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Discover serene moments and refined elegance in Ja ...
- Jun. 06. 2025
Discover Setouchi: Where to Stay
Jul. 04. 2025
Now that summer is officially here, we can’t help but dream of coastal getaways. While Japan offers countless warm-weather destinations, the Setouchi region stands out with its stunning island views and laid-back atmosphere. In this feature, we’re spotlighting some of the best places to stay—whether you’re after luxury, heritage, or quiet seclusion along Setouchi’s scenic shores.
SETOUCHI RETREAT by Onko Chishin – A Luxurious Stay Immersed in Setouchi Blue
The spacious living area inside the Four-Bed Suite.
Nestled in lush hills and stretching seamlessly toward the sea and sky, the infinity pool at SETOUCHI RETREAT blurs the line between nature and architecture. Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, the striking concrete structure originally debuted as part of an art museum. Transformed into a luxury hotel in 2015, it now celebrates its 10th anniversary with a refreshed and expanded art collection—deepening the sense that you’re not just staying at a hotel but living within a curated gallery.
Throughout your stay, natural beauty surrounds you—most mesmerizing are the panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, especially at sunset, when the sky glows with radiant hues. Light filters gently across the exposed concrete walls, casting a glow that highlights the harmony between nature and Ando’s architectural vision.
Left: The two-story, THE AONAGI Suite offers sweeping views through floor-to-ceiling windows. The outdoor pool is open July–August, while the heated indoor pool and onsen jacuzzi are available year-round.
Right: Spa Suite Room – indulge in spa treatments infused with Setouchi citrus like mandarin oranges, lemons, and pomelos.
Complementing the visual experience is a culinary journey rooted in the Setouchi region’s rich bounty. Exquisite multi-course Japanese dinners and thoughtfully prepared breakfasts elevate each meal into a celebration of local flavor, rounding out a retreat that delights all the senses.
PC: Hiro Abe
Hotel Details:
All seven rooms are suites.
Rates (incl. dinner & breakfast, per person, double occupancy)
– From ¥56,700 for standard suites
– THE AONAGI Suite from ¥112,266
– Four-Bed Suite from ¥61,425
Check-in: 3 PM
Check-out: 11 AM
Spa All That Spa Setouchi: 10 AM – 10 PM
📍 794-1 Yanaidanimachi, Matsuyama, Ehime
🔗 SETOUCHI RETREAT by Onko Chishin
Migiwatei Ochi Kochi—A Timeless Sanctuary Facing the Enchanted Seto Sea in Tomonoura
Set along the serene coastline of Tomonoura—a historic port town that once flourished as a harbor for tide-waiting ships—Migiwatei Ochi Kochi invites guests into a tranquil retreat in the heart of the Seto Inland Sea. Each guestroom features sweeping ocean views and a private semi-open-air onsen bath, offering a front-row seat to one of Japan’s most historically rich coastal landscapes.
Seaside terrace with views of the mythical Sensui Island.
The inn traces its origins to an Edo-period ryokan, once frequented by renowned figures such as German physician Philipp Franz von Siebold and author Masuji Ibuse. Today, its carefully preserved heritage building has been thoughtfully transformed into a welcoming guest lounge.
Private open-air bath Minamikaze
From every room, guests can gaze out over the calm waters, where sacred Benten Island and mystical Sensui Island appear on the horizon—offering a soothing connection that echoes through both mind and soul, in harmony with the spirit of the Seto Inland Sea. Three private open-air baths, available at no additional charge, provide a secluded and restful experience—inviting guests to unwind in complete privacy.
Upper Suite Room on the second floor.
The kaiseki-style dinner features the region’s fresh and rich seafood, with the signature sea bream rice pot (tai kamameshi) earning particular praise. In July 2024, two of the rooms— including the panoramic-view “Upper Suite”—will be newly renovated, raising the level of comfort and elegance.
PC: Hoshito Omija
Hotel Details:
Total of 17 rooms.
Rates (incl. dinner & breakfast, per person, double occupancy)
– From ¥30,800; Upper Suite from ¥49,500 (service charge included)
Check-in: 3 PM
Check-out: 11 AM
📍 629 Tomo-cho, Fukuyama, Hiroshima
Ryokan Onomichi Nishiyama—A Tranquil Escape Blending Historical Architecture and Natural Beauty
Formerly known as the esteemed Nishiyama Bekkan, this historic inn in Onomichi reopened in 2023 as Ryokan Onomichi Nishiyama. Step through the wooden front gate into a peaceful garden, framed by seasonal foliage and offering serene views of the sea.
Check-in takes place at the Kōrin Lounge, where guests enjoy a curated selection of teas by Imagawa Tamakouen, local sake, lemon-infused sweets, and more. The refined spirit of Onomichi’s merchant heritage and tea culture is reflected throughout the lounge’s exhibits and design.
The Kōrin Lounge with its elegant, coffered ceiling.
The property features just 11 rooms—eight private villas and three in the main building—each carefully restored or adapted from traditional homes, thatched-roof farmhouses, and Western-style architecture. These unique accommodations offer seclusion and enduring comfort, blending the charm of the past with modern ease.
Bedroom in Asahi-no-Ma overlooking the sea.
Dinner is served at Yoroso, the on-site restaurant, where French cuisine is crafted with seasonal Setouchi ingredients and paired with curated sake and wines. With an all-inclusive approach covering beverages and additional services, every element of your stay is designed for total relaxation, so you can simply settle in and unwind.
Left: A starter featuring Setouchi conger eel and Kagawa white asparagus in Vin Jaune sauce.
Right: Three types of citrus in a delicate jelly, made by the in-house pâtissier.
Asahi-no-Ma, an 80-square-meter suite on the second floor of the Western-style house, offering stunning sea views.
PC: Hoshito Omija
Hotel Details:
Total of 11 rooms (8 villas, 3 in the main building).
Rates (incl. dinner & breakfast, all beverages)
– From ¥48,000 per person (double occupancy);
Check-in: 3 PM
Check-out: 11 AM
📍 678-1 Sanbacho, Onomichi, Hiroshima
Feeling inspired to plan your next Japan getaway? Setouchi is the perfect summer destination where scenic coastlines, relaxing stays, and rich culture come together. Stay tuned for our next guide on the best places to dine in Setouchi!
