It’s no secret that 2020 and 2021 have been particularly hard years for many of us. In fact, more and more luxury living magazines are turning towards wellness-related topics to help see their readers through this difficult time. After all, knowing how to live luxury lifestyle in a time of pandemic is easier said than done, not to mention doing so in a conscious way with an eye towards building spiritual stamina and resilience.
Maybe that’s why so many luxury lifestyle magazines have turned to the wisdom of Japan’s monasteries and the majesty of its beaches. As more than one luxury lifestyle publication has pointed out since the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Japan is the new global hotspot for all things wellness-related – and beyond. And it’s not hard to see that, especially when you look at the Setouchi region and its perfect blend of the ancient and the modern, the luxurious and the ascetic. For luxury travelers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Setouchi beckons for them to come, and as soon as possible.
Situated around the Seto Inland Sea, Setouchi looks like it was ripped straight from the pages of a samurai epic. That is until you see the amazing modern architecture that happens to dot the island. In truth, modernity and ancient architecture blend together in a harmonious spirit that is best encapsulated in Setouchi’s monasteries and beach resorts. Visitors can escape from the world through Zen meditation, take in Japanese culture at one of the island’s many museums, or soak up the ambiance at a local event.
Underpinning all of this, of course, is access to some of the finest cuisine in all of Japan, ranging from austere yet delicious monastery food to avant-garde fusion haute cuisine. Another particular favorite of both locals and tourists is the onsen or hot springs. These ancient baths, steeped in custom and ritual, are some of the most relaxing, purifying places in all of Japan and Setouchi is renowned for its restorative onsen. While travelers are given a wide selection of a la carte experiences to choose from while on Setouchi, there are also a variety of set experiences that take the burden of planning out of travelers’ hands.
Underpinning all of this, of course, is access to some of the finest cuisine in all of Japan, ranging from austere yet delicious monastery food to avant-garde fusion haute cuisine. Another particular favorite of both locals and tourists is the onsen or hot springs. These ancient baths, steeped in custom and ritual, are some of the most relaxing, purifying places in all of Japan and Setouchi is renowned for its restorative onsen. While travelers are given a wide selection of a la carte experiences to choose from while on Setouchi, there are also a variety of set experiences that take the burden of planning out of travelers’ hands.
Photo Images Courtesy of Nobutada OMOTE