The Setouchi Triennale modern art festival was first held in 2010 with the goal of revitalizing the island communities of the Seto Inland Sea, which had fallen victim to depopulation and economic standstill despite their picturesque setting. As the festival features both permanent and temporary museums and installations, the overall concept places equal emphasis on art and architecture. Many of the permanent museums on this itinerary rank among the finest examples of contemporary architecture in the world today, and the Tadao Ando Museum even pays homage to the renowned Japanese architect who is its namesake. Visit this museum and many more on this voyage across island-dotted, aquamarine waters as you ferry between the premier islands of the Seto Inland Sea. The Setouchi Triennale has helped to reinvigorate the culture and economic prosperity of this region – be a part of this celebration of contemporary art, and take in the festivities while savoring some of Japan’s finest hotels.
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Visiting a new place is no longer about passive consumption, move your body, learn new skills,
and challenge your limits to find the very thing that makes your Setouchi journey unique and unforgettable.
Whether basking in the glory of masterful works, taking in performance honed to perfection over centuries,
or finding yourself captivated by some of the very best in modern art, there is something for everyone.
[Photo : “Red Pumpkin” ©Yayoi Kusama,2006 Naoshima Miyanoura Port Square | Photographer: Daisuke Aochi]
Travel in time and marvel at surroundings etched deep into history.
Dig a bit deeper and discover the central role the Setouchi region has played in making this diverse and fascinatingly complex country.
Some of the world’s most stunning seascapes are complemented by the natural beauty
and richness of forests that will have you breathing deeply in the very essence of what it is to be alive.
As diverse and tantalizing as the region itself, the bounties of Setouchi are near at hand.
Fresh fish, fabulous meats, exquisite vegetables, and a vast array of local brews will be gracing your tables for a procession of unforgettable feasts.
Savoring the journey means sometimes you just need to catch your breath, wind it back a gear to relax and pamper yourself.
Whether it is a traditional ryokan, luxury hotel sea view, or even a pre-modern house, the fineries of life await.