Luxury Seto Inland Sea Art Island & Pilgrimage Walks (Shodoshima, Teshima, Naoshima & Shikoku Islands) 6D5N

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Option 1: Level 3, Approx 5 km (3.1 miles), Elevation gain: 361 m (1,184 ft)
Option 2: Level 3, Approx 8 km (5 miles), Elevation gain: 612 m (2,007 ft)

On the first day of the trip, you will be picked up from your hotel in Kobe at 7:30 a.m. After a group transfer to Kobe Port, embark on a scenic ferry ride to Shodoshima Island, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the Seto Inland Sea along the way. Shodoshima, the second-largest island in the Seto Inland Sea, is rich in history and tradition and is home to a lesser-known yet fascinating pilgrimage.

The Shodoshima Pilgrimage, established in the 18th century, reflects the renowned Shikoku Pilgrimage and follows the Shingon Buddhist tradition associated with the revered monk Kūkai (Kōbō-Daishi). Like its larger counterpart, it consists of 88 sacred sites. Shodoshima’s trail offers a unique and enchanting experience, often serving as a stepping stone for those preparing for the more challenging Shikoku Pilgrimage.

Upon arrival, set off on a guided hike along the scenic Shodoshima Pilgrimage Trail, a path that winds through the heart of the stunning Kankakei Valley. This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility, leading you through lush forests, rugged cliffs, and dramatic rock formations carved by time. As you ascend toward the Kankakei Summit Observatory, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the valley below, where vibrant greenery changes with the seasons, from fiery autumn foliage to the fresh hues of spring.

At the summit, take a moment to soak in the panoramic vistas of Shodoshima Island and the sparkling Seto Inland Sea stretching out into the horizon. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst this serene setting, basking in the fresh mountain air and spectacular scenery. For those seeking more adventure, continue your hike to explore the nearby peaks of Mount Mikasa and Mount Hoshigajo. These trails offer peaceful seclusion and unique perspectives, each unveiling new angles of the island's captivating landscapes and the surrounding sea. Every step immerses you deeper into the natural splendour of Shodoshima, making it an unforgettable journey.

Your descent leads you to the No.18 Sekimon-dō Temple, a sacred and tranquil stop along the pilgrimage. Here, you're welcomed with traditional tea prepared by the monks, a gesture of hospitality that reflects the island’s rich spiritual heritage. Witness an unforgettable fire ceremony within the temple conducted by the priest, an intense and moving ritual deeply rooted in Buddhist tradition.

Conclude your day with a 'Shoyu Kaiseki' dinner, an umami-rich soy sauce-themed feast that celebrates Shodoshima's most famous tradition: soy sauce production, which has flourished here since the 16th century. At the esteemed Shima Yado Mari inn, soy sauce is elevated from a supporting role to the star of the menu. Each dish, featuring the freshest catch from the Seto Inland Sea, is exquisitely accentuated by “moromi,” a re-fermented soy sauce, and the deep umami of matured soybeans. This unforgettable culinary journey is a signature experience, drawing discerning guests back time and again.

As night falls, retreat to the serene embrace of Shima Yado Mari, an exclusive boutique ryokan with just eight rooms, nestled within a mountain range under vast, open skies. Here, history and luxury intertwine in nostalgic guest rooms, each crafted from the remnants of a classic house and cellar now designated as a tangible cultural property. Your private ensuite and onsen bath invites you to unwind in absolute comfort, providing a tranquil haven to reflect on a day steeped in tradition, nature, and discovery, ensuring a night of profound rest and rejuvenation.

Level 1, Approx 5 km (3.1 miles), Elevation gain: 200 m (656 ft)

Begin your day with an exquisite breakfast at Shima Yado Mari, preparing you for an odyssey through two of Japan's most captivating art islands. Ride a ferry that will spirit you away to the shores of Teshima Island. Upon your arrival, a scenic drive will lead you to the celebrated Teshima Art Museum. Here, you are invited to wander through a breathtaking architectural wonder, a space where art and nature converge in a singular, harmonious drop of water.

