Seto Travel Guide (Aichi/Chubu/Japan/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Seto

Seto is a picturesque city located in Aichi prefecture, situated in the Chubu region of Japan. This small city is famous for its ceramics and pottery, attracting people from all over the world to visit the several museums and workshops that showcase the high-quality craftsmanship and intricate designs. But Seto has much more to offer beyond ceramics, with beautiful natural landscapes, outdoor activities, and delicious local food.

List of Places to Visit in Seto

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature or adventure, there are plenty of places to visit in Seto. Here are some must-see attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Seto City Art Museum: This museum has an extensive collection of contemporary art and ceramics, showcasing the works of internationally acclaimed artists alongside local artists.
Seto Ceramic and Glass Art Center: This museum showcases the history of ceramics in Seto, as well as contemporary glass art. You can also try your hand at making ceramics and glassware at the workshops.
Kakuzenji Temple: This Buddhist temple is a designated national treasure and dates back to the 14th century. You can admire the traditional architecture and beautiful garden, complete with a pond and stone lanterns.

Natural Attractions of Seto: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Iwayado Park: This park is located on a hilltop and provides a beautiful panoramic view of the city. The park is also known for the Seto Gorge, a picturesque valley with a river and waterfall.
Mt. Sanage: This mountain is perfect for hiking and biking. The trail is well-maintained with plenty of stunning views to take in.
Shirotori Garden: This traditional Japanese garden features a beautiful pond as well as a tea house where you can experience a tea ceremony.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Seto

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Seto has a lot to offer. Here are some great hiking and biking routes to explore:

Mt. Sanage Trail: This trail is a 5-km course that takes you through a beautiful forest, with the final destination of Mt. Sanage’s summit.
Seto River Cycling Road: This is a beautiful 25-km road that follows the Seto River, providing scenic views of the river as well as the surrounding areas.

Best Things to Do in Seto: Activities and Tours

Ceramics Tour: Take a guided tour of the city’s many ceramic workshops and studios, and try your hand at making your own unique pottery piece.
Seto Gorge Boat Tour: Take a boat tour of the Seto Gorge and admire the stunning scenery of the valley from a different perspective.
Japanese Tea Ceremony: Experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony by visiting one of the many tea houses in Seto.

Week-Long Itinerary for Seto

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Seto:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Seto City Art Museum, Seto City Tour, Kakuzenji Temple
Day 2	Ceramic and Glass Art Center, Shirotori Garden, Iwayado Park
Day 3	Mt. Sanage hiking or biking, Seto Gorge Boat Tour
Day 4	Japanese Tea Ceremony, Seto Folk Arts and Crafts Village, Yosami River Luminous Moss Forest
Day 5	Nagoya Castle, Osu Kannon Temple, Sakae Shopping District
Day 6	Toyota Automobile Museum, Obara Paper Art Museum, Horaiji Temple
Day 7	Misaka Onsen hot springs, Seto City Museum, Seto City Zoo

Food and Drink Scene of Seto

Seto has a rich culinary scene, with a focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes, as well as local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Nagoya Cochin: A locally raised chicken with a rich flavor, typically served grilled or fried.
Miso Katsu: Deep-fried pork cutlet served with a thick and savory miso sauce.
Kishimen: A flat and wide noodle dish in a light broth, served with vegetables and seafood.

Local Beverages

Setouchi Yuzu Juice: A refreshing citrus juice produced from locally grown Setouchi yuzu.
Kamoshibito Kuheiji Sake: Award-winning sake from Kuheiji brewery, known for its high-quality and complex flavors.

Where to Stay in Seto: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Seto offers several accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some great options:

Seto Park Hotel: A comfortable hotel conveniently located near major tourist spots and train stations. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
Setouchi Guesthouse: A cozy and affordable guesthouse with a communal kitchen and lounge. Located within walking distance of many attractions.
Seto Inn: A traditional Japanese-style inn with tatami rooms and communal bathing facilities. The inn also provides guests with delicious Japanese breakfast and dinner.

What to Buy in Seto: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Seto is famous for its ceramics and pottery, so it’s no surprise that the best souvenirs to bring back home are pieces of pottery. Here are some great places to shop for ceramics:

Seto Ceramic and Glass Art Center Shop: A great place to buy pottery and glassware made by local artists.
Seto Yokkaichi Kiln Kaido: A kiln road lined with small pottery studios and workshops where you can buy pottery and see the process of making them.

Local Culture and Customs of Seto

When visiting Seto, it’s important to keep in mind some of the local customs.

Bowing: It is customary to bow when greeting someone, as a sign of respect.
Shoes Off: When entering a home or some restaurants, you must take off your shoes at the entrance.

Best Time to Visit Seto

The best time to visit Seto is during the spring and autumn months, from March to May and from September to November. These seasons offer comfortable weather with cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage in the fall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Seto

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your stay in Seto:

Do:

Respectfully bow when greeting someone.
Take off your shoes at the entrance of homes and some restaurants.
Try local dishes and souvenirs made from ceramics.

Don’t:

Eat or drink while walking on the street.
Talk loudly on public transportation or in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Seto

Seto is generally a safe city, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always important to keep your belongings with you and be aware of your surroundings when traveling.

Health in Seto

There are no major health concerns in Seto, but it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance and consult a doctor on any health-related concerns before traveling.

Getting to Seto: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Seto

The nearest airport to Seto is Chubu Centrair International Airport, which is located 45 minutes away by train or bus.

Bus Stations Near Seto

Seto Bus Terminal is a central hub for buses in the area, with buses departing to and from various destinations in Aichi prefecture and beyond.

Other Options

Seto is easily accessible by train, with direct trains connecting to Nagoya and other major cities in Japan. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

How to Get Around in Seto

The easiest way to get around in Seto is by train or bus. The Seto City Loop Bus is a convenient option for tourists, as it connects major tourist spots within the city. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

Where to Go Next from Seto: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Seto is conveniently located, making it easy to explore nearby destinations. Here are some great options for excursions:

Nagoya: The largest city in the Chubu region, known for its castle, museums, and shopping districts.
Inuyama: A historic city known for its castle and traditional architecture, only a 25-minute train ride from Seto.
Gifu: A beautiful city located along the Nagara River, home to the famous Gifu Castle and Nagara River Ukai (cormorant fishing).

Conclusion

Seto is a charming city filled with history, culture, and nature. From the unique ceramics to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your trip to Seto, and experience the beauty of Aichi prefecture in Japan.

Seto Image Gallery

Jōkō-ji temple (定光寺)

Aichi Prefectural Ceramic Museum

Setogura Museum

Setomono Festival

Kamagaki Pottery Footpath