Southern Isles: Setouchi Region

A series of islands located in the southwestern region of Japan, Setouchi is an idyllic sea paradise. Though once home to rowdy pirates and ships conveying foreign envoys to and from Japan, this archipelago in the Seto Inland Sea is now a peaceful locality rich with tradition and natural beauty. History lovers can enjoy the various shrines and sites found throughout Setouchi, most notably Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage Site and home to the famous floating torii gate.

NAOSHIMA

Naoshima is an absolute staple for art lovers. Despite its small size, the island has evolved from a small village into a pillar of Japanese contemporary art. The entire area is teeming with art museums and all sorts of art installments, many of which were designed by the distinguished Japanese architect Ando Tadao and serves as an art foundation established by the owner family of Benesse Corporation as well as an education publication company in Japan. Be sure to visit the hotel museum Benesse House Complex, the Chichu Art Museum, the Lee Ufan Museum and the Ando Museum.

SHODOSHIMA

Shodoshima is the second-largest island in the Seto Inland Sea and is also one of the first islands born to the gods in Japanese creation myths. The island is known for their production of soy sauce and perhaps even better recognized for their olive plantations, upholding its name of "small bean island."