way that the Seto Inland Sea was formed, through
subsidence and erosion over millions of years, gives the present
day visitor the delights of winding coastlines and a wide choice
The sheltered coastline provides the perfect location for harbours
and ports, with the natural inlets and the windbreak provided
by the islands, allowing safe havens for sea-goers, although
the lay of the land means that the mountains and hills had to
be taken into account.
The harbours and port towns of the Set Inland Sea grew around
tiny accessible areas along the coastline. Visitors can enjoy
creeks surrounded by islands, winding paths through the hills,
and intimate little towns.
Seto inland Sea is a semi-enclosed sea, and the tides
coming in from both east and west make subtle changes to the
currents. The tides and currents have both affected the way
the ports and harbours have grown, giving us the saying "A harbour
for waiting for the tide" to describe many of these small towns.
One of the most endearing features of the harbours and ports
must be their rich cultures and history. Over the centuries,
the sea has been the first point of entry into Japan, the "Country
of Islands". The sea has seen uncountable vessels bringing merchants
and traders, and each port has its own records of the coming
and goings of the ships over the centuries.
The harbours and ports have brought together nature and humans,
and this is evident in the culture, festivals, cuisine, and
uniquely attractive traditions which you will find in your travels
around the area - you can feel the history!