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About Setoda

Japan's largest producer of lemons, Setoda is a land of verdant mountains, citrus groves and tranquil ocean waters. Set on the Seto Inland Sea, this island community has long blossomed as a trading hub, where ships made port whilst awaiting favourable tides. Now a lovely destination for outdoorsy explorers and culture-focused travellers, the town offers a growing range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. Our list of the best places to stay in Setoda illustrates this perfectly, highlighting both a simple ryokan and a luxurious boutique hotel.

Guided cycling tours and treks are a wonderful way to experience the island. Bicycle to the impressive Tatara Bridge, or cruise between the lemon groves, where you can stop to meet knowledgeable farmers or try your hand at picking fruit on a lemon harvesting course. Out on the water, there are opportunities to go paddle boarding, fishing, sailing or kayaking. Island-hopping day trips are also great fun for visitors of all ages. If you’re particularly keen to hike, the Temple Walk, in the hills surrounding nearby Onomichi, is fantastic.

The best places to stay in Setoda also promise delicious regional cuisine — often with a focus on seafood. Don’t miss the chance to savour flavoursome dishes after big days out, or restful onsen soaks.

The Best Places to Stay in Setoda

For Great Value

  • Suminoe Ryokan is a simple, affordable ryokan with traditional rooms featuring futon beds and low seating areas. The traditional garden is lovely, and the shared onsen bath great for unwinding. Groups will appreciate the triple and quadruple rooms, as well as the excellent prices.

For Design Lovers

  • Azumi Setoda offers a chic stay in a 140-year-old building close to the port. Owned by the founder of the Aman hotel group, this boutique bolthole promises minimalist luxury, with private onsen baths, garden-facing terraces and delicate regional fare. Created by Kyoto architect Shiro Miura, this is one for fans of Japanese design.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Hiroshima Airport, an hour's drive away, or to Okayama Airport, 1.5 hours by car or train from Setoda. Alternatively, Fukuyama Station is an hour away by train; it's a useful regional hub for overland travel.
  • Japan is great for road trips! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn, when temperatures range between 25 and 32°C. May and September are slightly quieter and cooler, which may be better for hiking and cycling. If you're keen to get involved in the lemon harvest, speak to course coordinators in advance about the best time to travel.

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Best Hotels in Setoda

  • Suminoe Ryokan Setoda (Setoda-cho) 8 rooms from €121

    Cycling  -  Follow the renowned Shimanami-kaido route to explore the whole island! Bike storage facilities also available
    Value chic  -  A simple, well-priced traditional stay for couples, friends or families
    Groups  -  Triple and quadruple rooms are great for groups travelling together
    Great walks  -  Wander along the coast at sunset for breathtaking views
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Suminoe Ryokan offers traditional accommodation with sea views in the town of Setoda. Enjoy a superb buffet breakfast each morning to set you up for the day! Come back and unwind in the hot-spring bath or lounge in the garden. Free private parking available. A friendly and great value spot. See More

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  • Azumi Setoda Setoda (Onomichi) 22 rooms from €631

    Designer  -  Designed by Kyoto architect Shiro Miura, the property merges traditional textures and materials with a timeless minimalist edge
    Families  -  The duplexes with ground-floor rooms, a garden, and an upper-level space with tatami mat flooring are ideal for families
    Cycling  -  Ideal for cyclists as Ikuchijima forms part of an idyllic 37-mile (60 km) cycling route known as the Shimanami Kaido
    Historic  -  Set within a century-old former residence and bathhouse
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenParking

    A chic 22-room hotel set in a 140-year-old building near the port. Owned by Aman founder Adrian Zecha, the style and service are well-polished. Interiors are decorated with a contemporary take on traditional ryokan design. With hot baths and very good regional cuisine, this is an indulgent stay. See More

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