Tamano travel guide and discussion

Okayama Prefecture is full of fascinating spots ☺️✨ Here are some recommended spots that will make you want to take photos! ① Ojigatake (📷1-2) A view spot where you can see the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and the majestic Setouchi Bridge all at once! ✨ The name Ojigatake is said to come from the legend that eight princes once lived there! Ojigatake is known as the "origin and sacred place of bouldering," and is bustling with climbers on weekends during the climbing season. 🌿 ② Niko Niko Rock (📷3) One of the rocks on Ojigatake is "Niko Niko Rock." ☺️ It looks like an old man is smiling, gazing out at the ocean! It's a miracle of nature! ③ Azumaya Observatory (📷4-5) Washu Mountain, a spectacular vantage point of the Setouchi Bridge and a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty! The most recommended observation deck on Mt. Washu is the Higashiya Observatory 𓂃𓈒𓏸. This spot overlooks the Seto Ohashi Bridge, and it's popular during sunset. 🌅 ④ Kojima Jeans Street (📷6-8) Kojima, the mecca of domestic jeans, is garnering attention! Looking up, you'll see jeans hanging from the ceiling, making it a joy to walk around. 👖 ⑤ Kurashiki Bikan District (📷9-13) A representative tourist spot in Okayama. Enjoy the quaint scenery, including white-walled storehouses, namako walls, and rows of willow trees. There are also many stylish cafes and general stores! It's an area you won't get bored of exploring for a whole day. ✨ Okayama is full of charm! Be sure to check it out! 𓅯 ⸒⸒ #JapanTravelGuide #OkayamaTourism #OkayamaTrip

📝﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏ Spot Details 📍 Toy Kingdom 📌 1640-1 Taki, Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture 🕛 Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (may vary depending on the season) Closed: Wednesdays (open on public holidays, spring break, summer vacation, and winter vacation) 💰 Admission Fee Adults (middle school students and older): ¥800 Children (ages 2 and older): ¥600 · Rides are charged separately (unlimited ride passes available) 🚗Parking available (paid, capacity approximately 2,000 cars) ✎﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏ Tips 🧸 Over 20 types of "Toy Pavilions" are available, where you can play with popular toys like Licca-chan, Plarail, and Sylvanian Families. 🎡 Enjoy a day of fun with the whole family, featuring a variety of amusement park attractions, including a Ferris wheel and roller coasters. 👨👩👧 Many indoor facilities make it a safe place to visit on rainy days or with small children. 🌳 Surrounded by nature throughout the year, enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, a pool in summer, and illuminations in winter. 🚉 Access: Approximately 60 minutes by bus from JR Okayama Station / Approximately 30 minutes by car from Kojima IC on the Setouchi Chuo Expressway. · -- #OkayamaTourism #ToyKingdom #TamanoCity #FamilyTrip #TripWithKids #OutingSpot #AmusementParkDebut #EnjoyableEvenOnRainyDays #SummerThemePark

⭐️ : belk 📍Location: 7 Kojima Torikotoncho, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, 711-0905 🕰️ Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM ____________________________________________ Since its opening in 2017, "belk" has attracted numerous visitors and is so popular that you might find yourself waiting in line on weekends. Located near the summit of Mount Ouji, which stands at an elevation of 235 meters between Tamano City and Kurashiki City, the café is situated within the Ouji-ga-take Park Center. The main charm of this café is undoubtedly its breathtaking views. From the café, you can enjoy stunning vistas of the Seto Inland Sea islands and the Seto Ohashi Bridge. The coffee served here uses beans from "Musashino Coffee" in Okayama City, and each cup is carefully hand-dripped. The coffee is low in acidity, offering a smooth balance of richness and bitterness. If you're visiting Okayama, make sure to stop by belk for a relaxing coffee time while soaking in the spectacular scenery ☕️

Bamboo Grove at Tennoike, Tamano Despite living in Okayama for over 20 years, I had never heard of this bamboo grove. It feels just like the famous Arashiyama in Kyoto. The sound of bamboo leaves rustling in the wind creates a relaxing atmosphere. I took a leisurely stroll through the bamboo grove. This bamboo grove is maintained by the members of the 'Tennoike Bamboo Grove Association' in Tamano City, as the elderly owner found it difficult to manage. The walking path is about 70 meters long. The cut bamboo is not wasted but used for the fences along the path, making good use of resources. Beyond the bamboo grove lies Tennoike Pond. Be aware that the parking lot is a bit tricky to find, and there are many mosquitoes in the summer. At the entrance, there are many unique displays, which are also worth seeing. Access: From the official website Tennoike, Nagao, Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture

