Go Viral with 4 Instagrammable Spots in Setouchi
Seto Inland or Setouchi in the Shikoku region is famed for its many spectacular spots—some of them arguably the most attractive places in Japan.
Ahead, we introduce those that best highlight the beauty of the earth, sky, and sea. Be sure to visit these underrated Instagrammable places in Japan aside from the typical tourist spots in your Setouchi trip. You’ll be a veteran Japan explorer in no time!
1) Takaya Shrine Hongu (Kagawa Prefecture)
Located in Kanonji City, Kagawa, Japan, is Takaya Shrine. Sitting at the top of Mt. Inazumi at an altitude of 404 meters, its main shrine has become a viral destination, with its torii gate in the sky being one of the most popular Instagrammable places known in Japan.
When the sky is clear, you can catch a glimpse of Ariakehama Beach and even see as far as Nada in Hyogo Prefecture. Aside from blessing travelers with a calming view, the shrine itself is said to have helped people praying for family safety, business prosperity, and protection from disease and disasters!
Things to note:
- It takes about 50 minutes from the shrine building at the bottom of the hill to get to the torii gate of the main shrine. There is a steep slope on the way to the main shrine so make sure to wear comfortable shoes when you go.
- The recommended time to visit the shrine is during the evening when you can take photos of the shrine itself and the sunset together. The scenery of Takaya Shrine, the Seto Inland Sea, and the city, together with the fascinating twilight as the background can all be captured in one shot.
- Be extra careful as the downward slope on the way back can be a little steep and slippery!
Spot Information
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Name: Takaya Shrine Hongu |
2) Shodoshima Olive Park (Kagawa Prefecture)
Want to find one of the best Instagrammable places in Japan that highlight its diverse landscapes? Visit this olive-themed municipal park situated in Shodoshima, Kagawa, Japan.
Surrounded by lush greenery and a sprawling view of the blue sea, Shodoshima Olive Park has many great spots for taking photos. Be sure to check out the Greek windmill, which transports us for a second to the Mediterranean. There’s also the Corico Cafe and the Book of Beginnings, which look straight out of Studio Ghibli’s movie, Kiki's Delivery Service.
Things to note:
- Borrow a "magic broom" at the Olive Memorial Hall and have your picture taken as a flying witch just like in the 1989 movie, Kiki's Delivery Service. If you use the slope of the grassy hill or take the shot from a low position, the photo should come out well. Do note that this is quite a popular activity, so you might have to wait for your turn.
- If you take a photo from behind the Greek windmill, the mountains and sea will also be in the shot, so you will be able to perfectly capture the whimsical park’s lovely atmosphere!
Spot Information
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Name: Shodoshima Olive Park |
3) Chichibugahama (Kagawa Prefecture)
Chichibugahama is a calm, 1-kilometer stretch of beach on the coast facing Hiuchi-Nada in Nio-cho, Mitoyo, Kagawa Prefecture. Recently, it went viral on social media as it looks like Bolivia’s famous Uyuni Salt Flats, whose water surface mirrors your reflection.
Things to note:
- Check forecasts beforehand as you can see a uniquely spectacular view that only appears when low tide and sunset overlap. There’s something breathtaking about witnessing the view during the magical hour just before, during, or after sunset!
- Time your visit when there is no wind so the water surface is calm and your reflection shows clearly.
Spot Information
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Name: Chichibugahama |
4) Angel Road (Kagawa Prefecture)
Angel Road is a sandbar that connects Shodoshima and the Yoshima islets. Make sure you visit this Instagrammable place in Japan at the right time, as the sandbar disappears due to the ebb and flow of the tide.
And don’t go alone, bring your partner with you! Legend has it that if you hold hands with your loved one while crossing the sandbar, an angel will descend upon you and grant your wishes.
Still, with or without a partner, you will definitely enjoy the view of the sea and capture snaps for your social media!
Things to note:
- At the information center, cute shell-shaped ema are being sold. Literally meaning “picture-horse,” ema are small wooden plaques that worshipers write prayers or wishes on. It is believed that if you write a wish and hang the ema on the observatory, your wish may come true.
- The view from the observatory is the best! For an Insta-worthy shot, take photos by the white mailbox with the spectacular sea in your background.
- After taking photos and praying for blessings, explore the area. Try to spot the hole in the rock face caused by erosion.
Spot Information
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Name: Angel Road |
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