Ryokan-Style Luxury: Historic Azumi Setoda Estate in Japan
Discovering an oasis of tranquility and tradition on Japan's Seto Inland Sea.
When planning my trip to Japan, I wanted to balance visits to the major cities of Tokyo and Kyoto with less crowded, smaller destinations. Exploring off the beaten tourist path is a big part of the joy of travel for me. I also seek out unique accommodations that offer a sense of place, rather than just generic hotels.
That's why I was instantly intrigued when I came across Azumi Setoda. This historic estate has roots dating back 140 years to the Horiuchi family, who were active in the salt trade since the early Edo period in the 17th century. The estate is situated on the rural, lemon rich island of Ikuchijima in the Seto Inland Sea, near the Setoda port.
To construct their distinguished property, the Horiuchi family brought in master craftspeople from across Japan, including carpenters from Kyoto. The two-story guest pavilion features 22 rooms across four different room types, all arranged around a traditional kakine-framed courtyard. Here, you can unwind in a calming, ryokan-inspired atmosphere, with amenities like private cypress bathtubs and small, personal gardens.
Through the thoughtful blending of time-honored ryokan comforts and contemporary touches, Azumi Setoda offers a truly immersive experience that allows you to connect with Japan's rich history and cultural traditions.
One other note of interest: Adrian Zecha, the renowned founder of the acclaimed Aman Hotels brand, is a co-founder of Azumi Setoda. This connection is immediately apparent, as Zecha's signature attention-to-detail and focus on immersive, experiential hospitality permeate every aspect of the property.
I am always on the hunt for beautiful, well-designed hotels with a soul and sense of place. In this newsletter, I do my best to share my findings and experiences with you. Thanks for following along!
(I am a registered Travel Agent with Fora Travel, a modern online travel agency, where I get access to exclusive rates and perks. If you’re interested in booking a trip with me, please reach out at rachel.neasham@fora.travel.)