Best National Parks of Japan : #4 Setonaikai National Park / 瀬戸内海国立公園
Japan boasts 34 stunning national parks, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Continuing our journey through Japan’s national parks, we present the fourth gem on our list – Setonaikai National Park (瀬戸内海国立公園). Spanning over 90,000 sqm across 11 prefectures, this park enchants visitors with its archipelago seascape nestled between the Shikoku and Chugoku regions of Honshu.
Index
- Miyajima (宮島), Itsukushima Shrine (嚴島神社)
- Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road (しまなみ街道)
- Kunisaki Peninsula Minemichi Long Trail (国東半島峯道ロングトレイル)
1. Miyajima (宮島), Itsukushima Shrine (嚴島神社)
A visit to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, a 1,400-year-old marvel, is a must in Setonaikai National Park. During high tide, the symbolic torii gate appears to float in the sea, creating a surreal sight. When the tide recedes, you can walk up to the torii gate.
Also, if time allows, check out Misen mountain beside the Itsukushima Shrine to feel the historical and spiritual heritage that Miyajima（宮島）area embodies. The mountain’s primeval forest, along with the shrine, has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 1996. Misen mountain’s rich laurel forest (照葉樹林) is said to be what Japan was like in prehistoric times.
It is said that humans have turned the forests of Japanese islands into deciduous or conifer trees (trees that shed leaves or bear cones like cedar and pines). In fact, most of the laurel forests that existed in prehistoric Japan are said to have been lost. What remains of the laurel forest is mostly at shrines or temples, because they were historically protected as sacred areas. It is the same for Misen mountain, which has been an object of worship. Conveniently, there is a ropeway that takes you to the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy the lovely view of the surrounding islands.
2. Shimanami Kaido Cycling Road (しまなみ街道)
For cycling enthusiasts, the Shimanami Kaido cycling road awaits, stretching over 60km and connecting seven islands between Hiroshima and Ehime Prefectures. The scenic route offers breathtaking views of the blue ocean, lush green islands, fisherman villages, and historic samurai castles – a true cyclist’s paradise.
3. Kunisaki Peninsula Minemichi Long Trail (国東半島峯道ロングトレイル)
Venture into an outdoor adventure through the ancient paths of the Kunisaki Peninsula Minemichi Long Trail. Follow in the footsteps of ancient Tendai Buddhist Monks who used the trail for their ascetic practices. Amidst oddly shaped mountains and caverns, discover temples, shrines, and trail-side relics that reflect the unique syncretism of Shintoism and Buddhism, uniquely Japanese.
Depending on where you walk on this 135km long trail, you will also get to see the satoyama villages (villages that formed to utilize and manage natural recourses of the surrounding mountains in a harmonious way, resulting in biodiversity) with rice paddy and water reservoirs which is designated as one of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems(GIAHS).
Setonaikai National Park beckons travelers seeking an immersive experience into Japan’s nature and culture. From the ethereal Itsukushima Shrine to the exhilarating Shimanami Kaido cycling road and the mystical Kunisaki Peninsula Minemichi Long Trail, this park offers an unforgettable journey through time and nature.
Wondering where the #1, #2, #3 most visited national parks in Japan are? Find out more about the Japan’s iconic natural sightseeing spots, Fuji-Hakone Izu Park, Shikotsu-Toya Park, and Aso-Kujyo Park here!
Stay tuned for our next articles featuring the #5 most visited national parks in Japan.
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*Information as of December 2022.
