Mitoyo / KagawaEnjoy breathtaking views, pristine beaches in Mitoyo, Kagawa Prefecture

Mitoyo City stretches out toward the Seto Inland Sea (Photo: Mitoyo Office of Tourism)

Mitoyo is a seaside town in Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku island, extending from the Seto Inland Sea to Tokushima Prefecture's mountainous border. The area is rich in natural beauty, including sprawling beaches and lush forests. Make your way to the top of Mt. Shiude to enjoy a stunning view of Mitoyo and the scattered islands that make up Setonaikai National Park. If you visit in spring, you'll find the mountainside covered in cherry blossoms. Mitoyo is a peaceful town where it's easy to relax. Savor fresh seafood and sake while getting to know the friendly locals, explore the area by bicycle, or take to the sea for a sail around the islands.

Stay in an elegant, wood-built guesthouse overlooking the ocean

Hiuchi guesthouse offers great views of the ocean

For a stylish and comfortable break, book a stay at the Hiuchi guesthouse. This modern facility is designed to emphasize open space and adaptability. The main space comprises a kitchen, living room, and bedroom, while the windows offer a spectacular 180-degree view of the sea. The panorama and design concept make Hiuchi a unique stop-off point.

The living room, dining room, and kitchen share a large open space

Prices for an overnight stay at the guesthouse start from around 20,000 yen. Hiuchi can accommodate up to four people, so it's an excellent option for a small group. Or, why not treat yourself if you're traveling alone? Due to the guesthouse's isolated location, peace and quiet are a given, and the garden in front of the facility allows you to relax in an alfresco setting, too. Hiuchi's motto is “Time Flies Here,” and, as you'd expect, you can quickly lose track of the outside world at this quiet, private getaway.

The sea seems to stretch out from beneath the guesthouse

Hiuchi is fully stocked with everyday goods, and the kitchen has an ample supply of utensils. If you're keen to sample the local cuisine, however, private catering is available from 5,000 yen per person. The homemade spread features local ingredients and is served in the kitchen, family-style.

Hiuchi has a peaceful outdoor garden

Your hosts can communicate in English and are happy to help book tours or offer advice about navigating the area.

Hiuchi features a unique, elevated design

Sample authentic, local cuisine and learn about rice fermentation

A variety of meals are offered on Draworth's island tours

Draworth offers private tours and specially catered meals for travelers. Local residents founded the company to introduce Mitoyo's unique charms, but with a more personal touch. The tours are a great way to explore off-the-beaten-path Mitoyo without worrying about small organizational details.

Book a private dawn hiking tour to enjoy unique forest scenery or learn about traditional food production during a visit to a koji (fermented rice) factory. The company also offers private catering at Hiuchi and other guesthouses in the area. Meals are available in Japanese or Western styles, so you can choose your food to suit your mood - and your appetite.

Learning about the fermentation process at a local koji factory

Draworth also arranges private BBQs and sightseeing parties on a chartered boat, or full-day tours around the islands in the Seto Inland Sea. Draworth's guides are seasoned experts with years of experience in such professions as environmental protection, university teaching and tourism. Staff are happy to communicate in English and answer any questions you may have about the area.

Watch the sea melt into the sky at Chichibugahama beach

The calm seawater on Chichibugahama reflects the sky like an oil painting (Photo: Mitoyo Office of Tourism)

Chichibugahama beach is known for a postcard-perfect phenomenon, in which the sky and setting sun are reflected in the calm seawater at low tide. Indeed, the beach is sometimes referred to as the “Salar de Uyuni of Japan” due to its resemblance to the world's largest salt flat in Bolivia. Drop by the beach in the early evening (when the wind dies down and the waves settle) for great photo opportunities.

A sunset view of Chichibugahama beach (Photo: Mitoyo Office of Tourism)

The beach is maintained by Mitoyo citizens who carry out regular clean-ups so locals and travelers alike can appreciate its beauty. As part of these ongoing efforts, Chichibugahama Port Office launched a program in 2019 to promote the beach as a part of Miyoto's sustainable tourism efforts.

Chichibugahama Port staff are happy to answer inquiries via email, but phone support is not available. Once you're at the beach, you can spend a leisurely day watching the sea, snacking at wnearby cafes and kakigori shaved-ice shops, or just soaking up the scenery and peaceful atmosphere. After enjoying the beach, wander into town and explore Mitoyo's myriad other charms.

Access information

Getting to Mitoyo, Kagawa Prefecture:

It takes about 70 minutes from Haneda International Airport to Takamatsu Airport, then about one hour by car. From Kansai International Airport, it takes about 2 hours 30 minutes by train.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change. Unless stated otherwise, prices do not include tax.
*Unauthorized reproduction of material in this article is strictly prohibited.

About “Countryside Stay Japan“

If you’re looking for a new way to experience Japan, sign up for a farm-stay experience through the Countryside Stay Japan program and participate in traditional rural-lifestyle activities in recommended countryside locations.

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