooked in an iron pot.
Mono no aware – Chichibugahama Beach: At low tide, Chichibugahama Beach is a place where people appear to walk when the sea mirrors the sky, earning it the nickname ‘Japan’s Uyuni Salt Flats’ after Bolivia’s famous Salar de Uyuni. Located on the coast of Mitoyo in Kagawa Prefecture the gentle, shallow beach stretches along the coast for approximately 1km, offering not only unparalleled views of the sun sinking into the horizon at dusk but, if the conditions are right, the opportunity to witness this magical natural phenomenon. The sky mirror’s transience reflects the Japanese concept of mono no aware, an appreciation of the fleeting beauty of nature and the impermanence of a moment. Nearby, Mitoyo welcomes visitors to stay overnight at a wide range of lodgings surrounded by peaceful temples and shrines, and enjoy restaurants serving the region’s renowned Sanuki udon.
Shinto – Nushima Island: Japan’s origin story, described in its oldest history books (the Kojiki and the Nihon Shoki), is set on the mythical Onokoro Island. It is believed to be the first island created by the Shinto deities Izanagi and Izanami. In Hyogo Prefecture, just south of Awaji Island in the Seto Inland Sea, the tiny green island of Nushima inherits this legend, offering a fascinating insight into the Shinto reverence for nature and the belief that sacred presences, known as kami, can be found throughout the natural world. Travellers to Nushima can visit various spots where this history and mythology still thrive, such as the sacred Onokoro Shrine at the foot of the mountain. Nushima’s southern coastline is punctuated by distinctive rock formations and reefs that can be seen from the sea – Shitatategami-iwa, the flat Hirabae-iwa, and the 30m Kamitategami-iwa, which is said to have served as the model for the Heavenly Pillars.
Ganbaru – Yoshino River Rafting: One of Shikoku’s most thrilling outdoor activities is wild whitewater rafting in the rapids of the Oboke and Koboke gorges. The Yoshino River flows through Miyoshi in Tokushima Prefecture, winding its way past lush natural scenery and dramatic cliffsides. Embracing the Japanese spirit of ganbaru – perseverance, determination and giving something your best effort – rafting offers families the chance to tackle a challenge together, building confidence and a shared sense of achievement along the way. GoGo Adventure prioritises safety, so even beginners can participate with full flotation gear and guidance from certified English-speaking rafting guides. Clean family-friendly changing rooms are available, as well as a hot lunch for full-day tours. In addition to navigating and riding the rapids, participants can also enjoy swimming and cliff jumping.
Yūgen – Uzushio Cruise: This sightseeing cruise departs from Fukura Port in Minami-Awaji (Hyogo Prefecture), and heads out into the famous Naruto Strait, where passengers can observe up close some of the world’s largest and most powerful tidal whirlpools. The spectacle evokes yūgen, an appreciation of nature’s profound and mysterious beauty, inspiring a sense of awe at the extraordinary forces at work beneath the water’s surface. The roughly hour-long cruise immerses passengers in the majestic scenery of the strait, passing under the Great Naruto Bridge before they witness swirling whirlpools up close. An onboard guide offers insights into the powerful tidal currents and unique geography that combine to create this remarkable natural phenomenon in the Seto Inland Sea.
For more information on any of these experiences, please visit Setouchi Travel