At the glamping facility adjacent to the sea, you can enjoy a barbecue whether you're staying overnight or just for the day. All BBQ equipment and cutlery can be borrowed without any additional fees, making it easy to enjoy a barbecue! (Grill equipment / Cooler bag / Ice packs / Tongs / Scissors / Chopsticks / Plates / Cups / Seasonings / Sauces) It's highly recommended to have a barbecue while gazing at the Seto Inland Sea! ୨୧ ‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥୨୧ Location: Tentoumi Address: 2-4-8 Shibukawa, Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture Access: About a 3-minute walk from the Shibukawa terminal stop on the express bus from JR Okayama Station Parking: Available ୨୧ ‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥‥∵‥୨୧

\An extraordinary experience! ✨The ultimate glamping/ 📍SETONITE We had a luxurious, extraordinary experience at a glamping-style private resort overlooking the Seto Inland Sea✨ The staff were very friendly, helpful, and very comfortable~🫶 Dinner and breakfast were brought to your room🫶✨ Everything was taken care of. The private sauna🧖♀️ had an ocean view, and it was a truly luxurious experience✨🥹 After dinner, we all had a bonfire experience & fireworks🧨 During the bonfire🔥, we were even given free marshmallows and cocoa🫶✨ We had a bonfire experience while watching the stars🔥 It was really the best🥹!! ! ! ! 【Setonite】 🏕 SETONITE Setonite @private_resort_setonite 📮 28-30 Tai 5-chome, Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture 🚗 Parking available 𓐄 *⋆✈︎𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 I'm Megumo, who travels domestically and abroad and stays in hotels every week.•♬ I'm posting real travel information (*ˊ˘ˋ*)｡♪:*° Like👍Comment💬 It's encouraging♡ If you like traveling, please follow me♡ 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 *⋆✈︎𓐄 #Okayama #OkayamaTrip #okayama #Glamping #BreathtakingViewAccommodation #SETONITE #Setonite #SetouchiGlamping #OkayamaGlamping #Sakura2024

Seto International Art Festival is back!! ️Go to Japan🇯🇵 and another new place🫣 You can start from Okayama Uno Port🙈 Not only can you see the unique islands in the Seto Inland Sea, but you can also see the artworks during the exhibition❤️ However, Uno Harbor has accumulated quite a few permanent art 🎨 works!! ️ Even if it is not during the exhibition period you can still visit Visitors can experience Japan 🗾 the marine style full of literary and artistic atmosphere 👌🏻👌🏻 It is a very unique experience in Japan🇯🇵 Incidentally, there is an artist-designed sightseeing train La Malle de Bois from Okayama to Uno you can sit but there are very few shifts so you can't sit on it 🥹 and you can try it when it's time ☺️ However, you can take a picture with the license if you can't sit From Uno Port sweep the various small islands in the Seto Inland Sea have different routes and boat types to choose from😛 If it is peak season, you have to buy tickets in advance🫢 Before taking the boat, you can take the time to see the artworks around Uno Port 😗😗 The artworks around Uno Port have their numbers 👍🏻 They are un01 to un08 🫶🏻 Several artworks can be easily viewed by walking 😝 about 15-30 minutes before boarding the boat is ok 🫢 This attraction can be arranged on the same day we go to Kodoshima 🤣 no need to take a special car 😗 so it is much more convenient to arrange the trip #japanattractions #familygoodplaces #foodie #hkfood #resident writer #overseas travel #japan travel #japan #japan free trip #japan travel guide #japan travel #japan good places #parents and children Good Places #Parent-Child Local Tour #Parent-Child Restaurant #Parent-Child Fun #Couples Good Places #Couples Dating Good Places

Store name: Omachido Uno Port Store Address: 1-1-4 Chikko 1-chome, Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture Budget per person: 1000 yen and up Rating (out of 5): ★★★★★ Points: *A shaved ice shop located near Uno Port, the gateway to Naoshima. · The luxurious shaved ice topped with seasonal fruits grown in the fruit kingdom of Okayama is visually and tastefully outstanding! · Business hours are short and it gets very crowded on weekends, so we recommend visiting early in the day! ! #Gourmet #Gourmet trip #Okayama Prefecture #Remote island trip #Summer weekend trip

\\Tourist Spots// Uno Port is a convenient way to get to Naoshima from Honshu. There are many tourist spots around Uno Port itself, so you can enjoy walking around the town. This time, the transfer time with the ship was short, so I could only see the station and the area around the port, but it was a wonderful port with many works of art. 〈How to get there〉 About 1 hour from Okayama Station to Uno Station 20 minutes by ferry from Uno Port to Naoshima (Miyanoura) Information as of August 2022. #Breathtaking views #Like overseas #Remote island trip #Okayama Prefecture #Free spots #Summer weekend trip