Allow yourself to be fully immersed in the island’s creative soul during a guided art discovery walk to its most evocative art sites. Meander through the serene beauty of the Teshima Terraced Rice Fields and experience the profound stillness of installations like Particles in the Air (空の粒子) by Noe Aoki before culminating in an encounter with Christian Boltanski’s haunting Les Archives du Cœur—an unforgettable sanctuary of memory and emotion.

As midday approaches, pause for a delectable lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, your artistic exploration continues with a visit to "Beyond the Border - Prayer" by Lin Shuen Long, another of the island's fascinating installations.

In the afternoon, you will board a ferry for the brief, scenic crossing to Naoshima Island, where a new world of artistic discovery unfolds. Your journey will guide you to the island's iconic landmarks, from the welcoming embrace of the Red Pumpkin sculpture at the port to the sublime, light-filled chambers of the Chichu Art Museum and the world-class collection at Benesse House Museum, culminating with the universally adored Yellow Pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama, poised at the water's edge.

As twilight falls, conclude your day of inspiration with an unforgettable stay at Ryokan Roka, a luxury retreat blending traditional Japanese charm with modern elegance. Nestled in a serene setting, Ryokan Roka offers meticulously designed tatami rooms, soothing onsen baths, and gourmet kaiseki meals crafted with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether you’re unwinding in the tranquil garden, soaking in the natural hot springs, or enjoying the warm hospitality of the staff, every moment at Ryokan Roka is designed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Experience the perfect balance of relaxation and reflection in this haven of timeless luxury.

Level 1, Approx 3 km (1.9 miles), Elevation gain: 50 m (164 ft)

After a tranquil breakfast at Ryokan Roka, a day of profound cultural immersion awaits. You are invited to walk through the heart of Naoshima, Japan’s celebrated “Art Island,” on a guided journey into the Honmura Area. Here, you will discover the visionary Art House Project, where abandoned village homes have been masterfully reborn as spellbinding art installations. Your exploration will then lead you to the Ando Museum, a quiet tribute to the architectural genius of Tadao Ando. Today’s lunch is guest’ own choice.

After completing your exploration of Naoshima, take a ferry to Takamatsu, the gateway to Shikoku Island.

As evening descends, prepare to be transported by a culinary experience steeped in centuries of tradition. You will dine at an esteemed Ryōtei in Takamatsu, a bastion of gastronomic heritage established in 1946. For decades, this exclusive restaurant has honoured its legacy, weaving together exquisite seasonal flavours within a setting of serene elegance. Allow the rich history of Japanese fine dining to unfold around you, providing a perfect and poetic conclusion to a day devoted to art and culture.

*Ryōtei, with roots in traditional inns and tea houses, have been a cornerstone of Japanese dining and culture for centuries. Once hubs for the elite during the Edo period, they became renowned for their role in business and politics, though their usage has waned since the 1960s.

Level 1-2, Approx 15.8 km (6.6 miles), Elevation gain: 78 m (255 ft)

As dawn graces the skies, you are invited to an optional morning stroll through the serene landscapes of Ritsurin Koen Garden, a masterpiece of Japanese design where every stone and stream is placed with poetic intention.

After returning to hotel for a delightful breakfast, you will be privately transferred to the sacred starting point of your pilgrimage.

At Temple No. 1, Ryozenji, you will meet an expert guide who will illuminate the path of the ancient Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage. Learn the proper etiquette of pilgrimage and uncover the rich history, culture, and spiritual significance of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage through insightful commentary. To support your adventure, each participant will receive a detailed Shikoku 88 pilgrimage map, ensuring a meaningful and well-guided experience as you embark on this timeless journey.

From here, your journey on foot begins, tracing a route that has been walked by seekers for over 1,200 years. The path today is a gentle one, weaving you through an idyllic tapestry of verdant paddy fields, fragrant plum orchards, and rustic market gardens. Let your senses guide you as a towering, ancient camphor tree stands as a silent sentinel on your way.

For lunch, you will pause to savour the simple, yet profound, flavours of Shikoku. With spirits renewed, you continue your contemplative walk to Anraku-ji, the sixth of the 88 sacred temples. Here, you will be enveloped by the profound spirituality that has drawn countless pilgrims to this 1,200-kilometre trail, a journey that weaves together the rich culture of the island and forges enduring memories.

