ITINERARY

Kobe

A coastal city on the main island of Honshū, Kobe is a vital Japanese port. You will be inspired by the authenticity, way of life and heritage of the capital of Hyōgo Prefecture, which is bordered by the sea. Its beef is internationally renowned, but there is much more to the city’s attractions than this delicate speciality. As soon as you arrive, you will be welcomed by the Kobe Port Tower, located, along with the Maritime Museum, in the much appreciated Meriken Park. The Mount Rokkō National Park is a real island of greenery in the very heart of the vibrant city. Long frequented by Shinto monks, then popular with the expatriates who flocked to Kobe during the second half of the 19th century, it is one of the symbols of the city.

Inujima

Stroll through Inujima’s charming village, where traditional wooden houses stand against a backdrop of the beautiful Seto Inland Sea. Inujima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea of Okayama Prefecture, known for its rich industrial history and artistic transformation. Once thriving in the stone and smelting industries, the island later faced decline, only to be reborn as a hub for contemporary art. Inujima was famous for its high-quality granite, which was actively quarried and processed from the Edo period (1603–1868) to the Meiji period (1868–1912). The island’s stone was used for the restoration of Osaka Castle and the construction of Okayama Castle, as well as for port developments throughout the Seto Inland Sea.

Mitarai

A charming fishing village nestling in the east of Osaki Shimojima Island, on the edge of the Seto Inland Sea, Mitarai is appreciated for its traditional charm and authentic character. A trip back in time to the Edo Period, where the hustle and bustle of modern cities is replaced by the gentle sound of fishing boats. Thanks to its 19th century wooden dwellings lining the small, narrow streets, its great causeway, its centuries-old sanctuaries and its gangi stairs, a stone structure giving on to the sea, the old town was classed as a Preservation District by the Japanese state in 1994.

Miyajima

At the heart of the Inland Sea, Miyajima, the “island sanctuary” will reveal its treasures. In the background you will see the Shinto Grand Sanctuary, whose entrance is guarded by a magnificent vermillion “Torii“. Considered to be one of the most beautiful sites in the Japanese islands, you will be transported by the unique character and the serenity of this sacred site.

Hagi

In the south of Honshu island, surrounded by mountains, Hagi is a city of water. For good reason; it was built on the delta of the Abu-gawa river. Its castle was built in the 17th century and its outer walls remain in the lovely Shizuki Park. The old town was one of the cradles of the Meiji revolution. You will discover its rich past in streets lined with old houses and samurai manors, or within the walls of the many museums and Hagi-yaki ceramics workshops.

Busan, South Koria

With around four million inhabitants, Busan is the second largest metropolis on South Korea, after Seoul. This dynamic harbour city, located in the south-east, surrounded by the warm waters of the Sea of Japan, benefits from a mild, pleasant climate. You’ll find delightful simply to stroll around the lively streets and explore the city’s outstanding cultural heritage of art galleries, museums, and Buddhist sites, such as the Haedong Yonggungsa temple, which elegantly sits on the waterfront. Rich too in magnificent beaches and superlative natural landscapes, Busan’s peaceful atmosphere will win you over, as will its inhabitants, whom you’ll have the pleasure of meeting.

Shimonoseki

On the western tip of the island of Honshu, between the Seas of Japan and Seto, Shimonoseki stands facing the Kanmon Straits. Often considered as a crossing point to reach the island of Kyushu or the Korean coastlines, this discreet but no less historic port town has a unique heritage, a result of 700 years of samurai rule. In this city of modern appearance, which was the theatre of many battles and legendary duels, an irresistible essence of the past prevails. Enjoy strolling the alleyways of its emblematic traditional market, famous for its stands of fugu (pufferfish).

Katsuura

At the heart of the region lies Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, an ancient spiritual site with a history of over 1,000 years that has welcomed many pilgrims. Perched on the mountainside with spectacular views, the shrine is part of the sacred Kumano Sanzan complex, which has deep connections to both Shinto and Buddhism. Nearby, is the stunning Seiganto-ji Temple, with its famous red pagoda set against the backdrop of Nachi Falls, which is one of the most iconic sights in Japan.

Toba

Toba is a coastal city located in Japan’s Mie Prefecture, on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Situated in the Ise-Shima National Park, Toba has given its name to majestic bay sheltering a string of small islands, famous for the beauty of their forests and the production of cultured pearls. You will have the possibility of discovering the Ise Shrine, residence of the Imperial family and venerated by the Japanese people as the “soul of Japan”.

Yaizu

Known for its rich maritime culture and stunning coastal scenery, Yaizu offers an authentic experience of Japan away from the crowded tourist spots.
Yaizu is one of Japan’s top fishing ports, famous for bonito (katsuo) and tuna, caught using traditional and sustainable methods. Visitors can explore the bustling fish market, and enjoy fresh seafood.

Tagonoura

Tagonoura is one of the best places to enjoy unobstructed views of Mount Fuji rising majestically over the bay. The iconic scenery has inspired Japanese poets and artists for centuries, including the famous haiku master Matsuo Basho. Whether at sunrise or sunset, the sight of Mount Fuji reflected ion the ocean surface is simply unforgettable.

With its mention in classical Japanese poetry and historical records, Tagonoura holds a special place in Japan’s cultural heritage. Stroll along the port, visit local shrines, or explore nearby historical sites to get a sense of Japan’s deep connection to the sea.

Yokohama

Yokohama opened its port to the world in 1859, marking the beginning of Japan’s modernization. Before that, it was just a small fishing village, but with the arrival of foreign trade, it quickly transformed into an international hub, embracing Western culture while maintaining its Japanese heritage.Yokohama’s opening to the world marked the start of Japan’s modernization, and you can still feel this rich history throughout the city. While Yokohama retains its historical landmarks, it is also home to Minato Mirai 21, a futuristic waterfront district with skyscrapers, art spaces, and entertainment facilities.