This is my actual itinerary and timeline for the 9-day, 8-night Seto Inland Sea trip: · *Hiroshima** Day 1: Airport → Drop off luggage in the city → Atomic Bomb Dome → Explore Hiroshima Station → Eat Hiroshima okonomiyaki Day 2: Miyajima Ropeway → Grilled oysters → Itsukushima Shrine → Hiroshima Parco · *Onomichi** ▼ [JR Sanyo Line] Day 3: Onomichi Ramen → Senkoji Ropeway → Neko no Hosomichi → Stroll along the harbor and have dinner Day 4: Pick up bicycles → Mukojima → Inojima Shirataki Mountain → Ikuchijima Mirai no Kokoro Hill → Take a ferry from Setoda Port · *Kurashiki + Kojima** ▼ [JR Sanyo Line → Seto Ohashi Line] Day 5: Kurashiki Bikan → Kojima → Denim Street → Washuyama Sunset Bus 【Tamano】▼ [JR Seto Ohashi Line ➔ Uno Port Line] Day 6 Naoshima ➔ Bike Pickup ➔ Chichu Art Museum ➔ Honmura ➔ Red Pumpkin ➔ Return to Uno Day 7 Teshima ➔ Heartbeat ➔ Teshima Art Museum ➔ Ieura Port ➔ Return to Uno 【Okayama】▼ [JR Uno Port Line] Day 8 400℃ Pizza ➔ Okayama Castle ➔ Okayama Korakuen Park ➔ AEON Shopping Day 9 Airport Bus ➔ Okayama Momotaro Airport ➔ Return Home It went very smoothly, not far from what was originally planned. The only downside was that the food was rather casual. #Hiroshima #Onomichi #SetoInlandSea #OkayamaTravel #TravelPlanning

​Under the southwest sun of Shikoku, the last white fishing boat eased away from the pier, its wake trailing lightly through the towering bridge arch, and the whole bay fell so quiet only the sea breeze whispered. Hop on a bike and pedal up the graceful steel box-girder ramp to the Ku Island Bridge; the emerald sea slides away on either side beneath your wheels. At the crest, the blue-and-white sign for Hon Ku Island comes into view — the long-awaited Ku Island circuit ride officially begins ​🗺️ a one-of-a-kind cycling paradise: why is Ku Island essentially only for two-wheelers? ​At the approach to Hon Ku Island's connecting bridge, the most striking features are two large signboards (fig. 7): ​"Cars cannot circle the island (automobiles cannot use the coastal prefectural road)": because the southwest coast of Ku Island is steep, broken by cliffs, and the roads are extremely narrow, many sections are only about 1m wide. Apart from two-wheeled bicycles and pedestrians, ordinary four-wheeled motor vehicles simply cannot get through the southern impassable sections. ​A chosen cycling sanctuary: it is precisely these harsh terrain limits that cut off the noise of outside traffic, turning the roughly 10 km island loop into a low-density, all-natural seaside greenway that cyclists across Japan dream of ​📸 the photos: sea, sky, bridge, and Ku Island landmarks ​The dramatic depth of sea, sky, and bridge (figs. 1–4): from the high approach you can look down on the Ku Island Bridge like a dragon skimming the water, the tall central arch leaving a wide navigation channel; a working fishing boat parts the jade waves, tracing dynamic ripples on the tranquil, jelly-like sea, with Ku Island's verdant peaks rising in the background—utterly poetic ​A panoramic view of Ku Island (figs. 5–6): on the wide water brushed by a light breeze, Ku Island lies like a green whale in the Uwa Sea, with the simple outlines of Hon Ku Island's village houses and dark-tiled roofs visible at the mountain foot ​Key signs and destinations (fig. 8): after crossing the bridge, a brown wooden waymarker by the sea clearly points the way: ​Kujira Taishi (Kujira Taishi, 800m): a cliffside sacred site housing a statue of the monk Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai); legend says a spirit whale once came ashore to protect islanders, making this a core place for maritime safety and prayers on the island ​Udo Cape (Udo Cape, 2.6km): the westernmost headland of Ku Island facing the majestic Bungo Channel, an excellent viewpoint for Shikoku sunsets and dramatic cliffs ​Kushima Community Center (Kushima Community Center, 1.5km): the island's administrative and cultural gathering place, and a key resupply and meetup point on the circuit ​🌊 the Uwa Sea's supreme scenery: how does it rank on Shikoku? ​When people think of Shikoku travel, they often think of the Seto Inland Sea art festivals or the Shimanto River in Kochi, but those who know the off‑beat spots put the Uwa Sea high on their list of hidden gems: ​Shikoku's last stretch of pristine "jelly sea": unlike the relatively calm, enclosed feel of the Seto Inland Sea, the Uwa Sea opens directly onto the Bungo Channel swept by the Kuroshio Current. The water is crystal clear, and nearshore seas show deep emerald and sapphire tones, with some of Shikoku's best water transparency ​The three-dimensional wonder of ria coast fjords: the sea cuts deeply into the rolling mountains, where neat, stone-built vertical terraces line the slopes. Hills and sea sit extremely close. The surface is dotted with colorful sea bream farming cages and pearl oyster buoys, and the fishing ports, terraced fields, and azure sea weave a production-focused fishing village tableau unique in Japan ​An off-the-beaten-path, pristine slow-travel landmark: the Uwa Sea retains quiet fishing villages and sincere local warmth dating from the Meiji to Showa eras. There are no large tourist crowds and no heavy commercial development, making it the ultimate healing puzzle piece for travelers who want deep, freeform exploration and serious cycling ​💡 Ku Island cycling tips: ​Best to ride clockwise: start after you get off the Ku Island Bridge and head toward the Hon Ku Island Community Center (turn right, clockwise). The first half is relatively flat and close to fishing villages, while the second half gradually climbs coastal hills on the way to Udo Cape ​Travel light and take it slow: turns on the island's mountain roads may have fallen leaves and loose stones, so slow down on descents. Bring a camera or telephoto lens — every stop offers a soothing expanse of vivid blue

《Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture》 You can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful islands of the Seto Inland Sea and the Shikoku mountain range on the opposite shore. It's about a 12-minute walk from the parking lot. 🚶♂️💨 One photo shows Heart Rock, which you can climb, but it's about 1 meter high, so it's difficult in a skirt. . . . At Oji-ga-take, you can see rocks with interesting names such as "Uncle Rock," "Smiling Rock," "Sheep Rock," and "Heart Rock." . . . At "Heart Rock," there's a spot where you can take photos from a little way up from Smiling Rock (about 2 minutes from Heart Rock). 😊 I took a particularly wide-angle shot. 📸 . . Benefits: This is a popular spot where couples who visit are said to be "happy forever." ____________ ⁡ Spot: Ojigatake ⁡ 🌎: 4-chome, Shibukawa, Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture 706-0028 ⁡ Access by car: Approximately 25 minutes from Kojima IC on the Seto-Chuo Expressway Access by public transport: Approximately 70 minutes by express bus bound for Shibukawa from JR Okayama Station, get off at "Shibukawa" bus stop, then approximately 10 minutes by taxi Parking: 200 regular cars ⁡ Date of shooting: 2026.9/10 ⁡ Model: Sakana-san ⁡ ____________ #Ojigatake #HeartRock #PowerSpot #okawamatrip #ScenicSpot

#slowtraveling I took the Shikoku Kisen ferry from Uno Port (Okayama) to Miyanoura Port on Naoshima—about 20 minutes, ¥370 one way, IC card not accepted at the booth, so carry coins or a ¥1,000 note. I arrived at 15:40 on purpose: the 9 am crush was gone, the Red Pumpkin at the pier was photogenic without 40 elbows, and the mossy stone retaining wall behind Café Ougiya was still damp from the June tsuyu rain. The cafe (cash only, ¥450 for iced coffee, ¥850 lemon ramen) has two tables facing the fishing boats. I sat 90 minutes, watched the 17:10 ferry from Takamatsu unload cyclists, then walked the 200 m to the yellow pumpkin pier for sunset. The Seto Inland Sea turns slate-gold; the moss on the seawall glows. Mistake: I trusted the last ferry time on an old blog—check the seasonal timetable on the terminal board. In winter the last return is 16:30, not 19:00. A port worker rinsing his boat nets handed me a tangerine from his cooler: “mikan wa shima no taiyō” (the tangerine is the island’s sun). Is a port still a port when the art pumpkins outnumber the fishing crates?

