Step beyond the classic Golden Route to the tranquil shores facing Miyajima. Immerse yourself in the disciplined, life-or-death spirituality of a warrior's tea ceremony, before checking into a coastal architectural masterpiece where your entire stay becomes an exhibition of refined living.

Afternoon ──Samurai Tea Ceremony of the Ueda Soko School

Begin your journey at Hayase-an, a refined wooden tearoom echoing centuries of warrior tradition. Guided by a master instructor, you will participate in a private samurai tea ceremony. Experience the sakazukigoto (ceremonial exchange of sake) that once bound warlords in mutual trust before battle. Every precise, powerful movement—recalling the drawing of a bowstring—invites you into a state of deep mindfulness, culminating in a bowl of matcha paired with exclusive seasonal sweets.

Afternoon ──A Stay Within a Work of Art at Simose Art Garden Villa

Arrive at Simose Art Garden Villa, a MICHELIN One Key resort recognized with the UNESCO Prix Versailles award. Check into your detached villa designed by Pritzker laureate Shigeru Ban, enjoying complete privacy and a close connection to the surrounding landscape of the Seto Inland Sea. Here, architecture, dining, and art are experienced not as separate elements, but as part of a carefully considered whole. Spend your late afternoon exploring the museum’s floating, moveable gallery structures, where art and architecture interact with the shifting light and waters of the Seto Inland Sea.

Savor the morning light of the Seto Inland Sea with a nurturing breakfast before using Simose as your launching pad to discover the cultural depth and archipelagic beauty of the broader Hiroshima region.

Morning ──Hearty Seaside Breakfast

Wake up to the gentle reflected light on the water and enjoy a wholesome breakfast at the open-kitchen French restaurant. Savor fresh-squeezed juices, local baked goods, and eggs cooked to order under the morning light of the Seto Inland Sea. Afterward, take a final peaceful stroll through the soothing atmosphere of the Émile Gallé’s Garden, planted in harmony with the climate of Setouchi, allowing the architecture, art, and nature of the property to define the atmosphere of your morning.

Afternoon ──Departure & Exploring the Next Step

After checking out, venture beyond the villa to explore the region in refined luxury. The Seto Inland Sea offers the perfect next step, known for its scattered islands, mild climate, and calm coastal scenery. From here, you can seamlessly explore Hiroshima’s cultural and historical depth, including its two major western landmarks: the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the world heritage-listed Itsukushima Shrine on the famous island of Miyajima.

*If you wish to use Simose as your base to leisurely explore all the major tourist spots in Hiroshima, we highly recommend extending your journey into a 3-day, 2-night trip.