As your walk concludes, a private transfer will spirit you away to the Komatsushima Resort, your tranquil haven nestled where the verdant mountains of Shikoku gently meet the sea. Perched with a breathtaking panorama of the Kii Channel, your accommodations offer a front-row seat to the endless expanse of the Pacific. Settle into your sanctuary and watch as the setting sun paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson, casting a warm glow over the tranquil waters below. This evening, dine on a thoughtfully prepared meal at the resort, allowing the subtle flavours to be the perfect counterpoint to a day of profound spiritual exploration and scenic wonder.

Level 3, Approx 6 km (3.7 miles), Elevation gain: 463 m (1519 ft)

Start your day with a delightful breakfast overlooking the Pacific before continuing your pilgrimage journey. A private transfer will take you to Kakurin-ji, the 20th temple, where your guided walk through history begins. The route to Tairyu-ji, the 21st temple, is steeped in Edo-period history, once lost to time but now restored through local community efforts. Designated a National Historical Site of Japan, this path offers pilgrims a unique opportunity to walk through nature and centuries of tradition.

Tairyu-ji, perched at 600 meters above sea level in Tokushima Prefecture, is one of the “nansho” (difficult-to-reach temples) of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Built in 792 by Kobo Daishi (Kukai), it is also known as the “Koya of the West” for its historical significance and mountainous setting. After exploring the temple, board the longest ropeway in Western Japan for a breathtaking journey down the mountainside. As you descend, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Shashingatake. This bluff features a striking sculpture of a young Kukai and a bronze statue of a Japanese wolf, offering scenic vistas of the Naka River and the vibrant autumn foliage.

From here, your adventure shifts gears as a private transfer whisks you away to Hotel Ridge in Naruto. Nestled in the Seto Inland Sea National Park, this cliffside sanctuary overlooks the swirling whirlpools of Naruto and the expansive Shikoku sky. Blending traditional Japanese hospitality with modern elegance, the hotel provides a luxurious escape where you can reconnect with nature and find renewal.

Your evening promises an extraordinary culinary experience at Banriso. This historic Hakone residence has been meticulously reconstructed to preserve its traditional charm. Wander across the undulating naguri-style wood floors to your private tatami dining room, where the gentle murmur of a bamboo fountain sets the mood. Here, a masterfully crafted kaiseki dinner awaits, transforming the freshest local ingredients into a seasonal symphony of textures, aromas, and flavours. It’s a dining experience designed to delight and inspire, providing the perfect finale to a day filled with history, nature, and unparalleled beauty.

Level 1, optional morning walk in the Seto Inland Sea National Park

Greet the morning from your serene perch at Hotel Ridge, where a delightful breakfast is served against the breathtaking panorama of the Naruto Ōhashi Bridge and the famed Naruto Strait. As you dine, allow yourself a moment of quiet reflection, gazing across the waters that have carried you on your magnificent journey from Shodoshima to the shores of Shikoku.

The morning unfolds with an invitation to rejuvenation at the hotel’s wellness retreat, a sanctuary designed to harmonise mind, body, and spirit. Following this, you will be whisked away to the remarkable Otsuka Museum of Art. Here, you are invited to wander at your own pace through a world of masterpieces, an extraordinary gallery where a thousand of Western art’s most revered works are flawlessly replicated on ceramic boards.

For lunch, you will be seated at the museum’s restaurant, a lovely setting for a midday repast.

This afternoon, prepare for a spectacle of nature’s raw power. You will board the elegant Japanese style cruise ship and be escorted to the exclusive Captain’s Private Lounge with own deck. From this privileged viewpoint, you will witness the legendary Naruto whirlpools, one of the three great tidal currents of the world. Watch in awe as the sea churns into immense, swirling vortices, some reaching up to twenty metres in diameter, a hypnotic dance of immense natural force.

As the whirlpools recede into the tranquil sea, your private transfer awaits to guide you back to Kobe where your journey started, journeying across the scenic Awaji Island and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge - the world's longest suspension bridge. This marks the conclusion of your Seto Inland Sea odyssey—a curated exploration of a region rich in tradition, pilgrimage history, art, and sublime natural phenomena.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.