Naoshima in the Seto Inland Sea has always been a dream "island escape" for art lovers and creative souls! The island is famous for seamlessly blending breathtaking natural ocean views and tranquil villages with world-class contemporary art museums. Cycling around while taking in the stunning outdoor installations is such a chill and freeing experience! For this trip, we drove from Takamatsu to Uno Port, hopped on a ferry, and rented bikes right at the pier. It’s so convenient—no need to wait for buses, just go wherever the wind takes you! Itinerary Highlights: · West Coast Museum Hub: Benesse House Museum, Chichu Art Museum, and the iconic Pumpkin sculpture. · Installations everywhere: A perfect mashup of traditional villages, contemporary art, and pure nature. · Ultimate freedom on two wheels: Set your own pace, stop for photos whenever you want, and explore every hidden corner. · Local bites: Fresh seafood joints and aesthetic cafes you won't want to miss. Top Cycling Spots Around the Island 1. Benesse House Museum Head straight to the southwest coast for the Benesse House Museum. Designed by Tadao Ando, the building itself is an architectural masterpiece that doubles as a boutique art hotel. Inside and out, there are tons of modern art pieces perfect for photos! Take a stroll down the path outside, where the blue sky, ocean, and sculptures effortlessly come together—a top-tier spot for your Instagram feed! 📍Address: Gotanji, Naoshima, Kagawa District, Kagawa ⏰Hours: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Hours may vary by exhibition; checking the official website and booking in advance is highly recommended.) 2. Yayoi Kusama's "Yellow Pumpkin" Keep pedaling along the coast, and you’ll spot the giant Yellow Pumpkin—an absolute must-see! Created by Yayoi Kusama, it has become the ultimate symbol of Naoshima. The vibrant pumpkin set against the endless sea and sky is just too cute. 📍Address: Near the coast of the Honmura area, Naoshima 3. Chichu Art Museum Built entirely underground to preserve the beautiful natural scenery, this museum requires advance reservations. The exhibits are perfectly integrated with natural light, offering a profoundly peaceful and stunning experience. Highlights include works by James Turrell, Walter De Maria, and Claude Monet's "Water Lilies" series. 📍Address: 3449-1 Naoshima, Kagawa District, Kagawa ⏰Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Last entry at 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays, except for Golden Week and other special holidays.) 4. Art House Project Located in the Honmura district, this project features empty traditional houses turned into immersive art installations. It's perfect for exploring on your bike! Get lost in the narrow alleys, discover unique creations by various artists, and soak up the authentic local vibe. Some of the spaces are incredibly fun and interactive. 📍Address: Honmura area, Naoshima (A multi-site ticket allows entry to several houses.) ⏰Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Mostly closed on Mondays; arriving in the morning or before noon is best if you want to see them all without rushing.) 5. Village Scenery & Quaint Cafes You'll pass by plenty of adorable shops and cafes along your ride. If you have time, definitely grab a local lunch or just chill with a coffee. Spots like Cafe Salon Nakaoku or Shima Kitchen are great choices. Sit back, enjoy a delicious meal with ocean views, and embrace the slow island life~ 🚲 Driving & Cycling Tips Driving to Uno Port and taking the ferry to Naoshima is perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay. Public transport is limited, so renting a bike right off the ferry is the best move—it's flexible and eco-friendly! Opt for an electric bike (e-bike) to save your energy, as the island has a few hilly sections. Stay hydrated and don't forget sun protection, especially in spring and summer! 📱 Extra Tips · Some museums require advance booking, so secure your tickets online a few days early. · Bring a hat and plenty of sunscreen—summer days can get intensely sunny! · Consider staying overnight at the Benesse House Hotel. With zero light pollution, the starry night sky is absolutely breathtaking.

A 3-day, 2-night summer trip exploring Kurashiki and Naoshima The beautiful white-walled streets of Kura. 🍑 Kurashiki Trip | A 3-Day, 2-Night Summer Getaway in Setouchi A 3-day, 2-night summer trip exploring Kurashiki and Naoshima🌿 Taking a leisurely stroll through the beautiful white-walled streets of the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, I finally got to enjoy the peach parfait I’d been dreaming of🍑 The Bikan Historical Quarter has a wonderful atmosphere from dusk into the evening, offering a completely different but equally stunning view compared to the daytime. On day two, I hopped on a ferry to Naoshima🚢 I fully immersed myself in Setouchi's art scene by visiting the Chichu Art Museum, Lee Ufan Museum, and Benesse House Museum🎨 To wrap up the trip, I took in the breathtaking views of the Great Seto Bridge from the Washuzan Observation Deck🌉 It was a hot summer, but this trip was the perfect balance of exploring the town, enjoying art, indulging in great food, and taking in the stunning Setouchi scenery! 📍Kurashiki, Naoshima, Washuzan 🍑 Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter 🎨 Chichu Art Museum 🚢 Uno Port, Naoshima 🌉 Washuzan Observation Deck Travel Bikan Historical Quarter Travel

