: An Odyssey to the Soul of Japanese Terroir
A private journey into a sacred sea, where legendary artisans and turbulent currents have forged a culinary soul unlike any other. Witness the living legacy of a master fisherman, and taste a story centuries in the making.
This is more than a tour;
it is an encounter with the soul of the sea.
Here, in the Shimanami Kaido, the turbulent currents of the Seto Inland Sea have forged more than just world-class seafood; they have shaped a profound way of life.
This is a land seasoned with history. You will feel it at Oyamazumi Shrine, the spiritual guardian of samurai for millennia, and at Zenko-ji, the temple of the Murakami Kaizoku who once ruled these waters.
This same sea nurtures the legacy of Junichi Fujimoto, a legendary fisherman, and the story of those who carry on his philosophy. The highlight of your journey is not just tasting the pinnacle of freshness; it is connecting with the artisans who transform the sea's bounty into an art form. This private journey is an immersion into the authentic soul of Japan. Retreat to a serene, exclusive sanctuary and engage in an experience crafted for the traveler seeking not just discovery, but a true understanding of the essence of things.
Meet the Heirs to a Legend
The spirit of Junichi Fujimoto, a fisherman revered by Japan’s top chefs, defines these waters. His philosophy of honoring the sea is a legacy now carried on by his trusted team. Join them on the water to witness the swift, sacred art of ikejime—a technique that respects life by preserving its ultimate flavor. Understand why tasting this fish at its source is a privilege reserved for a select few.
The spirit of Junichi Fujimoto, a fisherman revered by Japan’s top chefs, defines these waters. His philosophy of honoring the sea is a legacy now carried on by his trusted team. Join them on the water to witness the swift, sacred art of ikejime—a technique that respects life by preserving its ultimate flavor. Understand why tasting this fish at its source is a privilege reserved for a select few.
An Exclusive Culinary Revelation
Experience the profound connection of tasting the very fish you witnessed being prepared with the sacred art of ikejime. The stage for this culinary revelation is "Akakichi", a Michelin-starred sanctuary on Hakatajima Island. Here, master chef Akase, a long-time culinary partner of Fisherman Fujimoto, crafts a special menu exclusively for you and for this day alone. This is a world of gastronomy that can only be found in this unique region. It is nothing less than a chance to taste the powerful sea's "terroir" itself.
Your Private Retreat
-Azumi Setoda & WAKKA-Your journey into the soul of Shimanami is complemented by sanctuaries of profound calm. Choose Azumi Setoda, an architectural masterpiece by the founder of Aman Resorts. Here, a centuries-old estate is reborn with contemporary serenity, creating a space where tradition and innovation dissolve into blissful tranquility. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the oceanfront beauty of WAKKA. Perched above the Seto Inland Sea, its modern architecture frames panoramic views that change with each passing hour, offering a constant, contemplative dialogue with the water. Each is a tranquil haven, chosen to be the perfect setting for your private retreat into the heart of the Seto Inland Sea.
Where the Sea Meets the Spirit
The flavors of Shimanami are seasoned with centuries of history. Feel the palpable spirituality at Oyamazumi Shrine, the ancient guardian of sailors and samurai. Hear the tales of the Murakami Kaizoku, the sea lords who ruled these waters, and connect with their Zen philosophy at their temple, Zenko-ji. At Gallery Lab, find the perfect ceramic vessel to complement the cuisine, uniting the region's food with its craft. This journey nourishes the soul as much as the palate.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive across the Shimanami Kaido, taking in the breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea’s countless islands. Arrive and unwind at the architectural marvel, Azumi Setoda, settling into a world of serene luxury in anticipation of the experiences to come.
Connect with the region’s spirit at the sacred Oyamazumi Shrine and/or Zenko-ji temple. Afterwards, join the heirs of Fisherman Fujimoto on the water for an unforgettable encounter with their masterful craft. Your day culminates in an exclusive dinner at the Michelin-starred sanctuary, 'Akakichi'..
Savor the lingering beauty of the Seto Inland Sea on your final morning. Based on your preference, ascend the Kiro-san observatory for one last panoramic view or visit a local ceramics gallery to find a tangible memory of your journey. Your private odyssey concludes at the location of your choice.
Tour Details
from JPY ¥800,000 / person
(subject to change based on season and group size)Exclusive to one group per day
(max 6 guests)- 50% within 3 days
- 100% on the day prior.
Accomodations
Created by Aman founder Adrian Zecha, Azumi Setoda is a dialogue between centuries-old architecture and contemporary serenity. Here, every detail whispers, and the boundary between tradition and innovation dissolves.
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Perched above the Seto Inland Sea, WAKKA offers panoramic views that change with each passing hour. Here, modern architecture frames the ancient waters, creating serene spaces where contemplation feels as natural as breathing.
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Our Commitment to the Community
A portion of the proceeds from this tour will be used to provide nature and cultural education programs for local children.
We are a proud corporate member of LEAVE NO TRACE Japan. By joining our tour, you support minimizing impacts on the nature of the region.
About Shimanami
The Shimanami Kaido connects six islands across the Seto Inland Sea, creating one of Japan's most scenic routes. But beauty is just the beginning. These waters, with their unique currents and temperatures, produce seafood found nowhere else on earth.
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Mizusaki.Co.,Ltd.CEO : Yuina Nakamura
Adress : 381-1 Kiura Ko,Hakata-cho,Imabari-shi,Ehime 794-2305,Japan
Travel Agency License : Ehime Prefecture Governor-registered Regional Travel Agency No.235