Episode 4: The Ultimate Scenic Journey by Ferry and Train in Setouchi

With sparkling blue waters dotted with islands, the Seto Inland Sea is one of Japan’s most breathtaking regions. Although the views from land are beautiful, travelling by boat and train allows you to fully immerse yourself in the area's stunning island landscapes. Read on to discover the ultimate scenic journey using Setonaikai Kisen’s cruise ferries and sightseeing cruisers, along with local coastal trains.

Island-Hopping Cruise with SEA SPICA

SEA SPICA is a sightseeing cruise, connecting Hiroshima with the popular town of Onomichi. As the ship sails through the islands, you can enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and soak up panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. The deep blue waters, lush green islands and lighthouses perched along the ports create the most picture-perfect setting.

There are two main courses:

Rabbit Island Course

This route stops at Okunoshima, known as “Rabbit Island,” where many wild rabbits roam freely. It's great for wildlife lovers, as visitors can interact with the rabbits in their natural surroundings.

Okunoshima also has a deep history which you can explore at the island's ruins. You can also visit the museum which was once a former poison gas factory used during wartime. The combination of scenery, wildlife and history makes it a memorable place to stop.

Shimanami Course

This course lands at Mitarai on Osakishimojima Island, where you can stroll through a preserved historic port town. Walking amongst the traditional buildings and enjoying the island's scenery offers a glimpse into Japan’s nostalgic past.

The name “SPICA” comes from the brightest star in the Virgo constellation, known in Japan as the “Pearl Star.” In the spring night sky, it shines bluish-white. Just like its name, SEA SPICA glides across the blue waters of Setouchi like a star upon the sea, inviting passengers on a liberating and refreshing journey.

Crossing the Seto Inland Sea on the Cruise Ferry Sea Paseo

Sea Paseo, operated by Setonaikai Kisen, is an award-winning ferry that earned both the Good Design Award Best 100 and the Ship of the Year (small passenger ship category) in 2019. With its refined design and comfortable interior, it offers a relaxing 2 hour 40 minute cruise from Hiroshima Port to Matsuyama Tourist Port.

Scenic Coastal Train Journeys

Spectacular views can be enjoyed from the railway too. A train journey along the coast offers an equally captivating perspective to travelling by sea, letting you experience the beautiful landscapes in a different kind of way.

etSETOra is a sightseeing train, connecting Hiroshima Station and Fukuyama Station via the scenic Kure Line along the coast. Its exterior reflects the “blue” of the Seto Inland Sea and the “white” of the shoreline, evoking the calm beauty of Setouchi.

Whilst on board the train, you can enjoy etSETOra-exclusive sweets (reservation required). On the return journey, you can soak up the coastal scenery whilst sampling Hiroshima’s local sake and carefully selected snacks from the onboard bar.

Iyonada Monogatari (Ehime)

“Iyonada Monogatari,” operated by JR Shikoku, is a sightseeing train that runs along the sparkling coastline of Ehime. Departing from Matsuyama Station, it travels along the old Yosan Line—also called the “Iyonada Line of Love”—to Iyo-Ozu Station and Yawatahama Station. This luxury coastal train brings you ever so close to the blue waters of the Seto Inland Sea.

The train runs four times a day, mainly on weekends and holidays. Each service offers different views. Meals served onboard also vary depending on which train you get, allowing passengers to enjoy a unique culinary experience on each ride.

The train also makes a stop at Shimonada Station, where you can take stunning photos of the Iyonada Sea.

Morning Trip: Ozu Course

Take a trip from Matsuyama to Iyo-Ozu via Shimonada, with a meal served onboard. A refreshing morning journey toward the “Little Kyoto of Iyo,” Ozu.

Lunch Trip: Futami Course

From Iyo-Ozu to Matsuyama via Shimonada. Enjoy peaceful seaside views and an extraordinary yet relaxing experience.

Lunch Trip: Yawatahama Course

From Matsuyama to Yawatahama via Iyo-Ozu and Shimonada. Experience the ever-changing landscapes as the train takes you past the sea, rivers and towns.

Dessert Trip: Dogo Course

From Yawatahama to Matsuyama via Iyo-Ozu and Shimonada. Afternoon tea is served whilst you're enjoying street and sunset views along the Hijikawa River.

The warm, heartfelt and unique hospitality of the local Japanese people will make your experience on board even more special.

Combine Train and Boat for the Ultimate Setouchi Loop

Combine these routes for a truly immersive journey, 

• Travel from Hiroshima to Onomichi on etSETOra
• Return from Onomichi to Hiroshima on SEA SPICA
• Cross from Hiroshima to Matsuyama on Sea Paseo
• Ride Iyonada Monogatari from Matsuyama to Yawatahama

Travelling by boat and train across the Seto Inland Sea is not just a practical way to explore - it's an experience in itself. Feel the sea breeze on the cruise, take in the stunning scenery from open decks, and watch the coastline pass by from your train window. It's the ultimate way to experience Setouchi’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture all at once.