Ready for a chill escape to Tamano? 🌊✨ Seriously, this spot is all about gorgeous sea views, cozy local vibes, and a super relaxing stay at Setonite. If you’re craving tranquility and real Japanese hospitality, Tamano is your answer! Top Spots to Visit in Tamano: 1. Tamano-Setonite: This scenic area is THE place for coastal walks, catching the sunset, and soaking up peaceful vibes. Don’t skip the local art installations scattered along the water! 2. Setonite Hotel (5 Chome-28-30 Tai): Setonite is a true retreat—think panoramic sea views right from your window and a vibe that screams luxury but feels totally homey. The sauna here is a game-changer after a day of exploring, and if you’re into campfires, you’ll love the outdoor setup. Travel Route & Practical Tips: Setonite is a prime base—you’re minutes from waterfront trails and only a short ride from Tamano rail links. Use local buses to reach hidden coves or nearby museums. Walking is easy if you stay close to the hotel and seaside! Food Recommendations: Setonite serves up cozy dinners with local specialties—try their seasonal seafood and artisan veggies. Every dish uses high-quality ingredients for that authentic taste! For lunch, explore Tamano’s small cafes; many offer set menus with fresh catches. Getting Around: Local buses link all major sights; grab a day pass if you plan to hop around. Taxis are speedy for short distances. Pro tip: Maps are provided at Setonite, so don’t stress about navigation. Key Tips: Pack light layers (the weather changes fast by the sea), and book your sauna slot early! Setonite’s quiet location is perfect for downtime, but plan your transport in advance for max efficiency. #TamanoTrip #SetoniteHotel #JapanTravel #SeasideEscape

📍 HYM HOSTEL | Uno Port, Okayama Whenever I travel to the Seto Inland Sea, there's an inn I always want to stay at again. There’s truly something indescribable about this building. In some places, old things are kept exactly as they are, yet in others, it's so clean and tidy that it brings a sense of comfort. Throughout the entire place, there’s an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and wistfulness, making me feel as though I'm experiencing the sights and feelings from my elementary school days all over again. The space makes the most of the building's age, allowing you to appreciate the "beauty of time" rather than just its oldness. Crisp white linens, raw concrete, and slightly rusted window frames. Every single detail creates a scenery that you can only find at this inn. 🌿 In the mornings, I gaze out at the port from my bed and wake up to the gentle sounds of ferries coming and going. During the day, I strolled around the town of Uno and enjoyed a hamburger from the hotel's cafe while looking out over the water. 🍔 Down by the port, you'll find a few small shops and art exhibits. They even had Okayama peaches on display, offering that special kind of joy you only get while traveling. 🍑 When evening comes, head up to the rooftop. The Setouchi sky slowly changes its colors, and just idly watching the ferries head back across the sea helps time slowly unwind. 🌙 It may not have any flashy amenities, but this inn possesses an atmosphere that makes you want to return again and again. Slow moments by the Seto Inland Sea. ⸻ Business Hours & Access 📍 HYM HOSTEL (Uno, Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture) · Approx. 2-minute walk from JR Uno Station · Approx. 5-minute walk to Uno Port Ferry Terminal · A highly convenient base for visiting Naoshima and Teshima · Please check the latest information, such as check-in times, when making a reservation. ⸻

📅 Travel Itinerary Day 1: Okayama Airport → Kurashiki → Shibukawa Coast Day 2: Enjoy art around Uno Port → Take the afternoon ferry to Naoshima 🏨 Accommodation Diamond Setouchi Marine Hotel 🍴 Gourmet Spot Lunch at UMIMACHI DINING. The presentation was beautiful and the portions were generous; I was very satisfied! Shibukawa Coast was not crowded, allowing for a very relaxing time. I was able to unwind while gazing at the Seto Inland Sea, making for a truly healing experience. On Day 2, after enjoying art around Uno Port, I took the ferry to Naoshima. This course offers a good balance of sea, gourmet food, and art, and is recommended even for those visiting the Tamano area for the first time. #DomesticTravel #Tamano #UnoPort #Uno

When the autumn breeze sweeps through, the entire park dons vibrant makeup. The maple leaves blaze like red flames, while the fallen ginkgo leaves carpet the ground in crushed gold—so soft to walk on, it feels like stepping right into a fairy tale. Strolling slowly along the paths, you can see fruit trees laden with little fruits on both sides. A faint, sweet aroma lingers in the air; take a deep breath, and you're filled with the sheer joy of the harvest. Not far away on the lawn, several photography enthusiasts have set up their tripods to capture the sunset. The golden-red setting sun dyes the clouds a brilliant orange and sprinkles the lake's surface with shimmering, crushed gold. A few elderly people are flying kites, their long string spools reeling in skies full of laughter. At the roadside rest area, there's free hot ginger tea; a staff member smiles as they hand over a cup, sending a soothing warmth from your palms straight to your heart. Leaning against a tree trunk and gazing up at the spectacular evening sky, I'm suddenly reminded of the classic poetic lines: "I stop my carriage, for I love the maple woods at dusk; the frosted leaves are redder than early spring flowers." There are no contrived, made-for-Instagram spots here, only nature's beautifully unfurling autumn essence. Even the fallen leaves on the paths are cleared away on schedule, yet a small patch is thoughtfully left untouched just for people to take photos. Every corner holds these considerate little details.

