Setonaikai National Park

Setonaikai National Park is Japan's first national park, established in 1934, encompassing the Seto Inland Sea and its thousands of islands. In Hiroshima Prefecture, the park includes the islands and coastline around Miyajima, Kure, Takehara, and Mihara. The park is characterised by calm blue waters, pine-covered islands, and a mild climate.

The park is accessible from Hiroshima City, Miyajima, Kure, and various port towns. Ferries connect the islands. By car, the coastal roads offer scenic drives.

Ferries are the main mode of transport. A rental car is useful for exploring the coastline.

• Miyajima (Itsukushima) — the floating torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine.

• Seto Inland Sea islands — scattered small islands accessible by ferry.

• Coastal scenery — the Hiroshima coast has many viewpoints.

• Kure — the port city with a maritime museum.

• Island hopping — ferry trips between the islands.

• Cycling on the Shimanami Kaido — the cycling route from Onomichi to Shikoku.

• Cruise the Inland Sea — sightseeing boats from Hiroshima and Miyajima.

• Swimming and water sports — calm beaches and coves.

Seto Inland Sea seafood: oysters, sea bream, octopus, and anago.

Hiroshima sake.

Hotels and ryokan on Miyajima, Kure, and the coastal towns.

Miyajima souvenirs (momiji manju, shamoji paddles), local sake from Hiroshima breweries, and oyster products are available throughout the park.

• Miyajima — the island shrine
• Hiroshima — the city of peace
• Onomichi — the temple walk city
• Shikoku — accessible via the Shimanami Kaido