Ocean View Art
Setoda-chō on Ikuchijima Island is a cultural gem along the Shimanami Kaidō, blending art, history, and sea views. The striking Kōsan-ji Temple, built in honor of the founder’s mother, features elaborate architecture and a Buddhist art museum. Nearby, the Hill of Hope—a dazzling marble terrace overlooking the Seto Inland Sea—offers one of the region’s most unique artistic experiences. Art lovers can also explore the Hirayama Ikuo Museum of Art, dedicated to the island-born painter famed for his tranquil, Buddhist-inspired landscapes. A short walk away, Kōjō-ji Temple’s 15th-century pagoda adds a touch of spiritual history to this island stop.