Located very close to the station and Uno Port, just across the street. The hotel staff are very friendly and helpful, providing tourist information and directions to ticket counters and cruise ship locations. The small room offers personal space for luggage, providing more comfort than capsule cabins or bunk beds. Pajamas, eye masks, and earplugs are thoughtfully provided. While the showers and toilets are separate for men and women, they are outside, which is slightly inconvenient but also reduces noise from other guests at night. The hotel provides a public bath voucher, which can be redeemed at the onsen hotel from the back. The public area has a dining and social area with complimentary tea and corn on the cob. A microwave is also available for purchasing food. UNO is very close to the station and port, offering great value for money and making it a good option for island hopping travelers. During my two-day trip to Naoshima, staying here allowed me to plan my itinerary and avoid rushing to catch the ferry early in the morning. #UnoPort #UnoPortAccommodation

Hopping on the Uno-bound train from Okayama Station, the scenery outside the window slowly transitions from city streets to open fields and the ocean. After just over an hour, the train reaches the end of the line. Uno Port is smaller than I imagined, yet surprisingly much more inviting. Dotted along the pier are a few cafes and general stores, exuding a relaxed, "no rush for business" kind of vibe. Strolling toward the waterfront, the sea is a brilliant blue, with a cluster of islands faintly visible on the horizon. Several fishing boats are docked nearby, their masts swaying gently in the breeze. After grabbing a ticket to Naoshima at the counter, I make my way down the long pier. The afternoon sun bathes the entire harbor in a warm golden glow, my footsteps clicking rhythmically against the wooden planks. The ferry isn’t particularly large, but the ride is incredibly smooth. Standing on the deck, the ocean breeze washes over me, carrying a crisp, faint scent of salt. As the ship slowly pulls away from the shore, the silhouette of Uno gradually fades, leaving nothing but the sea, the sky, and the distant shadows of the islands. The twenty-minute journey is neither too long nor too short—just the perfect amount of time to simply zone out and get lost in thought. This ferry departing from Uno carries more than just passengers; it carries the collective desire to momentarily escape the everyday grind.

#FebruaryDestinations2026 Uno Port, Okayama City. Get there directly from Okayama JR to Uno JR Station. A tranquil port, a port filled with art created from recycled waste. Uno Port is an important gateway to art islands like Naoshima and Teshima, and a key venue for the Setouchi International Art Festival, brimming with modern art and a maritime atmosphere. Strolling through this town facing the Seto Inland Sea offers a truly relaxing experience. Perfect for spending a morning exploring the city. #Okayama #UnoPort #ArtInstallationFromRecycledWaste #RelaxingTown

Chapter 47: Color Correction, Black Sea Bream. What is the Setouchi Triennale? It is a modern art festival held every three years, set against the backdrop of the Seto Inland Sea islands. First held in 2010, the approximately 100-day exhibition period is divided into three seasons: spring, summer, and autumn. I first learned about this place from an online photo of Yayoi Kusama standing by the sea next to a yellow pumpkin. So, on December 6, 2018, I visited Naoshima and the nearby Megijima and Ogijima islands for the first time. Why visit in winter and not during the festival? There’s a little story behind that. The original plan was to go in September of the same year, and all the arrangements were made. To save money, I first flew to Hong Kong to catch an afternoon connecting flight, but Typhoon Mangkhut swept across western Japan that year. When I happily finished shopping at Tung Chung Outlet and returned to the airport, I was told Kansai Airport was flooded... So my determination made me visit in December instead. However, there were very few people on Naoshima in winter, and the wind was really strong. (In later notes, I will detail various photo spots around the Seto Inland Sea in winter.) Uno City in Okayama Prefecture and Takamatsu City in Kagawa Prefecture are transportation hubs for reaching several main islands in the Seto Inland Sea. All ferry schedules can be checked on the Benesse Art Site Naoshima website, where you can also book museum tickets and island accommodations. This time, I only went to Naoshima for photography, so I traveled round-trip via Uno. Although it’s a very small city, before the Seto Ohashi Bridge opened, it was the gateway port from Honshu to Shikoku. Island accommodations in the Inland Sea are expensive, so lodging here is also pricey and even harder to book during the art festival. However, fog often rises over the sea, so if your budget allows, I recommend staying on the island to avoid disrupting your itinerary. From Okayama Station (JR Uno Line toward Uno Station) to Uno Station takes about 50 minutes. Or you can take the Nibi Express Bus from Okayama Station to JR Uno Station (about 60 minutes). Besides the yellow pumpkin photo, I also really like Uno’s “Rainbow Sea Bream” (a name I gave it; the original name is Chinu - the Black Sea Bream of Uno). So I came here twice to take photos. Uno Port is an important part of the Setouchi Triennale, with many permanent art installations on the pier. (Photos 10 and 11 are two other sculptures I photographed in 2018: Gift from the Sea and Anchor.) There are two colorful sea bream sculptures: Uno no Chinu and Uno Ko Chinu. These are made by repainting discarded trash, symbolizing the replacement and regeneration of parts damaged by the sea breeze. One of them is designed as a children's slide. When the sun shines, the rainbow colors reflect beautifully, and if you don’t look closely, it’s hard to believe these two fish are pieced together from trash.

