Seto Inland Sea, Maritime gateway between three main Japanese islands.
The Seto Inland Sea is an inland sea in Japan that stretches about 400 kilometers between Honshū, Shikoku, and Kyūshū, connected to the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan through several straits. Within these waters lie around 3000 islands of varying size, many of which are inhabited and can be reached by ferry connections or bridges.
During the Edo period, the sea became an important trade route for transporting goods between regional ports. Cities like Osaka grew into significant commercial hubs during this time, benefiting from the active maritime traffic.
Small harbors along the coast still serve as moorings for fishing boats and ferries that connect the inhabited islands. Several of these islands display works by contemporary artists, installed in abandoned buildings or directly by the water during rotating exhibitions.
Three major bridge systems allow crossing by car or bicycle, including the Shimanami Kaido with its dedicated cycling path. Ferries run regularly to the inhabited islands, offering views of the surrounding island landscape during the journey.
The waters are home to over 500 different marine species, including types found only in this region. Some of the islands are known for their lemon and olive plantations, which benefit from the area's mild climate.
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