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Seto Inland Sea
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Seto Inland Sea

Getting around: Best experienced by ferry; from Hiroshima's Ujina Port or via Miyajima, various ferry and cruise routes cross the inland sea and its islands.
Hours: Ferries run on published schedules throughout the day; no set 'hours' for the sea itself.

The Seto Inland Sea is the body of water separating Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, dotted with hundreds of small islands and a popular subject for scenic boat trips out of Hiroshima. It's less a single point of interest than a broader region, encompassing island-hopping routes, art islands like Naoshima further east, and calm views from ferries and the coastal roads around Miyajima and Onomichi.

For most Hiroshima-based travelers, the practical way to experience it is a ferry ride to Miyajima or a scenic cruise rather than a dedicated standalone excursion.

Seto Inland Sea FAQs

What is the best way to see the Seto Inland Sea from Hiroshima?

The ferry to Miyajima gives an easy taste of it; longer sightseeing cruises are also available from Hiroshima's ports.

Is Naoshima part of this?

Naoshima and other art islands are further east in the same sea but require a separate, longer trip, typically based from Okayama.

Is there an entrance fee?

There's no fee for the sea itself; you pay for whichever ferry or cruise you take.

Can I see it without a boat?

Yes, coastal viewpoints around Hiroshima and Miyajima offer views of the inland sea without boarding a boat.

How long is a typical cruise?

Sightseeing cruises range from about an hour to a half-day depending on the route chosen.

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