Ushimado 牛窓

Ushimado calls for relaxation. Facing the ocean, we taste the tranquility, dazzled by the landscape, lulled by the sound of the waves and the sea breeze, under the sun which bathes it generously.

During the Edo period (1603-1868), the small town was an important center for shipbuilding . From this prosperous past, there remains the main street and a few alleys lined with houses with wooden facades and houses with white walls of merchants. The old police building, Kaiyukan , in a late 19th century Western style, houses a museum retracing the history of Korean emissaries who stopped at the port of Ushimado on their way to Edo (the old Tokyo name). They then resided at the Honrenji temple, perched on top of a hill overlooking the main street.

The joys of the Seto Inland Sea

Several beaches border the city, but that of Ushimado is the most famous. In summer, you can eat in the huts that are set up there. All kinds of water activities are offered. One can in particular make tours of the neighboring islands by canoe-kayak . Some schools even offer the possibility of camping on certain islands.

At low tide, no less than three islets are joined to the coast by a sandbar that responds to the romantic name of " the road to the Venus of Kuroshima ", Kuroshima being the name of the largest of the three islands.

Those who want to go a little further can take the ferry (six minutes) to the island of Maejima . There, you can rent a bicycle to visit the place. It is also possible to sleep with the locals. The island is famous for its oysters.

Read: Setouchi

In the city, a marina hosts various events such as concerts or regattas. The view of the Inland Sea is fantastic.

Finally, cruises are offered at sunset to enjoy the magnificent scenery as the sky lights up.

From Ushimado Beach , the torii of Ushimado Shrine can be seen. A long staircase leads up the wooded hill that houses the building. In summer, the big cedars protect from the sun and bring freshness.

A touch of the Mediterranean

Ushimado is famous for its olive groves . The Garden of Olives , a botanical garden that covers 10 hectares and has some 2,000 olive trees and hundreds of other kinds of trees welcomes visitors. To give a Mediterranean air to the place, some sculptures of Greek inspiration have been installed there.

Couples go there to ring the "lovers' bell", to ensure eternal love.

To go further: Ideas for outings for couples

The interest of the place also lies in the magnificent views of the Inland Sea. Do not miss the specialty of the place: the ice cream flavored with olives . In September, you can participate in the olive picking.

Each year in August, during the summer festival, magnificent fireworks attract crowds from all over the region.