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. While the views from land are beautiful, traveling 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, passengers can enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. The deep blue waters, lush green islands, and scenic lighthouses along the ports create a picture-perfect setting for travelers exploring Japan’s coastal beauty.

There are two main routes to choose from:

Rabbit Island Course

This route stops at Okunoshima, famously known as “Rabbit Island,” where hundreds of friendly wild rabbits roam freely. It’s a favorite destination for wildlife lovers, as visitors can interact with the rabbits in their natural surroundings.

Okunoshima also has a fascinating history to explore. Visitors can explore the island’s wartime ruins and learn about its past at the museum, which was once part of a former poison gas factory used during World War II. The combination of scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and historical significance makes Okunoshima a memorable stop on the journey.

Shimanami Course

This route lands at Mitarai on Osakishimojima Island, where visitors can stroll through a beautifully preserved historic port town. Walking among the traditional buildings and scenic coastal streets offers a glimpse into Japan’s nostalgic past and maritime heritage.

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 with a bluish-white glow. Just like its namesake, SEA SPICA glides across the blue waters of Setouchi like a star on the sea, inviting passengers on a refreshing and unforgettable journey.

Crossing the Seto Inland Sea on the Cruise Ferry Sea Paseo

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

The ferry’s modern design blends comfort with panoramic sea views, featuring spacious lounges, open-air decks, and calming interiors inspired by the colors of the Seto Inland Sea. The journey itself is very much part of the experience, allowing travelers to unwind and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the sea while traveling between two of the region’s most vibrant cities.

Scenic Coastal Train Journeys

Spectacular views of the Setouchi region can also be enjoyed from the railway. A train journey along the coast offers a different yet equally captivating perspective, letting passengers experience the beautiful landscapes from land while hugging the shoreline.

etSETOra is a sightseeing train that connects Hiroshima Station and Fukuyama Station via the scenic Kure Line. Its exterior design reflects the deep blue of the Seto Inland Sea and the white tones of the coastline, capturing the calm and elegant atmosphere of Setouchi.

While traveling on board, passengers can enjoy etSETOra-exclusive desserts and sweets (reservation required). On the return journey, travelers can relax while admiring the coastal scenery and sampling Hiroshima’s local sake along with a choice of snacks from the onboard bar.

Iyonada Monogatari (Ehime)

“Iyonada Monogatari,” operated by JR Shikoku, is another sightseeing train that runs along the sparkling coastline of Ehime Prefecture. Departing from Matsuyama Station, it travels along the historic Yosan Line—often called the “Iyonada Line of Love”—toward Iyo-Ozu Station and Yawatahama Station. This luxury coastal train brings passengers remarkably close to the blue waters of the Seto Inland Sea.

The train operates four times a day, mainly on weekends and holidays. Each service offers slightly different scenery and seasonal meals, allowing travelers to enjoy a unique culinary and sightseeing experience on every journey.

One of the highlights of the trip is a stop at Shimonada Station, widely considered one of the most scenic train stations in Japan. From here, passengers can capture stunning photographs of the Iyonada Sea stretching out toward the horizon.

Morning Trip: Ozu Course

Travel from Matsuyama to Iyo-Ozu via Shimonada while enjoying a freshly prepared onboard meal. This refreshing morning journey leads toward Ozu, often called the “Little Kyoto of Iyo,” known for its historic streets and traditional atmosphere.

Lunch Trip: Futami Course

This route runs from Iyo-Ozu to Matsuyama via Shimonada, offering peaceful seaside views and a relaxing travel experience along the quiet coastline.

Lunch Trip: Yawatahama Course

Travel from Matsuyama to Yawatahama via Iyo-Ozu and Shimonada while enjoying ever-changing landscapes of sea, rivers, and charming coastal towns.

Dessert Trip: Dogo Course

This afternoon route runs from Yawatahama to Matsuyama via Iyo-Ozu and Shimonada. Passengers can enjoy afternoon tea while admiring sunset views along the Hijikawa River and the surrounding countryside.

The warm hospitality and attentive service of the local Japanese staff make the experience on board even more memorable.

Combine Train and Boat for the Ultimate Setouchi Loop

Travelers can combine these scenic routes to create the ultimate Setouchi travel experience:

• 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

Traveling by boat and train across the Seto Inland Sea makes for a memorable experience in itself. Feel the sea breeze on a cruise, admire breath-taking island scenery from open decks, and watch the coastline glide past your train window. Together, these journeys offer one of the most remarkable ways to experience Setouchi’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.