SETOUCHI: JAPAN’S HIDDEN GEM FOR FOOD, CULTURE AND LUXURY TRAVEL

SETOUCHI: JAPAN’S HIDDEN GEM FOR FOOD, CULTURE AND LUXURY TRAVEL

Setouchi: Japan’s Culinary Coastline

Setouchi, a stunning region surrounding Japan’s largest inland sea, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and exceptional food. From Hiroshima’s lively food hubs to Takamatsu’s luxurious dining experiences, this area is a paradise for travellers who love exploring culture through cuisine. Here’s your guide to the must-visit spots for food and travel in Setouchi.

Okonomimura: Hiroshima’s Okonomiyaki Hub

Hiroshima’s okonomiyaki is more than a dish—it’s part of the city’s identity. At Okonomimura, a multi-story food destination in Naka-ku, 23 restaurants serve up their takes on this savoury pancake, layered with cabbage, noodles, and toppings like squid and pork.

This dish has its roots in Hiroshima’s recovery after World War II when it was served from street stalls near Shintenchi Square. Today, Okonomimura continues this legacy with vibrant eateries where visitors can enjoy the dish or even learn to make it themselves. Don’t miss pairing this experience with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum or Miyajima Island.

Udon Taxi

Kagawa’s Udon Taxi: A Noodle Adventure

Kagawa Prefecture, known as Japan’s “Udon Kingdom,” takes its noodles seriously. The Udon Taxi is a unique way to explore this culinary tradition. Guided by drivers who double as noodle experts, you’ll visit Sanuki udon restaurants, from local favourites to hidden gems.

Sanuki udon is famous for its firm texture and delicate taste. Tours range from 60 to 120 minutes, giving you time to sample multiple dishes while learning about the history of udon, which dates back to the 9th century. Prices start at 5,400 yen (£27.90), making this an affordable and unforgettable way to experience Kagawa’s noodle culture.

Anabukitei

Takamatsu: Luxury Dining with a Local Touch

For those looking for a more indulgent experience, Takamatsu offers a selection of standout accommodations with incredible culinary offerings:

• Anabukitei: A private retreat where traditional Japanese design meets modern luxury. Guests can enjoy a private garden, open-air bath, and meals showcasing the best of local ingredients.
• Auberge de Oishi: Located at the foot of Mt. Yashima, this boutique hotel features a Mediterranean-style design and a restaurant celebrating the flavours of the Seto Inland Sea.
• Hanajukai (Flower Inn): Known for its stunning hot spring baths and panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, Hanajukai combines traditional Japanese cuisine with French influences for a memorable dining experience.

Auberge de Oishi

Onomichi: Design and Dining in Harmony

In Onomichi, the boutique hotel LOG combines stunning design with culinary excellence. Housed in a renovated apartment building designed with the help of India’s STUDIO MUMBAI, LOG offers a calming space with interiors wrapped in Japanese paper for a soft, tranquil atmosphere.

The hotel’s dining experience is led by Ai Hosokawa, a celebrated chef known for her minimalist approach to cooking. Inspired by Japanese, European, and Asian traditions, her dishes focus on highlighting the natural flavours of each ingredient. LOG is a must-visit for those who love thoughtful design and great food.

LOG

Setouchi: Where Food and Culture Meet

Setouchi offers something for every type of traveller, from the bustling okonomiyaki stalls of Hiroshima to the quiet luxury of Takamatsu’s inns. Whether you’re diving into the history of Sanuki udon or relaxing with a beautifully crafted dish in Onomichi, this region invites you to explore Japan’s culture through its food.

Getting to Setouchi

The Setouchi region is easily accessible from Tokyo by Shinkansen (bullet train), with travel times ranging from 2 hours 40 minutes to 4 hours 20 minutes. Direct flights to Tokyo from London Heathrow are available via British Airways, Japan Airlines, and ANA.

For more information on Setouchi: Japan’s hidden gem for food, culture and luxury travel, visit www.setouchi.travel.