This is Oji-ga-dake in Okayama. It's a mountain in Tamano, near the sea. You can drive part of the way up, so I parked in the parking lot and climbed to the top. The view was beautiful and very relaxing. There were about three groups of people there taking pre-wedding photos and videos, and I thought it was a great spot. The kids also enjoyed strolling through the forest. There were lots of cats, so it was fun spotting them. It seems that those who want to climb can also start from the bottom.

I went to a popular shaved ice shop in Uno Port, Tamano City. It was a weekend afternoon, so I joined the line that stretched outside the shop. It took about 15 minutes to reach the counter and order the Okayama-inspired "Okayama White Peach Milk Milk Special." Another five minutes later, my number was called and I picked up my order, takeout style. While the shop offers dining inside, on the terrace, and in a separate building, I decided to enjoy it on the outdoor terrace, despite the scorching heat. The fluffy ice was filled with ripe white peaches and rich milk. It was so refreshing it chilled me to the core, and before I knew it, I'd finished it in no time. It was a blissful, cooling treat in mid-summer Tamano 🍧 #UnoPort #ShavedIce #Omachido

Naoshima, a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, is world-famous as a mecca for contemporary art. After landing, we first visited the Benesse House Museum, designed by Tadao Ando, ​​which we had reserved in advance. After that, we went to see Yayoi Kusama's giant pumpkin sculpture, a symbol of Naoshima. 🎃 A half-day tour wasn't nearly enough time to explore the island's art. Next time, I'd like to schedule a longer trip and return to Naoshima. #Naoshima #YayoiKusama #YayoiKusamaPumpkin

I stayed for three nights to coincide with the Summer Night Festival GⅡ Night Race. The hotel is located at the first corner of the Tamano Velodrome, featuring an eight-story building with a colorful exterior inspired by cycling uniforms. During race events, the 3rd to 6th floors serve as accommodations for the cyclists, while the 7th and 8th floors are guest rooms. The highlight of this hotel is undoubtedly the unique experience of watching cycling races directly from the terrace of your room! Especially during a GⅡ race featuring star cyclists, the excitement is unparalleled. From the terrace, you can look straight down and watch the cyclists navigate the first corner from a top-down angle. Staying in the same building as the cyclists' quarters is also a dream come true for cycling fans, making this a one-of-a-kind hotel. 🩴 The room amenities, such as sandals and hangers, are designed with cycling and bicycles as motifs, which adds to the excitement. 🚶♀️➡️ Access to the velodrome is convenient; simply take the hotel elevator to the 2nd floor, walk through the corridor, and you'll find yourself at the velodrome's restaurant, FORQ. Passing through the restaurant leads directly into the velodrome. 📺 Naturally, you can also watch the cycling races on the in-room TV. 🚴♀️ This is a must-stay hotel for any cycling enthusiast!

into Kayabuki no Sato, Miyama — A Time Capsule in Kyoto's Deep Mountains🏡✨ This secret village surrounded by mountains preserves the most complete cluster of thatched roof buildings in Japan! The rustic appearance unchanged for centuries makes every snapshot a healing masterpiece📸 📍Address: Kitamiyama, Miyama-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture 🚌 Transportation: Take the JR Sanin Line from Kyoto Station to Sonobe Station, then transfer to a bus for about 40 minutes (self-driving is recommended for more flexibility) 🌸 Best Seasons: Dreamy combination of spring cherry blossoms and thatched roofs / autumn foliage season / winter snow fairy tale Strolling among cherry blossoms and cedar forests, over 50 thatched houses look like scattered gingerbread houses🍄 The oldest building is over 200 years old! Villagers still maintain traditional lifestyles, and you might occasionally see grandmothers drying wild vegetables in front of their houses~ 💡 Must-Do Experiences: √ Visit the "Miyama Folklore Museum" to learn about thatching craftsmanship √ Try farmhouse set meals at the "Kayabuki no Sato" restaurant √ Spring-only night cherry blossom illumination event (April) ✨ Tips: 1. Recommend combining with a day trip to nearby "Rurikoin Temple" or "Kifune Shrine" 2. There are no convenience stores in the village, so bring enough snacks 3. Drone filming requires prior permission A healing journey back to the Edo period, add this to your Kyoto off-the-beaten-path list now!🏮