When you think national park, do you imagine landlocked plains, rolling hills, and woodlands? However, Setonaikai National park wears a different face. It comprises areas of Japan’s inland sea and contains over 3,000 small islands! With an area of 900,000 hectares (including the sea area), it proudly bears the status of largest national park in Japan. It’s huge and has so much variety that first-time visitors might be overwhelmed, so here are the top picks of the don’t miss islands.
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01
Angel Road, Shodoshima
![Angel Road, Shodoshima]()
Angel Road, Shodoshima
Shodoshima is the second largest island in the Seto Inland Sea and has many great things to see and do. Don’t miss the monkey park, the death-defying Kankakei Gorge, or the 50m tall white statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. But the most unique attraction on Shodoshima is the sublime Angel Road. At low tide, the waters part and this wonderous path is revealed. It’s a walkable sandbar that allows you to walk to three tiny neighboring islands. The experience is really compelling, which is perhaps why it came to have a romantic association. It’s said that if you walk Angel Road hand in hand with your lover, your relationship will be strengthened.
- Angel Road
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- Kagawa Pref. Shouzuguntonoshouchou Ginpura
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- 0879622801
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- [Information shop] 9:00-17:0…
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02
Demon Cave, Megijima
![Demon Cave, Megijima]()
Demon Cave, Megijima
Megijima, a small but fascinating island, lies 4km off the coast of Takamatsu. It was said that demons used to inhabit Megijima, and the island is where the eponymous ‘peach boy’ fought them in the famous folktale Momotaro. Today, the Megijima demon cave can be entered for a few hundred yen and the demon sculptures on display are more cute than threatening.
- Onigashima Cave
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- Kagawa Pref. Takamatsushi Megichou 2633
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- 0878409055
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- 8:30-17:00(Last entry16:30)
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03
Oishi Park, Awajishima
![Oishi Park, Awajishima]()
Oishi Park, Awajishima
Awajishima is the largest of the Seto Inland Sea's islands and perhaps the most culturally significant. According to some folklore, it’s the birthplace of Japan. On the southeast reaches of the islands, Oishi Park is a gem of natural beauty. It’s primarily known for two things: over 250 beautiful plum trees and great views. The latter are truly special. You can see the Kitankaikyo Strait and Osaka Bay from the park’s viewing point.
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World War Two History, Okunoshima
![World War Two History, Okunoshima]()
World War Two History, Okunoshima
Okunoshima is best known as the ‘rabbit island’ thanks to the large number of fluffy friends that roam freely across the island. But cute bunnies aside, this island is a great spot to see some fascinating history. During World War II, Japan was a signatory of the Geneva Convention, which meant that it was prohibited from using chemical weapons. However, the Japanese government established a chemical munitions factory in secret on Okunoshima. The ruins are still here today, an interesting and imposing reminder of the island’s history.
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05
The Shimanami Kaido
![The Shimanami Kaido]()
The Shimanami Kaido
It may seem counterintuitive, but one of the most enjoyable things to do in Setonaikai National Park is to drive around it! The Shimanami Kaido is a 60km road that connects sixof the park’s islands to Shikoku. As well as the road, there are cycle routes. Either way, with its spectacular scenery and some vertigo-inducing bridges, the Shimanami Kaido is a unique experience.
- Seto Inland Sea Shimanami Kaido
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- Hiroshima Prefecture Onomichi City - Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture
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