Setoda

The small town of Setoda is located on Ikuchijima Island, a convenient distance from Mihara Port. On the island are various interesting attractions including first and foremost Kosanji Temple, a colorful flamboyant temple at the end of a green street. A three-story pagota from the Muromachi era (1143), various ponds in a testeful large garden and the actual main temple are among the structures of Kosanji. It was built over s span of some 20 years by the first head priest Kozo Wajo. There is also a curious narrow cave on the walls of which are painted ominous pictures of hell and damnation. Apart from Kosanji are the Kannonsan National Park; Myoga Jinja (Shrine); Setoda-cho Minzoku Shiryokan (Setoda Folklore Research Center); and Nakano Dam, a pleasant 40 minute walk from the temple, whose shores teem with wisteria during may. There is also the Bel Canto Hall which is a classic music hall located in the Chomin Kaikan (community hall) near Kosanji. Its facilities are reputed to be the best in western Japan. A quiet little island, Setoda is a delightful place to spend a day of your Japan experience.

Transportation:
    Take the JR train (Sanyo Line) from Hiroshima to Mihara
    (about an hour) and then travel to Ikuchijima by speedboat
    (25 minutes) or ferry (50 minutes).  The akinada line also
    has a boat which leaves from Hiroshima or Kure Ports.